Planet Friendly Play for Creative Kids

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in children's toys but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Danielle Mossfeldt, founder of Little Larch, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Little Larch is an eco-conscious children's brand. We make a range of all-natural products, including play dough, wood tools, and apple leather play mats. Using environmentally sustainable materials and packaging, our products inspire children to be consciously creative. Our customers are parents looking for eco-friendly playtime options.

Tell us about yourself

Hi, I'm Danielle, the face behind Little Larch. The concept for Little Larch started in my kitchen. I was on maternity leave, and my then 3-year-old daughter had sensitivities to store-bought playdough. Like any exhausted mother with a newborn and a playdough-crazy toddler, I set out to make a natural alternative for my daughter (how else could I enjoy a hot coffee?!).

After lots of trial and error, I developed a playdough that was naturally coloured with veggies and free of artificial dyes, scents, and preservatives (all things that can cause skin irritation). I decided to bring my natural "dough" to a few local markets, and the feedback I received was amazing. I spoke to so many parents who were looking for natural, sustainable play options for their kids. It was at this point that I decided to take the leap, leave my corporate career, and officially start Little Larch. Since the early days, I have expanded our products to include creative sensory play boxes and a line of play mats made from apple leather.

My kids are the inspiration behind my business. They inspire me to create natural, hands-on products that parents can feel good about giving to their kids and putting back into the planet.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I spent my corporate career working in community relations and building brands for other businesses. Having the opportunity to build my own company with full control over every aspect of the brand has been my biggest accomplishment as a business owner. It brings me so much joy to see something I built from the ground up recognized online and on store shelves.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

As a business owner, finding a work/life balance can be a challenge. I manage all aspects of my company, from social media to finance. Although I enjoy my work, it can be hard to unplug. I’ve learned that setting aside time for myself has been key to helping me relax and return to work with a refreshed mindset.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Validate your ideas before launch. I was so scared before I launched my business - What will people think? What if I fail? After I validated my concept by talking to potential customers, it became clear there was a market for what I was selling. It gave me the confidence I needed to go for it.
Take the time to build a brand. Building a brand is so important in creating a company that customers will remember and come back to. From the way your website and social media look to your brand messaging, these are key elements in building and retaining a customer base.
Outsource where you can. Strategically outsourcing can help you focus your efforts on growing your business. For example, if you’re not a seasoned web designer, hiring someone can save you time and money.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://littlelarch.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/little.larch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little.larch/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.