An Interview with...
Each month, we delve into insightful conversations with Entrepreneurs, Brand Owners, Marketers and esteemed experts who are trailblazers in their respective fields.
Through these interviews, we uncover valuable insights, tangible advice, innovative strategies and inspiring stories that illuminate the ever-evolving landscape of business, marketing and branding
Sarah Kelly
Founder of PlayEasy & Speech and Language Therapist
1.
What is PlayEasy and where did the idea for Baby’s First Playtime come from?
I started PlayEasy because so many parents in my speech and language therapy clinic asked me, "what toys should I buy for my child to encourage their language?" No toy can teach a child to communicate, it’s your engagement that matters most. My goal is to educate and empower parents. Therefore, I carefully curated a range of educational toys that are designed to engage your baby without taking away from your vital interaction with them. The idea for "Baby’s First Playtime" came from my experience as a speech therapist and mum. I know how overwhelming it can be with a new baby and the endless toy options out there. That’s why I created a box of essential toys to support your baby's early development. Plus, I wrote a booklet to guide parents with simple tips for encouraging communication development.
2.
If you could share one nugget of advice to anyone starting out today on their brand journey what would it be?
Get in front of the camera and make it personal by putting a face to your brand. It can feel daunting, but remember, no one can represent your brand better than you can
3.
How did you market your business when it was brand new?
When I first started my business, Instagram played a crucial role in marketing and building my reputation. As an online shop, word-of-mouth from customers is essential since potential buyers can't see the products in person. I also partnered with Vena to help increase brand visibility, both in the media and among retailers.
4.
What have been some of your biggest learning experiences in running a business?
How hard it is!! Instagram makes it look glamorous - but behind the scenes it's carnage and I never switch off. Having said that, I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't love what I do. So if you have something you're passionate about, go give it a shot!
5.
Have you any more products coming onto market soon?
Yes, I’m about to launch a new box designed for an older age group. Additionally, based on customer requests, I'll soon be offering individual toys for sale - watch this space!
Ciara & Gary Malone
Co-Founders of Brushdoc, *Winners of Pitch ’22 at Arnotts
1.
What is Brushdoc and where did the idea for Brushdoc come from?
Brushdoc is our revolutionary, patent pending device which takes all of the hassle out of cleaning your makeup brushes. Simply add water and some Brushdoc cleansing oil to the device and watch how the specially designed silicone mat cleans your brushes effortlessly in seconds. Ciara had the idea of inventing an electric make up brush cleaner when working on the make-up counters of Arnotts and Brown Thomas nearly 20 years ago, so to see Brushdoc on sale in those very stores is incredible.
2.
If you could share one nugget of advice to anyone starting out today on their brand journey what would it be?
Get a mentor! Our friends Ciaran and Denise from The Head Plan were so good to us with their advice and time when we were starting out. We listed out all of our questions like how to set up a website, how to set up a company, how to fulfil orders etc etc and went through them one by one. It saves so much time (and mistakes!) when you talk to somebody who has been on the same journey as you. Also, try to do as much work yourself as possible at the start, especially if money is tight (like it was with us!). Shamelessly call in favours from any friends or colleagues who may work in finance, legal etc to pick their brain instead of paying huge fees for this advice professionally.
3.
How did you market your business when it was brand new?
We engaged with a marketing agency for the first 3 months of business to help us with the launch. This helped get our name out there in the press, increase our presence online, grow our following etc. They helped us send Brushdocs to some influencers which helped promote our brand, and really get our name out there. Then finally we relied on the good will of friends, family and customers to share Brushdoc and expand our reach.
4.
What have been some of your biggest learning experiences in running a business?
Running a business is a lot harder than we thought it would be. It is all consuming – one minute you’re the sales rep, next you’re the customer service agent and then you’re the accountant! You learn so much in such a short space of time and it is incredibly rewarding. But you definitely gain a greater level of appreciation for other people who have set up their own business.
5.
What is the most rewarding element of owning Brushdoc?
For us it is seeing a customer test a Brushdoc in store, ask us about our story and then take one up to the till to buy it. For something to grow from an idea on a makeup counter so many years ago into something tangible that people are willing to spend their hard earned money on and then use, it still blows our minds everyday.
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