Inspired by her youngest son and his love for nature, Lisa Williamson wanted to create a business that would make a real difference to the future of our planet. At Peedie Pals, they are committed to creating an earth-friendly shopping experience, whilst supporting their suppliers and the environment. Their toys are eco-friendly, educational, and fun, helping you teach your little ones about being kind to the world we live in. Their range of toys, books, and gifts are made from sustainable materials and are perfect for children of all ages. Here Lisa talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the inspiration behind Peedie Pals, the challenges she has overcome along the way, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
My youngest son has always loved learning about nature, exploring his part of the world, and trying to help look after local wildlife and the planet. We would forever be picking up plastic cups, forks and straws from the local beach, or going to parties, there would be several binbags full of disposable waste at the end that would end up in landfill. I wanted to set up a business that would help reduce the amount heading to landfill or ending up in the sea.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
I started as a small party kit hire business hiring out cups, plates and decorations to help parents minimise waste at children’s parties. Lockdown hit so I branched out by offering a few eco-friendly toys that I had come across whilst looking for gifts for my own son. These proved popular so I extended the range of products I offered. This part of the business grew quickly and the “Peedie Pals” were born: six cute wildlife characters, Pebble & Primula Puffin, Odell Otter, Sel Selkie (seal), Jenna-Bee & Signy Shark. They were originally created to promote the business but now also feature in their own branded collection. At the start of this year I split the business into two with Peedie Pals focusing on the retail side of things.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
Creating my website has to date been the biggest breakthrough, as customers tend to trust a brand that has a website more than one that is just on social media, I was also delighted when a couple of local shops started stocking a few of the Peedie Pals own branded items.
The second biggest breakthrough was when other small businesses started trusting me to sell their products.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
As I am online, I try to do most of my work whilst the children are at school or holiday activities, then maybe an hour or two at night once they are settled. I always am available for my sons when they arrive home so they can tell me about their day as it is important they know they are my priority. During the holidays it can be more difficult, but I try to make sure to take a couple of days off every week to do fun stuff with them or even just mooch about at home with them
