Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Brown.
Hi Melissa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always loved the concept of identifying a problem and working hard to create a solution. So, when we faced a real pain-point in our family, my husband and I got to work on creating a solution for our kids and others to enjoy. To back up a bit, in 2007 I moved from Florida to Austin to get my MBA at the University of Texas and met my husband Sam in the program. Three years later, we were married and, soon after, had 3 young daughters. Since 2009, I have been juggling a demanding career in private equity with full-time motherhood. Unlike in my 20s, this necessary travel created constant stress in my house (and my heart). My job requires frequent travel and I also believe in the importance of adult getaways – however, the necessary combination further enhanced the ‘mom guilt’. My oldest daughter had the most challenging time with my absence and would cry whenever I brought my suitcase out for a trip. Over time, my travels disrupted the flow and harmony at home, so I started researching ways to help her cope while I was gone. After an exhaustive search, I realized there wasn’t a product on the market that served the specific needs of kids with traveling parents. After that realization, Lou was born! The goal was to create a product that helps families stay connected during separation while providing some education and fun. As a family, one of our core values is creating fun in everything we do – big or small. We believe life happens in the little moments, and it’s important to ‘make memories’ in every activity together. Above all, we support and love one another unconditionally and hope that value carries through our product.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The idea for Lou Comes To You was created in 2018, but as busy parents with full-time jobs, it took 2 years to write the book and create all the supporting components. Just when we thought we had it figured out, a global pandemic shut down all travel, which is the basis of the product! Thankfully, that period is behind us, and people are traveling now more than ever. Additionally, the extra family time together during the pandemic has further enhanced the need for emotional support for children during times of separation from one or both parents.
We’ve been impressed with Lou Comes To You, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart?
The Lou Comes to You travel toolkit is an all-in-one resource grounded in child psychology. The need for Lou Comes to You stems from the increasing number of parents who have to travel for work or personal reasons paired with an unfortunate increase in mental health issues in children. Children often experience big feelings and emotional challenges when a parent is away, which can lead to an increase in stress and anxiety. To meet these needs, the toolkit includes a light-hearted picture book, enabling children to work through their big feelings. We also have a cuddly Lou plushie with a special pouch for tucking away reminders of a traveling parent and other treasures. The kit features a dry erase count-down calendar to provide structure and mark key travel dates. Additionally, we provide North America and World maps with stickers to help children understand their parent’s location during travel and spark their curiosity for new cultures and destinations. These tools give children a sense of security, understanding, and engagement during their parent’s absence.
Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking with peers and mentors is key! As a newbie to the world of children’s products, we needed the support of others who have been down our path and found success. We initially got involved in the children’s literary association, which helped get us connected to our editor, illustrator, and creative director. These individuals are world-class experts in the children’s lit world, which helped guide our direction and elevate the final product. Additionally, I have always been interested in taking other entrepreneurs to lunch or coffee to learn from their experiences and exchange ideas!
Pricing:
- The complete toolkit is $34.99
Contact Info:
- Website: www.loucomestoyou.com
- Instagram: @loucomestoyou
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LouComesToYou
Image Credits
Weston Carls
