In our Mini Mini Interview series, we sit down with inspiring founders in the children’s space to talk about the journey behind their brands, their experiences as parents, and what keeps them motivated.
Today, we chat with Sadie and Liam, the visionary’s behind Playing Out, to discuss everything from childhood inspirations to their top tips for balancing work and family life.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind Playing Out and what led you to start it?
The inspiration for Playing Out came when our little boy Koa came along. We started thinking about the kind of childhood we wanted him to have. Reminiscing about our own childhoods reminded us that as Millennials we’re the last generation to grow up in our early years without phones. The ‘picture perfect’ Instagram childhood didn’t exist. Technology is an amazing tool, but kids are growing up faster than ever around it. So we wanted to try and distill the freedom of just being a kid into a brand that encouraged less perfection and more mischief.
How has becoming a parent influenced your approach to business, especially in the children’s space?
We’re a fledgling brand, just starting out in the children’s space. But the thing we’ve found so refreshing is that people seem to feel the same about the idea behind our brand. For us the clothes are vehicle to spread a wider message and relate to other parents like us. We’ve both worked in the creative industry for our entire careers to date, but being parents and running a business in a totally new sector is frankly wild.
What do you think sets Playing Out apart from the rest?
There’s a ton of kid brands out there that make amazing clothes for kids. But we like to think that Playing Out comes at things a bit differently. Our brand isn’t just about the clothes we make, it’s about encouraging the mischief in children. Letting them explore, make mistakes and enjoy all the fun a childhood should offer. It’s about perpetuation real childhoods, the mess, the tears, the scuffs and scrapes and creating clothes that help kids embrace that mayhem and mischief. Because we think that’s what makes it so special.
How do you manage the balance between work and family life? Do you have any tips for other entrepreneurial parents?
Haha we don’t, or rather we try. It’s hard don’t get us wrong. We both have demanding jobs outside of our brand as well, so we’re currently juggling a fair few plates. The best tip we follow is making the most of the 2hr nap if your kids are still at that age. That and using the evenings. We try to keep weekends to family time if possible and keep the social media ticking over by making assets in advance. The short answer is cram it in where you can ha.
What is your proudest moment since launching?
Since launching 3 months ago we’ve had quite a bit of press coverage however for us the proudest moment was being featured in print in The Yorkshire Post, we are both originally from Yorkshire, so it was nice that our parents & grandparents could go and pick up the paper and find us in it!
What trends do you see emerging in the children’s market, and how do you stay ahead of them?
For us, the brand isn’t about following the latest trend but rather focusing on creating pieces that are durable, well – made and have longevity. The world is filled with fast fashion and kids grow out of things so quickly, our mission is to make things that last and will grow with them and be passed down.
Do you have a favourite product or collection that you’ve launched? What makes it special?
Our first drop was the boilersuit and the response was incredible. The reviews have been wonderful and in fact we’ve had consumers say that they are not only practical but also smart and that’s what makes them special.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received in your entrepreneurial journey?
Just stick at it, keep showing up.
Finally, how do you unwind after a busy day of running a business and being a parent?
Wine, chocolate and lots of it!!!
Discover more: www.playingout.co
