Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Bach.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kristen. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I opened my shop in Athens, shortly after my daughter was born, 2010. While I was expecting, I was trying to shop as local as possible but Athens had very little to offer in terms of kids toys. The idea started brewing with a baby in the womb and when she was an infant, I began building TREEHOUSE kid and craft. Seven years later, after many Atlanta customers asking us to open up shop in the ATL, my sister and I opened up our Decatur location. Both shops carry goods that nurture creativity, imagination, learning, all things we feel so strongly about. We also have a strong design aesthetic that is carried through our shops. I also am an art educator so adding an element of creating was a no-brainer. There is nothing more rewarding to see kids and families create something wonderful in our shop!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
To be honest, it has been a pretty smooth road. Of course, owning any small business has it’s challenging and is constantly evolving. I feel quite lucky to have had a very supportive and engaging community from day one. I always think that obstacles and challenges bring out creativity and collaborations that may or may not happen otherwise. I always try to look at these struggles as positive changes and not get too down on myself.
TREEHOUSE kid and craft – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Our shop really tries to focus on toys and play that encourages families to play together and stay off the screens. Our toys are oftentimes unique products and sold by small companies. We take a lot of pride in knowing the stories of those companies and makers as well as their ethical practices. This is something huge that sets us apart from other shops. I am constantly looking for new things, staying relevant with new trends and making relationships with emerging artists and designers. I have the best job in the world!
I also think that because we are small and have a tight-knit staff, we have the opportunity to really get to know our products and how they are played. with. Awesome customer service is number one on my list. We know that it easier to make purchases online so we try really hard to inspire each customer who walks through the door. We also do some pretty cute (and free) gift wrapping.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success through happiness. If I love what I do and my community loves what I do, life is good. When I first opened I kept my brain in the numbers and it was really mentally exhausting. I realized quickly, that I needed to focus on the positives and the rest would follow. It changed my whole perspective on owning a small business. Every day is not going to be easy, that isn’t realistic. I did realize that I can be proud of what I created on a daily basis and use that energy to bring strength to the days ahead.
I really owe our communities lots of hugs. My customers are continuously sending us praises and the support is endless.
Contact Info:
- Address: 533A W Howard Ave Decatur, GA 30030 815 W Broad St Athens, GA 30601
- Website: www.treehousekidandcraft.com
- Phone: Athens :: 706-850-8226 Decatur ::470-355-8305
- Email: hello@treehousekidandcraft.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treehousekidandcraft/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/treehousekidandcraft/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/treehousecraft
- Yelp: Athens :: https://www.yelp.com/biz/treehouse-kid-and-craft-athens Decatur: :: https://www.yelp.com/biz/treehouse-kid-and-craft-decatur-3
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
