We recently connected with Billie Florsheim and have shared our conversation below.

Billie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

My journey began during the quiet of the COVID-19 lockdowns, a time when life slowed down, and I found myself enjoying simple moments at home. In my kitchen, alongside my curious toddlers, I discovered a love for baking. The laughter, the mess, and the process of creating something together were incredibly rewarding. But I quickly realized there was a problem. The market didn’t have tools that truly worked for little hands—nothing sturdy, functional, and easy for kids to use. I wasn’t looking for toys or oversized adult tools. I needed real utensils designed for young bakers, tools that were easy to clean and practical for the way kids mix, stir, and create.

As I baked with my children, I saw that baking was more than just a fun activity. It was a way to teach important life skills—basic math through measuring, science through understanding how ingredients react, and creativity through decorating and problem-solving. It also encouraged critical thinking and following instructions. Each step in the process was a learning moment, and I wanted to give my kids the tools to make those lessons accessible and enjoyable.

I was also inspired by Maria Montessori’s approach to education, which emphasizes hands-on learning and independence. I had been working toward creating a Montessori-inspired environment for my children, one where they could explore and learn at their own pace. Baking fit perfectly into that vision. I wanted the tools we used to reflect those principles—simple, functional, and empowering for little hands.

Realizing there was nothing like this available, I decided to create it myself. I brought together a group of talented women—designers, photographers, and production experts—to develop a baking set specifically for kids. Our team is made up of moms, aunts, and people who love kitchens and design. Together, we share a commitment to creating tools that aren’t just useful but also help families create meaningful experiences in the kitchen.

Billie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a mom to three wonderful children and a designer with a background in the fashion industry. My curiosity drives me to constantly seek out new challenges and adventures, whether it’s in the world of parenting, design, or exploring creative solutions. Balancing the joys and lessons of motherhood with my professional experience, I’ve developed a passion for combining functionality with beauty, especially in creating products that inspire and engage.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

As a business owner and a mom, flexibility is not just a skill; it’s a necessity. One of the biggest tests of this came when I had an important exhibition to participate in—an opportunity I had worked hard to secure—but it was scheduled exactly on my due date. The timing couldn’t have been more challenging, and I felt torn between my professional goals and my responsibilities as a mom. In the end, the decision was clear: my kids always come first. This business began with them in mind, and everything I create is for their future. While it was frustrating to step back from the event, it reinforced my commitment to balancing business and family, a reminder that my priorities will always be rooted in what matters most.

How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.

I sell my products through multiple channels, including my own website, Amazon, Faire, and with the help of a few dedicated reps who present my products globally. Each channel comes with its own set of benefits and challenges—my website allows for direct connection with customers, Amazon offers vast reach and convenience, Faire helps me tap into boutique and wholesale markets, and my reps bring a personal touch to international opportunities. Managing these diverse channels requires tailored strategies and constant attention, but I’ve found that they often inspire creative solutions. Tools and insights from one platform can be adapted to others, making the process not only a learning experience but also an exciting way to grow my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tampocodesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tampocodesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TampocoDesign

Image Credits

All right reserved Tampodo Design LLC