We recently connected with Josh Title and have shared our conversation below.

Josh, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

Cate & Levi was founded in 2008 after my first son Levi was born. Although I graduated from law school and practiced corporate law, “making” has always been my true calling. My mom is an avid crafter and father a committed and successful small business owner. You may say that I’m the perfect marriage of both!

As my wife and I awaited the birth of our first child, I noticed that there was a lack of one of a kind, responsibly made, and beautifully designed products for children. I decided to create a unique collection of products that would be intricately crafted and environmentally responsible. I started by designing a handful of stuffed animals made from upcycled sweaters. These quickly became our signature pieces distributed and collected around the world.

Josh, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

The Cate & Levi Collection is handmade at my studio in Toronto, Canada. Together with my talented production team, I oversee every aspect of this collection. All the materials are sourced as close to home as possible. This process cuts down on shipping and reduces the carbon footprint.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When the pandemic hit, our main distribution channel, brick and mortar stores, completely dried up. Luckily, we had already built out our Amazon store and we quickly pivoted and started to acquire customers here. Without this pivot, we would have had to close production.

We’d appreciate any insights you can share with us about selling a business.

I sold my first business, Cate and Levi, in 2007/2008. Although it was a successful exit I’d say I wasn’t completely prepared to start over again. Getting my second business to a profitable place took longer than I expected.
If you’re going to sell, be sure the multiple factors in how long it takes to get going again.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cateandlevi.com
• Instagram: @cateandlevi
• Linkedin: Josh Title