Children everywhere will no doubt love Deborah Schwab and her army of loveable animals.  We love that Deb saw an opportunity in the marketplace and seized the moment to create Bears ‘n’ Buddies Canada.

 

1. Tell us about your business. 

I have been the owner of Bears ‘n’ Buddies Canada for the last 6 yrs (this coming December).  We are a do it yourself stuffed animal store specializing in Birthday Parties.  We also cater to company parties, various children’s programs & arrange fundraisers as well.

Our stuffable plush animal parties not only help you find a creative activity and theme for your party, but they provide a great party favor that won’t end up in the landfill once the party is over. Our kits come with everything you need to stuff an animal and best of all.. there is NO SEWING REQUIRED!!

2. Other than being an entrepreneur, who are you? Tell us about yourself.  

I am mom to two wonderful boys aged 9 & 8.

3. What motivated you to go into business for yourself?  

When my youngest son was 2 yrs old, I decided that I wanted to get back into the work world but also be home to raise my children..something very important to me.

From being a member of various mommy forums & listening to friends about the expense of birthday parties, I decided to start Bears ‘n’ Buddies.

4. How do you overcome challenges and obstacles in your business?  

Cry LOL …no I step away from it for a break. Sometimes I can only *breathe in* so much fluff and close up shop for a week or two just to get my head around things.  I am always looking for new ideas or ways to promote my business. 

5. What are your greatest strengths as an entrepreneur?   

My many years in customer service from working as a sales representative to being a flight attendant for 7 years.  Treat customers the way you would like to be treated!

6. What are you most passionate about in your business?

Making my customers happy.  That little added touch goes a long way sometimes!

7. What is one piece of helpful advice you would give to other entrepreneurs?

Customer service is key! Your customers have the power to make or break your business and their comments can spread like wildfire.

Follow Deb on Twitter and Facebook.