Vendor Interview- Manzanita Kids
Tell our readers a little bit about yourself and your work.
We are a husband and wife team, Adrienne teaches at Adams Elementary in Ballard and David is a stay at home dad. Our backgrounds as artist, teacher and architect play a large roll in our designs and craftsmanship of the toys. We design our toys to target developmental milestones and spark the imagination, and we have a great time doing it!
What are some sources of inspiration for your work?
As corny as it sounds, kids! A lot of thought goes into our designs and how we think children may play with them. We are continually surprised at the unexpected ways kids play with our toys especially the modular designs.
What was the best thing you did with your summer?
We had a baby! Isabel arrived in early August which is great because we could use an extra hand in the shop.
Of course being part of UCU summer show was a close second!
Are you showcasing anything new at the winter UCU show?
We just went through a very creative period, lots of new toys. An incredible modular vehicle (Submarine/Truck/Airplane), many new animal themed puzzles, new rattles and more. We will also be showing our new Owl, Stars and Moon puzzle which will be in the November issue of Seattle Magazine, so excited!
What are you most excited about for UCU?
While Etsy has given us an outlet and space to sell our toys, we miss direct contact with customers. Meeting people and talking about our toys is invigorating. We are very excited to show people our new toys and we will have a designated play area so kids and adults can explore our toys.
Check out more of their work here and be sure to check them out at the show!
