“20 Minutes with Steph, Founder of Smudge Sensory & Messy Play”
Interview with Steph, founder of Smudge Sensory & Messy Play.
Can you tell us how your business came about and the inspiration behind it?
Smudge Sensory & Messy Play was created after I moved to the UK and saw the demand for Messy Play classes in my area. I also noticed that when the weather was bad some mums were reluctant to leave the house with their babies so I decided to create a mobile classes system where I can travel around and come to you ! So no matter the weather , the baby doesn’t miss out on a wonderful fun experience which is so crucial to their development.
“No matter the weather, the baby doesn’t miss out on a wonderful fun experience which is so crucial to their development. “
What sets your business apart from others in the market?
Mobile classes sets Smudge Apart from other similar businesses. I am also a trained primary school teacher so I have the knowledge behind me to understand baby and child development. My understanding of the sensory system has helped me to create meaningful classes to enhance the baby’s growth.
What were the biggest challenges and turning points you encountered in the journey so far?
My biggest challenge in the beginning was getting my name out there as I was new to London. At the start of Smudge classes I found that parents were nervous to book for messy play sessions as they themselves were afraid to confront the different textures. Parents were worried to touch the edible slime or foam so once I was able to encourage the parents to dive into this new sensory world , in turn , their children gained more confidence.
“Parents were worried to touch the edible slime or foam”
What are your current focus areas for the business?
My current focus areas are on Smudge Parties! I offer both sensory music and/ or messy play parties. I also would love to grow the business so that I can expand to different areas across London.
What advice would you give to other aspiring parent entrepreneurs?
My advice would be to just give it a shot. Trust the process and give it your all. Have confidence in yourself too! You got this!
