Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathryn Lamb.
Hi Kathryn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
The Mama Elf concept was created during covid, when I was overwhelmed with a newborn and having a 5 year old at the time that had high expectations for her holiday Elf, Rosie. I was so frustrated by having to think of something to do every night, and if I forgot I felt so guilty! I finally went to the store and bought everything I could think of for this Elf to do- so that way I didn’t have to feel bad, and my daughter would be so excited to see the “Christmas Magic!” I thought that if I could do this for myself, why couldn’t I help other parents do the same? Surely, I am not the only one that struggled keeping up with the Elf traditions.
I am so proud of how far we have come in just one year. 2020 was the first debut of our signature product, The Elf Kit, and this year we more than doubled our sales, while adding additional enhancements! I started this business by posting on neighborhood Facebook groups, and started an Instagram with less than 50 followers. Today we have 5600 followers and our own website, and gaining traction each day!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would like to say that we are very blessed first and foremost, with that being said- It has not always been a smooth road- there are daily challenges, and I have learned those come with the role of owning your own business. We have had lots of hills and mountains to climb, but we are motivated and up for the challenge!
I feel like when running your own business, you have to think of every possible worst case scenario- and try to be prepared for it- like major supply chain issues. We, like many others had delayed shipments, making it hard to get our production executed as originally planned- and a VERY short window to get our kits out by certain dates so that our clients would receive their kit on time! It was a lot of stress and a LOT of work- but we made it happen! Our production and assembly team were amazing this year- because of them we were able to make our deadlines!
For the past two elf seasons, we have operated out of our house- yes that’s right- our home! We have taken over more than half of it in Elf supplies, kits, materials, etc. We will likely need to find a space for production next year which is very exciting!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Mama Elf was created for ALL Mama’s and parents who want to be creative, but do not necessarily have the time to execute being crafty during the holidays! The idea was developed over covid- seeing how challenging everything had become, I thought I would come up with ideas that would make parents (like myself), less stressed and more available to their children. Parents have a full load all of the time, so if The Mama Elf can save time and still make moms and dads look like Rockstar’s, then we must be doing something right!
The Mama Elf prides itself on its original product, The Elf Kit. Our kits come fully loaded with 24 days of supplies, activities, and instructions for your holiday Elf. I am so proud on how well organized and clean our kit this year! We worked super hard to make sure our branding was perfectly executed. We prepackage and label each individual day with the supplies, to ensure a clear understanding of where everything is located. We provide a printed copy of detailed instructions that are placed in each kit! Making Elf activities easy to follow!
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love that in Houston there is so much creativity, passion, and excitement. I feel like there is something for everybody in all parts of town! I love that in Houston, I am NEVER bored! There is always a game going on, a new restaurant to try, or a show to attend! I have seen so many businesses grow in this city and I believe it is because Houstonians are so loyal to shopping small!
Pricing:
- Elf Kits start at $75-$95
Contact Info:
- Email: kathryn@themamaelf.com
- Website: themamaelf.com
- Instagram: themamaelf
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMamaElf
Image Credits
Kate Robinson Photography
