This week’s blog interview is with Adriane Duckworth the creator of The Wild Kids Apparel. Based out of Hamilton Ontario, this talented woman creates the cutest stuffed toys which I just adore and use in my baby gift boxes.
1. Was creating hand-printed apparel and accessories something you had always dreamed of doing? Share with us how it all started for you.
I always wanted to be an artist, to draw, to be creative. I didn’t know that I wanted to do this specifically until I had my first son five years ago. The first characters were created for his bedroom wall, and I kept drawing more and more. Eventually, I knew I had to share my little creatures with the world in some way, and baby/kids clothing and accessories just made sense to me!
2. You have created so many fun characters. I am sure it’s hard to pick, but do you have a favorite? Do your customers have a favorite?
I do have some favourites! Bob the Grizzly Bear is near to my heart, I just love his little sad face, ha ha. I also love Pablo the Penguin, and Olwyne the Owl because that is my son’s absolute favourite.
3. It is so hard to balance motherhood and run your own small business. What do you find most challenging?
Being really present, in either my work or my family life, is a struggle. I always have work on my mind, and I always feel guilty about not spending every waking minute with my boys when I’m working. But I’ve learned that balance doesn’t exist, and that’s ok. At the end of the day, I’m showing my children the value of hard work and how important it is to be passionate about what you do. And I’m pretty proud of that.
4. What are you most thankful for as a Canadian maker?
Being a part of this thriving community, and the ‘shop small’ movement. I have met some of the most incredible customers that go out of their way to support me. I’ve been lucky enough to work with retailers (like you!) that truly appreciate small brands like me and how important it is to get our brand story across. I thought it might be lonely working from home, not having a team I see every day, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, I feel more connected than ever when it comes to colleagues and other people in my field.
Check out The Wild Kids Apparel website to see more wonderful products!