Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Morton.
Hi Amanda, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Amanda Morton and I founded CuddleBuddys in 2016. It all started when I was a consumer with a problem. I wanted a customizable teddy bear without a t-shirt or uncomfortable plastic photo frame. When I couldn’t find what I was looking for, I started digging into market research, and CuddleBuddys was born a few years later. The first couple of years involved a lot of trial and error as I figured out how to utilize online platforms and web services. During the first two years of business, I sold 200 bears. Now, we process 200 orders every other month. I’ve been very intentional about listening to our customers’ needs and adjusting our product lines as needed. What I expected to be a helpful product for families living in multiple homes expanded into a comfort companion for those experiencing loss.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh boy, where do I start? Nothing about being an entrepreneur is easy, but it is fun! There are so many unknown challenges when starting and running a self-financed business. I need to write a book to outline the challenges I’ve experienced and share how I worked through them. In the beginning, I’d tell myself, “Once you get past this challenge (writing a provisional patent, creating a website, sourcing manufacturing), it’ll be easier.” I often revisit that thought and laugh at how green I was. Overcoming each challenge increased my self belief. I know without a doubt that I can handle any challenge, even when I’m not sure how yet. So, I guess it’s easier in that regard.
We’ve been impressed with CuddleBuddys, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We specialize in making custom teddy bears and have other items as well for gifting and grief. However, our teddy bears set us apart from other gifting companies. Our CuddleBuddy teddy bears are highly customizable; the two largest features are custom photo and audio. We add photos directly to the bear. They aren’t on a t-shirt or printed and placed behind any type of frame. Our process involves printing photos directly onto fabric and then affixed to the bear. I’m not aware of any company who offers this or the quality of voice recorders that we use. Not only do we have a device that you can record on, but we also have devices powered by AAA batteries that allow us to upload any digital sound files under 4 minutes long. Outside of the quality of our product, we pride ourselves on working with customers to make sure their custom bears match their visions.
I also would like to touch base on how we operate our team at CuddleBuddys. When I started hiring employees, it was extremely important to me that the position was flexible, offered independent work and respect. Team members select days that they work and are able to come in at any time so that they can shape their job around their lives instead of the other way around. Pay is also based on production, which allows a much more flexible workflow. Team members are able to talk on the phone or take breaks as needed because of this payment system. It also allows employees who sharpen their skills to naturally give themselves a raise. I am proud to say that all of our team members are working in the $15 plus range.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
We love collaborating with other brands and business owners. Anyone who’s interested can email cuddleBuddyBears@gmail.
Pricing:
- CuddleBuddys start at $55
Contact Info:
- Website: CuddleBuddys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cuddlebuddys.bears/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cuddlebuddybears
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cuddlebuddys
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cuddlebuddys
