This week I had the honor of meeting the creator of The Toy Nest, Lisa Bourven, and checking out her space in Falls Church. My kids and I were in awe of the play space and we plan on being a part of her "flock" for a very long time! Visit the www.toynest.com for more information!
1. What is your name? What is the name of your business?
Lisa Bourven, The Toy Nest
2. What inspired or encouraged you to start your business in our area?
For five of my eight+ years as a stay-at-home mom, I was privileged to serve in the classroom at my kids' play-based cooperative preschool, where I witnessed firsthand the transformational power of play. At the same time, through playdates and my involvement in a local MOPS group, I realized that other moms were stressed about their toy clutter and waste. But the idea first came to me during a long visit to see the grandparents with my kids, where there were no ride-on toys. After that trip, I realized that a toy library could solve so many problems at once, and Falls Church felt like a natural place to create one.
3. What do you love about your work?
I love seeing the excitement on children's faces when they make new discoveries. And I love meeting a need for my customers while also benefitting the environment.
4. What advice do you have for others wanting to start a business?
Do your market research. Share your idea with trusted advisors, and surround yourself with people whose strengths are not your own. And be prepared to work harder than you've ever worked before.
5. What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it, especially right now?
The truth is that I'm not doing so well in this department. The days of daily workouts are gone! For now. But I still wake up early, between 5 and 6, and start my day with a quiet cup of coffee and some prayer time. I try to squeeze in socially distant walks with friends, and I never skip meals or my daily dose of Trader Joe's dark chocolate.
6. What can we do to support you in the community?
Stop in for a visit or consider hosting your pod or next small party at The Toy Nest.
7. What is your (or your family’s) favorite spot in our area?
It's impossible to pick just one! Our family favorites are Gulf Branch Nature Center, the creek behind the Byron, and Pizzeria Orso.
