Meet Entrepreneur Kevin Gatlin, Playtime Edventures LLC
“Entrepreneurship is just as much physical as it is mental! You have to be prepared to deal with the physical strain a start-up will put on your business. Meaning make time to exercise and eat right so that you can stay up the long hours and fight colds that would stop you from working!”
What does your business offer?
We have two products on the market. Playtime Bed Sheets have over 50 fun interactive games printed on the fabric allowing kids to play, learn and sleep on them. And the reversible Slumber bag allows kids to not roll up the bag in the morning but roll it out and continue to use it all day playing various fun games like checkers, tic tac toe and word find.
What was your AHA moment?
Had the idea and just went for it
How has PR and Marketing helped your business?
In the last year we have been in the media over 12 times. I personally contact the news desk and tell them about our product.
What’s your greatest success to date?
I really feel a sense of being now that our product is being utilized in the hospitals were kids with cancer can’t leave. Seeing the pictures come in and the smiles on the kids face are priceless!
What’s been challenging and how did you overcome it?
Learning how to import and work with you manufacturers site unseen was a big fear to overcome in the beginning. We overpaid for our first order but learning from our mistake readjusted on the second run. Also personally in the beginning I used to question GOD “God this is a great idea but you know I don’t look the part” but I then realized God does not make mistakes you have to take the gifts he gives you and run with them and everything will work out!
You have to do your research and learn the jargon…meaning people in the business to make extra on you can tell if this is your first time or if your seasoned. I learned after over spending knowing exactly what to ask for and knowing the steps that should take place from start to finish.
What steps are you taking to achieve your goals?
The sacrifice is real! I just sold two cars and furniture to continue to fund the business as we grow. This means no vacations and 12 to 14 hour days at least 3 days a week. And you’re constantly trying to meet the buyer of this store etc… hoping to get them your information for review. But I love it!
What are your best tips on managing family and business?
Family comes first! During the week when everyone is at work and school I can work. when they come home I break to help my wife with cooking or my sons with their homework. When they go to bed I jump back on the computer and continue to invest in the company.
What are your favorite tools and resources?
I enjoy Shark Tank because the show gives me energy. When I turn off the tv I realize I’m not out here by myself trying to get over the hump. Entrepreneur’s everywhere face similar issues on growing the business. And if it was easy everyone would do it!
If you could wave a magic wand right now, what would you wish for?
Connections to the buyers so we can get in front of them and tell them about our great products
Where can readers go to learn more about you and your business?
playtimebedsheets.com