Press Releases
4/6/2023
Launching Success Moving to Downtown Bellingham
Launching Success, a woman-owned retail store with educational toys and materials for all ages, is moving to downtown Bellingham.
Owned by Jen Scheib and Kristen Ladiges, Launching Success will relocate to the former Perch & Play space at 1707 N. State St. The store’s last day at 133 Prince Ave. will be May 26 and it will reopen May 30 in a 6,000-square-foot space in downtown Bellingham.
“The new location is close to Interstate 5 and will be easy to reach for customers, as well as providing us better visibility,” Scheib said. “The fresh start also will include some new product selections.”
Launching Success offers a wide variety of products. Some of the top categories are science, building toys, preschool and early learning resources and social/emotional development.
“We love children and believe that good education equips young people to become adults who make our communities a better place to live,” Scheib said. “Our goal is to provide educators and parents teaching tools that lead to the best learning possible.”
A grand reopening and 20th anniversary celebration will be presented June 24.
Launching Success is open from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. For more information, call (360) 527-2641 or visit https://launchingsuccess.com.
10/28/19
Toy Store Nurtures STEM and Natural Science Learning
In a place where play and learning collide, Launching Success turns its focus to the little things that draw out the eager learner in every child. From hands-on lab work to exploring through words and pictures, the educationally focused toy purveyor makes sure there’s a learning avenue opened for every child, attuned to their unique learning style.
Science
Rather than just be told how things work, Launching Success urges kids to put themselves in a scientist’s shoes. This field biology kit gives kids all the tools they need to discover, identify, and make observations about genuine animal bones just like a zoologist studying the health of the local environment. The kit is focused around owl pellets: balls of bone and fur left by owls shortly after a good meal. Though it seems odd at first, children quickly leave their apprehension behind and start making discoveries. Prepare for this real-life zoological survey with frequently asked questions about owls.
Technology
It can be intimidating for a kid to see a circuit board for the first time. The strange, green plates look like miniature cities full of mysterious power plants and odd little houses, connected with thousands of wandering streets. Snap Circuits break down a circuit board into something children can understand, a tool box with parts that kids can swap around and experiment with, or follow the instructions to build fascinating contraptions.This experience gives children a rare peek at how machines work, and prepares them to explore a variety of technological fields.
Engineering
Some kids like trains, some like boats, but something about a trebuchet has universal appeal. After building the device step by step (no hammer and nails required), kids are ready to launch all their favorite stuffed animals across the room. In constructing and using the trebuchet, kids discover the function of the counterweight: not too light, not too heavy. They see the throwing arm in action, elongated to distribute the weight. They learn how to implement the simple elegance of a pull cord, releasing the mechanism in one quick movement. As they get older, children will learn to use these engineering designs in new and different ways every day.
Math
As products of their environment, children watch money change hands nearly every day in fascination. This teaching toy lets kids put their math skills into action using a coveted and mysterious device: the cash register. Playing with a friend or with the computer, kids count out money, make change, and are introduced to financial skills in fun and intuitive ways.
Launching Success selects each product for form and function: Each toy is of quality and dependable make, designed to challenge and encourage each child on their learning path. When it comes to STEM, it’s the mission of Launching Success to introduce every child to the amazing world around them in order to spark that universal craving to learn even more.
10/23/19
BELLINGHAM’S OWN LAUNCHING SUCCESS JOINS THE AMERICAN SPECIALTY TOY RETAILING ASSOCIATION (ASTRA) IN TENTH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES NATIONWIDE
Shop Local and Celebrate Neighborhood Toy Store Day on November 9
BELLINGHAM, WA, OCTOBER 9, 2019- Bellingham’s own Launching Success will be one of hundreds of retailers across the country celebrating Neighborhood Toy Store Day on November 9, 2019. Spearheaded by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), the annual observance asks shoppers to remember the neighborhood toy stores in their communities as they kick off the holiday shopping season. Scheduled ahead of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, the day offers shoppers special events, yummy treats and hands-on experiences with children’s toys.
“ASTRA initiated Neighborhood Toy Store Day a decade ago to celebrate community, showcase the value of shopping local, and celebrate the joy of play,” said Kimberly Mosley, president of ASTRA. “These retailers are how the toy industry began and where customers can create special memories with their families. In neighborhood toy stores, shoppers can find offer a high quality, carefully curated selection of the best toys and games along with an exceptional and personal customer shopping experience.”
Residents of Bellingham and the surrounding area can join in the national event at Launching Success located at 133 Prince Ave, Bellingham, WA 98226. The store will be offering a Spin the Wheel, yummy treats, crafts and activities to do. 10% of the sales for the day will be donated to local non-profit Blue Skies for Children. For more information, customers and media can contact the store directly at 360-527-2641 or info@launchingsuccess.com
Included in the selection at many participating stores are the toys and games that made ASTRA’s Best Toys for Kids Award list earlier this year. The list featured toys that expert toy retailers across the country consider to be the highest quality and most sought-after items to have on 2019 holiday shopping lists.
“Launching Success is proud to be a member of the Bellingham community. We have had our store here for 16 years and have put together family-friendly activities we think residents will enjoy for Neighborhood Toy Store Day,” says Jen Zimmermann, Co-owner of Launching Success. “We look forward to celebrating our local business and helping everyone find the perfect gift for the children in their lives. Hope to see you there!”
Visit launchingsuccess.com and facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess for additional information Launching Success. For information about ASTRA and its efforts to support small local businesses in the toy industry, visit astratoy.org.
About Launching Success
Northwest Washington’s largest local educational toy store, where Play and Learning collide! Specializing in quality educational materials and toys, Launching Success’ mission is to be a resource to the community and support the education of the local children.
About the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA)
Founded in 1992, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) is an international not-for-profit trade organization that develops and supports a membership of independent retailers, manufacturers and sales representatives in the toy industry. Inspired to change the world through the power of play, ASTRA is a community of dedicated professionals committed to providing children with healthy, quality play materials that have a high play value and are designed with a focus on what the child can do, rather than what the toy can do. Through certification programs, educational resources and networking opportunities, ASTRA equips and empowers members to make a positive impact on the economy and culture of the communities they serve. For more information, visit www.astratoy.org/.
11/12/15
‘Going Local’ Now Goes Beyond Fruits and Veggies
Launching Success Learning Store Celebrates the Sixth-Annual
Neighborhood Toy Store Day, November 14
These days, those in the know “shop local” when stocking the kitchen pantry. Restaurants boasting locally sourced ingredients, meanwhile, increasingly draw crowds.
But support for local resources doesn’t have to end at the refrigerator door. This holiday season, consumers everywhere can support their communities by shopping local stores for the best holiday toys. In return, those neighborhood independent toy stores support parents, grandparents and other gift-givers with expert advice on encouraging creative play among the children in their lives.
On Saturday, November 14, Launching Success Learning Store (LSLS) will join hundreds of locally owned stores across the country to celebrate the sixth national Neighborhood Toy Store Day, an annual celebration in which independent toy shops kick off the holiday season with special events to introduce consumers to the benefits of shopping local. LSLS will offer fun, child-friendly activities such as a scavenger hunt, face painting, crafts, a LEGO® building contest, and more. In addition, five percent of all purchases made at LSLS on November 14th will be donated to Lydia Place. More specific information about the day’s events can be found on the calendar at launchingsuccess.com
Specialty toy store owners are the real experts when it comes to choosing toys for kids, said Kimberly Mosley, president of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting local toy shopping and creative open-ended playtime for children. “These store owners spend time with kids day in and day out. They understand the value of play, and what types of toys encourage active, open-ended and creative playtime.”
As a result, neighborhood toy stores offer a carefully curated product selection and provide trusted recommendations on quality toys that offer good value. Because they needn’t adhere to a national sales plan like major chains, they can customize their offerings to specific community needs. And because they source products from both big-brand manufacturers and small, entrepreneurial companies, they introduce children to a world of toys that, often, can’t be found elsewhere.
“Local stores like us also make holiday toy shopping easier, by offering a personalized approach and additional customer service that contrasts with the sometimes frazzling experience of shopping large retailers,“ said Jen Zimmermann, co-owner of Launching Success.
For more information on Neighborhood Toy Store day, visit https://www.whatcomtalk.com/2019/10/18/shop-local-and-celebrate-neighborhood-toy-store-day-on-november-9/.
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview, and is a member of Sustainable Connections and ASTRA. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
11/18/14
Launching Success Donates to Africa through Local Non-Profit
For the past nine years, Launching Success Learning Store has been contributing to Bellingham-based non-profit Tembo Trading Education Project (www.tembotrading.org), most recently with a donation of school uniforms valued at $3,826.22. The Project will take those uniforms directly to children who desperately need them.
"We will be returning to Kenya next year and will bring back pictures of the students in the clothes donated,” says Jeana King, COO of Tembo Trading Education Project. “These children have hardly any clothing outside of their school uniform; even their uniform is often in tatters. These clothes will be such a gift.”
The organization’s mission is to provide an education of excellence to the children of Kenya, going beyond classroom and focusing on the well-being of the entire child. It works hard to support a community’s sustenance and infrastructure needs, strengthening economic development and ensuring that the community can continue independently.
“Our educational approach is holistic and goes beyond just the academic learning in school,” King says. “It also means meeting the additional needs of our students such as food, clothing, economic development, etc."
Launching Success co-owner Jen Zimmerman is thrilled contribute to the endeavor. “It just feels good knowing those uniforms will be put to good use,” Zimmerman says. “It’s such an admirable undertaking; we’re honored to be part of the process.”
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
10/10/14
Local Store to Celebrate Fifth-Annual National Neighborhood Toy Store Day
Launching Success Learning Store (LSLS) is excited to celebrate American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA)’s national Neighborhood Toy Store Day (NTSD) on November 8. Although the event is known for fun family activities and big savings for the community, the essential point is to applaud the positive practice of shopping at local and independent toy stores.
In a world filled with numerous buying options, LSLS co-owners Jen Zimmermann and Kristen Krumdiack are passionate about owning an 11-year-old Bellingham business and look forward to emphasizing all the ways their store stands out in the crowd.
“Our customers come to us for many reasons like quality and selection, but they especially trust our expertise. They know we can point out age-appropriate products; we can brainstorm gift ideas based on one tiny detail. With some of our customers, we know their preferences and interests so well, we just have to point out certain items the second they walk through the door – we can’t wait!” laughs Zimmerman. “That’s what running a small business is all about – caring, honest, personal, face-to-face service.”
LSLS will start off NTSD by giving the first 25 people a scratch-off coupon worth up to 50% off one item. All customers can take a spin on the Everyone’s A Winner Wheel for a variety of prizes. The always popular Best Toys for Kids scavenger hunt features all twenty items on ASTRA’s 2014 list, selected by a pool of independent toy retailers across the country and honoring new, improved and innovative toys that promote open-ended or creative play. To pay it forward (and walk the talk of supporting local), 5% of the day’s profits will be donated to Blue Skies for Children. Other kid activities – like creating a Wikki Stix door hanger and trying glitter tattoos – are happening from 10am to 2pm A huge Plus-Plus building toy display from Geared for Imagination will be available to try firsthand, and children will also receive a small model to take home and a day-of coupon for 5% off Plus-Plus.
This year the friendly elves are introducing Santa’s Book, in which kids can record a wish list of picks for the Big Guy in Red himself, along any other pertinent parties (i.e. family and friends). This special gift resource list will be available for reference in-store or by phone through December. As always, free gift wrap is included!
Shopping at neighborhood and independent retailers not only increases consumer choice, it also preserves jobs and local character. According to the 3/50 Project, for every $100 spent in local, independently-owned stores, $68 returns to the community in the form of taxes, salaries, charitable contributions, children’s educational programs and more – in contrast with only $43 dollars when consumers spend their money at a national chain.
"NTSD highlights the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right innovative, exclusive and engaging toy to help your child grow and learn through play,” explains Kathleen McHugh, President of ASTRA.
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
10/8/14
Local Learning Store Kicks Off New Ladies Night Series With Holiday Style!
Launching Success Learning Store (LSLS) may be chock full of amazing quality toys and games for children, but this event is not meant for the kiddos. The store welcomes the community to Ladies Night: Holiday Wrap-Up on Thursday, November 20, from 7-9 p.m., the first in an ongoing series of free events!
Sherri Willand, an LSLS Community Relations Director, came up with the idea as a way to show appreciation for the store’s plentiful and loyal following of female customers.
“We all basically want the same type of shopping experience – easy and hassle-free with quality products and helpful employees,” Willand says. “But girls also want to have a little fun!”
Hence the Ladies Night idea was born. LSLS kicks off the series with a seasonal sensation, Holiday Wrap-Up, and will continue to host additional Ladies Night events with various themes throughout the year. This first edition is designed to help ladies check off their holiday shopping list in a fun, relaxed environment, with plenty of perks.
Customers are encouraged to attend with friends and relatives so they can brainstorm gift ideas together, all while sipping punch and munching on tasty treats (including goodies from Cupcakes Like It Sweet).
“Bring your best friend, your sister, your mother-in-law – all the ladies whose children you’ll be buying for this season,” Willand recommends. “You can point out perfect picks right there in the aisles, making sure to give and get gifts the kids will love!”
To make the night extra sweet, all participants can choose a decadent chocolate wrapped with a special day-of discount coupon (up to 50% off one item!). For shopping convenience, employee favorites will be marked storewide and LSLS co-owner Jen Zimmermann will lead group tours around every nook and cranny of the 5,600-square-foot building.
While the staff wraps up purchases in a festive holiday motif – that’s right, free gift wrap, too – ladies can take a spin on the Everybody Wins wheel for a variety of prizes, including Posh beauty product samples, or get creative at the craft table, making an adorable take-home ornament.
“Our customers are the best part of my job and an absolute blast to spend time with,” says LSLS co-owner Jen Zimmermann. “I’m so excited to hang out together in an after-hours atmosphere where we can all enjoy the store in a new way!”
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
04/10/14
Local Learning Store Celebrates Educators at Annual Event
Area teachers get the attention they deserve at Launching Success Learning Store's Teacher Appreciation Day!
On Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the store celebrates our community's hardworking educators in studious style, with prizes, classroom aids and special deals. This is the eighth year the locally owned Bellingham store has held this event in conjunction with the nationally observed Teacher Appreciation Week (celebrated May 5-9 this year).
"As a former teacher myself, I know how important it is for children to have educators in their lives who believe in them and their futures," says Jen Zimmermann, co-owner of Launching Success. "And since we know a little bit of gratitude can go a long way, we plan our Teacher Appreciation Day to recognize, thank and celebrate these amazing people!"
And it does seem the educators enjoy the gratitude! Typically long lines of participants arrive early for the highly sought-after goodie bags full of various school materials from the store's suppliers, available only to the first 50 people.
but the fun isn't just for the early birds- Launching Success makes sure all their visitors get something special. Door prizes are given away every 15 minutes throughout the three-hour celebration, and one lucky grand-prize winner will receive a $100 gift card at the event's end. Every shopper gets a gift with purchase, a balloon pop containing a coupon ranging from 10-50% off one item and a spin on the Everyone's A Winner wheel for a prize. Teachers in attendance can preview products for the 2014-2015 school year and purchase hundreds of teacher resource books at 50% off while enjoying complimentary refreshments.
While the event honors all who teach, including homeschooling parents as well as classroom teachers, the general public is also invited.
Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business started in Bellingham 10 years ago. Located at 133 Prince Avenue, just east of Meridian one block north of Bakerview, it serves educators and parents throughout the region of Skagit, Island, and Whatcom Counties, and lower British Columbia. For more information go towww.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
11/6/13
Toy Inventor to Attend Neighborhood Toy Store Day at Local Learning Store
In a profession that may seem like child’s play, Scott Baumann, of ProCreate Brands, invented a toy that really sucks (in a good way!). Meet Baumann and experience his award-winning building toy, Squigz, at Launching Success Learning Store’s Neighborhood Toy Store Day (NTSD) celebration this Saturday, November 9, from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Baumann, who lives in Anacortes with his family, has been working on various projects for 30 years. His other inventions include the GripGo line of hands-free mobile phone car mounts and Chalktrail, a bicycle attachment toy that lets kids draw a line of chalk on the cement behind their bike.
NTSD highlights ASTRA’s 2013 Best Toys for Kids – including Baumann’s suction-construction creation Squigz – honoring toys that deliver exceptional value and expand a child’s imagination and creativity; picked by retail experts in the specialty toy industry.
More than 600 independent toy retailers from coast to coast participate in this nationwide event, held every year on the second Saturday of November, to remind consumers of the importance of independent toy stores and the value of shopping within their local community. Along with meeting Baumann at the Launching Success celebration, shoppers can try the year’s best games, win prizes, take the scavenger hunt challenge, write letters to Santa (with the help of Friendly Elves) and enjoy free gifts. As an added bonus, 5% of the day’s profits will be donated to Ferndale Holiday Giving Store.
Shopping at neighborhood and independent retailers not only increases consumer choice, it also preserves jobs and local character. According to the 3/50 Project, for every $100 spent in local, independently-owned stores, $68 returns to the community in the form of taxes, salaries, charitable contributions, children’s educational programs and more--in contrast with only $43 dollars when consumers spend their money at a national chain.
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
About the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA)
With more than 1500 members, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) is the largest association for companies in the toy and children’s products arenas. ASTRA and its member companies promote the growth of the toy industry by delivering products that serve children’s best interests. For more information, visit www.astratoy.org. Because Community Matters, ASTRA members thank you for shopping locally.
10/30/13
Once again Launching Success Learning Store reports an ambitious program of community giving and involvement during the last year. A grand total of $6,150 in donations (to 56 schools and non-profits that help children) was given by the locally owned educational resources and quality toy store.
Product donations were focused on organizations whose works have a very direct impact on needy children such as Agape House with Lighthouse Mission Ministries. The store is a business partner and supporter of The Firs campground and, therefore, also provided a large percentage of its donations and gifts to that organization.
In addition to the many auction baskets sent to fundraisers, Launching Success helps Parent Teacher Organizations and private schools throughout Whatcom County with fundraisers of Parent Shopping Days, scrip gift cards and Summer Bridge activity books for families to use with children over the summer. During the holidays the store allocated space for Blue Skies for Children and provided a gift wrapping drive for the Christian Hope Center in Lynden.
“We are so very grateful to be a part of such an involved and supportive community, we try our best to give back to as many deserving organizations and schools as possible,” says store co-owner Jen Zimmermann. “We want to thank each and every one of those hard working people striving to make a difference.”
The store’s teacher staff have also contributed time as a members of various nonprofit organizations included the Skagit County Child and Family Consortium, Children's Council of Skagit County, Whatcom Early Learning Alliance, Whatcom Women in Business and Kiwanis International.
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys and games for teachers, homeschoolers and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
10/15/13
Launching Success Learning Store Welcomes New Sales Associates
Launching Success Learning Store recently welcomed two new part-time sales associates onto their team. Following in the store’s admirable practice of hiring employees with a strong passion for learning, both new hires are currently pursuing a career in education.
Morgan Gamboa, Sales Associate is currently a senior at Western Washington University studying Elementary Education and Psychology. With one of her biggest passions being the ability to help people, she arrives to make others smile.
"I'm super excited to be able to work at a store where I can personally learn and grow while also giving back to the children and families in our community," Gamboa said.
Amber Brouillette is a senior at Western Washington University studying Special Education and Elementary Education. She enjoys learning about all the wonderful products in the store, and loves helping people find what they need to make education more fun.
"I love learning new things," said Brouillette.
Store co-owner Jen Zimmermann is pleased to be adding these enthusiastic women to the staff roster, especially right as the holiday shopping season is gearing up.
“Product knowledge, expert advice and unsurpassed customer service are just a few of the many reasons it is important to shop locally,” Zimmermann said. “It will be nice to have two new associates trained and ready to help our customers find the perfect items for every occasion.”
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
10/9/13
LOCAL STORE TO CELEBRATE THIRD-ANNUAL NATIONAL TOY STORE DAY
Bellingham, Wash. (October 9, 2013) – Let the countdown begin! In exactly one month, Launching Success Learning Store is once again joining more than 600 independent toy retailers from coast to coast in celebrating Neighborhood Toy Store Day on November 9. Shoppers can try the year’s best games, win prizes, take the scavenger hunt challenge and enjoy free gifts. As an added bonus, 5% of the day’s profits will be donated to Ferndale Holiday Giving Store.
New co-owners Jen Zimmermann and Kristen Krumdiack are excited to once again participate in the event that spotlights the expert advice and service area families have come to expect from the store and its employees for the past decade.
“Neighborhood Toy Store Day celebrations in 2012 exceeded our expectations,” said Zimmermann. “We are thrilled to carry on (former owners) Dan and Barbara (Sanford)’s tradition of celebrating education through fun and play, and we hope even more families will enjoy the wonderful activities we have planned.”
This nationwide event, held every year on the second Saturday of November, reminds consumers of the importance of independent toy stores and the value of shopping within their local community.
“It’s very important for consumers to understand the uniqueness and outstanding quality of toys found at their local toy store versus a national chain,” McHugh, President of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). "Neighborhood Toy Store Day is about celebrating the role the local store plays in the community. We are highlighting the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right toy to help your child grow and learn through play."
Shopping at neighborhood and independent retailers not only increases consumer choice, it also preserves jobs and local character. According to the 3/50 Project, for every $100 spent in local, independently-owned stores, $68 returns to the community in the form of taxes, salaries, charitable contributions, children’s educational programs and more--in contrast with only $43 dollars when consumers spend their money at a national chain.
Neighborhood Toy Store Day highlights ASTRA’s 2013 Best Toys for Kids, honoring toys that deliver exceptional value and expand a child’s imagination and creativity; picked by retail experts in the specialty toy industry.
About Launching Success Learning Store
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The locally owned, independent business is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, visit www.LaunchingSuccess.com or call 360-527-2641.
About the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA)
With more than 1500 members, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) is the largest association for companies in the toy and children’s products arenas. ASTRA and its member companies promote the growth of the toy industry by delivering products that serve children’s best interests. For more information, visit www.astratoy.org. Because Community Matters, ASTRA members thank you for shopping locally.
9/6/13
LOCAL EDUCATIONAL BUSINESS CHANGES HANDS
After 10 years directing the growth of Launching Success Learning Store, owners Dan and Barbara Sanford are passing ownership to two of their employees.
The Sanfords recently announced the move to their staff noting that, to the public, not much will look different. The new buyers, general store manager Jen Zimmermann and business manager Kristen Krumdiack, have had major roles in the 12-person organization for the past three years.
Following the tradition of using educators in the company, Zimmermann is a former school teacher with broad experience in many levels of classroom and church school education. Co-owner Kristen Krumdiack is also very active in church and community organizations and is in the process of getting her certification as a public accountant.
Barbara and Dan co-founded Launching Success with other teachers on Northwest Avenue in 2003 and led the move of the store to its present location to the north Meridian district on Prince Avenue in 2006. In 2009 they stepped into full ownership when two other partners retired. Barbara Sanford is a former elementary teacher and librarian who enjoyed the books part of store operations. Her husband, Dan Sanford, recently retired from university teaching in the fields of international education and business management at Whitworth University, Western Washington University and Trinity Western University.
Using a unique business model, Launching Success has had remarkable growth, averaging an annual jump in volume of 20%, while many similar stores across the country have struggled. The move of the store in 2006 to their new building at 133 Prince Avenue was a huge boost according to the Sanfords, as it more than tripled the total space and allowed for big changes. Besides teacher materials, the store could now sell specialty educational toys and games and could host many more professional, parent and children events.
The company owners cite several key strategies for surviving tough environments such as Amazon.com competition and the severe recession. A shift to products for parents to use with their children, including learning toys, has boosted sales dramatically. “Parents are now our major market with teachers, schools and homeschoolers coming in second,” explained Dan Sanford, who previously directed the store’s marketing.
Another key to beat the threat posed by Internet giants, besides the store’s own growing online business, has been the store’s decision to take the store to the customer. For several years it has employed field representatives to engage with community educators in a tri-county area including Skagit and Island Counties. The store is present at several dozen conventions and professional events in the region each year. Its sales to school districts and private schools, accordingly, have jumped.
“Alliances have also been crucial for us,” Sanford explains. “Locally, we have partnered with a variety of organizations such as Bricks and Beyond, LLC (LEGO® robotics), early education specialist David Matteson, and Spark Museum. National links with Dallas Pen Company, Send The Light Distribution and The Good Toy Group have been amazingly productive. These groups guarantee reasonable prices, effective inventory decisions and product quality control.”
The Sanfords continue to help at the store and remain on the Learning Store’s board. As they reduce their role, they hope to continue helping with service to community groups. Barbara Sanford has been active with early learning associations in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, Northwest Reading Council, Whatcom Women in Business, the Elder Citizens Providers and Birchwood Presbyterian Church. Dan Sanford will continue his work with the store’s philanthropy, work with Kiwanis kids’ programs and support groups such as The First children’s camps.
5/7/13
HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY, LAUNCHING SUCCESS! COMMUNITY GEM CELEBRATES A DECADE
Launching Success Learning Store invites the public to join in celebrating its 10-year anniversary Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event begins with a ribbon cutting, symbolically opening the store doors to the next decade. As part of the ceremony, and as a token of their gratitude to the community that has helped them thrive, owners Dan and Barbara Sanford are donating to one of the many non-profits they greatly admire, The Firs conference grounds and after school adventures programs.
Special guests include representatives of the Bellingham Chamber of Commerce and of the store's many partner organizations in the community. A special 10-minute LEGO® challenge, where children are timed in building a brick creation, will be offered, along with door prizes and a variety of games for all ages.
Initially started as a small boutique shop on Northwest Avenue, Launching Success is now the region's largest retailer of its kind and has become a valued parent and teacher resource center. Seven years ago the company moved to its own, more expensive building on Prince Avenue (just east of Meridian and one block north of the Bakerview Road). It has developed into a specialty toy store while adding unique products such as educational tools for special needs children and literacy learning materials by David Matteson.
The store has averaged 18% growth annually since its inception, due in part to its Internet sales and to its ability to serve a wide variety of groups, from parents and grandparents to preschools and senior centers. Over the years it has hosted hundreds of seminars, state-certified STARS programs for early learning directors, and countless classes for its customers, including the free Kids Kreate activities held on the 1st Saturday of each month. Since 2003, Launching Success' annual sales have quadrupled. Its Rewards Club started with just 500 patrons the first year and now has more than 20,000.
Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business. It serves throughout the region of Skagit, Island, and Whatcom Counties and lower British Columbia. For more information go to www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call 360-527-2641.
4/18/13
THREE NEW HIRES LAUNCH LOCAL LEARNING STORE INTO NEW TERRITORY
Launching Success Learning Store welcomes aboard a team of three Community Relations Directors to focus on sharing the store's educational materials, quality toys and games, services, activities, and workshops with schools, businesses, organizations, and consumers.
Jodi Boon earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from Western Washington University and taught kindergarten and first grade for eight years. "Launching Success has such amazing offerings for parents, teachers, grandparents, care providers, and businesses," Boon says. "I already adore the store as a teacher and parent, and I am delighted to now be an employee, promoting a small business that provides quality products and services for all ages and stages of learners."
Amy Blackwood has been a writer and editor for more than 15 years. She has extensive experience in community and public relations, including three years as a Communications Specialist at a school district in St. Louis, Mo. Her young son and daughter are thrilled their mom's new job is at "the best toy store in town." "My favorite people are children, followed closely by parents and teachers, so working at Launching Success is a dream job for me," Blackwood says. "I'm excited to be a part of such a great community resource."
Sherri Willand brings six years of volunteer experience with school districts and Parent Teacher Organizations, including serving as a Volunteer Coordinator for Ferndale Holiday Giving Store. She has enjoyed building relationships with parents and teachers. "I Feel that Launching Success is going to be a great place to use my talents as well as have fun selling products I believe in," says Willand. "The store has something for everyone, from the individual teacher or parent to big organizations and businesses, and I'm looking forward to spreading the word to all."
Launching Success Learning Store serves Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties and has Northwest Washington's largest selection of educational materials, quality toys, and games for teachers, homeschoolers, and parents. The store is located at 133 Prince Avenue, east of Meridian just one block north of Bakerview. For more information, go online (www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess) or call 360-527-2641.
Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business not affiliated with a regional or national chain.
4/8/13
TEACHERS TREATED WITH SPECIAL DAY AT LOCAL LEARNING STORE
Area teachers get the attention and gratitude they deserve at Launching Success Learning Store's Teacher Appreciation Day!
On Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the store will be kicking off Teacher Appreciation Week in studious style, with prizes, classroom aids, and special deals for our community's hardworking educators. This is the seventh year the locally owned Bellingham store has held this event in conjunction with the nationally observed teacher appreciation week (celebrated May 6-10 this year).
Typically long lines of participants arrive early for the highly sought-after gift bags full of various school materials from the store's suppliers, available only to the first 50 people to enter the door at 10 a.m. Additionally, door prizes are given away every 15 minutes throughout the four-hour celebration, and grand prizes for 3 lucky recipients are drawn at the event's end. Teachers in attendance can preview products for the 2013-2014 school year. Refreshments are provided by Costco and Starbucks, while Mary Kay provides a sample of pampering goodies.
The event honors all who teach, including homeschooling parents as well as classroom teachers. The general public is also invited. "We are committed to helping our schools and want to show our appreciation for teachers' dedication," explains store owner Barbara Sanford, a former teacher herself.
Launching Success Learning Store is a locally owned, independent business started in Bellingham 10 years ago. Located at 133 Prince Avenue, just east of Meridian one block north of Bakerview, it serves educators and parents throughout the region of Skagit, Island, and Whatcom Counties and Lower British Columbia. For more information go to www.LaunchingSuccess.com, www.facebook.com/LaunchingSuccess or call 360-527-2641.
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