Playing dress-up has been a beloved childhood pastime for generations. Now, a small team of women has turned this tradition into a thriving business. Learn more about Let’s Dress Up and its unique offerings in this week’s Small Business Spotlight.
### What the Business Does
Let’s Dress Up provides princess-themed events and experiences for children. Co-owner Samantha Myers shared, “Our business is a fairy tale-themed play and birthday party space for kids aged 3-8, with two locations in Manhattan.”
### Business Niche
The company focuses on creating magical experiences. They offer both private parties and playtime sessions where kids can dress up and have tea parties using real china. Myers noted, “We’re known for being women-owned and delivering a five-star customer experience. We’ve been a staple in the Upper East Side for over ten years.”
### How the Business Got Started
The idea was to recreate childhood magic. Myers mentioned, “My business partner started the business based on her childhood memories of dressing up in her grandmother’s attic.”
### Biggest Win
Expanding after the pandemic. Myers explained, “Surviving Covid was a huge achievement for us. After that, we opened a second brick-and-mortar location. We’re incredibly proud of this accomplishment and excited to bring our magic to a new community.”
### Biggest Risk
Investing in a new location. Myers added, “Opening a second location has been our biggest risk so far. We’re approaching our two-year anniversary, and things are going well.”
### How They’d Spend an Extra $100,000
Exploring new growth opportunities. Besides hiring a new manager and participating in more events, Myers said, “I would explore new themes and partnerships, and develop programming for the summer slow season. And I would sleep better at night.”
### Management Style
Playing to their strengths. Myers explained, “We have two owners. My partner adds embellishments to all the dresses and decorates for each season, while I handle email blasts and spreadsheets. It’s a perfect partnership.”
