At Heyday Homes, we’re passionate about supporting female entrepreneurs and small businesses. Our spotlight series aims to introduce clients, family, and friends to local businesses in the area in effort to build community. We hope you enjoy this interview and learning about Ann’s work as much we have!

Name: Ann Kienzle, Owner of Play Toys and Books

We’d love to hear a little background about Play Toys and Books! What inspired you to open a children’s toy + book store?

I started in the toy industry almost right out of college.  I worked for BRIO.  I moved to Los Angeles and managed sales for the west coast.  After several years I moved back to the midwest (Logan Square to be exact!) and started a consulting firm for the toy industry.  It required a lot of travel and while that’s sometimes fun…it wears you down after awhile.  Sometime in 2010 I was walking around the farmer’s market and just thought “I think this neighborhood is ready for a toy shop!”   

Did you have any mentors that helped you along the way, when you were first getting started?

I’ve had several mentors over the years.  The president of BRIO, Peter Reynolds, was a great mentor to me and taught me the power of play in a child’s life.  I’ve also had some mentors on the retail side of the business as well.

What do you like most about owning and running your own business?

I love having a vision and seeing it though.  I love giving back to the community and watching the shops become a gathering place.  I really love the creative aspect of running a shop…the branding, product selection and curation, the merchandising, and marketing are where I have the best time.

What is your top challenge as a business owner?

Competing with big box and online retailers is always a challenge. It’s hard to keep up with what they’re capable of on a purely financial level but yet it seems to be expected.

Do you have any advice you would give to others starting a business?

Know what you’re getting into.  It’s hard work.  I didn’t have more than a few days off a year for the first 5 years at least.  It can’t just be a hobby if you want it to succeed.  While you’re putting this time in, be laying the groundwork for the way you’d ultimately like the business to run long term.  Hire people to do the things you’re not great at.  Most small business owners aren’t also accountants and payroll experts and graphic designers.  Find a few things to hire out that allows you to focus on what you ARE good at.

Just for fun…

What is your favorite thing about your neighborhood?

I love walking through Logan Square.  Through Palmer Park, down the boulevard.  It’s such a pretty neighborhood with some rich history. 

What is your morning routine?

I do what you’re not supposed to do and check my phone first thing.  It allows me to set myself up for the day…I check yesterday’s texts for reminders of which shops need what.  Then I do morning rounds to all the shops and do transfers and set them up for the day.  Followed by a yogurt parfait almost every morning!

3 Words that define your design style?

Clean and classic  (that’s two words…but that’s it 🙂)

Ready to find your perfect home?

We can help you move forward.