In the bustling world of parenting, where every moment is a new adventure, Berlyn Haughton, a Fresno Mom, took a creative leap to simplify mealtime with The Table Tyke. This innovative placemat, born out of a mother’s necessity, has become a game-changer for parents seeking a stress-free dining experience with their little ones.
Inspiration for Table Tyke
Berlyn’s inspiration for The Table Tyke stemmed from the challenges she faced when dining out or at home with her young boys. Recounting the early days, she notes, “When our boys were younger, especially at that 6-month age when they’re kinda just bobbing around, they’d always hit their mouth on the table edge.” This common struggle led her to devise a solution that would not only protect children from table edge bumps but also offer additional benefits.
The Table Tyke features a unique bumper designed to shield children from accidental bumps while also serving as a teething aid with its raised edges. Berlyn emphasizes, “If they’re teething because the bumper is raised and we have raised edges as well. If they do spill, their lap stays dry.” The thoughtful design ensures that the mess stays contained, making cleanup a breeze.
A Versatile Accessory
What sets The Table Tyke apart is its versatility. From mealtime to arts and crafts, this silicone placemat is a multi-functional lifesaver for parents. Cleanup is as simple as rinsing off spills, and thanks to its user-friendly design, it can be easily rolled up and stored in diaper bags or purses, making it a convenient companion on the go.
Creating Table Tyke
Berlyn’s journey as an entrepreneur took an unexpected turn when she shared her creation on TikTok. A casual video showcasing the product’s features garnered over 300,000 views within the first day, propelling The Table Tyke into the limelight. Berlyn expresses her surprise, saying, “I leaned my phone against a bottle of olive oil and talked about the mat. I posted it, didn’t think anything about it and I just had notification after notification of orders coming in.”
As a woman-owned small business, The Table Tyke reflects Berlyn’s commitment to making life easier for adults and safer for children. Her entrepreneurial spirit was fueled by a desire to create a career that brought excitement and fulfillment. After over ten years in Corporate America, the birth of her children intensified this aspiration.
“I always dreamed of having my own business. However, I did not know what that would look like or when it would become a reality,” shares Berlyn. The Table Tyke, launched in October 2020, has not only fulfilled her entrepreneurial dream but has also become a trusted companion for parents navigating the challenges of mealtime with little ones.
Creativity Creates Impact
In conclusion, The Table Tyke stands as a testament to innovation driven by real-life challenges. Berlyn Haughton’s journey from a mom seeking a solution to a successful entrepreneur demonstrates the power of creativity and determination in making a positive impact on the lives of parents and their children. The Table Tyke is not just a placemat; it’s a symbol of simplified mealtime and enhanced family experiences.
My Take on Table Tyke
My parenting days are long over. They didn’t have this stuff when my kids were little. Mealtimes were a messy affair, to the delight of our dog who stayed under the table during meals to get free scraps. While I am not a customer, I am sure my kids will be.
Do Sharks Tyke a Bite?
I think Berlyn will end up with Lori as a partner. Lori has invested in multiple silicon products over the years so she has the manufacturing know-how to take this business to the next level. Berlyn may get other offers, but my money is on Lori.
Entrepreneur, auteur, raconteur. Rob Merlino is a blogger and writer who enjoys the Shark Tank TV show and Hot Dogs. A father of five who freelances in a variety of publications, Rob has a stable of websites including Shark Tank Blog, Hot Dog Stories, Rob Merlino.com and more.
Speak Your Mind