Moms on the Move - Annie Tomlin
Today we have Annie Tomlin, founder of Bibito (the chicest bibs you’ll ever see!) on The Mag. Christianne and I were lucky to work with Annie on our launch party back in October and we’ve been huge fans ever since. Check out the interview below.
Tell us your story! We’d love to hear little bit about yourself and your business.
Like most first-time parents, my husband and I did a lot of trial and error when figuring out what we needed for our baby. We try to be minimalists who don’t consume a lot of stuff. We discovered silicone bibs and thought they were genius, but the only ones we could find were ugly and flimsy. We knew we couldn’t be the only parents who wanted this brilliantly functional product in beautiful colors and better quality.
We donate one meal (through the leading hunger-relief organization) for every bib sold, and then we also funnel profits into well-rated nonprofits working to fight climate change and improve maternal and child health outcomes. It is very satisfying to be able to make donations to groups that are making the world better.
How many kids do you have, what ages?
We have a two-year-old son. He’s a big bookworm. The biggest.
What are your top three recommendations for things to do with kids in LA?
The Huntington Gardens—it’s gorgeous, sprawling, and wonderful for children of all ages. We love going there throughout the year, especially because there are enormous lawns on which our son likes to run around, and this increases the likelihood of him conking out for a nap when we get home.
Sqirl — Our family goes here just about every weekend. The food is delicious and kid-friendly, and everyone who works there is kind and welcoming.
Griffith Park — Wonderful trails, pony rides, museums, an accessible playground, and a kiddie train. What’s not to like?
How do you network as a parent and a business person?
Mom-wise, a lot of it happens on Facebook. I’m not a huge fan of social media, but my mom group has been a wonderful source of support and information. With regard to more traditional networking, I find that people are more approachable, both in real life and online, than it might seem at first. I think we all crave more in-person conversations.
Where do you go for inspiration on the web and in real life?
I like to walk around Ascot Hills Park on LA’s east side to clear my mind, and we have a LACMA membership for visual inspiration. On the web, I like looking at Lonny for décor ideas, but generally I have been trying to spend less time online.
What is the first website you visit every morning?
Kyle Griffin’s Twitter feed, @kylegriffin1. He’s a TV news producer. I read his highlights before looking at the NYT and WaPo, which can be overwhelming as the literal first thing I read.
What are you three favorite Instagram accounts to follow?
What is on your to do list for today?
Drive my son to preschool, meet with an editorial client, head home after preschool, try (in vain?) to get my son to nap, set up some phone interviews, write a newsletter, ship out bib orders, and figure out dinner.
And finally, where can we find you?
o Website: bibitobaby.com
o Instagram: @bibitobaby
Thank you, Annie!
