the playful world is a toy company created to provide today’s children with unique, custom designed toys that are handcrafted by artisans in less developed areas of the world and purchased under fair trade agreements.

Based in the northwest, nestled up against the Canadian border in Bellingham, WA, we set out to build a values-based business. We believe that there are other people like us who are interested in buying toys that not only engage and delight the spirited children that surround them, but also make a small contribution to a better world. We work closely with the artisans to produce toys that are well crafted and in step with the aesthetic and design preferences that today’s parents seek.

The company was formed when Katharine, a new mom, found herself brainstorming ideas with colleagues and friends. The daughter of an airline pilot, she started exploring business ideas that could merge her appreciation of diverse cultures with the fun and innocence of her little boy Wes.

But Katharine couldn’t do this alone – she needed a day-to-day partner to make the idea a reality. In comes Alexandrea. A San Francisco Bay Area native, she chased love to Bellingham, leaving a successful marketing career behind.

Together, with the ongoing support from a few local and valuable advisors, we set out to form a little business, have some fun, and try to do some good in the process…