Toys are a parent's best friend—imagine entertaining your kids all day! But where do today's trendy toys come from? Debbie Spelt launched her online store, TrendySpeelgoed.nl, in 2004. Here's her story.
I'm Debbie Spelt, 43, married, and mom to two wonderful daughters: Lisa (15) and Lynn (7). I'm always on the go! My husband jokes that if I'm bored for five minutes, I create ten more minutes of work—and he's right. I thrive on new challenges, both at work and home. Spinning classes let me burn energy and clear my mind. I love traveling, new experiences, reading, and unwinding with a good movie, book, or walks with my dog Anouk.
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What is your company, and how did it start?
I founded TrendySpeelgoed.nl in 2004 as a test to explore the emerging 'webshop' trend. With my marketing background, I wanted to understand online visibility and customer spending firsthand—nothing beats real-world learning. Back then, resources were scarce.
I spotted cool trendy toys on international sites unavailable in the Netherlands. Why not bring them here? That idea sparked my webshop.
What brings you the most satisfaction?
TrendySpeelgoed.nl has grown steadily from a kitchen-table laptop setup with garage stock to a full office and warehouse in Oss. We now ship over 10,000 orders annually. In September, we're opening a physical store—going offline amid the online boom! It's a thrilling challenge with real potential.
Do you have another job, or is the business full-time?
It's full-time and then some! I don't track hours, especially with mobile and iPad integrations—I'm on the shop seven days a week, even answering emails, Facebook, and Twitter from anywhere. We enforce a family 'mobile curfew' after 8 p.m., limiting checks to TV commercials, and phones stay downstairs at bedtime. No work in the bedroom!
How do you balance work and family?
Balance is tough—you always feel guilty somewhere. But Tuesdays, I pick up my youngest from school and host neighborhood playdates. Wednesdays, I work from home, handling chores and kid time in the afternoons. Our home is always open for friends.
What's your ultimate goal for business and family?
The store launch means busy months ahead, but I discussed it with my family first—they're fully supportive. At this scale, with these hours, it's my sweet spot. Bigger growth would mean delegating, which I resist. I love the variety: sourcing, marketing, packing orders myself. Family helps at fairs and events, but life isn't all business—we prioritize family time.
Advice for moms eyeing entrepreneurship?
Think hard—once you start, there's no going back if you're passionate. It's rewarding but demanding. Don't assume it gets easier after the early years; in today's market, it's always evolving and challenging!
Anything else to add?
TrendySpeelgoed.nl isn't just any toy store. We specialize in developmental toys that spark active, creative play—like the letter game mat MamsatWork reviewed. No batteries, no licensed characters or TV-hyped fads. These are unique toys kids love naturally. We source globally, design our own, import directly, and select top picks from local suppliers.
