Want to Launch a Product? Here's how to get it done! Make it, Distribute it, Sell it

Here's the announcement for the panel discussion on October 26th through Ladies Who Launch about various resources available to people wanting to get their inventions developed and to market.  Womentorz will be one of the guest panelists.  We hope to see you there!

Inventor Showcase: Potty Spray Guard

Having two boys; one completely potty trained, but doesn't have the best aim, and the other just starting the potty training process; I know how valuable and genius The Potty Spray Guard is.  Jody Brimhall has encompassed what being a true inventor is all about. She has a product that simply solves a messy problem.  Here is some insight into her creation and product development:

Q. How and why did you come up with the idea of your product?

When my first son was little, and getting more independent on the potty, I came up with the idea for the Potty Spray Guard. I couldn’t figure out how the edge or back of his pants were getting wet. And sometimes the floor was wet with urine. Then I realized, a little squirt was spraying out the front of the toilet between the seat and bowl. He was too big for a kid’s seat, but couldn’t quite manage his aim, so…with his pants pulled down to his knees, he would leave messes, and get embarrassed. I would usually hold a piece of toilet paper to the front of the toilet. And I wondered why there wasn’t a product to block the opening in the front of the seat. After many years, I came up with this simple solution.

Q. How is your invention different than other products on the market?

The only other solution is a full plastic potty seat with a potty shield, or a plastic shield that clips on the toilet. The Potty Spray Guard is easily strapped on with Velcro and elastic. It is thin and flexible, and won’t scratch the boy’s little legs when they sit. And when the toilet lid is lifted up, it just folds out of the way. It is very easy to put on and take off. Then to clean, just wash with soap and water.  

Q. What was the process like getting your invention ready for market?

Getting it to market is yet to be seen. I have just released it, and I’m in the beginning stages of getting it out there. First stop “Monentorz”. 

Q. Who would be the ideal consumer of your invention?

Any parent, caregiver, and preschool with young boys who are using or trying to use the potty, would enjoy the Potty Spray Guard.

Q. What advice would you give women who have a great idea but don’t know where to start?

Start by first looking on line to see if it already exists, then do as much research as you can.
Don’t get scammed by any company who says they will help get your product to market or get it licensed. If they ask for money upfront, you will never see it again, and they won’t do much for you.

Q. How do you juggle running your own business with daily life obligations?

I have had my own art business for the last 20 years, (Jodyhewittgallery.com) and have always found time for both family and work. I have 3 kids, now 20, 17 and 14 years old. I’ve been fortunate to work at home while supporting my family. I got help when I needed it, and things were chaotic at times, but what I always seemed to get things done. Deadlines were met, carpools were done. Everyone has their own style. So do what works for your lifestyle and your family.

Q. What’s an interesting fact about you that readers wouldn’t know by just meeting you?

Hmm, an interesting fact? Probably that I’m a professional artist, and have made a living doing it. It’s a tough business at times with lots of ups and downs. But I have found a way to provide for my family by painting, and I think that surprises people sometimes. 

Click Here to visit the Potty Spray Guard Storefront

Womentorz is hosting local Costume Swap. Find out where one is in your area!

Womentorz is so proud to be hosting a local Costume Swap at Coldwell Banker Bain in Downtown Edmonds, Washington on 5th Ave. this Saturday, October 9th from 11:00 to 2:00.  We are asking families to drop off their costumes at any time prior to the event and obtain a ticket with the number of costumes you can come back and swap for.  This is a great way from families to save money while helping not fill landfills with old costumes.  For the Edmonds Costume Swap all leftover costumes will be donated to the local YWCA, so even if you don't find a costume you will be giving to a wonderful cause.  

This is a national event with over 50 Costume Swaps scheduled across the nation.  You may see it on Good Morning America this morning.  Please visit www.greenhalloween.org/CostumeSwap/index.html to find a Costume Swap in your area.  If there isn't one maybe you would like to host one yourself. It's very easy!  Happy Swapping! 

Inventor Showcase: WrapADoodle Swaddle Blankets

 We have been getting so many great inventors and inventions joining the Womentorz community.  The WrapADoodle is one of those inventions that I am so proud to have part of our network.  Victoria O'Neill bring so much talent and creativity to the mix.  The WrapADoodle makes the perfect baby gift!!!  Let's get to know Victoria:

Q. How and why did you come up with the idea of your product?

I was in a baby store and just wondering why we're still using a rectangle baby blanket when it's clearly not the best shape for wrapping a baby in.
 
Q. How is your invention different than other products on the market?

The WrapADoodle Swaddle Blanket is the cutest, the easiest to use and the best kind of swaddle - holding the baby at the torso and leaving the hips and legs free to move for proper growth and development. The tapered ties on the WrapADoodle Swaddle Blanket naturally adjust to the baby inside for a secure and snug fit.

Q. What was the process like getting your invention ready for market?

It's been a learn as you go, step by step process. I'm naturally curious and a hands on learner. I take it as it comes and keep chugging forward. I have been chronicling the process via the WrapADoodle blog. Fortunately I do have sales, marketing and graphic art and design skills.  Words and pictures are my forte, but anything that has to do with numbers crosses my eyes, so I am getting ready to take on a business manager. I'm currently in negotiation with a production manager to take that off my daily hands as well.

 
Q. Who is the ideal consumer of your invention?

The WrapADoodle Swaddle Blanket is the best baby gift ever, so anyone who knows someone who just had a baby or is going to have a baby is a potential customer. Most  customers are people who are going to a baby shower.

Q. What advice would you give women who have a great idea but don’t know where to start?

 Go to the library and read everything you can get your hands on. I am now a walking encyclopedia on a few new subjects, such as intellectual property law and production sewing. The way I've been working is to do it my own way, and time will ultimately tell whether or not that was a good approach. Haha! So far so good.

Q. How do you juggle running your own business with daily life obligations?

I've stopped trying to juggle. Somehow it all just flows together. In addition to launching the WrapADoodle Swaddle Blanket I am a full time artist ArtyPantz and blog about living the creative life at my ArtyPantz blog.   Creativity flows through me like a hose on full blast, spraying in different directions, all at once.  That is just the way it is!


Click here to visit Victoria's storefront and add a comment on her discussion board.