It's Our 15th Birthday 🎂
Over the past 15 years, Character.com has been on an incredible journey, and we want you to hear all about it from one of our founders. That's why we've sat down with Steve and Karen to chat about the heart and soul of Character.com and everything that makes it special. Read on to discover their insights and stories from our amazing adventure!
How does 15 years of Character.com make you feel?
"It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come from starting in our garage. It’s like watching one of your children grow and evolve over time, never knowing where you may end up. From our humble beginnings to now, it’s been an amazing adventure."
When you started Character.com, what did you envision?
"When we started Character.com, we wanted to see children’s faces light up with big smiles, knowing they can express their unique personalities through the characters they love. That vision has driven us every step of the way."
What would you say was your biggest challenge when first starting?
"The biggest challenge was definitely convincing suppliers and partners that our idea would take off. There were no online retailers in the space, so it took a lot of passion, persistence, and a sprinkle of that character magic to get everyone on board."
What has been your favourite Character.com memory?
S: "There are so many amazing memories, but one that stands out is the first time I saw someone wearing one of our products in public. I was so excited I had to restrain myself from rushing over to ask them all about it. Even now, I still get that same thrill every time I see a child beaming in one of our T-shirts or backpacks. It’s a magical feeling knowing that our products bring so much joy and help kids express themselves through their favourite characters."
K: "I would say that the moment that really resonates is the opening of our first retail store last year, it felt as though what I had dreamed for Character.com was coming into fruition and it was an amazing day all round. Watching our customers physcially come into our store and to be able to interact with us and the product was a really important moment for me."
What are your own favourite characters?
S: "That’s like asking a parent to choose their favourite child! But if I had to pick, it would have to be Star Wars. As a kid, I would watch it over and over again and I always love it when we get some new products in from the galaxy far, far away."
K: "My all time favourite character is Carl Fredricksen from Up, I think the movie is so endearing and Carl has a really wonderful character development. I think Russel and Carl's relationship shows the joy and adventure that kids can bring into your life, overall its a really sweet movie."
What inspires you about Character.com?
"The stories behind the characters and the joy they bring to people’s lives. Watching kids transform into their favourite heroes and heroines, even if just for a moment, is pure magic. Our customers’ love for our products and characters keeps us motivated to keep bringing that magic into homes around the world."
What’s next for Character.com?
"We always have some exciting plans on the horizon, but I think opening retail stores is going to be an amazing way to bring more interactive experiences, new character lines, and maybe even some themed events where fans can meet their favourite characters. We’re always dreaming up new ways to make Character.com more magical and fun for everyone."
If you could tell your customers anything, what would it be?
"A huge thank you for being part of our story! Your support and excitement for the characters you love make everything we do possible. We can’t wait to see what the next 15 years bring."