Running a business means constantly learning on the fly, and there are always those little things you don’t realize you need until you really do. This list is a collection of the essential items I didn’t think about when I first started but quickly l...
When I first opened my business, I thought simply telling people the restroom was down the hall would be enough. However, I quickly realized that many people would look down the hall, not see the door right away, and then come back to ask if they wer...
Hallway Restroom Sign
When I first opened my indoor playground, I didn’t offer any coffee drinks, thinking it wasn’t necessary. But after a year, I realized that was a mistake! Since many families spend hours here, having a coffee option for parents made a huge difference...
Disposable Clear Cups for Iced Coffee
Instead of going with the usual boring white cups, I decided to make a statement with these colorful coffee, tea, and hot drink cups that say "Happy every day." They’re not only fun and vibrant but also carry an uplifting message that adds a little e...
Pink and Green Paper Coffee Cups
When I first opened, I didn’t realize how much time I’d spend scrubbing surfaces every day to keep things clean. That’s when I found this hospital-grade, bleach-free disinfectant that dissolves on its own. Now, I can just spray and leave it, and it d...
Hospital Grade Disinfectant
I originally thought tagging guns were only for clothing retailers, but I quickly realized I needed one for my playground too! I use it to tag the socks we sell—since socks are required in the play area—and for the cute stuffies made by a local vendo...
Tagging Gun
Acrylic sign holders have been a game-changer for displaying promotions and events on our wall! They’re perfect for showcasing everything from upcoming specials to new programs, and the best part is I can easily switch out the materials whenever prom...
Wall Mount Acrylic Sign Holders
When I first opened, I didn’t think I’d need basic office supplies, but I was definitely wrong! A pack of cheap pens has been a lifesaver. You’ll need them to jot things down, customers will ask to borrow one (and they’ll often walk off with it), and...
BIC Ball Point Pen; Black; 36 Pack
At first, I didn’t think much about needing a power strip with USB ports, but it quickly became one of those must-have items. With so many devices needing charging, having a power strip that not only provides extra outlets but also includes USB ports...
Surge Protector Power Strip with USB
If you’re renting an older building, definitely pay attention to the light fixtures. I didn’t budget for this expense when I moved in because, well, the lights worked, so why replace them? But those old glass tube lights started flickering randomly, ...
LED Flat Panel Surface Mount LED Ceiling Light
Whether you run a kid-focused business or not, if your light switches are in a place where kids can easily reach them, I highly recommend getting a light cover. I had one switch in the back half of our play area that kids kept flipping on and off con...
Light Switch Cover
I don’t have a full kitchen in my business, but an electric water kettle has been a total game-changer! Even if you’re not serving tea like I do, it’s a small, affordable way to add a little spark of happiness for you and your staff. It’s perfect for...
Electric Water Kettle
Even though I don’t run a restaurant, I still have dishes to clean, whether it’s from my staff or things like the ice machine, water kettle, or other items around the business. This kitchen dish brush is my absolute favorite—I even use it at home! Un...
Dawn Kitchen Dish Brush
Push and pull door stickers may seem like a small detail, but they’ve made a huge difference in my business! I didn’t realize how many people were confused about which way to open the door until I added these simple stickers. They’re easy to apply, c...
Vinyl Push Pull Sign Stickers
A microwave might seem like an unnecessary expense, but trust me, it’s been a lifesaver for me and my staff! While it’s not for the customers, everyone needs a lunch break, and having a microwave on hand makes it so much easier to heat up leftovers, ...