An interview with Myles Ramsay of Buzz Box Fun Kits.
Describe your business.
Buzz Box Fun Kits is a fun, safe, home-delivery solution for bored kids and busy parents in the Bay of Quinte area. I create themed activity kits for kids aged 4-10 that are designed to spark creativity, fun and active play. Our current themes include Unicorn Wishes, Be Your Own Superhero, Campfire Kids, Mermaid Magic, Backyard Bug Safari and Top Secret Spy.
I started the business on June 1st when I realized there would be a limited number of summer jobs available for youth in the local area. Since then, my business has really taken off and I’m enjoying the experience of being in business for myself.
What brought you to the region?
Our family moved to Belleville when I was 18 months old. My parents moved here for work in the public education and post-secondary education sectors.
What makes the Bay of Quinte a good fit for your business?
This area has a lot of young families who are looking for fun ways to pass the time this summer. COVID-19 has created a difficult situation for many parents and grandparents who are trying to keep kids occupied during the summer months, so my business aims to solve that challenge.
What was the hardest thing about starting a business?
Doing something I’ve never done before — going into business for myself — was a big leap for me. At first I had to believe I could do it, but thanks to the encouragement I’ve had from my family and local business leaders, I have more confidence that entrepreneurship is the path I want to follow. My goal now is to study business at Queen’s University after I graduate from high school in a couple of years.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs in the area?
Find a problem your customers have, and provide a solution for it. My business is doing that, and the market has responded really well. My other advice is to connect with your customers on social media. Buzz Box is on Facebook and Instagram, and it’s been a great place to keep our customers updated and in the loop about what’s happening in the business.
What surprised you about starting a business in a smaller community?
There are literally thousands of potential customers, even in a smaller region like the Bay of Quinte. As a young entrepreneur, I’m excited to see the high demand for my service. I never thought my business would take off so quickly, but thanks to the support of my business advisor at the Small Business Centre in Belleville as well as others, I’ve been able to succeed in a short amount of time.
How have you changed your operations during the pandemic?
I started my business in response to the pandemic. Since so many public areas have been closed to kids, and entertainment options have been limited, Buzz Box has helped to give kids a new way to have fun at home while unplugging from electronics and using their imagination.
What is something good that has come from this difficult situation?
It feels really good to make kids happy, and see the relief on the parents’ faces when I deliver the Buzz Boxes to their front door. Providing a practical solution to a common problem has been the driving force of my business. It’s rewarding to see how much my customers love and appreciate this service.
If you were to have one word tattooed on you, what would it be?
Believe.
Check back with us as we discover more BoQ Young Entrepreneurs.
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