We are honored to introduce Katie Duncan today! One of the co-founders of Wanderwild Co. “Wanderwild was founded by two moms with a love of cheerful patterns and purposeful features.” They are a company that encourages families to explore the world and make lasting memories through adventure. Wanderwild also gives back! They give a portion of each sale to selected organizations that address childhood hunger, education needs, and spreading kindness. Follow their hashtag: #wildwithheart. Check out their amazing, yet function, products at www.wanderwildco.com. Also, check out this amazing article on flying with preschoolers! Which, we believe, is harder than flying with a baby. Enjoy learning more about Katie!
Instagram Handle / Facebook Page
Instagram: @wanderwildco ; Facebook: @wanderwildco
Briefly introduce yourself!
Hi! My name is Katie Duncan, Co-Founder of Wanderwild. I am a wife, mom of three, a memory making enthusiast and a celebrator of all things, big and small.
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
I have 3 children, ages 5, 7 and 9.
Where do you live in South Denver exactly? If not South Denver, where?
Highlands Ranch
What’s your favorite family friendly activity in South Denver
We love getting out and exploring, right in our own backyard. Our favorite local hike is to Highlands Point in the Backcountry Wildness Area. We love to stop and take in the mountain views and visit the buffaloes in Daniels Park, too.
What’s your favorite kid friendly restaurant in South Denver?
Hacienda Colorado is a family favorite. I mean, have you seen their chocolate cake?!
What’s your favorite date night restaurant in Denver (not just South Denver)?
We love Sierra in Lone Tree! Always great food, a fun drink menu and beautiful views.
What’s the best mom and/or parenting advice you’ve received
“The days are long, but the years are short.” It couldn’t be more true! When you’re in the thick of it, that statement sometimes feels overwhelming, but what I’ve learned over time is that when those days feel long, getting out and making moments that become treasured memories will fuel your heart and breathe life into your soul. Very early on in motherhood I felt that I was a better mom when I was out of the house doing things with my kids. It feels counter-intuitive when everyone is melting down – but quickly make a plan, pack your bag, get out and make memories and show your kids the world. Or that new park down the road, when you’ve only got 45 minutes before bath time! We are big advocates of adventures, both big and small.
What inspires you?
Sunshine, iced green tea and fresh air! Couple that with the chance to build fun new patterns, create innovative ideas for kids and comb through a Pantone book looking for the perfect shade of blue, and I’m ready to tackle my next big project!
You started Wanderwild. Tell us more!
I feel very fortunate that together with my dear friend and business partner, Kelly, we’ve had the opportunity to create a brand that embodies the spirit of our families. Kelly and I had a dream to create a community to inspire and support families in growing independent children, making memories together and with a heart towards serving others.
What inspired you to start Wanderwild?
We believe experiences are everything! And truly, every great experience starts with a well packed bag. We found that life after the diaper bag opened up new possibilities for growing awesome, adventurous and independent children. And with that, Wanderwild was born!
What is the best career/business advice you’ve ever received?
I was recently reminded by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, “ All big things come from small beginnings.” In 2016, Kelly and I started Wanderwild when our children were collectively, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Whoa. In hindsight, that was slightly ambitious, but thankfully we didn’t think so at the time. We simply wanted to make life more memorable and joyful alongside families like ours. Our dreams for Wanderwild continue to be bigger than life, but this is a great reminder that we all have to start somewhere and to be grateful for and celebrate each milestone in along the way.
What is your favorite part about being an entrepreneur?
One of the most fun aspects of being an entrepreneur is building our business around and with our families. We are lucky to have kids that love to learn and be involved in Wanderwild each step of the way.. They help select patterns and Pantone colors, unpack pallets and ship orders. They ask a million questions and keep us doing the same. Showing our kids that we can chase our dreams and that anything is possible, is such a gift!
What has been your biggest challenge as an entrepreneur?
Juggling ALL the things. A growing business and nurturing a busy family requires a lot of multi-tasking, while also constantly ensuring that our priorities are in line. We created Wanderwild because of and for our families and we remain dedicated to ensuring that is always our #1.
What do you do for self-care?
I love to get lost in a great fiction book that offers a tiny escape from the busy life of a mom and entrepreneur. After staying home with my kids for several years, starting Wanderwild in my fringe hours was one of the most transformative things I did for myself. As a creative outlet, it continues to be one of my favorite pastimes because when you find something you love to do, it never really feels like work. I’m so thankful for the early morning and late night work sessions that Kelly and I founded our company on. We made so much progress in those early years to get Wanderwild to where it is today.
What is your best mom hack?
Go outside! And bring lots of snacks, always snacks. For adults and children alike, fresh air and a healthy snack can often times set your day on the right path or turn a challenging moment into a great one.
Is there anything else about you and/or your business you want to highlight?
We are Wild with Heart! Wanderwild has a heart for serving our community, especially kids and families in need. We thoughtfully give a portion of each sale to carefully selected organizations that exist to address childhood hunger, education needs, and spreading kindness. Follow our growing list of partnerships and special giving campaigns on social media at #wildwithheart. It’s our honor to give back.
