Helping littles find a more creative way to play

Today, we're focusing on a young retailer that teaches curiosity through play by way of storytelling.  It’s their mission to inspire the lifelong power of curiosity little ones need to grow up to do big things.  Read on to learn how this retailer is delivering more than just toys.

Big Little Universe from Santa Monica, California.

Founder – Sung Yoo

Who are you and what is your background?

I’m a multidisciplinary designer and founder / creative director of Big Little Universe, a children’s brand that inspires curiosity through play.

I earned my degree from Parson’s School of Design and I’ve created everything from brand logos to product packaging to commercial, restaurant, and workspace interiors.

At its core, I believe design is about problem-solving. The challenge I’m particularly passionate about is helping people get the most out of beautifully designed products or spaces through entertaining, educational, or inspirational companion content.

Nowhere am I more inspired by this intersection than in the world of goods designed for babies, children, and their parents.

Why inspired you to create Big Little Universe?

I saw an opportunity to help little ones imagine a more creative way to play. 

In my experience, there were thoughtfully designed children’s products, and there were instances of great storytelling, but it was rare to find brands that excelled in bringing the two together in a deep and meaningful way.

I founded Big Little Universe to bridge that gap. We inspire the lifelong power of curiosity little ones need to grow up to do big things. We do it with carefully curated toys and companion content that introduces them to different kinds of play at each age.

What’s the most exciting thing you’re working on right now?

We’re working on a cast of characters that will help spark little ones’ curiosity and imagination. Through our carefully curated toys and companion content, the B.L.U. crew will help babies and toddlers explore the world around them and learn about everything from sustainability to sharing. We can’t wait for you to meet them! :)

Why is sustainability important to Big Little Universe?

The average American child has nearly 80 toys, but not one is both thoughtfully designed and paired with rich storytelling that helps them imagine a more creative way to play.

We believe less is more. We also believe in helping children understand the value of treating the environment (and their belongings) with care from a young age.

That’s why Big Little Universe products are made from natural, durable goods that can stand up to rough-and-tumble play and repeat use now – and feature beautiful, timeless designs that can be handed down or kept as treasured keepsakes later.

Where can our community find and connect with BLU?

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, we are always going pop ups and meeting with the local community.  Be sure to connect with us on Instagram and Pinterest to see where we will be next.  We’d love for you to follow us and say hello!

And of course, you can visit biglittleuniverse.co anytime no matter where you are. Please take a look around to see how we inspire little ones’ curiosity through inquisitive play and to shop curated gift sets for babies as well as toys for children.