Hi Meghan,
Oh no! First off, I am really sorry that you haven't seen the value in what we've created. I would really love the opportunity to reframe this a bit.
Not all products are created equal, and if you look beyond the physical product itself, you can see that our system is a lot more complicated than it might look at first glance.
Value is created when real research meets creativity meets good design. Our products are based on deep research, years of learning, and real ingenuity. You might be able to find a kids' routine chart at the Dollar Tree, but you will not see the same functionality in the way it actually WORKS. Every aspect of Mighty and Bright's system is intentional, from the reusable stickers, to the clicking noise the magnets make, to the places the charts can hang. It's like comparing a reality TV show to Game of Thrones. They're both TV, but they're in completely different leagues, because a LOT goes on behind the scenes.
This also comes with different costs than a retailer like the Dollar Tree. Our dedication to quality, listening to our customers, and constantly improving takes a lot of time, which costs money. And it's worth it! This is why our product actually WORKS to solve the problem of invisible labor (in addition to being a high quality product). It has a real, proven impact.
As a small business owner, it's really hard to operate a business in a time where the biggest companies are often taking a loss on their products or shipping costs due to abusive business practices, sheer size, or private equity investments. We've seen the results of practices like this when companies like Joann Fabrics first put small retailers out of business, and then go under themselves. They do this to gain your business, because they know companies like mine can't compete. It's not sustainable, and it's not ethical.
While I would love to offer lower prices on everything I've created, I unfortunately don't have the buying power (or frankly, the ethics) of companies like Walmart. I pay a living wage to my small team and I am committed to ethical manufacturing. We also prioritize our charitable program, which donates thousands of dollars in products every year to foster kids, kids with cancer, and more.
I can totally understand why you want the most value possible for every dollar you spend. I do too! I hope all of this makes sense and sheds more light on why what we create has the price tag it does.
Sara
