From Prototype to Product: When My Functional Idea Met Thoughtful Design

When I got home from Nebraska, my DIY prototype tucked in my bag and  still buzzing from the encouragement of friends and family, I thought: maybe this idea has legs. I didn’t have a product development background. I didn’t have a manufacturer on speed dial. What I did have was a love for Facebook groups—and a willingness to put myself out there.

So I posted. In several groups. I cast a wide net, typing out a version of “Hey, I have this idea and a rough prototype—does anyone know someone who could help me bring it to life?” I believe it was in the “Working Moms” group where someone replied:

“I work mostly with fashion, but I think we can help with what you’re wanting to do.”

That was it. That tiny comment cracked open a door I didn’t even know existed. My idea could’ve easily died on the table, but I asked for help—and the universe delivered.

A few weeks later, I had a work trip to Minnesota to meet with my team at UnitedHealthcare Children's Foundation. I rerouted my layover through St. Louis so I could meet Connie at Conjetta Designs. I showed up with my prototype in tow and a heart full of hope. Her studio was everything I didn’t know I needed: velvet couches, racks of her own clothing line, and a team that saw the spark in my scrappy little bag.

They asked thoughtful questions. They helped me refine my vision. They gave me language for what I was trying to build. They encouraged my brand story and name. And they shared insights I never would’ve considered, like the fact that magnets, even tiny ones, can interfere with pacemakers. (Who knew?!)

I left that meeting exhilarated. Full of ideas. Bursting with creativity. I stopped by the St. Louis Art Museum (or SLAM for short! - How Cute is that!?) for lunch and a gallery stroll, letting the inspiration settle before boarding my plane to the Twin Cities.

That moment, equal parts hustle, intuition, and velvet couch magic, was the beginning of turning Loyal & Elvie into something real. I didn’t know what I was doing, but I knew I wanted to do it. And sometimes, that’s enough to start.

If you’re sitting on an idea with no clue how to make it real, post about it. Ask for help. Share the messy version. You don’t need a polished pitch or a perfect plan. You just need to start. The right people can’t find you if you’re hiding behind “not ready yet.”

Your velvet couch moment might be one comment away.

Also, if you've never been to St. Louis, put it on your travel bucket list, especially if you have small children. That city is a GEM! So many free, amazing things to do!