Meet Karina Canales | Owner of Carousel Soft Play

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karina Canales and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started my soft play business after not being able to book a set up for my daughter’s first birthday party in Casa Grande. I knew there were soft play businesses in Phoenix, but not one close enough to home. I quickly realized the need for a local soft play business that would help promote motor, sensory, and social-emotional developments all while having fun. I was determined to fulfill that need because I was almost sure that I was not the only mom in town that would love to provide a soft play set up for their child and create unforgettable memories. I quickly began my necessary research, came up with a business plan, and debuted my very first set up at my daughter’s first birthday party!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a mom I completely understand the needs, wants and sticking to budgets when it comes to planning the perfect party. As I began my business I kept that all in mind, to ensure that every person that hired me was happy they did. One thing I’m excited to offer my clients is the option to customize any package to match a specific color scheme, and deliver a perfect set up worthy of unforgettable memories and lots of pictures.

I believe that almost everything is simple, but almost nothing is easy. As any small business owner I have faced many challenges which I have overcome by showing myself grace. I have learned to trust myself, manage priorities, and remain inspired.

My soft play business has been able to connect and help the community in many ways. One of them being able to provide toddler fun at local events. The City of Casa Grande will host a series of family friendly events throughout the year in which we’ve been invited to set up and bring a fun, safe, and clean play environment appropriate for children under four years old. I truly enjoy these events as it provides an opportunity for toddlers to have some fun of their own!
We have also sponsored local city softball teams with jerseys for their season.

I look forward to the future with excitement! I love the opportunity for my soft play business to be part of such magical moments in life, for both parents and toddlers.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve spent most of my life in Arizona and absolutely love it! Whenever I have friends or family visiting I make sure to take them to Cook E Jar Bakery and Cafe here in Casa Grande for breakfast. Their oversize chocolate chip cookies will be packed to-go! Shopping is always fun, and there are plenty of shopping centers to choose from all over the valley. Lunch does sound delicious at RA Sushi in Chandler! One thing I love about Arizona is the variety of activities there is to do, both outdoors or indoors. We could always go and watch a baseball game, a football game, or even a basketball game all depending on the sport season. Maybe enjoy a concert since there’s always a cool band or artist stopping by. Then enjoy dinner at a Mi Nidito in Tucson, a place I called home for twenty-seven years. The day will have a perfect ending after finding a parking spot out in Gates Pass and enjoying a beautiful Arizona Sunset.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The success of my business does not rely solely on myself. I have to thank my loving, understanding, and extra strong husband for being a part of my business journey since day one. My kids who are the inspiration and motivation behind having created a whole business inspired by them, and who I love to call them my little CEOs. Of course I have to thank my family who are always willing to lend a helping hand when most needed. A most deserving shout out to all the soft play business owners in Arizona and throughout the country who I have connected with, build relationships with, and continue to be inspired by. You ladies rock!

Website: http://carouselsoftplay.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/carousel_softplay?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carouselsoftplay?mibextid=LQQJ4d