We love a great entrepreneurial origin story. How the idea was sparked, what problem needed to be solved, and the process they took to get to where they are now.

If you’re like us, and love a great story, then today’s episode is right up your alley!

Mel McNamee is the founder of Lykke, Canada’s first designer inflatable pool brand. But Lykke is about more than just gorgeous adult inflatable pools. The name comes from the Danish word meaning Pursuit of Happiness. Mel wants to help her customers elevate their backyard experience through Lykke pools. And have a rockin’ summer!

Prior to creating Lykke Mel worked as a project manager for 10 years. She had always wanted to start her own business, but never found the right idea. Then during the summer of 2020 the right idea presented itself.

Like so many parents with young children, summer means spending time outside in the pool. When Mel went to buy one for her daughter she wanted something that wasn’t an eyesore. But everything she found had cartoon characters on it and wasn’t “on trend”. And in terms of function, she couldn’t find anything that wouldn’t collapse, or overflow, when she sat in it with her daughter.

So Mel went to work developing the type of inflatable pool she would want to use and soon found others wanted as well. In the first season, Lykke sold out completely!

These last couple of years have taught Mel a ton about entrepreneurship. And herself. The lessons she has learned include:

1. It’s okay to start small
2. Embrace the support of your community
3. Get over the fear of starting
4. Listen to the feedback to help you validate new ideas for the future

This season Lykke has unveiled new designs as well as launching a collection of hats. Make sure you check out all the beautiful designs at www.lykkeshop.com and follow along on Instagram for inspiration. ** Promocode for you! Use code: SOCIALFOCUS to get $10 off at checkout!

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