Words: Tivania Moodley | Images: Supplied
Creating meaningful memories is the very essence of life. Having to merge fun and play with family time is the best way to create them. Three generations of women, led by Dolly Reddy, focused on family first and established The Slime Workshop as a way to simply spend more time together.
How did your business start?
I’m so fortunate to be able to run this business with my daughter, Ramona, and granddaughters, Macy, Lyla and Meka. The Slime Workshop is about getting back to basics and using our minds and bodies to engage in messy play. We wanted to create a place where children could make, play with and design slime using only essential products. We opened The Slime Workshop in December last year.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
We operate from the Astor House bed and breakfast in Durban North which is ideal in terms of location. It’s in the middle of a lovely, well-established community.
How did you find your premises?
My daughter, Ramona, manages the Astor House which is the perfect space to run a workshop, including the look and feel of a family-friendly environment that we were looking for.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
Our business is focused on children and parents. The environment lends itself well to a secure family-friendly venue, that has ample space for parents to wait and relax in the beautiful gardens while children are taken on a sensory adventure at the workshop.
Who are your neighbours?
Our neighbours are predominantly residential and small boutique shops and restaurants.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
Rental in Durban North is more scaled to the upmarket real-estate area. Our rental is conducive to our working space, environment and facilities.
How many people go through your space each day?
We’re open throughout the week for parties and school excursions. Our busiest times are on weekends when we see between 60 to 80 people.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Yes. We’re very in touch with the wants and needs of our clientele and plan on being mobile to different areas and provinces, as well as looking into franchising or licensing opportunities.
Do you operate online as well?
You can book workshops, parties and order our products online through our website. We’re also on Facebook (@theslimeworkshop) and Instagram (@theslimeworkshops).
What’s your most popular service?
Our workshops and school excursions are definitely popular as it is an experience of a sensory journey.
The Slime Workshop
073 493 6153
slimeworkshop.co.za