What started as a simple love for crochet has grown into a thriving small business for eighth grader Alexa Weinstein, founder of Silly Fish.
Alexa launched Silly Fish at just ten years old, turning her imagination into handmade stuffed animals that she now sells through her own brand. “My business came to life because I wanted to share my ideas and creations with people,” she said.
Through Gulliver’s Biz Lab program, Alexa has learned how to bring structure to her creativity, from managing costs and profits to developing marketing strategies and showcasing her products at events like May the Fourth. “Biz Lab helped me organize my business and taught me tips and tricks to help it grow,” she shared.
Over the past three years, Alexa has discovered that building a business is as much about people as it is about products. “What has surprised me the most is that having conversations and relationships with my customers improves my business,” she said. “They’ve given me feedback, ideas, and helped it grow.”
Her favorite part of running Silly Fish is how much she continues to learn. “I’m always learning in many ways,” she said. “From teaching people of all ages to figuring out packaging and seeing which products do best.”
For others hoping to start a business, Alexa recommends documenting the journey. “Create an Instagram page for your business to see how it grows over time and to share your work. I love looking back at my first products and seeing how much my skill has improved.”
At just 13 years old, Alexa is proving that passion paired with purpose can lead to something extraordinary, a business that brings joy to others while giving back to the community.
