Conversations with Tori Hauser

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tori Hauser.

Hi Tori, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My son started baseball about a year ago, in Spring 2022. So we got him all the gear he needed to start, gloves, pants, bats, and a baseball backpack.

The first problem started with the baseball backpack. It’s designed so the 2 bats go into a pocket on each side of the pack, and the metal handles stick out 8-10 inches overhead. The second problem was that we had also just gotten a brand new car, and when putting in or taking the backpack out of the trunk of the car, the bat handles that were sticking out would bang on the car, causing dings in the paint. The third problem was when you’re standing in a group of 6-12-year-olds, each with two metal poles sticking out of their backpacks, it’s like dodging bullets trying not to get bonked in the head.

So I went online to find a solution, a cover for the bat ends; there must be something. Nope, I wanted something else. So, why not design something? I mentioned the idea to one of my friends, and she gave me a look and said, yea, you should! And that was the push I needed. I then went and made a prototype, found and worked with a manufacturer who helped me to make an excellent quality product. Six months later, I had an LLC and a website, and I am now talking to a lawyer about a patent.

It’s a good product with a purpose, and the quality is good. Kids love “decorating” their gear with swag, and parents love that it helps to alleviate some stress and worry from their day. I hope to add more colors and patterns to the store soon!

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I am a creative director/designer by day, so designing the product and all the branding, social media, and website came naturally to me. I don’t want to jinx myself, but it has been relatively smooth. The biggest struggle right now is getting the word out. People need to realize this product exists, but once they find out what it does, they are sold and usually buy two.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve been in graphic design for about 20 years; I’m now a creative director. I’ve helped so many small and large businesses brand and market themselves that it was easy for me to apply that knowledge to my own company.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Once people find out that I’m a baseball mom, who found a solution for her baseball problem, they trust that the product is something that makes our lives easier, and it does!

Pricing:

• 1 for $14.99
• 2 for $24.99

Contact Info:

• Website: readybat.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ready.bat
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReadyBat