Trine Hansen created Party In A Box to make children's birthdays stress-free and fun. She left a stable career to pursue her passion, now running a successful business that brings joy to both kids and parents. Discover how she even found new opportunities amidst the challenges of COVID-19!
Trine Hansen, a trained sales assistant, spent eight years in retail before transitioning to the headquarters of Dansk Supermarked. During her lunch breaks, she noticed a recurring issue among her colleagues: children’s birthdays that caused stress rather than joy.
From Heartache to Help: The Idea Behind Party In A Box
For many parents, the practical tasks around a child’s birthday party took away the joy of the celebration. This tugged at Trine’s 'birthday heart,' as she had always loved planning birthdays. This inspired the idea for Party In A Box- a solution to make planning easier for parents. It wasn’t just about finding decorations but also about creating a theme that would delight the child and their friends.
Working as a toy buyer, Trine found inspiration at trade shows. She discovered party supplies and networked with suppliers. Her experience gave her a clear advantage: she knew exactly what kids loved and understood safety regulations for children’s products.
Daring to Take the Leap: The Journey from Dream to Reality
In 2016, Trine left Dansk Supermarked to work at Maki A/S, but Party In A Box wasn’t yet mature enough to provide her with a full-time income. So, she took on a flexible part-time job at Codan. A year later, she was able to leave it behind to focus on her business full-time.
Finding Joy in the Work – Trine’s Path to Full-Time Entrepreneurship
The desire to become 100% self-employed has been a major drive for Trine. In January 2020, she began to pay herself a modest salary. But money wasn’t the priority for Trine. “I’m earning less now than ever before, but I love going to work every day, and that’s what truly matters,” Trine Hansen, Party In A Box.
Trine once had a high salary and drove a BMW, but today, material goods no longer motivate her. “I don’t lack anything because I have an amazing life,” Trine Hansen, Party In A Box.
A Crisis Turned into Opportunity: Party In A Box During COVID-19
When COVID-19 hit, many celebrations were canceled, leaving Party In A Box facing major challenges. But Trine’s optimistic mindset helped her think creatively. As orders dwindled, she asked herself, “If I can’t hold parties, what can I do?”
A Creative Solution: The Krea Box Answer to Lockdown
On social media, Trine noticed parents struggling to keep their kids entertained during lockdown. This inspired her to create an “Easter Krea Box,” which turned out to be a huge success, accounting for 40% of sales in March.
Pop-Up Store Under Pressure – Quick Pivot at Bruuns Galleri
In November 2020, Trine opened a pop-up store in Bruuns Galleri. But with the second lockdown in December, she was left with unsold inventory. Swiftly, she moved everything to a showroom, allowing customers to shop via Facetime. This adaptability enabled her to sell all her products.
Optimism and Adaptability: How Trine Exceeded Her Goals
Throughout the pandemic, Trine continually found new ways to keep her business thriving. Her creative approach and determination to find alternative solutions led to a 2020 revenue 30% above target.
Looking Ahead: Trine’s Vision and Dedication for Party In A Box
Trine’s innovative mindset keeps her always thinking ahead. Even as a business owner, she still packs orders herself: “Even as the boss, it’s important to have your hands on the products. That way, you don’t forget what it’s all about," Trine Hansen, Party In A Box.
As 2021 approaches, Trine looks forward with anticipation: “I can hardly imagine what it will be like when society opens up again. But I’m incredibly excited!” Trine Hansen, Party In A Box.
Thank you so much for the chat, Trine. We’re incredibly proud to call you our partner.
Best of luck with the journey ahead.
Team pensopay.
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