The Bumble Tree in Cranbrook keeps our kids outfitted

Bumble Tree specializes in safe, environmentally friendly and globally responsible children's products

Megan Lescanec, owner of Bumble Tree in Cranbrook, B.C. — Kimberly Shellborn photo

The Bumble Tree in Cranbrook was born from a need for unique and eco-friendly products for expectant mothers, babies and children. 

Megan Lescanec has owned the Bumble Tree for over four years. She loves to see the glow and excitement of expectant mothers shopping in anticipation of their babies or grandparents buying a new toy and imagining how their grandchild will squeal in delight as she plays with it.

Lescanec gives us some insight into running the Bumble Tree.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? 

Aside from babysitting, my first job was at a busy gas station and RV Park. I learned how to juggle multiple demands, prioritize tasks and manage many different roles.

What’s your favourite product/service in the store, and why?

My favourite product is the Schleich line of animal figures because they appeal to everyone from toddlers to adults and they provide children with hours of unstructured, imaginative play. My favourite service is the free car seat installation inspections we provide. It's very rewarding to help educate parents and keep kids safe!

What aspect of running your business has surprised you the most?

I was not prepared for how personal it becomes. You invest so much time, energy and money into your business that it's hard not to take any negative experiences, setbacks or bad days to heart. I need to remind myself to look for the lesson in these situations and take them as a chance to make a change or improvement.

What is the best book you’ve read in the past six months?

I love to read and I am part of a book club so I get to try out all sorts of books that I might not normally choose. It's hard to narrow it down to the best, but one book that really surprised me was Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel. The synopsis sounded so out there and unappealing to me but I gave it a try and ended up loving it!

What is your  No. 1 passion outside of work?

Absolutely my family and pets. My husband, two daughters, two dogs and a bird keep me very busy in my "off" time. The elusive work/life balance is always a struggle so in my off time, family definitely comes first!