Kaitlin Malaspina, founder of Pitch a Fete. (Credit: Courtesy of Pitch a Fete)
She Believes Magic is a Vital Part of a Child’s Journey
Kaitlin Malaspina designs immersive sensory tents and toys for children through her business, Pitch a Fete.
Six years ago, Kaitlin Malaspina launched Pitch A Fete as a way to create magical moments for children at events. Prior to starting up, the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based mompreneur would set up immersive play areas for kids at parties she attended – entire little worlds where both their minds and bodies could run wild. Malaspina says that when she saw the “sheer delight on those little faces, it was heartwarming,” and that when “we saw how much it meant to children, and we knew we wanted to bring that magic into their everyday lives.” That’s why Malaspina decided to take the leap and bring her vision to business. Today, Pitch a Fete offers a line of sensory play tents and plush toys – all ethically and sustainably produced – that encourage children to dive into their own imaginations.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
We’re driven by a genuine desire to create something meaningful. Our Plush Pal kits are made from sustainably sourced materials—each one is made from 9.5 recycled water bottles — and with a real heart. We’ve poured so much into developing these storylines and these characters. And, our next-generation sensory tents are designed with a full life cycle in mind, because sustainability is a promise we take seriously.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Seeing where we are now, and how far we have come. It’s beyond anything we could have imagined. That’s our biggest success – following that spark, that feeling, and turning it into something real. Something that brings joy and makes a difference in people’s lives.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
The formation of a cohesive and aligned team. The process demanded a meticulous approach – prioritizing the identification of individuals possessing not only the requisite skill sets, but also a demonstrable alignment with the company’s core values and cultural ethos. This deliberate and time-intensive strategy, while initially demanding, ultimately proved instrumental in laying the foundation for our subsequent successes.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?
Making the decision to raise my daughter as a single parent while navigating significant personal transitions – all while balancing those challenges with my professional life. The experience has provided a profound lesson, and brought into sharp focus what truly matters.
First, it has taught me to weave empathy and understanding into the fabric of my company. Creating a supportive, flexible environment where people feel seen and valued is not just “nice to have” — it’s essential. And, navigating this balance has also strengthened my commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. I want to build a business that not only thrives, but also contributes positively to the world – for my daughter and for future generations.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Just get started. It’s so easy to get caught up in planning, in perfecting every detail, in waiting for the “right” moment. But the truth is, there will never be a perfect moment. The most valuable lessons come from doing – from taking that first step, even if it’s a small one.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
My daughter is my unwavering inspiration.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
I find inspiration not in a specific song, but in classical music overall. Its complex harmonies and melodies provide a space for focused reflection, allowing me to cultivate clarity and center myself.
Who is your most important role model?
The individual I strive to become each day. I find inspiration in personal growth and in believing that each day offers an opportunity to build upon past experiences. ◾
Instagram: @pitchafete
Facebook @pitchafete
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