August 13, 2008 TAX ATTORNEY INVENTS THE PURRRFECT TOY Vivian Hoard, past chair of the Atlanta Bar tax section, can now add toy inventor to her resume. Vivian is the creator of Catnap Kitties, a new cuddly, plush cat toy that sounds so much like a real cat’s purr that some people might not be able to hear the difference. While mourning the death of her beloved nineteen-year-old cat, Ludwig, Vivian studied the market and identified a niche for a plush cat that could provide the therapeutic benefits of a live cat’s purr. Although scientific research has wholeheartedly supported it, she needed no convincing that holding and petting a purring cat provided significant calming benefits for humans. Her family album confirms the soothing power of Ludie's purr through many photos of her children sleeping peacefully next to, over, or under Ludie's soft warm body. Additionally, after 20 years of accumulated stress from representing people accused of criminal or civil tax fraud, Vivian herself appreciated the calming effects of Ludie's purr. |
Honorable Mentions
Winner of Creative Child Magazine "Preferred Choice Award" One of only 5 toys featured on ConsumerReports.org Humane Society Cat Inspires Toy Featured at the Toy Fair in New York City |
After three years in development, Vivian launched the patented product Catnap Kitties at the Toy Fair 2008 in February in New York City. Armed with only hand-made prototypes and a logo, and despite her booth's back-seat location at the Fair, Vivian received an overwhelmingly positive response, including requests for price quotes on large orders. "Several large reputable buyers spotted the toy and expressed an interest. That is a very good sign for a new toy inventor," said international toy expert, Richard Gottlieb, who assisted Vivian in finding a quality manufacturer and is assisting with the product's launch. Gottlieb believes Catnap Kitties are unique enough to capture a valuable niche market. "They are soft, subtle, and life-like in purr and feel. People will love the toy," he said. Catnap Kitties will be available in limited release this holiday season. |
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