“My wife for some reason does not like mouths on the toys so they’ve never had a mouth,” Como said. “That’s like, 100 percent my wife’s decision.” His sons Kiichi, 7, and Michi, 3, are also vocal about their opinions and Como will have “breakfast discussions” with his family about new designs. “If I see them playing with it, I think it’s a good idea,” Como said. The name Noli Noli was also partly inspired by his wife’s Japanese heritage. Como and his family took a vacation to Noli, Italy in 2009 and enjoyed the town, which he described as “really laid back” and “kind of like a blue collar resort.” When he discovered that he name Noli was already in use, he decided on Noli Noli when his wife told him the phrase meant “I’m so excited” in Japanese. The company celebrated its 5th anniversary this year and Como just moved to a new studio at 5-26 46th Avenue after the new landlord in his old studio started raising the rent. Now, he’ll have space for a small equipment room, design room and space to showcase his toys. Como does everything himself and also works as a freelance draftsman in Manhattan. He has to balance taking care of his children while designing and creating each toy, which take at least one hour to make. Many times, he’ll have to fill bulk shipments of 100 or more pieces. “The challenge is getting a big order and filling the order and having children,” Como said. “Michi is not in school yet, but will be in school this fall. That was a challenge.” The Massachusetts native is looking for an employee to help fill orders more quickly and is expecting that he’ll have to train him or her in specific woodworking skills. “I really need an employee to make them fast and to get them to people who want them,” Como said. “I need to train somebody because what I do, there’s no school for it.” Though he cannot afford to make a living by just making his toys, Como said he hopes to keep his business running for as long as he can. To view or purchase Como’s toys, visit Noli Noli’s website at www.nolinolihandmade.bigcartel.com.
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