This month’s clutch features holographic bubbles and a soap keychain — the perfect match for Andrea Williams, founder of Tubby Todd Bath Co. Andrea is practically the reigning queen of bath time. Since Arlo was born, Tubby Todd has been our go-to for baby care. We had to bring our Bubble Clutch to Andrea and talk babies, business, and how she built a beloved brand from a single bottle of soap into a full line of body-care essentials.
We’re both moms and business owners, so time is precious. Let’s kick things off with a quick rapid-fire.
What’s your desert-island item in your purse?
My phone — it’s my business hub, my connection to friends and family, and occasionally my lifesaving babysitter when I need a few focused minutes.
What’s the craziest item you’ve ever found in your purse?
Just this morning I reached into my bag and pulled out a full-size dinner plate. No idea how it got in there.
What was your very first purse?
In high school my boyfriend bought me a Coach purse at an outlet mall while we were on vacation in Florida. Thanks, boyfriend!
Same purse every day or do you switch it up?
Same purse, every day. I aspire to be the person who switches things up, but right now I’m still mastering the laundry rotation.
How about your outfits — do you wear a uniform or vary daily?
Laundry again! How do other people keep on top of it? Do they always have clean clothes? Do they spot-treat stains or toss items? That’s one reason I love a cute clutch — it simplifies styling.
Okay, let’s get down to business. Tell us about Tubby Todd.
I’m the founder of Tubby Todd Bath Co. We create simple, gentle body-care basics for mamas and little ones. We sell online and through select boutiques across the country. My husband and I launched Tubby Todd three years ago with a single bottle of soap. Today we offer about twenty products and have built a devoted community of users who rely on our formulas. It’s been so rewarding to watch people fall in love with what we make.
What did you do before starting Tubby Todd?
Before Tubby Todd, my husband and I ran a small online marketing company from home. I also wrote and self-published a book called Tell Me About It, Sister!, a guide for returned Latter-day Saint sister missionaries based on my own adjustment experiences.
Where did the idea for Tubby Todd come from?
The product idea came after our first child was born. We were frustrated with the available natural bath products — many were watery, lacked moisture, or smelled like dirt. We spent over a year developing a formula. During that time our second child, Walker Todd, was born and struggled with eczema and extremely sensitive skin. That personal experience sharpened our focus on creating a gentle, effective solution. Our first formula became the foundation of the brand — good, clean fun.
The name has a funny backstory. My husband was the largest baby at the San Jose hospital, weighing 11 pounds, and the nurses nicknamed him “The Moose.” His middle name is Todd. One evening, frustrated with how long formula development was taking, Brian said, “We are going to call it Tubby Todd!” It felt like a moment of clarity and excitement, and the name stuck. Now people sometimes call me “Tubby Todd” — which is usually funny, except maybe the first day of my period when I’m feeling extra sensitive.
What advice would you give women who want to start a small business?
Two pieces of advice I always share:
- Do one thing every day. Starting a business can be overwhelming because there are so many tasks. Set a clear, achievable goal each day and complete it. Those small, consistent steps add up quickly.
- Launch before you feel completely ready. Don’t let imperfect Instagram, website, or packaging hold you back. If your product or service is ready, go live. The rest will evolve as you grow, and your audience will grow with you.
I love the “one thing a day” rule — such practical advice for busy founders. Thanks to Andrea for the interview and for making me feel better about my chaotic laundry situation. Keep an eye on Andrea’s Instagram — she’s giving away a Bubble Clutch and keychains today — and if you have little ones, check out Tubby Todd Bath Co. Their products smell wonderful and have been a trusted part of our routine. Thanks, Andrea!
p.s. Saturday is the last day to order the Bubble Clutch, so subscribe before it’s gone!