Today we’d like to introduce you to Azlynn Tanksley.
Hi Azlynn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a first-generation business owner in my family. After the birth of my second daughter, I realized I no longer wanted to live paycheck to paycheck—I wanted to build something meaningful and create a legacy for my children. What began as a side hustle quickly became a passion and a calling.
Before taking the leap of faith, I remember praying and wondering how I would even get my first client. Two years later, I had surpassed 100 bookings in my second year of business. For two years, I balanced running my business while working full-time in a corporate position. When I was laid off during a massive company downsizing, I chose to see it as a blessing and an opportunity to fully pursue my business with everything I had. It was one of the biggest steps of faith I’ve ever taken.
My passion comes from bringing joy to families during their most special milestone celebrations. I love creating uniquely designed setups that perfectly reflect each client’s theme and aesthetic. Every setup is thoughtfully curated, and I pour countless hours into designing each event to make it feel personal and unforgettable. Seeing a client’s excitement and happiness when everything comes together is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
I’m incredibly grateful to be trusted with such meaningful moments, especially knowing there are so many vendor options available. I never take lightly that clients choose L2 Soft Play to be part of their celebrations. I continue striving to set my business apart through creativity, intentional design, and a signature aesthetic that reflects who we are.
Being a small business owner still challenges my faith at times, especially as more businesses continue to emerge. But I remain confident that what is meant for me will always find me. I am deeply thankful for every opportunity to serve my clients and be part of their special memories, and I look forward to continuing to grow and expand in the years ahead.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been far from smooth. As a first-generation business owner, I’ve had to learn everything through trial and error. From researching the industry from the ground up to managing inventory and developing a marketing strategy, every step has been a learning experience.
Over time, I’ve had to rebuild my packages and pricing structure several times to ensure I was properly valuing the manual and creative labor that goes into designing and executing each setup. I also faced challenges in sourcing the right products for my business. While there are many vendors that sell equipment, finding high-quality products that aligned with my standards was a journey in itself.
As the owner, designer, operator, and marketing manager, one of my biggest challenges has been learning how to grow and scale my business while wearing so many hats. Balancing every role can be overwhelming at times, but each obstacle has helped me grow stronger as both a business owner and creative. Despite the challenges, I’m incredibly thankful for the journey and all that it continues to teach me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
L2 Soft Play provides thoughtfully styled soft play experiences for every celebration. We transform ordinary spaces into exciting, imaginative environments where children can explore, play, and create unforgettable memories. As an owner, one of the most rewarding parts of my business is seeing the joy and excitement on children’s faces as they experience a space designed especially for them—filled with fun, creativity, and endless possibilities.
As the industry continues to grow, I am confident that L2 Soft Play stands apart by offering more than just children’s entertainment equipment. We specialize in thoughtfully curated setups that perfectly match each client’s aesthetic and vision. Our designs are intentionally crafted to feel elevated, stylish, and “Pinterest-worthy,” bringing a beautiful and memorable atmosphere to every celebration while still creating a fun and safe environment for children.
As a small business owner, I take pride in making every interaction as personal and intentional as possible. Each client receives direct communication with me as we collaborate closely on designs, themes, and details. From in-depth conversations to customized mockups, I work to ensure every setup feels unique and perfectly tailored to their event. For me, it’s about more than a transaction—it’s about building relationships and helping families create meaningful moments they will always remember.
At L2 Soft Play, we strive to provide an unforgettable experience from start to finish. From ball pits and bounce houses to soft play and customized event setups, every detail is designed to bring joy, beauty, and lasting memories to your special celebration.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
My ambition, resilience, passion, and drive push me to become the best version of myself, and I strive to let those qualities shine through in every aspect of my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.L2softplay.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l2softplay/
