She’s always been a quiet, reserved soul—more of an observer than a talker—and I often struggled to connect with her. Yet, despite her silence, I saw the spark in her eyes: creativity, artistry, and so much potential.

We were surprised when she chose New York for her trip. The city, with its vibrant museums, Broadway shows, and quirky shops, seemed to awaken something in her. Slowly, in the quiet moments—wandering through hidden corners of the city, exploring Chinatown’s gems—I began to see her come alive. It wasn’t about pushing her to match my energy, but meeting her where she was and letting her lead me into her world.

In those small, eclectic shops, surrounded by trinkets and treasures, inspiration sparked. That moment marked the beginning of Giggle & Glue. The laughter, the shared discoveries, and the joy of bonding over these little treasures became memories I’ll always cherish. It was the start of a deeper connection with my niece, and I wanted to share that sense of joy, creativity, and play with others—through imagination, connection, and, of course, all the adorable tchotchkes!