Worthy Convos: Creative, Cool, Unique Doylce Herman on Laughter & Living

Doylce Herman spent much of her career blending in- or trying to, at least. But she always knew she didn’t fit into the corporate mold. After years of playing the part, Herman chose a different role for herself and launched Laughter & Living, a lifestyle brand that promotes togetherness through sustainable and functional products. Finally doing something she enjoys, Herman has found her fit as an entrepreneur.

What is your background and how did you get started on this path?

My background likely differs from what one would think. I’ve always liked fashion, art, and things of that nature, but I never went into those fields professionally. Let me be really honest for just a moment. Every job that I have ever had was never what I really wanted to do. I know that may sound bad but let me explain. I always had a job because I had responsibilities and needed to take care of them. I worked diligently at my jobs, but I also was keenly aware of the fact that I was different. I did not fit. I’ve been in corporate America for years, but I always knew that I did not really fit. It likely hindered me because I would try to conform to what a job told me to be. So, that is how I started Laughter & Living. It allowed me to be me. Doylce. I’m creative. I want to understand what someone needs and find a solution for them. I want to be a resource in a cool, uniquely me way. So, I’m finally doing it… with my business.

Photo courtesy of Doylce Herman

What’s the best piece of advice you received before launching your business?

Before starting Laughter & Living, I had a conversation with a mentor, and there were two things that resonated with me. 1) Create a team to help grow your business, and 2) Remember that starting a business is not a sprint or a marathon; it’s a journey. During the journey you will have valley and mountaintop experiences, but if you stay focused on WHY you started the business, it will sustain you. You’ll go far if you embrace your WHY.

You’ve been on the trade show circuit lately. Describe that experience.

The market/vendor days give us an opportunity to connect with the community and get our brand out locally. We get to hear what our customers want as well as what they enjoy about our products. Meeting our customers face-to-face allows our customers to get to really know us as small business owners and affords us the opportunity to grow our target market.

What do you consider when sourcing your products?

Various factors go into sourcing our products, but one main factor is the functionality of the product. Can it be used in multiple ways? For example, our silicone plate is not just for babies and toddlers. It can also be used as a means of portion control for the health-conscience customer or for dips/sauces for the dinner party hosting/entertaining customer. Another example of multiple functionalities is our reusable paper towel. They can be used to clean off water spots on wine glasses, wipe down countertops, or dry guests’ hands in the bathroom – the list is endless.

What’s your favorite product right now?

Ooh, this is a tough one! Right now, I would have to say our Smart Desk Lamp is my favorite product. It’s an LED lamp, Bluetooth speaker, wireless charger, and a clock all-in-one! There we go with the multiple functionalities again!

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

How would I describe our design aesthetic? Hmmm. Great question. Laughter & Living designs are modern and sleek with clean lines and just a tantalizing hint of color.

Although she prefers burnt orange to purple, Hannah Bush is happy to call Fort Worth her new home. She began freelance writing a few years ago to break up the monotony of her 9 to 5, and to prove to her parents that she’s making good use of her journalism degree. When she’s not hanging out with her cat, Hannah can likely be found on a patio with her husband, talking about her cat.