About Our Start
Popadu™ [pop-uh-doo], a singular, meaningful word that signifies the start of an undiscovered and unique action. (Completely made up by the way.) "Pop"! That's what happens when little hands explore and engage in our designs, pulling the hidden characters out of their matching holes. It's also the spark of enjoyment that comes from seeing little eyes sparkle at your interaction with them.
We thrive on crafting experiences for babies and their loving families to enjoy together by nurturing a moment in time that is engaging, comforting, and just plain fun! We are passionate about designing useful and special ways to grow this type of interaction between precious little ones and their parents, grandparents and friends.
During an unassuming fall day in 2004 while in design studio at Georgia Tech, Rachel Winderweedle and a small group of designers started brainstorming ideas for new baby products. As the creative gears started to turn, Rachel and her classmate Megan began to think of children's toy concepts that could enhance sensory and perception capabilities of babies through reshaping timeless activities we all can relate to. They began to think out loud about digging, gardening and pulling vegetables out of the ground. Then, with excitement from others, Rachel began to elaborate on that initial spark and further the development of what would become the Garden Blanket. While in design school, Rachel met Mark Campbell, also a student of design. They became close friends and later a husband and wife design team. With further development, together they formulated their desire to bring the Garden Blanket to little ones everywhere. As time allowed over the next three years they refined and developed the design and business that would become their first model, the Popadu Garden Blanket.
Moving forward we hope to continue to pursue our love of designing for the enjoyment of little ones everywhere. Please help spread the word about our fabulous baby blankets.
Executive Biographies
Rachel Winderweedle Campbell - President & Founder
Educated in Atlanta at the Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Design and a certificate in Engineering Psychology, Rachel had the initial spark and desire to develop our premiere product. With a drive to create unique experiences through design, she handmade our initial prototype which would become the first in a new category of product, the Popadu baby activity blanket. After much prodding by thrilled family and friends Rachel, with help from her husband Mark Campbell, set out to reach precious children with their distinctive new product. Now Rachel steers her focus towards new product development and design within the company. She also strengthens our partner network and remains the bright star of the Popadu studio. She brings a caring heart for little ones not only through her design work but also as a ballet teacher on the side!
Mark Campbell - CEO & Co-founder
Educated in Atlanta at the Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Design, Mark brought his creative expertise and never ending entrepreneurial spirit to start Popadu. As a child, Mark always had an innate interest in art going through paints, clay, and anything else he could find to create with. Today, this creativity paired with his design education helps him to press our products beyond merely acceptable to extraordinary. His impact is also evident in our business development and marketing efforts. He is also responsible for coining our brand name, Popadu. Mark balances a life of staying connected with family and friends, cycling, swimming, making a life with his adoring wife Rachel and praising our Heavenly Father.