Local educator and twin mom Lauren Compton transforms traditional peg dolls into one-of-a-kind keepsakes for kids through her online shop, Two Little Bees.
“There’s something honestly magical about turning a simple wooden figure into a tiny, handpainted keepsake,” says Compton, who began her Etsy-based business in 2015. “I love the nostalgia of peg dolls—there’s a warmth and charm to them that feels timeless.”
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Compton says she was also drawn to the developmental benefits of wooden peg dolls for children.
“I’m drawn to the way they encourage storytelling, imaginative play, and sentimental gifting,” she says. “Peg dolls are simple, timeless, and spark creativity. Unlike traditional plastic toys, they invite open-ended play; kids can imagine endless stories with them. Plus, because they’re wooden and durable, they last for years. For many customers, they’re more than just toys; they become keepsakes.”
Compton’s handpainted peg dolls include everything from family sets and special keepsakes (for example, to remember a special dance recital) to kids’ favorite characters from entertainment such as Bluey, Frozen, Sonic, and Wicked.
“I love creating my princess collection,” Compton says. “I am a huge ‘Disney adult’ and not ashamed to say so. I love painting characters I have grown up with for future generations to come. Their costumes are iconic, and getting to add my own flair to these classic characters brings me so much joy. When I travel to Disney World, I will sometimes bring various peg dolls with me and drop them around the park for people to find.”
Although the princess dolls have always been some of Compton’s bestsellers, her Taylor Swift eras collection is tough competition.
“The Taylor Swift eras set is a customer favorite, and many buyers will message requesting the costumes she wore for the specific concert they attended—down to the writing on the RED era’s shirt,” she says, noting she welcomes such special requests.
“I love connecting with customers personally, so if someone has a unique request, they’re always welcome to message me,” Compton says. “Every order means the world to me, and I am so grateful for the customers who support handmade artists. Truly, when I get the notification on Etsy that a previous customer has ordered again, it means the absolute world!”
Because items are one-of-a-kind creations, turnaround time is typically one–two weeks.
“Two Little Bees STL is truly a labor of love,” Compton says. “I balance this business alongside being a high school teacher, PTO mom, and twin mom. It’s busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
