Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariah Roj.
Hi Mariah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
In 2013, founder Mariah Roj wandered into a charming toy shop in the French Caribbean that forever changed the way she perceived toys and the role of toys in a child’s life. The kind of toy shop she found herself in had once existed in the States but over time were vanishing. The European toys she saw now seemed to step out of a different time, especially in comparison to the mass-manufactured plastic offerings that line the shelves of toy aisles in American big-box stores. Instead of overt branding, buzzing and batteries, the toys’ magic was sourced from their beauty, quality, and simplicity.
The French toy shop revealed a better way to fill up a child’s universe, a way that wasn’t easily available to her in Cleveland, at least not yet. This encounter was the beginning of the winding path that would lead to S’il Vous Play. As Mariah developed an interest in local, national, and international toy culture, her family grew to include three children, and this gave her extra incentive to search out well-made toys from all over the world.
Every time Mariah passed the historic Cleveland Heights firehouse building in the Cedar-Lee district, she admired its Tudor architecture, and antique flourishes. Over time, the building became a central component of the S’il Vous Play daydream. After the Lee Silsby Compounding Pharmacy moved from that location, the opportunity arose to turn the dream to a reality, but there was one major obstacle: the entirety of the old firehouse was just too big to fill alone. Mariah explored some other locations but nothing gelled. More than a year later, another group agreed to rent part of the firehouse, leaving the first floor “living room” area and entire second floor available. Mariah put in a call and inquired about the new tenant, which turned out to be a preschool and education center! S’il Vous Play found its home that day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Getting started was pretty rocky, considering Mariah had no formal education in business, but where there’s a will, there’s a way! Lots of online research and a free business course offered through the Heights Libraries helped get the ball rolling and the legalities squared away. While opening during the pandemic was no easy feat, the community welcomed us with open arms. We’re learning as we go!
We’ve been impressed with S’il Vous Play, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Each item at S’il Vous Play is carefully selected by Roj and her team based on the values they share: made-to-last characteristics, location of design and manufacturing, ethical labor practices, and sustainability of materials. The goal is to find toys that encourage open-ended and immersive play. With the right toys, children will play longer, cherish deeper, and imagine bigger.
We are lucky enough to have a large space upstairs with many toys out on display for little ones to play with and explore. It’s such a gift to see how kiddos interact with the toys. We offer complimentary birthday and baby shower gift wrapping, assembly, and are thrilled to help you pick the perfect toy for the child in your life.
The shop itself is a magical space, full of wonder, warmth, and happiness. We love creating a nurturing space for all to enjoy.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
The best part of Cleveland Heights is its diverse culture – people, food, businesses. We take such pride in being part of such an inclusive community. It’s a big city with a small-town feel. The Cedar-Lee District, where the toy shop is located, is especially supportive and vibrant.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://silvousplaytoys.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silvousplaytoys/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SilVousPlayToys
