INSIDE THE BOX: POOF PUZZLE CO.

Whenever we think about Pride Season, we get really excited. From the parades and parties to getting out all the Pride decore to don our office and house up with. Pride is a true mood in June. 

At FRUITLOOTS, it's our busiest season. We take great care in not only designing our own our products but curating the additions of new LGBTQ+-owned businesses to our gift market. 

This year is no exception and one of our favorite new makers is a gay couple from Southern California, Donnie & Byron. Together in love and life,  they recently took the big jump into Queer Entrepreneurship and brought their company, Poof Puzzle Co. to life last year. 

Check out their story below and make sure to support them by shopping thier products here and following them on their social media. 

-David & Allan

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What is the name of your company? 

Poof Puzzle Co

When was the company founded?

2023

Tell us the story of how you brought your company to life.

We’ve been obsessed with jigsaw puzzles and gaming since we were kids and during the pandemic we picked the hobby up again and while on the hunt for great images I didn’t see images that represented me and the LGBTQ community. What started as a few puzzles for ourselves and friends developed into something so much bigger. 

How did you feel after it launched?

Nervous to try something new. It’s risky starting a new business but it’s exciting to do it together. 

Where do you draw your design inspiration from? 

The world around us. Pop culture. Color is big for us, we want vibrant colors and designs on every single piece. When we are in a creative head space we can put some music on and just vibe and collaborate in creating a fabulous design together.

Why was it important to you to create an “out and proud” LGBTQ+ company? 

Creating an “out and proud” LGBTQ+ company was essential for us at Poof Puzzle Co. because representation matters deeply. When we started this company, we noticed a significant gap in the market—there were no puzzles that reflected our identities and the vibrant diversity of our community. We wanted to change that. By offering puzzles that celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and feature inclusive imagery, we’re not just creating a product; we’re fostering a sense of belonging and visibility.

Was there a defining moment in your company’s history (so far) when you knew you created something special?

When we sold out of our first collection, our first four designs sold out within weeks of us launching our Instagram account and online store.

What has been the reaction of customers to your brand?

Overwhelming positive.

Any special customer stories that you want to share? 

When participating at a local pop up market a customer purchased matching puzzles, one for herself and one for her son. She told me they were both LGBT puzzle enthusiasts and live across the country and they do my puzzles together over video chat.

At Fruitloots, we call all the amazing products that we find our “loot”. What's your favorite piece of “loot” you have created?

Queer Magic. It’s our first design. Our first sell out. 

I stared at this image for months before pulling the trigger to pursue our dreams and for such an overwhelming response it really meant a lot. 

 

Tell us about the Fruitloots product that we have chosen.

Introducing 'Queer Magic,' a vibrant 500-piece 16x20 inch puzzle that celebrates the beauty of being you. Immerse yourself in a world of colorful positivity, where LGBTQ+ pride, equality, and the magic of authenticity shine.

Where do you see your company in 10 years?

We are going to be everywhere!  

I want to be independently manufacturing our own small batch puzzles and continuing to spread Pride piece by piece. 

Any advice to queer entrepreneurs? 

Just do it! Follow your gut.

If you could throw a party, with an unlimited budget and you could invite anyone, tell us about the party and who would be there!

Our party would be a wild, fabulous bash for family, friends, and the LGBTQ+ community. Imagine jaw-dropping performances by drag legends like Bianca Del Rio and Trixie Mattel, a dance floor lit up with rainbow lights, and epic karaoke battles. It would be a night of glitter, glam, and pure joy. 

Last question, If you could be any fruit, what would it be and why?

Donnie: I would definitely be a Kiwi - the fuzzy fruit.

Byron: I would be a Star fruit… because who doesn’t want to be a STAR?

 

TO SHOP POOF PUZZLES IN OUR MARKETPLACE CLICK HERE

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON POOF PUZZLE CO. AND TO CHECK OUT THE REST OF THEIR COLLECTION, CLICK HERE

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Byron & Donnie Photo courtesy of POOF! PUZZLES

Product Photos courtesy of FRUITLOOTS