Meet Lupita, The Little Doll That’s Spreading A BIG Message of Kindness this Holiday

November 12, 2018 - Article reads in

A gift that’s cute, cuddly, fun, and inspires kindness and generosity? Yep—and this mom-created gem is arriving just in time for the holidays, only at Target. Say hello to Lupita, a plush doll and bilingual English and Spanish storybook set (one of our 2018 Top Toys and a Mom’s Choice award-winner) that’s sure to become a favorite new family tradition.

Target’s serious about bringing our guests the very best new toys and games—including unique products you can’t find anywhere else. That means thinking outside the (toy) box. We’re always watching trends, scouring toy fairs (oh hi, Chicago Toy & Game Fair), and keeping an eye out on crowdfunding sites like Indiegogo and Kickstarter for the next amazing idea. So when we heard about Leslie Guzman’s “Lupita” Kickstarter campaign, we were intrigued. And as the mom/entrepreneur shared her vision for a doll and book set that celebrate Hispanic traditions and shares a universal message of kindness, we knew the idea was special—and we couldn’t wait to bring Lupita exclusively to Target.
Lupita box set with "only at Target" logo We sat down with Leslie for the scoop:

What inspired you to create Lupita?
I’m mom to three wonderful boys, including 13-year-old Diego, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. I created Lupita to help share messages of acceptance, selflessness and being proud of who you are with my own children and others around the world. Lupita celebrates our Mexican heritage and the wonders of Our Lady of Guadalupe and Three Kings Day and inspires children to be kind and grateful. Each night, children read with their family and reflect on the good deeds they’ve done that day, sharing them with their Lupita doll. Then, on Three Kings Day, the children receive a special gift.

While based in Hispanic tradition, how does Lupita appeal to all kinds of kids and cultures?
Lupita’s story reflects Mexican tradition and values, but the themes of caring, kindness, love and inclusion are lessons that almost any parent wants to share with their children. The story encourages all children to accept differences, celebrate other cultures and beliefs and do good deeds, reminding them what the season is all about. I love that Lupita shares our proud Hispanic heritage with the world, and ultimately reminds everyone that it doesn’t matter where we come from, what our color, abilities or background—in the end, we all have one goal: to do good.
Leslie and family read the Lupita book together How has she become part of your own family’s tradition?
In our family, especially with Diego’s illness, we want to make every day count. The end of the day is a special time for us—we read together, and I ask my kids about the highs and lows of each day, and most importantly, what they did to make someone else smile. The Lupita story and doll fit right in to that bedtime routine. And beyond that, Lupita’s been an incredible source of comfort to Diego. She’s with him at doctor’s appointments, even as he goes into surgery (when Mom can’t be with him, Lupita is there).

How does it feel to see Lupita at Target?
It’s a dream come true. I can’t think of a better partner to help me bring this project to life, and I’m so excited to share Lupita with the world! We’ve also created special Lupita products just for Target guests, including an Advent calendar, ornaments, tree topper and a Three Kings cake mix, all meant to help families make special memories and new traditions together.
A collage of Lupita product with "only at Target" logo Any advice for budding entrepreneurs?
I’ve had to follow my own advice to my kids—be courageous, don’t give up. In this journey, I’ve fallen, I’ve learned, I’ve gotten up, and I’ve kept going. That’s how you make your dreams a reality. And of course, look for ways to make someone smile each and every day.

Haz clic aquí para leer esta historia en español.