Who We Are
Just Messin’ is a small business that creates products to encourage creativity and curiosity without the stress of cleanup. We believe that if you allow space for mess, there is no limit to creative learning and innovation. Our products are mom-designed, kid-approved, and they undergo rigorous 3rd party testing to ensure they are safe and effective. We strive to inspire more hands-on activities and less screen time with Just Messin’ products.
Our Story
A few years ago, our founder’s daughter Serena and all of her elementary school friends became obsessed with slime. Every day was a new concoction of messy ingredients, as they experimented with different colors, textures and scents. They would mix them to perfection and then play with them for hours. Many parents started banning slime from their house because they just couldn’t find a way to contain the mess.
Our Solution
Our founder recognized the benefits of engaging her daughter in an activity that did not involve screen-time. She searched for products to effectively protect her tables and floors and was unsatisfied with the options. So, she decided to create them herself and developed Just Messin’ and the UpSides Mat.
Mom, Founder
Karen Baris
My name is Karen Baris and I am the founder of Just Messin’. I live in New Jersey with my husband, Brett, and our three kids, Nate, Serena and Evan. I’m a former lawyer who became a full-time mother 14 years ago when Nate was born.
My kids are my inspiration! I’m constantly looking for ways to help them thrive while also finding solutions to keep our home in order. Creating Just Messin’ has been a fun and challenging adventure!