In a world driven by innovation and adaptability, stories of entrepreneurial spirit often stand out as inspiring examples of taking risks and carving a unique path to success. Wayne Bell, the CEO and Founder of Really Big Coloring Books^® Inc. (ColoringBook.com), embodies this narrative of vision, tenacity, and dedication to telling the stories of countless individuals and communities around the world. From humble beginnings in the 1980s to becoming a globally recognized publishing powerhouse, Bell’s journey reflects the transformative power of creativity, education, and the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Origins of Creativity: A Childhood Spark

The roots of Really Big Coloring Books can be traced back to Bell’s childhood. Born into a family entrenched in the printing business, Bell grew up amidst stacks of broad sheets of paper that were often given away due to a lack of recycling options. A serendipitous conversation with his grandmother sparked an idea that would change his life forever. She suggested that he staple the pages together, draw on them, call it a coloring book, and sell it. Young Bell took this advice to heart, leading to the creation of the very first “Really Big Coloring Book.” The idea caught on quickly, and people clamored for more of these large-format coloring books.

Embracing the Digital Frontier

As time progressed, so did technology, and the advent of the internet opened up new opportunities for entrepreneurs like Bell. In the late 1990s, armed with a handful of coloring books and a nascent online marketplace, Bell took a leap of faith into the realm of e-commerce. He sold two coloring books on the first night and recognized the transformative potential of the internet.

“I said, ‘you know, this world wide web thing is going to change everything, it’s all going to be very different going forward,’” Bell says.

It was a realization that prompted him to resign from his job and fully commit to selling coloring books online. While skeptics abounded, Bell’s instinct proved correct, and the move laid the foundation for what Really Big Coloring Books would become.

“When the internet first started, my banker said to me ‘You spent all your money on domain names, and your credit line is maxed out. What is this?’ I said, ‘Well, this is for the future,’” Bell says. “I bought coloringbook.com and bigcoloringbook.com, and I said, ‘This is where we’ll park our coloring books, and we’ll let the world tell us what to do.’”

A Universe of Creativity

Fast-forward two decades, and Really Big Coloring Books has flourished into a multifaceted publishing empire with a staggering 1,600 web domains spread across eight countries. The company is a hub of artistic talent, with an in-house art department, editorial team, and advanced machinery all operating under one roof in St. Louis. Bell’s approach to storytelling and education defines the company’s ethos; he views each book as an opportunity to tell the customer’s story, a principle that drives every aspect of their work.

Education and Engagement

One notable aspect of Really Big Coloring Books’ approach is its focus on education and engagement. While they produce colorful books about animals and nature, they also delve into cultural events and create educational materials for industries, including health care. Their collaboration with hospitals and medical professionals serves as an example of how creativity can ease anxiety and provide clarity, as children are given coloring books to explain medical procedures in a relatable and friendly manner.

Collaboration and Innovation

Collaboration lies at the heart of Really Big Coloring Books’ success. Collaborating with prominent figures like Marc Brown, the creator of Arthur, has added a unique dimension to their offerings. The introduction of QR codes in their books, allowing creators to directly engage with their audience, showcases their commitment to embracing modern technology for enhanced storytelling. Moreover, the creation of a kid’s band, The Color Tones, to complement their products with music exemplifies their innovative spirit.

The Power of Vision and Adaptation

Bell’s journey is a testament to the power of having a vision and being willing to adapt. From the early days of selling coloring books stapled together to owning a vast collection of web domains, his journey exemplifies how embracing change, even in the face of skepticism, can lead to remarkable accomplishments. The acquisition of the domain name coloringbooks.com during the COVID-19 pandemic illustrates his readiness to seize unforeseen opportunities.

“When COVID started, I got an email from my biggest competitor, the owner of coloringbooks.com,” Bell says. “He said, ‘We’re going to sell our domain name and these assets. Who else will take care of this better than you?’ I thought it was a joke. Two days later, I owned their domain name.”

A Lifelong Love for Creativity

At 64 years old, Bell’s passion for his work remains as strong as ever. The joy he derives from creating new books and witnessing the smiles they bring to people’s faces is a testament to his lifelong dedication to creativity. His appreciation for independent bookstores underscores his belief in community and the importance of nurturing local connections.

“I like being able to do what I want to do,” Bell says. “I have a vision. No matter what I do, I don’t think I’m ever done. I don’t know if I’ll ever be done.”

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