In an era where entrepreneurship often conjures images of tech startups and venture capital pitches, it’s refreshing to spotlight a young trailblazer who’s built a thriving business the old-fashioned way: with passion, persistence, and a deep love for play. Meet Lawson Taylor, a senior at B.C. High School and one of the youngest toy store owners in the United States. At just 17, Lawson has transformed his childhood fascination with toys into LT Toys, a vibrant retail haven that’s capturing hearts (and imaginations) across Columbia, South Carolina.
The Spark of an Idea: Starting Small at Age 11
Lawson’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited early. At the tender age of 11, he made his debut as a seller at a local toy show, hawking his carefully curated selection of playthings to fellow enthusiasts. What began as a fun weekend venture quickly revealed his knack for spotting trends, connecting with customers, and turning a profit. “It was all about the joy of sharing toys that brought smiles,” Lawson recalls in a recent interview. That initial foray wasn’t just a hobby—it was the foundation of a business mindset that would propel him far beyond the convention hall tables.
For about a year and a half, Lawson honed his skills at the Barnyard Flea Market, where he set up his first informal “storefront.” Amid the bustling stalls of vintage finds and handmade goods, LT Toys emerged as a pint-sized powerhouse. Here, Lawson learned the ropes of retail: negotiating with suppliers, managing inventory on a shoestring budget, and delighting customers with everything from classic trading cards to the latest action figures. It was gritty, grassroots work, but it taught him resilience and the value of community ties.
Scaling Up: From Flea Market to Shopping Center Staple
By age 13, Lawson’s ambition had already outgrown the flea market tables. He moved LT Toys into the Boozer Shopping Center, a bustling retail hub with far more foot traffic and room to grow. Over the next 2.5 years the store exploded into the ultimate collector’s paradise. What began as a small setup is now the go-to destination for vintage treasures and modern classics alike: shelves packed with vintage He-Man, G.I. Joe, and Star Wars from the ’70s and ’80s, right alongside the newest He-Man, G.I. Joe, and Star Wars releases. Dedicated sections celebrate horror icons, anime favorites, wrestling superstars, and an unbeatable Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles display. Whether kids are hunting their first figure or nostalgic adults are chasing childhood grails, LT Toys delivers the kind of high-quality, imagination-fueling toys that screens can’t touch.
This period marked a pivotal growth phase. Lawson balanced schoolwork with store operations, often staying late to restock shelves or brainstorm marketing ideas. His efforts paid off: LT Toys built a loyal following through word-of-mouth buzz and community events, like toy drives and in-store story hours. “Seeing a parent’s face light up when their child finds the perfect toy—that’s the magic,” he says. By the end of his stint at Boozer, Lawson wasn’t just surviving; he was strategizing for the future.
A Bold Leap: Owning the Dream at 6179 St. Andrews Road
In a move that underscores his bold vision, Lawson purchased his current building at 6179 St. Andrews Road—a spacious, dedicated space for LT Toys—about a year ago. Now in its second year at this prime location, the store has truly come into its own. The interior bursts with color: towering displays of LEGO sets, a huge selection of action figures, plush companions, and rare finds from beloved brands. It’s not just a shop; it’s an experience designed to evoke the wonder of childhood discovery.
This ownership milestone is especially impressive given Lawson’s age. As a high school senior, he juggles AP classes, extracurriculars, and store management with the poise of a seasoned CEO. His youth hasn’t been a barrier—it’s been his superpower, infusing LT Toys with fresh energy and an innate understanding of what modern kids crave. Community members often stop by just to chat with the “kid boss,” sharing stories that inspire Lawson’s next big idea.
Balancing Books and Brick-and-Mortar: Eyes on the Future
Lawson’s days are a masterclass in time management. By morning, he’s at B.C. High School, excelling in subjects that fuel his business acumen. Afternoons and weekends belong to LT Toys, where he oversees everything from vendor relations to social media savvy. But he’s not resting on his laurels. With college applications in full swing, Lawson is set on attending the University of South Carolina’s esteemed business program. “USC will give me the tools to scale LT Toys responsibly—maybe even franchise it one day,” he shares. “I want to blend classroom theory with real-world grit to create something lasting.”
His aspirations extend beyond personal success. Lawson dreams of mentoring other young entrepreneurs, proving that age is no limit to innovation. In a world grappling with youth unemployment and economic uncertainty, his story is a beacon: Start small, dream big, and never stop playing.
Why LT Toys Matters: More Than Just Toys
What sets LT Toys apart isn’t just its youthful founder—it’s the ethos. In an age dominated by digital distractions, Lawson’s store champions tactile, imaginative play. He boasts the largest selection of Transformers in South Carolina and focuses primarily on high-quality action figures that fuel epic storytelling. Customers rave about the personalized service: “Lawson remembers every kid’s favorite character,” one parent notes.
As of December 2025, LT Toys continues to grow, with whispers of an online expansion on the horizon. For Lawson Taylor, this isn’t the end of the journey—it’s just the next level unlocked.
Ready to rediscover the joy of play? Swing by LT Toys at 6179 St. Andrews Road in Columbia, SC, or follow their adventures on Facebook at LT Toys. Who knows? Your next favorite toy—and a dose of inspiration—might be waiting.
Company Information
Location: 6179 St. Andrews Road
Contact: lttoysandstuff@yahoo.com