Meet Annette Bentley-smith | CEO of AnneCorp Literary Works

We had the good fortune of connecting with Annette Bentley-smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Annette, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I started out as an author, self-publishing my first book called What Color Am I? back in 2015. Then my granddaughter came to me one night at the age of 4 and said, “Nanna, I wish you could be here every night to read to me.” That moment stuck with me deeply, and as I sat surrounded by my collection of plush toys, I told her, “Maybe someone could create something so that I can.”

Years later, the idea for Kobe was born—an educational, therapeutic support resource tool that would bridge the distance between families, allowing parents to connect with their children even when they couldn’t be there physically. Kobe isn’t just a comforting bedtime companion; it’s a tool that brings families closer through personalized stories, messages, and a sense of emotional connection.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am the CEO of AnneCorp Literary Works and the creator of Kobe’s Story-Time Plush-Tales. My work is all about using creativity and connection to offer children—and their families—a unique way to engage with stories. What sets me apart is the fusion of emotional comfort, educational benefits, and interactive technology in a support resource tool. Kobe isn’t just a cuddly companion; he’s designed to foster emotional support, strengthen family bonds, and promote both imagination and learning.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve turned a deeply personal inspiration into a product that helps others. Kobe’s Story-Time Plush-Tales was born out of a simple but powerful moment with my granddaughter, Melody. At the age of 4, she told me, “Nanna, I wish you could be here every night to read to me.” That moment stuck with me, and while sitting among my plush collection, I tild her, “Maybe someone could create something that I can.” Years later, Kobe was born—a way for families to feel closer even when apart. It’s been incredibly rewarding to know that my work is making a real difference in children’s lives, offering them comfort, creativity, and connection.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I’ve faced many challenges, especially being a disabled solopreneur. Building a business as one person has been incredibly tough, and there were times when I wasn’t sure I could keep going. But I have an unwavering belief in my product and its potential to change lives, so I found ways to push forward. Joining the Milestone Circles Cohort 243 at the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and seeking out programs like Recipe for Retail have been game changers for me. They’ve helped me sharpen my “why” and continue my growth as an entrepreneur.

I’ve learned many lessons along the way, but the most important one is resilience. I’ve learned to not let challenges stop me, but to see them as part of the process. The support of the community and continuous self-investment has been key to keeping me going. I’ve also learned to value the importance of self-care in balancing the tough journey of entrepreneurship.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that Kobe’s Story-Time Plush-Tales is more than just a toy—it’s a support resource designed to build lasting connections between kids and their families. It’s about supporting emotional well-being, encouraging creativity, and fostering learning, all while offering the comfort of a supportive companion. The heart behind Kobe’s Story-Time Plush-Tales is rooted in my deep desire to make sure children always have a sense of security and love, no matter where they are.

I’m excited about the future and the impact we can make as we continue growing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Start with a relaxing picnic at Piedmont Park, grabbing sandwiches from The Sandwich Shop. Stroll through the park or Atlanta Botanical Garden before heading to Mary Mac’s Tea Room for Southern comfort food. End the night with drinks at The Rooftop at Ponce City Market, offering a scenic view.

Day 2: Begin with breakfast at Flying Biscuit Café, then explore Atlanta History Center and The High Museum of Art. For lunch, head to The Capital Grille. In the evening, catch a show at the Fox Theatre or a movie at Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Day 3: Grab brunch at West Egg Café, then explore Ponce City Market and the BeltLine. For lunch, eat at Farm Burger before visiting Krog Street Market. Enjoy dinner at Antico Pizza and end the evening with cocktails at Pinewood Tippling Room.

Day 4: Start with breakfast at Barney’s Coffee Kitchen, then hike or take the skyride at Stone Mountain Park. Afterward, head to Atlanta Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon. For dinner, enjoy seafood at The Optimist and explore Little Five Points afterward.

Day 5: Start with breakfast at Flying Biscuit Café, then visit Atlantic Station for shopping and art. Grab lunch at King + Duke before cycling along the Eastside BeltLine. Dinner at Restaurant Eugene and drinks at The Roof finish off the day.

Day 6: Visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights, followed by lunch at Bar Taco. Spend the afternoon at the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola. For dinner, head to Miller Union, and end the evening with drinks at SkyLounge.

Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at Cafe Intermezzo, then explore Sweet Auburn Curb Market. For lunch, try Home Grown, then wind down with a peaceful afternoon at Grant Park before the trip ends.

This week-long itinerary mixes relaxed, cozy activities with exciting adventures, giving my best friend a true taste of Atlanta!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The dedication of Kobe’s Story-Time Plush-Tales goes to the people who have been my unwavering support and inspiration throughout this journey. First, to my husband, whose love and encouragement have been my foundation. His belief in me and this vision has been constant, especially during the toughest moments. To my mother, whose wisdom and nurturing spirit shaped me into who I am today, and whose memory continues to guide me in all that I do.

To my two sons, who’ve always been my cheerleaders, offering not just support but also their own insights and ideas that helped me bring this project to life. Their understanding and patience have meant the world to me as I navigated the challenges of building a business. To my siblings, who have been there through every high and low, offering strength, humor, and love when I needed it most.

And of course, to a few very special friends—those who believed in this dream before it even had a name. Your loyalty, encouragement, and belief in me have made all the difference. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without each of you, and I am forever grateful for your presence in my life.

Website: https://storytimeplushtales.com/products/kobes-story-time-plush-tales

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kobestorytimeplushtales/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrsanniebooks/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrsanniebooks

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@annecorpliteraryworks