The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Starting a business is like being thrown into the deep end without knowing how to swim. I mean, I had this grand idea, but the reality of running a business was a whole different story. Learning the ropes of how a business actually works has been a rollercoaster. From figuring out finances that don’t make you want to pull your hair out, to finding suppliers who don’t ghost you, it’s been a wild ride. We’ve definitely had our fair share of trial and error. It’s been a journey of self-discovery too, figuring out what we’re good at and what we’re not.
Then there’s the whole marketing thing. I thought it would be easy to sell cute baby stuff, but boy was I wrong! We’ve tried everything from social media to paid ads. Meta ads? Let’s just say that was a money pit for a while. It’s been tough, really tough. But you know what? Every challenge has been a learning experience. We’ve picked ourselves up after every fall and kept going. It’s all part of the adventure, right?
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
On the bright side, being your own boss is pretty sweet. You get to make all the calls, set your own hours (kinda), and work on something you’re passionate about. Seeing your idea come to life and building something from scratch is super rewarding. Plus, the potential to build something amazing and create your own financial future is pretty exciting.
But let’s be real, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns. The pressure is real. Every decision falls on you, and you’re constantly second-guessing yourself. There’s a million things to do, and never enough time. You’re working all the time, even when you’re not working. And let’s not forget the financial rollercoaster. One month you’re on top of the world, the next you’re wondering how you’re gonna pay the bills. It’s a wild ride, but hey, at least it’s never boring!
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Hopes and dreams, That’s a big one. Honestly, I’m still in the trenches, figuring things out as I go. The ultimate goal is to reach a point where the business is self-sufficient and I can focus on growing it rather than just keeping it afloat. You know, that sweet spot where you’re not constantly firefighting but can actually be proactive.
Building a brand that people love and recognise would be incredible. It’s about more than just selling products; it’s about creating a connection with customers. I want people to think of Cuddle Trunk when they think of baby gifts. That’s the dream, right? But to get there, it’s gonna take hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of patience. I’m excited for the challenges ahead, though. Every hurdle is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Visit the Cuddle Trunk website to find out more and connect with them on Instagram.
