In search of gifts for her friends’ newborn babies, as well as items for her own baby during Covid times, Sally Ball struggled to find beautiful, functional, affordable baby and toddler products all in one place. This is what inspired her to create Baby Ball, providing gorgeous gestures of love and care to welcome a new baby to the family. Offering both individual items and thoughtfully crafted gift boxes, their newborn gifts, toys and toddler must-haves will be a beautiful addition for any family. Here Sally talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the passion behind her business, her biggest breakthrough, the challenges she has overcome along the way, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
I became a mum in the dreaded Covid era, and as I was looking for gifts for friends around me as they had their babies, or toys, teething rings or feeding items for my own child, I found myself searching for hours online. I couldn’t find the perfect gift, the right teething rings, or anything at the right price. I wanted to curate a place that offered beautiful, useful, aesthetically pleasing gifts, toys and necessities for every kind of mum.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
I initially started out attending markets and having stalls at kids and children’s markets. I looked for validation around products and pricing. And when I realised other mums loved my products as much as I did, I knew I was onto something. Shortly after, I set myself up with a website and social media. It took time, a lot of time and effort, to get my name out there, but slowly I started gaining traction and it’s been a wild ride the last 6-8 months.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
I remember my first order – it was very exciting. Initially, I just had orders from a beautifully supportive network of friends and family and I was incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement. But I’ll never forget the day I got an order from someone I didn’t know. I immediately called my husband, and my mum, and did a happy dance! I was so excited and thankful – it was a very special moment for me in business.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Oh I wish I had all the answers, but I don’t. It’s a constant juggle. Some days I feel I’m doing well and other days are a flop. Support is key – we’ve all heard it take a village to raise a child, right?! Well it also takes a village to build a business, and a very supportive village to help you do both at the same time. My husband and my family are very supportive and I couldn’t do it all without them.
