The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Starting a business just before a pandemic hits and then a cost of living crisis hasn’t been easy. I’ve always maintained my passion and learned from every experience. My range narrowed – I only keep my most popular lines. When online sales were suffering, I went out and traded at artisan markets and events travelling up and down the country setting off at 6am in the cold and dark.
There are still many daily challenges: the doubt and the worry, but I’m much more confident to overcome these now.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
There is nothing like it. I’m in control and I love that. I create what I want and I made the decision a while ago to only make the things that give me joy. You don’t get that in any other job. For example, I don’t like making rompers. Customers bought them but they gave me no joy – so I don’t make them any more. If I want my website pink, I can have it pink. However it can be a very lonely place. I’m discussing my ideas with myself, in my head, and I’m missing that critical friend that every business needs.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I’ve just started having my products stocked in physical shops and this is an exciting time for me. I can’t describe how it feels to see my dresses hung on rails alongside other wonderful brands, so I’m looking forward to more of this. And now I feel like I’ve got the business stabilised, it’s time for some product development, making the dresses in my head a reality. That’s a lengthy process but one I’m looking forward to next.
Head over to the Lolabear website to browse their gorgeous range of clothing and accessories for babies and children. You can also follow them on Instagram.
