The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
The biggest challenges I’ve faced are wearing multiple hats as a small business owner. Social media, for instance, feels like a constant pressure-I want to engage, but I don’t want to be on it every day. I’ve found that planning and pre-scheduling content eases the burden, but when I need a break, I take it. I strongly believe in prioritising mental health over forcing a constant online presence.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The pros of running my business include the flexibility to be there for Leo. I can pick him up from nursery or take him out for the day when I want to. Creating art for him, our home, and for others is fulfilling, and every sale feels incredibly rewarding.
The cons are the unpredictability of income, which makes budgeting and planning challenging. Thankfully, my freelance textile design work helps provide a little more balance and stability.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
More collaborations! I’m looking forward to partnering on new products and have an exciting collaboration with V+Me launching in November, with more in the pipeline for 2025. I hope to continue growing the Lion and the Pear brand and to create more prints for different parts of the home. We’re currently renovating our house, so when it’s time to decorate, I imagine this will inspire a new series for the rest of the home. Watch this space!
Visit the Lion and the Pear website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also check out Stephanie’s textile design business www.breezestudio.co.
