The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
The initial idea for the Soothing Nipple Balm was to have it in a different application format, which at the time I was really happy with. When I received the sample, my heart sank as I realised it just didn’t work as I had hoped; it was really disappointing. I had to go back to the drawing board. This opportunity for a rethink led to the product being developed as a balm and a wind-up stick which, a year after launch, won a finalist award in the Mama and Baby Beauty shortlist awards. I was overwhelmed that my product had been recognised worldwide against more established skincare brands and very pleased that it had gone wrong in the first place so that I could make the changes!
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
My 4-year-old is at childcare 3 days a week and my other two daughters at school, so as soon as drop offs are done, I can dedicate my time to my business – until pick up. Then it’s mum jobs until their bed time, then back to work. I used to try and cram my days with too many business-related things on top of being a mum, which became overwhelming. Now if I can’t do a social media post for a day or two because I’ve been doing jigsaws, playing cafes or play doh with my youngest, then I don’t panic – I will miss this time when she starts school next year!
The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
I’m originally from the UK and moved to Australia with my husband David and one baby. We now have 3 children, 9, 6 and 4, and the challenges have been mainly around not having family close by to call upon for help. David is very supportive and has been great at taking the girls out at the weekend if I need to get work done.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I love what I do so the majority of the time it doesn’t feel like ‘work’- I’m just nurturing my baby! I am able to do things my way, build relationships with customers and help them the best way I can. It is so rewarding receiving a message from a mum who has found the skincare helpful. I can work around the children and have also learnt so many new skills that I wouldn’t have otherwise been exposed to. On the flip side, it can be a slow and overwhelming process to learn all these new things, particularly if you are having to do them yourself. I’ve gone through lots of trial and error with the business to test what works and what doesn’t but one thing I’ve definitely learnt is to be myself in how I operate it and choose opportunities that align with my values and beliefs.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I am currently working on expanding my sales channels and range and becoming a certified aromatherapist. It is my mission to help as many mums and babies as I can around the world with my products, and share what I have learnt about mother nature’s healers. Healing is definitely my calling. I’m also studying energy medicine and continuing on the next level of my Reiki journey for my own personal growth. Where it will take me, who knows…?!
Visit the Happy Mama Organics website to learn more and to see their natural skincare product range. You can follow their journey on Facebook and Instagram.
