The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
I would say the main challenges that I have faced are all related to finding my way around being a new small business owner. All of this has been a major learning experience for me and with that naturally comes challenges, but with some patience and perseverance, I can always figure it out.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The pros are easy – I get to stay home and work when I choose to, which just means I can put my daughters first. I can contribute financially, and I genuinely just love making my products. It really does get the creative juices flowing and it’s good for me to have something to keep my mind busy. I also love the atmosphere of doing markets, spending the day outside, talking to people, hearing stories about how well one of my products have helped them and so on. I absolutely love the success stories, and when people share their experiences with me. It makes it all feel worthwhile and like I am able to help people in some way.
As for cons – sometimes I can definitely get too fixated on certain things and worry more than I need to, but the more I get great feedback from customers, the more I learn to trust in myself and my products, because they really DO work and that is becoming very clear.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Considering I only started all of this in March, what I have achieved so far is mind blowing to me. I initially made a list of potential products but I am currently quite happy with my range and I think I will just keep doing what I am doing for now. I do have big plans but at this stage my goal is to get my name out there, get people to try my products, build trust with my customers and within the community, and just keep making good products! The rest will all come together when it is time.
Visit the Kaiate Kawakawa website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
