The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Challenges – there have been many! One major one was where to store my stock, and whether or not to sign a commercial lease or not. I’m thankful I didn’t and opted for a roomy and convenient storage unit instead, and a working from home set-up for all other tasks.
Another challenge has been approaching brands – some declined partnerships because The Mum Loop is solely online, and there are many brands (believe it or not) that only want to work with physical bricks and mortar stores. I face challenges head on, and usually that involves feeling stressed for a day or more, then I start to problem-solve and find solutions. Being told “no” can feel very deflating and disappointing, but after a few rejections, you get used to it and learn to be more resourceful and creative. I try to stay in a positive frame of mind even when things feel hard.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
Pros: Definitely the creative freedom of having my own vision and being able to execute that – from the look and feel of my website, to the content I create and the brands I choose to represent. The satisfaction of making a sale and getting wonderful feedback from the mums who shop with me is wonderful. I have been met with an overwhelmingly positive response of great feedback regarding the fashion styles I carry and the all-natural, clean beauty products. For me, satisfaction comes from a happy customer. There’s nothing better than seeing a mum light up in her new outfit and report back that she is wearing it to death and feels great in it!
Con: Doing it solo! Not having a business partner means no daily sounding board to check in with. Having to carry the stresses and struggles on my own shoulders can feel quite lonely and difficult sometimes. There is no one to talk me down off the cliff when things feel hard or I’m faced with a problem I don’t have experience in solving. This can feel challenging – but it usually means I just have to go and learn how to solve it (easier said than done).
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I want The Mum Loop to be the go-to fashion destination for mums in their 30s+ across New Zealand. I want to continue to source and stock amazing brands that women can trust and love. I want to expand my offering, and when the time is right, add to my team (maybe starting with the logistics and financial side). I will always want to have creative control over what content gets put out to the world and what fashion and lifestyle brands The Mum Loop represents, but digital marketing and advertising support would be wonderful.
Visit The Mum Loop website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
