Of course, building a business while raising a family isn’t simple. These days, with a pop-up store open seven days a week, monthly markets and constant product-making and R&D, balance is a moving target. But family has always been part of Mantra Bee. Travis isn’t just my tester-in-chief (our products proudly carry the unofficial “tested on husband” seal); he’s also my creative sounding board, cheerleader and the one who reminds me to use yoga for myself when I’m overwhelmed. Our daughter Aubrey has been my inspiration from day one. She’s helped at markets, tested more deodorant concoctions than she’d probably like to admit, and still encourages me with a heartfelt, “You got this, Mum.” We may not always manage family hikes, but we make sure to sit down for dinner together: phones off, or sometimes a film like Lord of the Rings or American Graffiti playing as we share that time.
Running your own business comes with challenges. Finances, early market mornings and the pressure of juggling bills against supplies are daily realities. Just a few weeks ago, while Travis was overseas after his father’s passing, I spent long days at the shopping centre – one of those quiet stretches that remind me how unpredictable small business can be. In those still moments, I realised how much connection with customers fuels my drive to keep creating. I wondered if it was all worth it. But every time doubt creeps in, I remember the customer who returns for the lip balm that soothed their lips, the one who calls to ask when our deodorant will be back in stock because it’s the only natural one that works, a refill of our shampoo soap because their hair hasn’t been so soft in years, or the family who seeks us out at markets because they trust our products for their little ones. Those moments remind me why I do this.
Yoga and mindfulness have been my anchor. I’ve learned to meet both life and business with awareness and compassion. When stress rises, I take a few deep breaths to reset my nervous system. I write down my gratitudes each day to remind myself of my blessings, and a few rounds of sun salutations help me reconnect with my body.
It’s this same philosophy that flows into Mantra Bee. Our essential oil blends are inspired by the chakra system, each crafted to bring balance, energy and intention into daily rituals of self-care. From the grounding notes of Terra Firma to the uplifting lemon myrtle in Citrus Serenade, every blend is a gentle reminder to pause, breathe and nurture both body and spirit.
There are countless pros and cons to being your own boss. I thrive on creativity and the freedom to follow my passion – something I didn’t always have in previous ventures where we chased financial freedom instead of joy. But being self-employed means no safety net, no sick leave and plenty of uncertainty. Thankfully, we’ve found a supportive network of fellow small business owners to share the journey with.
Looking ahead, we’re working on point-of-sale displays to bring our lip balms into more retail stores and expand our pop-up store presence. Long term, I dream big: nationwide distribution, a thriving wholesale program and one day, a retreat property where community and self-care meet. At the heart of it, my vision is clear: to create products that truly nurture the body while honouring the planet, building a legacy my family and I can be proud of.
Find out more at www.mantrabee.com.au and connect with them on Instagram and Facebook.
