Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
It can be a challenge some days, especially when the webstore is busy or I get a large wholesale order but I have a very supportive husband who helps take care of our daughter, or you will often find me working into the evening while she is in bed. Now that my daughter has started school, I have more time during the day which frees up evenings and weekends for family time.
The Drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Retail is a very competitive market and there are a lot of companies who sell bows. Trying to make sure I have products customers want to buy at the right price can be difficult when you are up against large chain stores who mass produce in China. But I’m proud of the fact that my bows are made by me in New Zealand and I think my customers like that too.
For better or worse; What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The pros far outweigh the cons. I love dealing with people and seeing all my beautiful little customers on social media in their clips or headbands fills me with such happiness. I have several customers who have purchased off me for a few years and I love seeing their children grow and the different products and colours they buy as they go through each age and stage.
The cons are the constant work required to keep the brand out there. My husband would say I spend far too much time on social media!
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I would like to expand my wholesale business into more stores throughout New Zealand and overseas. I’d like to also expand my product range with some different bow styles and fabrics but that’s all top secret for now. Watch this space!
To view Victoria’s beautiful collection of bows and hair accessories, visit the Isabella Bows website or check them out on Facebook and Instagram.
