Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Finding the right balance has definitely been challenging. While I started designing the products on maternity leave, by the time Bebe Trek launched, I was back at my day job full-time, studying a Master’s of Business degree part-time and running Bebe Trek, all while being a mum of two young kids (with a third now on the way).
Thankfully, I have a very supportive husband and mum who have been been my saviour really, helping with the kids and home while I juggle it all.
I am looking forward to the end of the year when I’ll be back on maternity leave and I’ll have graduated uni. Bebe Trek is all about outdoor adventures with babies and young kids – so you can bet I’ll be outside exploring more with the little ones and imparting all our tips, tricks and destinations to our followers.
The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
There are many when starting a brand from scratch, particularly with products that didn’t exist before. From design and manufacturing challenges and delays, building brand awareness, to sales and growth. Even just the basics of starting a business and getting all the systems in place has been a massive learning curve, especially as I’ve done everything myself.
But learning from and overcoming these challenges has made me stronger, and while I know there’ll be many more hurdles, I’m ready to tackle them head on.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
Running a business is hard work – it takes a lot more time and effort than you’d think. Especially when you’re just starting out, doing everything yourself and juggling way more than just a business. But I have learnt so much over the last few years and am proud of what I’ve achieved so far.
A big pro of running – at least my niche of business – is that I do get to mix business with pleasure. I love travelling and outdoor adventures, and as Bebe Trek is an outdoor baby brand, elements of my job are super fun. Hey, someone needs to go out and get product photos on a bushwalk, while camping or at the beach.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
We’re introducing a new range of colours and some additional products at the end of the year, which will be perfect for parents and their little ones over summer.
And looking ahead, we’re working on other products and ideas that’ll help make outdoor adventures with babies easier. Eventually we aim to be the go-to brand for adventure-seeking parents with young children.
Visit the Bebe Trek website to find out more, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
