The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
I think the biggest one so far has been navigating self-doubt. When you’re pouring your heart into something and doing most of it solo, it’s so easy to second-guess every decision. Especially when you’re teaching yourself how to build a website, create email flows, run ads, talk to manufacturers, manage timelines, chase invoices, handle tech fails… I am sure every small business owner agrees that it can feel like five full-time jobs wrapped up in one tiny little business.
And of course, trying to do all of that while being a present, hands-on parent is its own kind of emotional gymnastics. There have been nights I’ve cried over website code, over shipping issues, over nothing at all. But I’ve also had moments where I’ve stood back and thought, “Wow. I actually figured that out”. I’ve surprised myself with how resilient and resourceful I’ve become.
One of the biggest things I’ve had to learn is that setbacks are going to happen. Again and again. Something will go wrong – a delay, a dodgy sample, a plan that flops – and at the start, those moments would completely undo me. I’d spiral into panic, take it as a sign that I wasn’t cut out for this and fall into a heap. Now, I try to see those moments for what they are: a normal part of building something from scratch.
The challenge isn’t in avoiding setbacks; it’s learning how to keep going when they hit. How to regulate myself, take a breath, find the next step and just keep moving. I still have wobbles, of course, but now I’ve got a few more tools in my belt. And I remind myself often: this is hard because it matters.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The biggest pro is definitely the freedom. I get to create something that feels completely aligned with who I am and what I care about. I set the tone, choose the values and build something with heart and that is incredibly rewarding. I also love the flexibility it gives me around my family. Even though it’s chaotic at times, I wouldn’t trade being able to work around school drop-offs, sick days or spontaneous cuddles on the couch.
The flip side is that the freedom comes with pressure. When something goes wrong or doesn’t perform how I hoped, there’s no one else to pass it off to, it’s just me. It can be a lonely space to operate from, especially when you’re still finding your rhythm and your community. And because the business is so personal, it’s hard to switch off. It lives in my head all the time.
But still, I’d choose this path again in a heartbeat. The connection I feel to my work and the potential to create something meaningful makes all the hard parts worth it.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Right now, my focus is on growing intentionally. I want The Ephemeral Hours to reach more families, not just as a product, but as an invitation to slow down, reflect and connect. I’m learning as I go, trying new things, listening to my audience and staying close to the heart of why I started in the first place.
Eventually, I’d love to expand the range. I have EPIC ideas brewing – journals for different seasons of life, dream collaborations with other brands/creatives, maybe even in-person workshops or events one day. I want to build a community around this brand. A place where people feel seen, supported and encouraged to hold space for themselves and their stories.
But if I think really big picture, if this business is still around and kicking in 10 years and I am still doing meaningful work that I care about while also being able to attend every school event or function, that is the dream for me.
To find out more, visit ephemeralhours.com, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
