The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
I remember when my first order came in, and with it the scary but also exhilarating feeling I experienced. I transitioned from initially being confused by the new design programs and the e-commerce software, to staying persistent and working my way through the new territory. After many late nights, I became confident in my abilities, and the positive feedback by my customers proved I was on the right track with my creative ideas.
And generally speaking – I would say it’s a daily challenge of staying on top of work demands and family commitments. I share the ongoing struggle of all working moms of juggling life’s small tasks while keeping the bigger picture in mind. My house is full of to-do lists and my constant phone reminders are anchors in my busy days. Also, I would say it is difficult to implement and follow boundaries for two kids under five who don’t understand the concept of “work time”.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I’ll begin with a few cons:
Putting yourself out there, especially on social media, requires self-motivation and discipline, which can be hard while dealing with sleep deprivation. I am running an online business, so I need to decide when and what to post on social media accounts, exploring new trends, setting up sales, analysing marketing ideas and creating new products…
Then there are only so many hours in a day and I must find the right time to finish current orders and get them out of the door on time. It’s also hard when you come up against competitors who work in unsustainable ways – it’s important to me to not make my carbon footprint bigger.
Now to my pros that motivate me to keep on shaping Custom Crafts.
Before moving to New Zealand, I was working for a huge, progressive, and fast-paced tech start-up which had incredible perks and benefits, so being my own boss felt quite strange in the beginning. Now I do love the flexibility and sense of freedom that come with being self-employed. Receiving an order can be such an exhilarating feeling!
I especially enjoy working directly with clients and helping them decorate their special events in the most memorable and perfect way for them. Turning a kid’s room into a little wonderland is so rewarding as I can shape a small part of a child’s world into something dreamy and comforting.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
I would love to cater for all things celebrating parenthood, birth, motherhood, kids’ birthdays, etc. Other ideas in the pipeline are customised and fun birthday party decorations and heat transfer vinyl for kids’ clothing.
We also recently purchased a 3D printer and are currently brainstorming and creating new products that will be soon on our website. Exciting times ahead.
Head over to the Custom Crafts website to find out more. You can also connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
