The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
One of our biggest challenges was finding the right materials for our rompers that could meet our high standards for sun protection, breathability, and ease of use. Living in the Northern Territory with its unique climate, we needed fabrics that would hold up in heat and humidity. We went through a lot of trial and error with different suppliers, testing each material rigorously. Another challenge was learning the ropes of e-commerce and navigating the logistics of growing our reach across Australia. Every hurdle has taught us something valuable, and we’ve grown stronger as a business and as a family because of it.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
The biggest advantage is the freedom to create a brand that aligns with our lifestyle and values. We love that we can share our passion for the outdoors through Rugrat & Co and bring something meaningful to other families. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see our ideas come to life and know we’re helping parents just like us. However, the flip side is that it’s a lot of hard work and responsibility. There are no ‘days off,’ especially when you’re balancing family and business. But at the end of the day, the satisfaction of building something of our own makes every challenge worth it.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
We’re excited to keep expanding our product line and to develop new items that meet the needs of active families. We’d love to see Rugrat & Co become a go-to brand for parents across Australia looking for practical, high-quality outdoor wear for their kids. Looking further ahead, we’re considering ways to incorporate eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices into our production. And who knows-maybe one day, we’ll even have a dedicated store for Rugrat & Co. For now, we’re just focused on growing steadily, reaching new customers, and staying true to what inspired us to start this journey in the first place.
Visit the Rugrat & Co website to find out more and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
