Featured Mom

Amy - Toydozer

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 14:01:00 GMT

We just love discovering new Mom Invented products. Amy emailed us last week to sign up for our wholesale directory - and we just had to learn more about her product, Toydozer. Here is our interview with Amy:

SeedMommy: Tell us about Toydozer.

Amy: The Toydozer is an innovative product that allows parent and kids to spend less time cleaning and more time playing. Toy clean up time is often as tedious as it is time consuming, but yet it remains a necessary evil of parenting. With the Toydozer, your days of crawling helplessly around on the floor picking up every last tiny toy piece are over. This innovative new product promises to make the clean up process fun and efficient for both parents and kids. The Toydozer is simple and easy to use, and the results are dramatic. The “gatherer” is designed to work like the blade of a bulldozer and the “scoop” is modeled after a bulldozer scoop. Users hold on to the “gatherer” to collect small toys into the lightweight “scoop” and then dump the toys into their respective toy bins or containers. With just a few scoops of the Toydozer, clean up time is over in no time.

SeedMommy: How did you come up with the idea?

Amy: I am a mom to a seven year old and I was constantly picking up toys. At the end of a long day, I dreaded cleaning up all of my son’s toys -- whether it was trains, safari animals, Duplo blocks or LEGOS -- spread out all over the floor. After some brainstorming, I came up with a simple tool that made cleaning up easy and fun for all of us and the Toydozer was born!

SeedMommy: I once read that coming up with the idea is the easy part of being an inventor. After you came up with the idea, what came next?

Amy: Once I came up with the idea I first spoke to a patent and trademark attorney. This is my third attorney so it took a while to find the perfect one who actually spoke in words that I could understand and who also responded to me quickly! As a busy mom raring to go I didn't have the time or patience to wait 48 hours for responses. Then it was on to having a prototype made. I worked with a designer in China who was recommended to me by a family friend who is in the manufacturing business. I had a CAD and prototype designed and then it was on to finding a plastics injection molding to actually manufacture the product. I went to meet with a local plastics injection moding company whose engineers told me that based on this design the tooling was going to cost me $50-60k! I was totally shocked and left there feeling overwhelmed but knew I had to get back to the drawing board to find a solution. I drew up some sketches and figured out a way that the product would be more streamlined so as to get the tooling cost way down. I found a local engineer who I met with and showed him what I had drawn and demonstrated to him in person what I wanted to achieve and he drew up a new CAD. I then found a prototyper in the US and after a couple attempts and several weeks later we got it just as I had wanted! Then it was on to researching plastics injection molding company to manufacture the product which was a daunting task. I had it quoted from several companies in the US, Mexico and China and ultimately chose a renowned company in Mexico. From there I had to work on logo design, web copy and design, photography, PR/marketing, logistics and on and on.

SeedMommy: What advice would you give to a Mom with a product idea?

Amy: The advice that I would give to a mompreneur is to be prepared to eat, drink and sleep your invention and to be prepared to go through piggy bank. It is a ton of work and everything costs more than you think. It is also important to realize that you can't handle everything yourself or a lot of things will fall short. Finding really good people to help you out with the different tasks along the way is crucial. I have also learned that it is imperative to know when to cut ties if you are not grooving with someone you are working with. If it isn't working out with someone you can't afford to waste a lot of time. Instead, focus on finding a better solution which fits your needs. At the end of the day it is all worth it as you are in charge, you can work from home (which is great as you work into the wee hourse but can still be there at the bus stop every afternoon!)

SeedMommy: What did you do before inventing Toydozer?

Amy: I worked as a Celebrity Personal Assistant for 17 years in DC, LA and New York.

SeedMommy: Tell us about your family.

Amy: I live in the suburbs of Philadelphia with my husband, Tyler, who has helped me a ton with the project and have a son, Harry, whose messy room was the inspiration for the Toydozer!

Thanks Amy! The Toydozer retails for $18.99, ships free anywhere in the United States and Canada and is available exclusively on the toydozer .com website. It comes in three vibrant colors: blue, yellow and purple. Each Toydozer features velcro tabs that attach the gatherer to the scoop when not in use for easy storage.

Krysta - My Shaklee

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:19:00 GMT

If you would have told me a year ago that I would end up starting my own business, I would've thought you were crazy! I worked full-time, had 2 busy boys in elementary school and a house to keep up with. I already had so much on my plate!

My journey with Shaklee began in 2010. I kept seeing it popping up on a few blogs that I read regularly. I was dealing with daily headaches and started to wonder if my own house could be contributing to my headaches! So, I ordered some of the cleaning products (somewhat skeptically) and ended up being blown away! My husband can attest that I went around the house like a mad women trying to find something my new products wouldn't be able to get clean! I never did find anything. Over the next few months we switched all of our cleaning, laundry, handsoap, etc. over to Shaklee.

About 6 months in, I started to look at the nutrition and beauty products that Shaklee had to offer, and realized there was loads of opportunity there as well to make changes and started using healthier, safer products. Around that time, I happened to watch a video about the opportunity, and it really caught my eye. You mean I could buy these products from my OWN store and get rewarded for it? Yes please!

I became an Independent Distributor in the fall of 2011 and don't plan on looking back. This is where my passion lies - helping others get educated about healthier living!

The compensation plan truly is one of the most lucrative in the industry, but the only reason any of that means anything me is because of the quality of the company it is partnered with. You can start earning trips and bonuses right away, and car payments can be earned starting at just the second level - love that!!

There are a few different way to join, so I encourage you to contact me so we can talk and see if this is for you.

Please visit my Shaklee site at steenhealthsolutions.myshaklee.com and my blog at steenhealthsolutions.com.

I can also be found on Facebook at facebook.com/steenhealthsolutions.

To your health!

Krysta

Jessi - Direct Sales Representative for Rendi

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 20:59:00 GMT

Are you looking for a great way to work from home? SeedMommy is profiling Moms of several Direct Sales Companies that are rocking their business while raising a family. Our first profile features Jessi of Rendi. We asked Jessi to share her story about taking the leap into direct sales, and why Rendi just might be right for you too.

I was introduced to Rendi in November of 2011. The opportunity couldn't have come at a better time as I was in the market to find a job that offered lots of flexibility with the potential to make a little extra income for my family. I've been a stay-at-home Mommy for 5 years and I now I can't imagine going back to a full-time office job and being away from kids. Rendi was the perfect fit for several reasons; the customizable gifts and home decor are truly amazing products and something I am truly passionate about, the ground floor opportunity isn't something one comes accross very often, and the option to work in-home parties and events in the evenings and on the weekends was perfect for me wanting to stay at home with my kids!

Rendi's founder, Annie Danielson, is committed to empowering women by way of Rendi and for me, she has done just that. I've managed to make some great extra money and new friendships in the short time that i've been working as a Rendi stylist. I've had a great time sharing the products, the stylist opportunity and networking with some great women! Rendi is set for a re-Grand Opening in April with lots of exciting things in store for both its customers and stylists. I feel very blessed to be in on the ground floor with Rendi and i'm very excited to share my love of the product with as many people as possible!

Visit Jessi's Rendi Business Here!

Susan - Splendipity

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Splendipity Inc

SeedMommy: Tell us about yourself and your business.

Susan: Splendipity a line of innovative, versatile, organic and affordable luxury baby accessory items. PeekaDid an amazing line of apparel and accessories that are cheeky, hip and eclectic. We pride ourselves on making the absolute best for baby and parents.

SeedMommy: What inspired you to start your own Mom Business?

Susan: Inspiration Miracle Babies! By starting and owning your own business there is more flexibility to stay at home, work from home and watch your children grow. Many parents are not given this opportunity, so when I was, I jumped on the opportunity to raise my miracle babies, do good for others and grow a business.

SeedMommy: What was the scariest part about taking the leap?

Susan: Not knowing if I would fail or succeed. But I look at all my leaps as: "Leap and don't look back" attitude. Sometimes things don't work out, but I consider all my experiences and adventures and leaps as learning opportunities. We all have the desire to succeed, but when you get into something that you know little about, you have to have faith in yourself and just go for it.

SeedMommy: What did you find was the most challenging part about staring your business?

Susan: Most challenging part of starting a business: TIME! Time for the business, family, friends and self. Starting a business from the ground up takes a lot of time and dedication, something ultimately suffers and most of us "moms" tend to neglect ourselves.

SeedMommy: Did anyone in your life inspire you to go for it?

Susan: There was no one person, though I had a lot of support. The inspiration came from my desire to protect my baby I fought hard to have and the desire to give back to others. The business for me was never to make a million dollars, but rather to give back to others. I am currently a sponsor for 2012 Operation Shower and make monetary contributions from the sales of all Splendipity products to others.

SeedMommy: Answer this question: If I had to do one thing differently about starting my business, it would be....

Susan: do more research, trust less people and understand better what it really takes to succeed in this business. When I started my business/product, I went into it green, really, really green. I had no clue about patents, trademarks, copyrights, nothing. I made the assumption I had this really amazing product, I could make it and sell it, taking it to shows without having to worry about people wanting to copy it. I grew up believing everyone was kind and generous, but the reality in the world of "products" and "business", is it really is not always like this.

SeedMommy: What are the biggest pros and cons to running your own business?

Susan: Where would you like to see your business in 1 year? 5 years? By 2013 I hope to have successfully gotten our apparel line picked up by all the top retailers in the US, Australia, Canada and others around the world. I always say aim high or don't aim at all. In 5 years, I see my newest venture being one of the most successful rep companies in the US, or at least in the Midwest!

SeedMommy: Tell us about your family.

Susan: My family is my life. I love my three amazing children, Brianna 6, Aaron 5, Noah 3, our Golden Retriever Barkley and Cat Jordan. My husband is one of the most supportive husbands a woman could ask for. He helps out whenever I ask. Our family is about to grow by 1 as we become guardians to an amazing lil boy. We enjoy travelling, outdoor activities and spending time together--very blessed indeed.

SeedMommy: Anything else you would like to add?

Susan: Owning a business is one of the most heart aching amazing opportunities a person can do, though it needs to not be taken lightly when entering. I have created a new website/business in which I protect and watch over new entrepreneurs wishing to get into the business. I also rep companies getting them into retailers throughout the Midwest and major cities like Los Angelas and Dallas Markets, already signing some of the hottest up and coming brands. I continue to evolve and share my expertise with others wanting to be their own boss while guiding them, avoiding the same pitfalls I encountered over the years.

Jennifer - Frittabello

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:33:00 GMT

Visit Frittabello's Website Here!

SeedMommy: Tell us about yourself and your business.

Jennifer: My name is Jennifer Covello, mom, author, mompreneur to Frittabello baby gifts. I wrote and self-published my award-winning baby journal, “My Life” as well as a children’s book, “Frittabello and his Angel”, along with creating a line of inspired baby gifts that families will always treasure. I previously had a corporate career in IT and Marketing.

SeedMommy: What inspired you to start your own Mom Business?

Jennifer: I was inspired to create a baby journal for parents like myself who wanted to create a keepsake for their family. Having kept journals for both of my children since their birth, I could see the day when I’d hand over their journals to them and they’d have the story of their life recorded through my eyes. Once the journal was written, I began to imagine other baby gifts to complement the journal.

SeedMommy: What was the scariest part about taking the leap?

Jennifer: The scariest part was deciding to self-publish my baby journal as opposed to finding a publisher. It took me a long time to decide since it was a big investment. I’m glad I did it myself because it moved me forward quickly in setting up and promoting myself and my business.

SeedMommy: What did you find was the most challenging part about starting your business?

Jennifer: Initially it was the lack of time I had to work on the business given I had a full-time job and was raising my two young children. Now time can still be a challenge, but you make it work. Also finding people to help me was difficult because not everyone delivered what they said they would and I wasted a lot of monies on the wrong people. I’ve since become more selective in my choices.

SeedMommy: Did anyone in your life inspire you to go for it?

Jennifer: My parents always stressed the importance of getting a good education and doing your best. I think that has served me throughout my life. As I got more and more into growing my business, I began to surround myself with like-minded people who supported me. That was a critical piece in helping me to do many of the things I might not have done on my own. When you have other people believing in you, it does boost you up but you must also believe in yourself first.

SeedMommy: Answer this question: If I had to do one thing differently about starting my business, it would be....

Jennifer: I think if I had to do one thing differently, is that I would’ve spent a bit more time talking to various retailers about my product ideas to see if they would be interested or if they had ideas on what would make them sell better. Cold-calling with already-made products is hard work and requires persistence. All do-able but it would’ve been great to have a few larger retailers on board in the concept stage.

SeedMommy: What are the biggest pros and cons to running your own business?

Jennifer: The biggest pros are that you are your own boss and that you call the shots. The biggest cons are that you are your own boss and that you call the shots! What I mean is that – your success or failure is in your hands. There is no one to blame if things don’t turn out the way you expected. You have to persist and not give up no matter what if you really want to succeed. Hoping and wishing for things to happen is not going to bring you to your goals.

SeedMommy: Where would you like to see your business in 1 year? 5 years?

Jennifer: Ideally, I’d like to see the Frittabello baby gift line expanded and available in retailers around the world as I had originally planned. However, since starting my business, what I have found is that my gifts are in writing and speaking and that’s how I best help people. So a lot more of my time is now spent on my blog (Parenting For Purpose at www.parentingforpurpose.com), my baby journaling workshops where I teach moms, dads and grandparents that keeping a journal for their child is not as daunting as they think, and lastly speaking to moms and other mompreneurs about my own journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way in the hopes of inspiring them. But if Neiman Marcus would like to buy the Frittabello brand, I’m all ears!

SeedMommy: Tell us about your family.

Jennifer: I have two children, a son and a daughter who inspire and teach me every day. As you know, my business name, “Frittabello” was inspired by my son, Christopher, who called himself “Fritta Bello” as he was learning to say his full name. My daughter inspires me with her fearlessness, openness, and love. It really was because of her that I began to change my life and see myself in a different light.

SeedMommy: Anything else you would like to add?

Jennifer: I think that my life now is happier and more fulfilling than ever before. My children are a bit older and we are enjoying each other a lot. My passion now is my blog and talking with other moms and helping them to see that while they need to parent their children, they also need to be open to the lessons that their children are teaching them. This is what my children’s book is all about. I believe that children choose their parents in order to teach them their life’s lessons. I’ve learned more from my children than I’ve taught them quite frankly and I have them to thank for where my life is and what it will become.

Jennifer - Gorgeously Chic

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:28:00 GMT

http://www.gorgeouslychic.com

SeedMommy: Tell us about yourself and your business

Jennifer: Well I hatched my business plan in February of 2011 and offically started Gorgeously Chic in April of 2011

SeedMommy: What inspired you to start your own Mom Business?

Jennifer: I love the idea of being able to stay at home with my kiddos to fully enjoy their daily activites and not being worn out by the time I get home from a 9 to 5 job

SeedMommy: What was the scariest part about taking the leap?

Jennifer: The scariest part about taking the leap is realizing that while I do actually get to stay at home & make my own hrs... is that when my husband is away for military duties it can be alot to take on but very well worth it in the end

SeedMommy: What did you find was the most challenging part about staring your business?

Jennifer: The most challenging part about starting up my business was really getting everything organized and in Mommy's work space in a house full tiny hands

SeedMommy: Did anyone in your life inspire you to go for it?

Jennifer: My family has really inspired me to go for it... the love and everyday support from my husband, also just to look at my kids and realize how precious life is & go for dreams no matter how young or old you are and my parents who have always supported me the best way possible with knowledge - as my dad always told me it's right there in front of you, just got to reach for it

SeedMommy: What are the biggest pros and cons to running your own business?

Jennifer: The biggest pros about running my own business would be being able to run it from home, set my own hours, more time with my family and the only con is I find myself going to work after hrs as opposed to being able to leave the nine to five job outside of the home lol

SeedMommy: Where would you like to see your business in 1 year? 5 years?

Jennifer: In a few years I would like to see my business be run in a small boutique space or branch out and be carried by different boutiques

SeedMommy: Tell us about your family.

Jennifer: I have a wonderful supportive family, my husband is career military - US Army Warrant Officer, two gorgeous kiddos Alanna & Joshua 7 and 2 yrs old, two step sons and maybe eventually a goldfish :)

SeedMommy: Anything else you would like to add?

Jennifer: I love my family & designing shabby, romantic girlie girl pieces.

Mom Businesses - Are You Relying on Facebook To Heavily To Market Your Business?

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:22:00 GMT

Facebook. Love it or hate it, it has become a staple in the way Mom Businesses market their products and services. Its free, you reach people who are interested in what you are selling and its pretty easy to attract new fans and turn them into customers.

But, Facebook frequently changes the rules of how you can use it. Recent changes have taken a toll on the bottom line of many a Mom Business. About six weeks or so ago, Facebook became your gatekeeper of information, sifting through all of the updates and deciding which ones are most important to you. Why they felt the need to do this is beyond me, but they thought it would make the site better. Its their site - they can do whatever they want. And that is the problem with relying to heavily on Facebook for your marketing.

The New Facebook

Over the past couple of days, I have seen some threads on Facebook between Mom Business owners talking about how the recent changes have really hurt their business. Because their updates and photos are not showing up feeds like the used to, customers simply forget about them. I follow thousands of business on Facebook. There is no way that I could remember to stop by each of those pages everyday to see what new items are available. Facebook has decided, supposedly by following my habits on FB and determining which pages are most important to me, what pages I am truly interested in. The problem is, I do visit lots of pages each day - and regardless if I like their posts or leave comments, it doesn't seem to impact what is showing up in my feed.

The Old Facebook

For a long time, the best way to show your importance in social networking were your numbers. Sad to say, but I could ramble off my Facebook, Twitter and Google Rankings better than I could tell you my kids birthdates (In my defense, I have 4 kids). Now - those numbers are meaningless - because you don't know how many of those folks are truly getting your updates. There is simply no way to know if the site with 10,000 fans really has 10,000 engaged fans or just a bunch of likes because you had a contest.

Giveaways, Facebook Shoutout Programs (paying for Facebook mentions), liking ladders and other traditional ways Mom Businesses used to grow their sites don't work anymore. Because a like doesn't mean the same thing it used to. Especially Facebook Shoutout Programs... When you pay for plugs on someone else's Facebook page, who do you think is following those pages? Not customers, that's for sure. The answer is Moms just like you, trying to market their business. Your likes go up - but your sales don't follow. Somebody made some money - usually the folks selling the shout out, not you.

So, What's A Mom Business To Do?

I think the changes on Facebook serve as an important reminder/lesson on Marketing in general. NEVER put all of your eggs in one basket. If you have relied on Facebook for marketing, you have made a mistake. As with any business, Mom Businesses need a Marketing plan, even if its one you write on the back of your 1st grader's homework. It should be about where and how you will market your Mom Business. Facebook should play a roll in your marketing efforts - but it should not be the only way you market your business. Here are some other things you need to be doing:

*Newsletters - Turn your customers and social media fans into subscribers of your newsletter. Offer incentives like discounts or gift with purchase to encourage sign ups. Once you get a good list, take a measured approach to how you use your list. Do not overwhelm your subscribers with constant emails. Rather pick a day and stick with it. Maybe it's the 1st day of each month, or an email each Sunday. Make sure each has good information and something new to share to keep your subscribers engaged and so they will look forward to seeing what is inside. Don't have a newsletter yet? MailChimp and Constant Contact are two great, no cost/low cost services that can help you get started.

* Other Social Media Platforms - Twitter, Google + and LinkedIn should all be part of your social media strategy. While Facebook maybe your favorite place to connect with shoppers - you should not ignore these social networking platforms either.

* Good ol' Fashioned Advertising. Yes, I know. It costs money. And sometimes, what you get in return doesn't give you a return on your investment. However, you must look at advertising as a way to get your name out there. Not just as a numbers game. An ad on a website that caters to your target market, will make you top of mind to shoppers and other business owners alike. Not to mention, it will help with your SEO. (We are working on coming up with a list of websites we recommend you advertise on. If you have suggestions and success stories, email us!)

* SEO - Search Engine Optimization. When someone searches for your keywords - where does your business pop up on Google's search engine? If you aren't on the top 30 or so then you need to up your SEO. When someone does a Google search, they don't go back more than 2 or 3 pages to see what Google comes up with. SEO helps you get to the front of the listings. All those social media sites help, ads help, back links from other sites help, being mentioned on websites helps... every back link helps your site climb in the Google Rankings.

* Local craft shows - I have talked with many businesses who wanted to get off the craft show circuit and thought Facebook was the way to do it. For awhile, it was. However, it is my belief that if you make something, a craft show is a great way to connect and sell. Make sure you are handing out business cards or flyers and encouraging folks to sign up for your newsletters etc.

*Online Showcases - Etsy, Paper-N-Stitch and The Mommy Shops (yes, this is my plug) are great additions to your marketing line up. The shoppers who come to these sites are looking to shop small businesses. Showcasing your products on these sites is another helpful tool in the tool box. In the case of ETSY, it is becoming overwhelmed with shops in my opinion. Again, you shouldn't rely on Etsy to bring you all of your business. I have talked to Etsy Shop Owners who are having the same problem with Etsy as they are on Facebook. So many pages, you just get lost in the shuffle.

Facebook Shops

I have been a little concerned about the growing number of businesses I see using Facebook as their shop. These are businesses that don't have a website, don't want to pay the fees on Etsy and use Facebook as their shop. I really think those businesses are doing themselves a disservice. You are setting up shop on a page you have NO CONTROL over. The fate of your business is in someone else's hands. The hours, days and months that you have spent setting up your Facebook page and growing your fanbase can be wiped out in a single moment should Facebook not like what you are doing (so many businesses lost their pages a couple of months ago when Facebook cracked down on giveaways and shout out programs).

I truly believe businesses need their own website. While this may sound like a daunting and expensive task - it does not have to be that way. There are so many low cost sites that allow you to build your own site for free, or at a low cost without having to know code. We have a list of those sites, so just email us if you are interested.

Its Their Site - They Can Do With It As They Wish

All the complaining I have seen about the new Facebook changes, the comments, etc, etc... just reminds us of this one important thing: Its Facebook's site. They can do with it as they wish. If they decide to charge for business pages, they can. If they don't like what you are doing on their site, they can shut you down. If they decide they don't want business pages anymore - they can wipe them all out in the click of a button.

Keep this in mind as you put together your Marketing Plan.

Rebecca of Dress Up Jane

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:48:00 GMT

http://www.dressupjane.com

MarketMommies: Tell us about your business

Rebecca: www.DressupJane.com is an online resale and consignment shop featuring high-end children brands like Crewcuts, Gap, Gymboree, Jacadai, Oilily, Hanna Andersson, Boden, Boutique brands and more. My idea is to make high end brands fit everyone's budget. We also do consignment! You pack up the clothes, ship them to us, and we take care of the rest! No more having to wait around for your seasonal consignment sale. We offer a 14 day return policy and free shipping on orders over $50

MarketMommies: How did you get started? What gave you the idea that you should start a business?

Rebecca: Ever since I was younger, I loved the idea of running my own business. When we moved to TX and I became a mom, I started to think about it some more. I know I needed something that I could do at home, and that would allow me flexability. I always loved shopping for clothes (especially children's clothes), but when my second child was born and we learned my daughter required lots of Therapy for her Sensory Processing Disorder I could no longer shop the way I used too. I tried ebay, but I always felt that maybe I didn't get such a great deal in the end, and returns were always a hassle. As for our local resale shop, I though many of the items to be overpriced and you got pennies on the dollar for the items you sold to them. Then one day I had the idea about selling gently used Children's clothes on-line and www.DressupJane.com was born!

MarketMommies: Once you got up and running, what was the biggest obstacle you faced?

Rebecca: Once I got up and running the biggest obstacle was not letting the business take over my life. I always wanted to be a stay at home mom, and I have to remember that being a mom is my number #1 priority. I am still working on finding a balance between taking care of my family, working on my business, and taking care of myself. Anyone have any ideas, I would love to hear them! LOL.

MarketMommies: What advice would you offer to other Moms just starting out?

Rebecca: Hang in there! It's a roller coaster ride, but keep your focus. Not everyone is going to love your product or your idea and try not take it personally! Lean on your support system, and don't forget to take time for yourself and your family.Also take your time, and don't rush the start-up. I know everyone is so excited to start, but remember your first impression, is usually your last impression! Make sure before launching, everything is perfect, and then look over it again!

MarketMommies: What one source of information has helped you the most in starting your business?

Rebecca: My friends! Before I went live, I asked them to look over my website for errors, spelling mistakes, and how it would look to a shopper. They were so supportive, had tons of ideas on how I can change things, and things I can improve on. I knew I had creative, and talented friends in my life but I didn't realize how much of a resource they would be.

MarketMommies: Tell us about a day in your life as a Mom Business Owner.

Rebecca: Wake up at 5:30, try to exercise, answer emails before the kids get up, post on Facebook, Twitter, and comment on things. Once the kids are up which is usually by 7 it's full on mommy mode until nap time! During nap I work on www.DressupJane.com. Once nap time is over and it's mommy time until they go to bed at 7. Once bed time happens I work until I go to bed, which I am trying to do before 11. On some days I do find time to myself. Twice a week I go to yoga, once a week I meet my knitting friends, and once a month my husband and I have date night. I'm still trying to find some time for me every day, but since I am still in the start-up phase of my business it seems like I am either working as a SAHM or working on www.DressupJane.com.

Featured Mompreneur - Lisa of Lisa A Stavig

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:03:00 GMT

Shop Lisa's Etsy Shop

MarketMommies - Tell us about your business.

Lisa: I am a designer of handbags, totebags and lots more items for you and your home. I like to take discarded items such as a blue jean jacket and "upcycle" it into a whole new item like my blue jean totebag. I also create quilts from revived or discarded fabrics and I love to knit. So I made a business making my creations available to the public at an affordable price.

MarketMommies: How did you get started?

Lisa: One year for Christmas, I made a totebag out of a blue jean jacket from my father. He had passed away the year before and I was trying to use some of his clothes for things. I gave the totebag to my teenage niece and she loved it. What gave you the idea that you should start a business?After seeing my bags that I created for Christmas presents, lots of people started telling me to do it as a business. So here I am!

MarketMommies: Once you got up and running, what was the biggest obstacle you faced?

Lisa: The biggest obstacle I face is time. I am a stay at home mom with two children, both now in elementary school. My daughter is in half-day kindergarten and my son is in second grade. I wanted to do this business as a way to have time for them and flexibility that an ordinary 9-5 job would not give me. So I struggle to maintain my boundaries of always having time for them and time to work on my business.

MarketMommies: What advice would you offer to other Moms just starting out?

Lisa: My advice, even though I am still relatively new myself, is to keep faith in your vision and in yourself. When you own your own business it is hard because you have no boss to say "hey, good job." So it is important to stay true to you and believe in your own self worth.

MarketMommies: What one source of information has helped you the most in starting your business?

Lisa: The biggest source of information for me has been the world wide web. I have an Etsy shop that has connected me to so lots of different groups and "teams". I connected with a group called Entrepreneur Online also and that has been a huge boost in helping me stay motivated. So I believe the internet has made the difference.

MarketMommies: If you had one chance to turn a shopper into a customer, what would be your sales pitch to them?

Lisa: I really believe in using "found" items and recreating things that are very nice and affordable for an average mom, like myself. All of my products have been created out of a need I had as a mom. So they are all mom-tested to add convience and help the environment.

MarketMommies: Tell us about a day in your life as a Mom Business Owner.

Lisa: I get up early to set up my tweets for my Etsy shop online. Then it is off to the races and getting both kids ready for school and out the door. I have about 2 1/2 hours while my youngest is in kindergarten to work on my business (anything from computer work to sewing to shipping things). Then I am running to get my daughter from school, lunch and afternoon kid activities. Then I get my son and we have soccor practice and all sorts of appointments and activities before dinner time and bed time routine start. In the evenings, I take to time to knit, work on my handbags, quilts and other items. Then I fall into bed exhausted and ready for a new day tomorrow.

MarketMommies: What did you do before starting your business, and what skills from your previous profession have helped you in running your Mom Owned Business?

Lisa: I was a teacher for 14 years before I had my son. I also worked in sales and marketing off and on for about 5 years. So I have lots of experience selling and marketing other peoples products that I transferred to my own.

MarketMommies: Tell us about your family.

Lisa: My husband and I have been married for 10 years this September. I have two wonderful children. My son is 7 and in second grade and my daughter is 5 and in kindergarten. We have two cats, two goldfish and one fuzzy bunny named Puffball. I would like to get a few chickens, but so far my family is saying no.

MarketMommies: Anything else you would like to add? I love my life and my family.

Lisa: Creating my own business has helped me to refind myself as a person and not just a wife and mother. I would highly recommend it to any moms out there who have a talent or are creative.

Market Mommies Featured Mom - Holly, Posh Pickle

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:11:00 GMT

http://www.poshpickle.com

MarketMommies: Tell us about your business.
Holly: We sell affordable children's smocked and monogrammable clothing. Just started with a spring/summer line this year and getting ready to put out a Fall line. All girls clothing right now, but hope to have boys in the near future.

MarketMommies: How did you get started?
Holly: I've always had a passion for fashion and design and with the help of my husband we took a chance and started designing our first line.

MarketMommies: Did you have an "aha" moment when everything regarding starting your own business clicked?
Holly: Yes, my "aha" moment came when we first talked with our manufacturers and submitted our designs. Thinking this really can happen. If you have a passion for something it really can come true!

MarketMommies: What inspires you to keep working on your business?
Holly: Wanting to provide great fashion at good prices. Building a company that is built on quality and customer service. Passing something down to my daughter

MarketMommies: Tell us about an average day in your life.
Holly: I have a two year old, so like many I answer email and fill orders during naps and quiet time. This business keeps me busy, but I love it

MarketMommies: Where do you see your business in one year? In 5 years?
Holly: In one year, selling boys clothing and turning out 5,000 pieces. In 5 years, selling as many pieces of clothing as possible!

MarketMommies: Any advice for other Moms who have their own business or are just starting out?
Holly: Gain the support of your husband if you don't already. He helps me in
so many ways. Without him this would not be possible.

MarketMommies: What was your biggest learning curve in owning your own business?
Holly: How much initial inventory to buy. Figuring out what you think you can sell.

MarketMommies: How do you find balance between your family and your business?
Holly: You have to make time for work and time for family and stick to it!

MarketMommies: Tell us about your family:
Holly: I've been married 8 years and have a daughter 2 named Sophie. My husband is so supportive and my daughter inspires me to be creative

MarketMommies: Anything else you would like to add?
Holly: Don't ever think you can't do something. If you have a dream and a desire go for it!

Jessica & Melissa - Freenies

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 19:06:00 GMT

http://www.freenies.com

Marketmommies: Tell us about your invention.

Jessica: Our invention is a fashionable accessory that gathers and lifts excess fabric from little girls dresses so that their knees do not get caught up when they crawl and play.

Marketmommies: How did you come up with the idea?"

Jessica: My eldest daughter, now 2.5 years old was attempting to crawl and would become extremely frustrated when her dress would get caught up under her knees causing her to fall or adjust her crawl. I sought out the internet for advice and found the only advice was to dress your litte one in pants. I thought this was absurd:). I asked my friend, now my business partner, for suggestions on what to do. What we discovered was that we both had the same problem with no solution. Therefore, we figured we would design the solution ourselves. We had a few different ideas for designs but we wanted it to be safe, fun and pretty... Thus freenies or "free her knees" was born.

Marketmommies: So, once you had the idea - what did you do next?

Jessica: Well, we first talked with our husbands and told them about our new idea for a product and discussed how much time and money this would cost. Being such great husbands, they supported us 100% and encouraged our new adventure. We started drawing the prototype ourselves and found a pliable plastic molding material that allowed our vision to take form. We next sought out a patent and worked on writing its many forms and functions. At that point, we decided that it would also be cool to design dresses that already have the "freenies" concept installed in them to allow easier applications for already very busy moms.

Marketmommies: What was the biggest learning curve in developing your product?

Jessica: I think the biggest learning curve we had was how to market the product. We needed something short and sweet to let other mothers out there know exactly what this product is for and why it is so beneficial. What we found in the beginning was that other mother's and boutique owners didn't understand what "Freenies" was.

Marketmommies: What advice would you have for other Moms looking at inventing a product?

Jessica: We both thought that this would be very time consuming, but I don't think we had any idea how much time this would entail. We're both mother's of now two beautiful little girls, my partner just having her second on July 20. So, you realize as a mother that the kids just do not wait around until you are finished with your work. Time is flying by and juggling kids and a new business, especially while being pregnant and now with a newborn, you really need to have great support and many encouraging people around you.

Marketmommies: What did you do before becoming Mom Inventors?

Jessica: Myself, I am and continue to work in my first love - I'm a marriage and family therapist. I have a small practice that I work at a few days a week. My partner Melissa is a founder and partner for Romero and Levin Wealth Management Co. - a wealth managment firm - where she continues to contribute daily along with her husband and brother.

Marketmommies: Tell us about an average day in your life.

Jessica: Melissa and I are both neighbors and friends. It is truly nice to have someone with similar aged children living close by to discuss business, kids and relationship issues with. We happily live in California where on many days we are at the pool, beach or park having the little ones run around and play. We attempt to get a lot of business done while the kids are asleep. We are lucky that our little ones spare us an hour or sometimes three to get the necessities done. At night, after the children have gone to sleep, we have our weekly "Freenies" meetings. Usually with a nice glass of wine, we get together with our husbands to discuss our next strategy or new marketing campaign. To be honest, with Melissa's newest addition, we are a little behind with our usually regular meetings, but everyday things are getting easier and I know things will resume as usual soon.

Marketmommies: Where do you hope your business will be in one year? In 5 years?

Jessica: Right now, since we are still so new, we are still trying to get the word out about our product. We have spoken with so many moms that share our frustration for no solution to a big problem. However, we still continue to struggle with reaching everyone. In one year we hope that our product is getting national and international exposure and we hope to have more designs, colors and sparkles. We really want to start personalizing them with names, dates of first crawl and birthdays. We have had a lot of mothers comment on how their little ones birthday dresses kept getting caught during their party. We would love to design some for special occasions such as that. We also hope to include our dress line that already has the "freenies" technology installed. In 5 years we hope to continue growing and especially making it a norm that all dresses have this type of technology already installed. We find so many little girls on playgrounds tripping and even falling from their dresses that we want to make it so that no one needs to compromise fashion for safety. We have big dreams, but hey, what can we say... it is all part of our adventure:)

Marketmommies: Tell us about your families.
Jessica: Myself, I have a wonderful and very supportive husband who has just amazed me with his understanding and encouragement - the man really is a saint:) I have two beautiful daughters whom I love more than anything in the world. Eila is 2.5 years old and Addy is 8 months old. I love the fact they were the ones that have inspired me not only with the idea but also the passion and drive to start my own business. I truly would not have been able to do this without their support and ability to take decent naps:)

Melissa's also has two little girls - Mikela (2.5 years old) and Gisela (newborn). She is married to a wonderful man who also supports all of her dreams and desires. Melissa has LOVED babies and children since she was a child herself. Her dream in life was to be married to a wonderful man, have children she adored, and be able to stay at home and raise her children - her dreams have come true.

Sami - 4th Trimester Cooking

Wed, 25 May 2011 19:54:00 GMT

I am just like you, a mom…a fairly normal one (at times). I’m in my early 30’s, married with an almost 2 year old “spirited” son. An ex-cosmetic executive turned stay at home mom after an incredible night involving a tad too much wine. I have a degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology and spent almost half a decade working in the field until I realized that playing the role of G.I. Jane looks and feels way cooler in the movies.

I write 4^th Trimester Cooking and ramblings of a super mom for myself, my family and other moms in need of a recipe or a laugh. I’d consider myself to be a long lost girlfriend you’ve never met. A fun (and hopefully funny) girlfriend writing about cooking, being a mom, and all of the fun (and mishaps) that come along with the job. I started writing before my son Gavin was even a thought but two months into his arrival, crying and searching for answers, I transitioned my then cookbook into an edgy novelty cookbook for moms. I use humor to describe the daily nuances of the most difficult job that any of us have ever had while also offering easy recipes for moms to cook for their families.

My inspiration is my son, the absolute light of my life (next to my dashing husband). I love being a mom and I love the bond that moms share with each other. I figure at the end of the day if I have made even one mom laugh then I have done well.

I spend entirely too much time on my new hobby (4TC) if you were to ask my husband or take a quick gander at the mound of laundry that is waiting in the hallway. It can sometimes be a bit like “Groundhog Day” being a SAHM. If I don’t manage to get something done one day I don’t fret because tomorrow it starts all over again and I’ll have the chance to tackle the laundry. Well, at least that is what I keep telling my husband 4 days later.

For any brand new moms, the best advice I can give is to believe in yourself, trust your own instincts and if you are truly lost don’t be afraid to ask questions because there is a sisterhood of us out there. There is no perfect mom. We are all perfect and unique in our own way.

Sami

www.4thtrimestercooking.blogspot.com

www.facebook.com/4thtrimestercooking

Sarah - NewDayNewDeals.com

Mon, 23 May 2011 02:21:00 GMT

http://www.NewDayNewDeal.com

Marketmommies: What is todayfreshdeal.com
Sarah:
We want to get in on the daily deal action! We got so good at finding the best deals – now we want to hand deliver them to you! We are launching NewDayNewDeals – Today's Fresh Deal. Each day look for us to post a special deal especially for busy moms and their families. We hated navigating through cities to find national online deals – so that is all we offer. A voucher – hopefully 50% off or more to a fabulous online retailer! Once the deal ends – you get a unique code delivered to your inbox usable 24 hours after the sale ends – its that easy mama!

Marketmommies:
Sarah:

I have to confess that I am pretty addicted to these deal sites and was so frusterated when the websites sent out emails about that day's sales 10-20 minutes after the sale started and I was never by a computer. By the time I reached one, our sizes were sold out. Ok, I admit, the main breaking point for me was when I missed the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy backpack for $69. Talk about a bummer! I started my blog to share my research with everyone since I was already taking the time to stalk down these sites each night.

Marketmommies: Was there an aha moment, where you realized you had to follow your business idea:
Sarah: When I told a few moms about deals I scored and they were floored!

Marketmommies: What has been your biggest challenge
Sarah: I started my blog in February at 30 weeks pregnant with baby number 2. The biggest challange was giving birth, having a newborn and a 2 year old and still keeping up my blog. On a good note, my 2 year old already loves to shop online!

Marketmommies: What did you do before running NewDayNewDeals.com?
Sarah: I have college degrees in both Math and Computer Science. I worked as an actuary. Retired, to pursue a career as General Manager for a bar/banquet rooms/fine dining restaurant. Moved to a new city and works a Sales and Catering Manager at a large hotel and then decided to stay home when my now 2 year old daughter was born in March 2009.

Marketmommies: Tell us about a "normal" day in your life
Sarah:

Well, I wake up and start the coffee! Then I spend fractions of the day hooked up to my Simple Wishes hands free breastpumping bra while surfing the web and posting deals. In between pumping every 2 (yes still ever 2) hours I play dress up and go to playgroup.

Marketmommies: Where do you see NewDayNewDeals!.com in 1 year?

Sarah: With the launch of Today's Fresh Deal I am truly living a dream to own my own business. I am so fortunate to have a sister who shares my vision and partnered with me in this In 1 year, I hope that we are going strong and bringing mom's the best deals that the web can offer.

Marketmommies: In 5 years.....

Sarah: In 5 years, both kids will be in school so I see myself being able to shower more than every few days. For my business, I see great things and hopefully a huge community.

Marketmommies: Tell us about your family...
Sarah: I have been married to my fabulous husband Matt for 4 years. I am the proud mom of 2 year old Abby - the most spirited and energetic little girl ever. I was lucky enough to give birth to a perfect baby boy Jacob in March 2011. We have a dog named Lili and a cat named Frodo. We live in Central Illinois and dream of traveling the world in a Catarmaran.

Marketmommies: Anything else you would like to add?
Sarah: I really want to thank Marketmommies and all of my fans for the support. I really am launching this deal site from my laptop in my kitchen and am floored at the fabulous response from merchants and followers alike. Thanks for helping me and my family realize the dream of being business owners!

Cherilyn - Crunchy Business

Thu, 19 May 2011 18:37:00 GMT

http://www.crunchybusiness.com

Marketmommies: Tell us about your business

Cherlyn: I help moms and mom-owned businesses make effective marketing decisions and build brands, allowing them to have more time in their business for the things they enjoy, and more time with their families! It's really amazing to see when someone who was spending a lot of time on their business or not seeing the kind of success they wanted goes through one of my programs, either coaching or the workshop, and comes out the other side with this amazing freedom and passion and joy. It is as though the marketing systems and branding strategies I teach actually change whole lives, not just businesses. I love every minute of it!

Marketmommies: How did you get started?

Cherilyn: I actually got started 7 years ago with my first business, "CPS Networks". It was just me, in my apartment, doing direct sales for a vacation coupon MLM scheme. It failed of course, and I moved on... I started my own internet marketing company, using what I had learned to publish information products. Then I began freelance copywriting and consulting for small businesses, and saw great success with my clients. My daughter was born August 3rd, 2010. Everything changed... I no longer wanted to work with small businesses the way I had before. I had always loved having conversations with clients to help them make marketing decisions, but now I wanted to work with moms. I wanted to show them how to come up with the ideas I had given - on their own. I wanted to coach them to see the type of success they deserve!

Marketmommies: Did you have an "aha" moment when everything regarding starting your own business just clicked?

Cherilyn: A few, actually. My first was when I realized that my prior business model of trying to be everything to every small business I ran into wasn't working... Then again when I realized I needed to work with moms. I think I have one every couple of days now as well - when I start to get discouraged by the long hours and roadblocks, only to touch somebody's life, make a difference, and remember why I'm doing this in the first place. Those "aha" moments are the ones that keep me going.

Marketmommies: What inspires you to keep going?

Cherilyn: Well, like I said above - those moments when you make a difference are a big factor. I also believe in keeping an eye on the bigger picture... That one day, my business will be firmly rooted in the minds of mompreneurs and be "making meaning" every single day, with less effort and more reward. Right now, my effort-to-reward ratio is about 100:1. With persistence, I might be able to get to 1:100 one day.

Marketmommies: Tell us about an average day in your life (as if there is such a thing :)

Cherilyn: Hmm... Well, typically I'll wake up in the morning with my hubby and Isabella, our 9 month old daughter, around 7. We'll have breakfast and play, then I'll leave them around 8:30 to start work. I'll write blog posts, connect with moms on Twitter, work on content and videos, do guest posting, and answer email all day long from then on. Sometimes I'll take a lunch break, sometimes hubby brings lunch downstairs (he lost his job in September 2010, so he is a SAHD.) Either way, my favorite two people in the world are always just a few steps away. Its great!

At the end of the day, I'll wind down and have dinner at 6, then spend some quality time with the family until around 8pm. Isabella goes to bed, and I'm back to work until 11pm or so until I can't see straight (I really do love my work, which means I often push myself too hard...) - Then I go to bed and get ready to start all over in the morning.

Often times (at least twice a month) I'll also fit volunteer work into that schedule, along with dinners with extended family weekly, running (usually in the evening or around lunch) 3 days a week, cooking (I love to cook!) and housework. Yeah, I'm a busy lady!

Marketmommies: Where do you hope to see your business in one year? 5 years?

Cherilyn: In a year, I would love to be in a position where I can talk with an amazing mompreneur at least once a day, and be working on my book... Like every other blogger I know, I believe I have a book in me! In 5 years, I would love to be doing in-person intensive workshops for moms out in beautiful Vancouver, and have a network of other mom coaches around the world who do the same in their local area using my materials.

Marketmommies: Any advice for other Moms who have their own business?

Cherilyn: A few things... First, don't give up. Second, really - don't give up. Third, don't find something about your business to be passionate about - find something you're passionate about and make it your business. Even if that passion is reading horror novels or tending a tomato garden, there are ways you can turn it into a business! Believe me!

Marketmommies: What was your biggest learning curve in starting and running your Mom Owned Business?

Cherilyn: Growing up, my family wasn't exactly wealthy. They were entry-level workers at regular jobs, so I had to "unlearn" a lot of what they had taught me about making money. For example, in business, time in rarely equals money out... You have to spend money (even if it is only a little bit) to make money, or replace money spent with time... Credibility isn't all about school and past jobs, it is about what you've actually done and the results you've created... Other lessons like that. Basically "unlearning" how to be a good employee, so I could learn how to be a good entrepreneur.

Marketmommies: How do you find a balance between family and business?

Cherilyn: I don't think there really is such a thing as balance. Balance to me implies 50/50, and if you do that then one or the other is going to get less than your full attention. If we're talking about avoiding guilt issues (for not spending enough time with either business or family), it just comes down to commitment and choice. When you want to or need to work, choose to work and make a commitment to yourself that you'll work for a certain amount of time. When you go to spend time with your family, choose to be with your family and make a commitment to do so. Be fully present to whatever it is that you're doing - work or family.

It is the struggle to find balance I think that negatively effects how we spend our time with each, since we're always thinking of what we're not doing instead of being fully involved in where we are. Especially with older kids, I've noticed with the moms I work with that if they complain about having to work and talk about not getting enough time with their kids, the children pick up on it. They'll start asking mommy why she has to work all the time, and if she can't just play with them instead. Mom's who are more relaxed about it all, and accept that work is work and family is family and you have to give your whole mental, emotional, and physical self to whatever you're doing, get kids who play independently while mommy is working because they look forward to when mommy is done.

Marketmommies: Tell us about your family.

Cherilyn: My family is amazing, as almost any mom would tell you. My husband and I met in January 2008, married in July 2009 after only being engaged for 3 months, and had our daughter in August 2010 after struggling for months and months to conceive due PCOS (we finally conceived using Clomid.) When our daughter was less than 4 weeks old, my husband lost his job of 7 years. He went on parental leave benefits through insurance to help make ends meet while I worked my freelance business to make the rest. I didn't plan on a maternity leave that short, but having my husband home to take care of our daughter has made it all possible. And moments like this when I get to sit in my office surrounded by the dog and cat, hubby and Isabella... I wouldn't change them for anything!

Marketmommies: Anything else you would like to add?

Cherilyn: Just that those of us who get the opportunity to do something great with our lives are very, very lucky. We should take advantage of any inspiration or passion that hits us, because so many people are never presented with the opportunity to create their vision for the world as they see it should be. Don't let any opportunity to create your business and your passion go unfulfilled, and don't let the potential for judgement by others stop you from doing *anything*. People might judge you - get over it. If they're judging you, it's because you're doing something. Consider it a compliment!

Marlee - Marlee and Noah

Thu, 12 May 2011 14:06:00 GMT

http://www.marleeandnoah.com
http://www.facebook.com/marleeandnoah
http://www.twitter.com/marleeandnoah

Marketmommies: Tell us about your business
Marlee: Marlee & Noah is a line of 100% natural and organic bath products designed especially with moms and babies in mind. The products are spa quality, but are gentle enough to use on the most sensitive skin. Mom's have even had success treating their baby's eczema with our product.

Marketmommies: How did you get started?
Marlee: After having Noah, I had a horrible experience with line of baby products and went on a search for a truly natural and organic product to use on his sensitive skin. I tried a ton of products but found that a lot of products that claimed to be natural still contained chemicals. I also found that the products that were natural smelled horrible. I wanted a product that pampered Noah and helped heal his sensitive skin, but I still wanted him to smell good! So I decided to create my own products. Once we got started I realized that Moms deserved the same kind of products.

Marketmommies: Did you have an "aha" moment when everything regarding starting your own business just clicked?
Marlee: I did! When I went to Absolutely Natural to talk about my ideas and we found out that so many trusted baby lines contained chemicals and additives that are dangerous. It all just clicked for me, I knew we needed to make a product that parents could truly trust. There are so many options out there, it is overwhelming, and parents deserve the truth. Our product says 100% natural...and it is.

Marketmommies: What inspires you to keep going?
Marlee: Noah...he inspires me every day. I hope someday he can run this company!!

Marketmommies: Tell us about an average day in your life (as if there is such a thing :)
Marlee: An average day in my life consists of being with Noah, taking care of my home and family, and working on Marlee & Noah. Every day each one of those things gets a different amount of my time. Noah is really the only one that can vocally demand my time (quite loudly), so he gets a bit more than the others :)

Marketmommies: Where do you hope to see your business in one year? 5 years?
Marlee: In one year I hope to have Marlee & Noah in more stores and boutiques. And if in that time we can help people realize the dangers of the chemicals and preservatives that are in so many products, that would be fantastic. In five years I hope that Marlee & Noah is a name that parents know they can trust. I hope that our line has expanded and our quality has become a standard that other companies aspire to!

Marketmommies: Any advice for other Moms who have their own business?
Marlee: Find people who believe in you and your ideas. It has been such a blessing to team up with Absolutely Natural. To have such an amazing company and such amazing people to teach me and help me has been more than I could have hoped for.

Marketmommies: What was your biggest learning curve in starting and running your Mom Owned Business?
Marlee: Just getting people to respond to your product is so difficult! For every 50 e-mails you send or calls you make you might hear back from 1. It's so important not to give up or get discouraged.

Marketmommies: How do you find a balance between family and business?
Marlee: I'll let you know when I figure it out!!

Marketmommies: Anything else you would like to add?
Marlee: I think that websites like yours are amazing. Anything that helps promote Mom Owned Business is such a help!! I started my business so that I could get a much needed product out there, while still getting to stay home with Noah, and spend as much time with him as I could. I think it's everyone's dream to make enough money to support their family, but still have time to spend with them. Promotion from websites like yours make that happen! So, thank you!!