Marketmommies:   How did you get started?
Sheena: I started by researching the flip flops on the market, how they were made, costs, distribution and how to improve them.   Then, I started to work with my cousin in India, Shilpi, who surveyed the products available in India and had samples made for me to review.  This process of finding the right manufacturer and getting the style correct was the hardest part and most expensive.  Once we had good samples I started marketing the shoes.  

Sheena:  I am learning new things every day with my business!   After my first order from India, I learned there is no guarantee that everything will be 100% perfect when it arrives overseas and with the cost of shipping, you really can’t return it.  Also, you need to allow for everything to cost more than you budgeted, especially shipping costs.

Marketmommies: What do you love about having your own business?
Sheena:  Ever since I had my first child, Emily, I have wanted to stay at home with my kids, but I also missed certain aspects of my career.  Having my own business has given me the best of both worlds-- I am home with my kids (most of the time) and I can contribute to our income (eventually) and have fun while doing it.  Also, I love seeing my flip flops on Women’s feet and getting positive feedback about how much they love my product.  It really is a dream come true to have my own line of shoes!  Oh and I have a nice wardrobe of glitzy, amazing flip flops. 

Marketmommies:  What are the down sides to owning your own business?
Sheena: The down side is all the responsibilities are on me, there really is never “time off” because taking time off means things don’t get done. So if the kids are sick I can get really behind or lose a lot of sleep. 

Marketmommies: Is there anything you would have done differently in starting your own business?
Sheena:  Lots of things for sure, but most important get several cost estimates on everything.  I made some crucial errors in my first shipment which really cost me a lot of money.  Start small and grow your business while you are branding your company and creating awareness in the market.  That way by the time you start expanding the business and investing more money, you will be confident that your product will sell.

Marketmommies:   Do you have any advice for other moms wanting to start or grow a business?
Sheena:  I would do lots of research before you start any business and make sure you are comfortable with the financial projections.  Also, take your time and do something you enjoy or you will get bored and struggle with the time commitment.  Being a Mom and owning a business is very rewarding, but it is a juggling act and I try to make sure my kids are priority.

Marketmommies:  Where do you see your business in 1 year?  in 5 years?
Sheena:  I think this next year will be a huge expansion in sales and brand recognition of Lizzie Lou Shoes.  I hope my exposure will continue to progress and lead to more retail stores across the US.  If sales continue at this rate, I would think in five years from now we will have a warehouse and distribution center with retail stores in most states.

Markemommies:  Tell us about your family.
Sheena:  My husband Matt and I have three children: Emily, 9, Lizzie, 7, and Vince, 3.  Matt is an attorney at a small firm in San Antonio and my parents live close by and are a huge support system for us.  Emily is the actor in the family, Lizzie is the shopper and Vince is a Jedi in training.  Our family loves movies and taking our annual trip to Disney World.  This year my three Harry Potter fan’s are dying to go to Universal Studios, you won’t hear any objections from me.