Prices are in CAD
Prices are in CAD
blushmom.com, July 2009
July 8, 2009
Penny Seto,
Founder of Milk Factory Designs
1. How did Milk Factory Designs begin?
I met my co-founding partner at the local community centre while on maternity leave. We'd head out for a walk but wouldn't get very far before one of our babies had to be changed or fed. While we were sitting on the damp grass with our fleece blankets, we explored the idea of making a really big nylon-lined blanket that we could all sit on. At the same time, I wished for clothing that would dry quickly and help protect my son’s skin from the drool and spit-up rashes his soaked bibs and cotton onesies would leave on his chest.
While we were testing products, we both went back to work full-time. It didn’t take long for us to see that working for someone else limited the flexibility that we both wanted with our young families. We quit our jobs and dove in headfirst.
2. What is the biggest challenge in being a mompreneur?
I (try to) live without regret because everything I have done has gotten me where I am today. Staying focused on my goals has always been a challenge but working hard at keeping them finely tuned and in the forefront of my mind helps me stay on track.
3. How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
-FAMILY TIME: Family time is just that, family time—no computers or phone calls. And, it’s when my family needs it. Sometimes it’s in the middle of the work week and that’s OK.
-ME TIME: I make a point of fitting “me” time into my work day. I have two scheduled gym sessions a week that don’t get cancelled, unless my boys or I am ill. Everything else is booked around that. Without this, #1 is just grumpy time.
-NETWORKING: It’s important to build relationships with other women (and men) in business who offer support and a safe haven when you need to talk through business obstacles. Networking groups and mentors are a great way to gain insight into areas that you are less skilled in. It helps you leave your work at work so you can focus on #1 and #2 when you need to.
4. What tips can you offer to other busy mompreneurs?
-Set a goal/business plan and STAY FOCUSED.
-Believe in your products and stay true to your brand—don’t try to be everything to everyone.
-Ask questions and share with others—networking and sharing opens a world of knowledge and support that will boggle your mind.
-Trust yourself.
-LOVE what you do!
5. Why do you think women are good entrepreneurs?
Women love to help others and share knowledge and ideas. We’re caring and nurturing by nature. We build strong, long-lasting relationships and know how to ask for help when we need it.
6. What are some of your greatest successes?
By far, my two boys. Without them, there would be no Milk Factory Designs. Without them, I wouldn’t have taken the chance to be more than I was then and become who I am today.
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For readers of blush, Milk Factory is offering a 10% off coupon, good for an online purchase. To use the coupon, enter the promo code BLUSH10% when shopping online. |
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