Monday Mumpreneur with Inder Kaur Hira
Every Monday we feature a mumpreneur who’s ready and willing to open up their lives and their business to us.
They share with us their motivation, their challenges and their proudest moments in business and they also tell us how they take time to nurture themselves.
If you’re looking for inspiration, then our featured business mums show you what’s possible.
When a business grows out of a deeply held passion - it creates an energy all of its own and everyone who comes into contact with it can feel its power. That's just how I felt when I read about this week's featured mumpreneur, her passion and motivation are inspiring and I'm so happy she agreed to share her story and exciting achievements with us.
Your name: Inder Kaur Hira
Your website: www.TheIndianCoeliac.co.uk
Brief description
In 2010 my 4 year old daughter was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease and I searched the internet to find out more about the condition and how others coped. I found many medical websites but I could not find a website through which I could connect with other people and share our experience - so I started my own website.
At the beginning, the website and my blog was an outlet for my emotions but in 2012 I launched a Gluten Free Indian Food business. In April 2013 I received an award for my food from the National Free From Food Awards, beating off stiff competition from many household brands.
Tell me about your children
I have 2 daughters, Amrit (6) and Simran (3) whom I simply adore. I love their energy and their spirit – they make me laugh a lot. Amrit was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease when she was only 4 years old. It took the Doctors over 2 years to diagnose her condition, which was a tough time for all of us.
Where do you live? Wokingham, Berkshire, UK
PC or Mac? PC
Tell us about your business
I run a business called The Indian Coeliac. I cook and sell fresh home-made Gluten Free Indian Foods. Most of my food is also free from many other food allergens, such as egg, dairy and soya. I entered this year’s National Free From Food Awards with my Gluten Free Aloo Paratha (Stuffed Flat Bread) and Gluten Free Vegetable Samosa. My Aloo Paratha won in its category, whilst my Samosa was Commended and to top all of this off I was a 2nd runner up for the FAIR Trophy!
I was absolutely thrilled with the reviews received from the 50+ judges at the Free From Food Awards; “The Gluten Free AlooParatha was described as“an exciting product! Lovely flavour and nice soft paratha texture – lovely spicing. Delicious "
“Gluten Free Samosa was said to be a "great product for coeliacs who will have had nothing like it for years!"
I also make and sell Gluten Free, Wheat Free celebration cakes, cupcakes and muffins. Customers can order food directly from my website for delivery or collection.
What motivated you to become a mumpreneur?
I started off wanting to cook great food for my daughter Amrit. I didn’t want her to miss out on her favourite treats. Very soon I realised that this was something I could turn into a real business, something that would allow me to spend time with my young children and at the same time allow people who cannot tolerate gluten / wheat to enjoy great tasting Indian Food.
What's been your biggest challenge in business?
Time. It is so hard trying to get all the business jobs done in one day and still do all the mummy tasks.
How have you overcome it?
I am still trying to! I have learnt to really prioritise and to stay focused.
What’s been your proudest business moment?
Standing with my husband Pauljit at the National Free From Food Awards when my Gluten Free Aloo Paratha was declared a Winner and then calling Amrit to share this news with her!
What’s your catchphrase or favourite quote?
Don’t worry, it will work out just fine.
What do you do to relax or nurture yourself?
I am learning how to relax. I find reading helps, but again it is difficult making the time for this!
What was the last treat you bought for yourself?
A spa day with my sisters.
Favourite colour: Purple
Favourite flowers: Red Roses
What one piece of advice would you like to give to a new mumpreneur?
Be prepared for the huge learning curve. You are at the start of an exciting journey, it will be tough but the first order alone makes it all worthwhile !
Fancy featuring as one of our amazing mumpreneurs? Drop me an email over on the contact page – and I’ll be in touch. Or let me know in a comment below.
