Monday Mumpreneur with Jasmine Bashaj

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.

This week we take a peek inside the business of designer and soon to be mum of three, Jasmine Bashaj as she shares with us how she overcame challenges by surrounding herself with an awesome support team.

Your name: Jasmine Bashaj

Your website:

http://shopsorad.com
http://facebook.com/sorad.sorad
http://twitter.com/shopsorad
http://shopsorad.tumblr.com/
http://pinterest.com/shopsorad

Brief description:

So Rad makes bebe & toddler apparel that is local, eco friendly, modern and affordable. Bamboo and organic cotton fabrics, made in Canada - from start to finish.

Check out So Rad's innovative Magic Playsuit, our functional Boot Pants, our most loved Ninja Outfit and our practical Kimono Wrap Dress all of which are built to last and grow with your kiddo.
Colourful and stylin' get-ups, So Rad makes Mummy madness manageable

Tell me about your children:

Akela is my big girl! 7 years old going on 16.
Adrian is my big boy - 4 years old and you can't get anything past him:)
Coming soon (End of April) - Brennan - finally ready for #3..I hope;)

Where do you live? Vaughan, a suburb of Toronto, ON. Canada

PC or Mac? MAC!!!!!!!<3 sorry, was I yelling?

Tell us about your business:

So Rad is based in Vaughan, ON. Canada. Founded in 2009 by digital designer and illustrator, Jasmine Bashaj.   So Rad makes bebe & toddler apparel the is eco friendly, modern and affordable. Bamboo and organic cotton fabrics, made in Canada - from start to finish. Not your average kind of stuff either! Creative, functional and simple designs by a Mummy.  Catering to the layette newbie crowd, the crawlers & walkers and now for the little big kids with sizes up to 6X.  Bamboo fabrics are good for the environment, naturally organic and super soft on bebe's skin. It's win-win. Known for it's UV protection, antibacterial properties and naturally hypoallergenic, bamboo IS the grass of the future!  Rock the the playground with So Rad's colourful and stylin' get-ups.   So Rad makes Mummy madness manageable

What motivated you to become a mumpreneur?

#1 - my kids, isn't that what every Mum says?
#2 - I've done lots of freelance and seen my stats. Most people don't know, or don't think about it, but Digital illustrators don't make billions AND they don't get recognition. I like pats on my back sometimes y'know? I figured I should be doing this for myself:) But how to be an artist and NOT starve? - Baby clothes!

What's been your biggest challenge in business?

Probably being in business! It's a constant, "Hey hey hey! Look at me!" Marketing is a bit tough and wearing all hats can be draining, but learning to loosen the reigns on the business a bit helps.

How have you overcome it?

I've hired an awesome PR gal! I take a lot of advice and ask a lot of opinions. I also have connections in the digital media field who have helped along with having a digital media background myself helps. Last but definitely not least, I've had interns and they have been SO helpful!

What's been your proudest business moment?

I am always proud when someone places an order - it's all about the little things!

What's your catchphrase or favourite quote?

I keep getting asked this question and really, I'm sure there's a few, but nothing stands out at the moment.

What do you do to relax or nurture yourself?

Re-what? I've never heard of this;) I think sleep is a great thing.

What was the last treat you bought for yourself?

I just got a manicure/pedicure and my legs waxed - these are mandatory things at 34 weeks pregnant!;)

Favourite colour: Blue

Favourite flowers: Calla Lily

What one piece of advice would you like to give to a new mumpreneur?

Be open to constructive criticism. Most ppl won't tell you what's wrong, they just won't buy your stuff/service.

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.