Monday Mumpreneur with Lisa McCabe

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 I first read this week's featured mum's story I related so much to her motivation to become  mumpreneur. When you find yourself lucky enough to have a child you never thought you would; you want to be there for every precious moment. Good for her. And I love her advice for new mumpreneurs setting up. I think you're going to enjoy . . . .

Your name: Lisa McCabe

Your website: www.stardustdogs.co.uk
www.facebook.com/stardustdogwalking

Brief description: 

The website provides all the initial information regarding Stardust Dog Walking
The facebook page acts like a day to day diary of the activities with the doggy gang! It's important for owners to see how their dogs are doing and how much fun they are having. Makes them feel less guilty when going out to work.

Tell me about your children: 

Caoimhe (pronounced Keeva) McCabe, it's an Irish name, she will absolutely hate us when she is older for that. A name no one can pronounce or spell! We call her tootsie though, she's just our princess.

Where do you live? Robroyston, Glasgow. I think it still comes under Strathclyde. UK

PC or Mac? Mac!

Tell us about your business

Stardust Dog Walking provides an essential dog walking and doggy day care service for owners in the North of Glasgow. It's the best job in the world. Every day is different as dogs are just like humans they have their own personalities. It's just so much fun. We walk in small groups in order to ensure safety and enjoyment. I aim to provide the best possible service and keep owners up to date at all times. The personal approach is so important, every dog is treated as though they are my own. I've had some since puppyhood, so they feel like mine! I also offer home boarding, which is like fun doggy sleep overs and a comforting alternative to kennels.

What motivated you to become a mumpreneur?

I wanted a more balanced homelife and to be there more for Caoimhe. We didn't think we would be lucky enough to have her, so I wanted to be around for all the special moments!

What’s been your biggest challenge in business?

Getting it up and running with a small baby in tow.

How have you overcome it?

I have fantastic support for my grandparents and my godmother, just could not do it without them.

What’s been your proudest business moment?

I recently applied for the Entrepreneurial Spark training programme, I had to pitch my business in just 1 minute (thank goodness I'm married to a journalist!) then endure 3 rounds of interviews. Thankfully I got through and start 1st August. This will make such a difference to the expansion of my business.

What’s your catchphrase or favourite quote?

My own catchphrase is, "just roll with it and see what happens" My poor suffering Cousin who works with me groans every time I say it, he knows something mental is about to happen! and my quote "What's for you won't go by you". (my Grannie's favourite!)

What do you do to relax or nurture yourself?

I just love being outdoors with the wee one, she loves walking and going to the park. I'm a big gym fan and love running this relaxes me. I'm also a huge baker and love being in the kitchen. Just adore Jamie Oliver, the man even inspired my husband to cook! The kitchen is where I de-stress.

What was the last treat you bought for yourself?

Does a pair of wellies count? I go through so many pairs with dog walking.

Favourite colour: Red

Favourite flowers: Roses and Cala Lillies

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

Be really sure it's what you want to do, as it's really hard work but if you're prepared to slog it out, you will reap the rewards in the end. Running your own business is stressful there's no getting away from that but it does provide you with the flexibility to be at home more. Also treat every single customer like they are your only customer, make them feel special and you will keep them for life!

Fancy sharing your story and becoming part of our wonderful supportive mumpreneur community? Drop me an email over on the contact page – and I’ll be in touch.   Or let me know in a comment below.