Monday Mumpreneur with Nicola Flynn
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's feature mumpreneur talks about the confidence and courage it takes to try something new and how we all seem to think we can set up a business immediately after giving birth . . .
Your name: Nicola Flynn
Your website: www.springbaby.co.uk www.facebook.com/springbabyuk
Brief description:
Spring Baby’s range of babywear is designed with fun animal motifs. My aim is to provide practical and essential babywear for the little ones.
Tell me about your children:
Isla, 15 months, retired Spring Baby model. My inspiration in launching this venture.
Where do you live? Glasgow, Scotland, UK
PC or Mac? Mac
Tell us about your business:
Spring Baby was founded in 2009 by previous owners, I bought the company over in September 2012. I have since rebranded and redesigned the range of babywear. I've created, with the help of my dearest friend Heather, who is a talented freelance illustrator, a family of characters. Going forward I will be expanding my range with a variety of products including t-shirts, bibs and nappy bags. Also adding a few new characters and sizes along the way.
What motivated you to become a mumpreneur?
For the last 15 years I've worked in publishing and was freelancing as a magazine designer for the past six years until the birth of my daughter. I loved being self-employed, but my priorities changed when Isla was born. As my maternity leave was passing swiftly, I decided to look for a change in career, I still wanted to work for myself but needed the flexibility to be there for Isla. I first discovered Spring Baby while researching the babywear market, when the opportunity came to purchase the company I jumped at the chance.
It probably seems a bit crazy to start a new business having just become a new mum, but with hard work and a few late nights both roles are possible. As for the housework… well that gets a bit neglected.
What's been your biggest challenge in business?
Having the confidence and courage to try something new… it's been a huge learning curve, but one that I've enjoyed.
How have you overcome it?
Great support and advice from family. Writing To Do Lists every morning!
What's been your proudest business moment?
First delivery of new stock and getting the new website up and running made it all the more real. Getting lovely and positive feedback from customers.
What's your catchphrase or favourite quote?
"What's for you, won't go by you" - my mum
What do you do to relax or nurture yourself?
Pilates. Spending time with my family, good food and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
What was the last treat you bought for yourself?
Wish I could say a nice pair of heels, but running about after a newly walking/running toddler I went for a comfy pair of converse instead.
Favourite colour:
Red, although my partner would probably say black going by the content of my wardrobe.
Favourite flowers: Lilies and Plumeria
What one piece of advice would you like to give to a new mumpreneur?
Research! Work hard and who knows where your new journey will take you. Go for it!
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.
