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21st November 2016
12:38pm GMT
The five words that sum up our business are: Luxury, Ethical, Exciting, Fast-paced, Rewarding Linda: We launched 15 months ago, however we had been formulating the products two years prior to the launch. Lisa: "I always had an entrepreneurial spirit but it’s about creating something unique and finding your niche, when I met Linda it all just came together." We saw a gap in the market for a “clean” luxury tan at an affordable price. We wanted to bring the cleanest formulas to market without compromising on performance. I had noticed consumers where becoming more conscious about what they used on their skin, however organic products can come with a hefty price tag. I knew if we could offer products free from nasty chemicals and with high quality ingredients at a lower price point it would appeal to a wider demographic. The weekend that we launched the mousse we sold out within days. From that we were inundated with stockist inquiries and we literally couldn’t keep the stock on the shelves. We had to triple all our manufacturing runs. It was at that point we realised this is going to be big, however we never it expected it to get this big this fast. We knew we had a good product but we also knew we were going into a market that was saturated and it would take time to gain our market share. We were very wrong as it happened very quickly for us.
Lisa: In the beginning it was just Linda and myself and we did everything ourselves. We were so lucky to get the support of so many people. We have some hilarious memories of pulling in our families to pack boxes. It was a real team effort, slowly we began to take on more staff and change our business model to what it is today. The one thing I wish I had known is not to be so afraid! Don’t doubt yourself and let the unknown scare you. Don’t let other people’s negativity stop you moving forward. I wish I had done this sooner and believed in myself sooner. My mother's words of wisdom, advice and encouragement were so important. I am also lucky to have my business partner Lisa; we both have the same end goals, we both know our strengths and weaknesses can advise each other on different decisions. We have also used Invest NI who help support business start-ups, they support things like trademarking etc. Working for yourself means you get to follow your own dreams and goals, not the dreams of someone else or the goals of another company. You can also conduct your business by your own ethical standards. The opportunities are endless if you work hard and are determined to succeed. You can achieve your dreams, they are not out of reach. Childcare has been a challenge, considering I had baby Ruby four days after we launched and was back to work from home almost straight away. I have a very good support system around me who are always willing to help. My husband is very supportive and hands-on with the children so between us both with manage to juggle it. I will admit at times it can be difficult but it will be worth it. Lisa: I am very lucky to have an amazing supportive husband and a fantastic family who help me. My children also attend a local crèche and the girls there are brilliant.
One drawback of working for yourself is that there is no off time, however you need to find a balance and figure out what works for you.
Lisa: There is also no one to say well done or praise you for a good idea. A lot of the time it’s just gut instinct and a belief in yourself.
My seven-year-old Holly has already decided she is going to be a fashion designer/superstar. Her nanny is teaching her to sew and my house is covered in bits of material that she has been cutting to size for new dresses for her dolls.
My advice to a wannabe entrepreneur would be take all the advice you can. Know your market, have a good marketing strategy in place and just go for it. Always remember you get out what you put in.
Lisa: A lot of aspects of business are not industry specific and you can get a lot of help from the most unexpected sources. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other companies or brands, so many people are willing to help you on this journey.
The future is bright: We have lots of new products coming this year and next and we're looking at new territories and markets.
Are you a mumpreneur? Get in touch and tell us about your business to be featured. Email katie.mythen@herfamily.ie. Explore more on these topics:
