Mumpreneur, Seema Carter, 42, runs online toy store Dillonstoybox.com with her husband. She shares her tips and experience of running a business while raising their three-and-a-half-year-old son.
What work did you do before you set up your company?
I was a director’s PA.
How did you fund the business?
We used some savings and some redundancy money from my last job to set up the website, buy products and do some advertising.
Profit in first year
We did not see any profit in the first year, due to set-up and advertising costs. We hope this will change next year as we get known in the online toy business – and with repeat orders from customers!
What was the motivating factor for staring your own business?
My son Dillon, who the company is named after.
We have always wanted to start our own business and this was a good opportunity to do it so I could spend time with Dillon. We decided on wooden toys as we love the quality and workmanship of wooden toys, and they can be passed around generations and most of all look good! Dillon now has quite a good collection of our toys.
What do you enjoy most about running your own business?
It gives me flexibility around family life and also the satisfaction when you achieve a goal and get recognised for your efforts.
Running a business can be a mixed bag sometimes. What have been you highs and lows so far?
It is very satisfying when a customer takes the time to write a review on a product sold to them, or for the customer service provided.
Working on your own can be challenging, as you have to think of ideas yourself and put them into action. Small businesses don’t have a big budget for advertising, so we have to be cautious with high costs and try to get the best value.
How have you managed to stay on top of your career with the demands of motherhood while running a business?
I plan my day with my to-do list and prioritise. I have three full days when I can work undisturbed, as Dillon is at nursery. The other days I have to manage on the go – technology has become so advanced that an email is just a click away on your mobile phone.
How has running your business impacted on your relationship with your partner and children?
I feel less stressed and am able to tackle the day early on as there is no travel involved. I can do the nursery runs, do a good days work, take care of the house and be there to greet my two boys!
Any tips for expectant mums, or mothers who feel that you can’t have a successful career and a happy family life at the same time?
Don’t be afraid to take that step – there is so much information available now for mums wanting to start their own business. You have to think about what you like doing best and see if you can turn that into a business idea. Read blogs to see how other mums came up with business ideas and put them in action, this will help you get inspired to do the same. Good luck!
