Tell us your name and a bit about your family? When did you become a Mum and to whom?
My name is Jenny and I’m a first time mum to my gorgeous 2.5 year old daughter, Hayley. I’ve been married for almost 5 years and we live in London
What’s your business called?
My company is called Mamazou
Can you describe it in one sentence?
It’s a social network for parents and parents-to-be offering access to forums, blogs, giveaways, articles, product reviews, interviews and discount codes. (Wow, that was long sentence).
When did you become a Mumpreneur and what inspired you?
When I fell pregnant, I found myself Googling most things and becoming very overwhelmed with the information presented. Most websites I stumbled upon were cluttered and overbearing. I also saw a lack of social space for real parents to not only read information, but to talk and engage with one another from all over the world. I found myself wishing that there was a place that parents could come together and share their own experiences and offer advice without feeling judged. I woke up one morning telling myself I had to create it and haven’t looked back.
How did you fund your start up?
I used my savings
How do you manage working around your children?
I tend to work around my daughter’s schedule. She goes to nursery in the morning so I get a couple of hours work done then and once she goes to bed I’m back on my laptop working away until the early hours of the morning.
Can you describe a typical day, what tasks do you have to get done, how do you manage your time?
I am a list lover. I have to write a task list of things to do in order of priority. My emails are generally answered either first thing in the morning or last thing before bed so that I’m fresh for the day ahead. I find that managing the social media side of the business is the most time consuming so I plan what I’m posting carefully. I then spending some time on conference calls with companies I’m collaborating with as well as networking. I also make sure that I have some of my own time to workout/relax so that I can keep a clear mind and focus.
What challenges have you faced in your business and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I had to date was soon after I first launched and half way into my next project, my web designer went into liquidation (about 2 weeks after I’d paid them a hefty amount) and didn’t even contact me to let me know. I was absolutely devastated and never managed to get the funds back. I was so tempted to give up and quit but my husband and family told me to keep going. I shed quite a few tears but knew I had to pick myself back up. That time taught me patience and thankfully I now have an amazing web designer who has helped the company go from strength to strength.
·What’s the best thing about being Mumpreneur?
Knowing that I can be a full time mum to my baby girl and not being tied down to anyone. My family come first, they always have and always will. The best thing about my company is it’s family orientated so it can grow as my family does too.
What are your plans for the future?
I have some really big plans but sadly can’t discuss them yet. All I can say is watch this space.
What advice would you give for someone just starting out in business?
Get a lawyer. It’s so important to make sure every aspect of your company is covered.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
Yes. If I can do it – so can you. Keep focused, be confident and reach for your dreams.
www.mamazou.com
IG – www.instagram.com/mamazou85
Twitter – @mamazouu
FB – www.facebook.com/mamazou85