Tell us your name and a bit about your family? When did you become a Mum and to whom?
Hello, I am Deborah Clarke and I have two boys Zac age 11& Kieran age 9. Three years ago I started being a single working mum.
What’s your business called?
Creative Clay for All
Can you describe it in one sentence?
Mobile clay workshops assessable for all ages and abilities
When did you become a Mumpreneur and what inspired you?
Four years ago I was working in a pottery painting shop part time and running clay workshops there too. Carers would come in and say how great my workshops are and there were people who would love this but can’t get out due to medical needs. So I did a start up course with Outset and set up my business taking it anywhere including schools specialising in learning disabilities and residential care homes specialising in Dementia.
How did you fund your start up?
It was run on very little start up money as clay and resources were bought as I was booked. I made my own website.
How do you manage working around your children?
Alot of workshops are in school hours or Saturdays when they are with their dad. I have supportive parents that babysit sometimes and I do babysitting swops with friends who are working mums.
Can you describe a typical day, what tasks do you have to get done, how do you manage your time?
There isn’t. Some days it would be sitting at a computer doing write ups for workshops and Admin. Other days I may be in the studio making samples for workshops. Then when I run workshops it can be for 8 people or over 100people.
What challenges have you faced in your business and how have you overcome them?
Running out of space and relocating. I eventually found the perfect studio 6 minutes away
What’s the best thing about being Mumpreneur?
I can have as many days off as I need for kids plays, sports days and appointments. I do a job I love
What are your plans for the future?
As the kids get older I can do more after school clay clubs. When they leave home I shall travel more with my workshops maybe doing a cruise ship art classes too.
What advice would you give for someone just starting out in business?
Research, make sure it is viable, do a free business set up course. Network