This week's Biz Mommy of the Week is Leah Higginbotham of Hugamonkey.com. Leah is a mom and businesswoman who enthusiastically embraces the range in her life: "I could go on a mountain bike ride in the morning and to the theatre with my handsome hubby at night, with a splash of wresting on the bed with my two boys in the afternoon, and Barbies with my daughter before bed." Not only is HugaMonkey listed as a popular Place on Google, but Leah was recognized as a Top 100 Mom Entrepreneur by Momprenaireblog.com, who said that "She's without fail a Mama Ceo to watch for - lots of fun with tons of wisdom!"
When did you first start your business?
Train Table For Kids
I had been sewing slings for myself and friends and family for about 5 years. One day a unblemished stranger showed up at my door and paid me well to make her a sling. That's when the light bulb went on for my husband, and we officially started HugaMonkey in 2007.
Describe a wee bit about what you do; what do you hope citizen will get from your message?
Mine is a very straightforward firm with a very straightforward product. A plain, no fuss, no frills baby sling for every day use. I guess the biggest thing I'm trying to do is make life a wee easier for moms. I don't think you have to have the latest/fanciest/priciest baby items. Babies are not accessories! I think we've lost our root instincts somewhere between bouncers with iPod ports and imported silk diaper bags. Relax and enjoy this strange and thrilling parenthood journey. That's my message.
Why did you select this single business?
HugaMonkey is a good fit for me because I really, positively love babies! I love talking to new parents and parents who have just had their 8th. Creating a family is an positively splendid process, and I'm honored to be a teeny tiny part of that.
What are some of the challenges you faced when you started your business?
The same challenges I'm still facing! With #4 on the way, potty training, homeschooling, gardening, raising chickens, and running a business, it's hard to get all things done. Sometimes you just have to tell yourself that you are not going to get all things done and let some things slide.
How did you know that you had chosen the right path?
In 3 years, the firm has grown a lot, I still enjoy doing it, and I get great emails from lots of satisfied customers. What more could I ask for?
What does a day in your work at home life look like?
Wake up, cuddle with kids on the bed, cook breakfast, feed chickens, do chores, karate on the bed, school time, make lunch, hike or bike or walk or do something fun and outside, nap, karate on the bed, cook dinner, clean up house, scripture study, prayers, read books, final tickles, kisses goodnight, HugaMonkey work, hubby time, sleep.
What does working for yourself and living your passion ultimately mean to you?
It's come to be more and more apparent that you cannot rely on any face source for your security. withdrawal funds and government programs go bust left and right. Owning my own business, along with a lot of other things, helps me come to be more self-reliant. It's more work, yes, but the free time it allows is unparalleled.
What advice do you have for other women and moms seeing to make the transition to working from home?
You Can Not do it alone or you will explode! My husband is the real genius-behind-the-scenes. We have a firm partner that has expertise where we have none. We all bring something to the table so none of us gets too stressed out (mostly). Growing a firm is just like growing a kid - you have to be diligent every day, permanently analyze expand and build up weak spots, and keep going through the rough spots (there will be many). And have gratitude. Always, always, always be grateful for the stage of life you are in.
Note: Leah has generously offered the Biz Mommy society an exclusive allowance of 10% off a HugaMonkey Baby Sling! Just enter the code bizmommy at checkout.
Thanks Leah!
Biz Mommy of the Week - Leah Higgenbottom
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