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L O C A L FA M I LY L I F E S T Y L E | 1
Surrey Special
Suspe
Bundles of Joy
Toyella
PLEK
Suzanne Ellis www.bundlesofjoy-shopping.co.uk
Carl Shaw www.toyella.com
Geeta Chagan www.theplek.com
Having run a successful similar business in London, Suzanne moved to the countryside and whilst discussing with friends the difficulty of trying to find gorgeous gifts for the little people in their lives, she decided to set up Bundles of Joy, which provides a service to those who don’t live near shops or have the time to shop. And all started with a £1,000 loan from her mum!
Four years ago Carl saw an unusual toy in a magazine feature. After embarking on an online search, it revealed retailers did a very poor job of promoting the toy’s benefits. Carl wasn’t filled with confidence when entering credit card details into any of these websites either. He felt the toy market seemed neglected and very limited in its offering and believed he could do a better job.
What makes Bundles of Joy unique? Our exceptionally fast service makes us unique within personalising companies. If an order is placed for a personalised item in the morning, it should be sent out later that day, wherever possible. People often forget that a special occasion is round the corner or a new baby has just been born, and how lovely to receive your personalised gift within 24 hours, customers just love it.
What makes Toyella unique? Unique products, fair price and unrivalled service. We source the very best toys from around the globe. Many are unique to Toyella in the UK so they’re extra special gifts. Good design shouldn’t cost the earth and we make our toys accessible through our pricing. Toyella started from our own consumer experience as parents so service is paramount within our philosophy.
Geeta is a former director of her own art gallery, a show curater and art fair organiser. Geeta found that whilst she was pregnant it was physically tiring organising and hanging exhibitions. She decided to launch PLEK and work from home to be able to care for her son alongside still being able to work in an industry she loves. PLEK was an idea she had envisioned for some time, where she wanted to promote not only paintings but also handmade original products that are attainable and affordable.
How does running a business fit around family life? I have four children, all adorable at times, and I’m very lucky to have excellent staff who take on board my extremely high standards. Alongside this, I have a very understanding husband who doesn’t expect every dinner to be a gourmet effort. At busy times, I return to work at night and am never off duty, even on holidays - thank goodness for my Blackberry and Wi-Fi.
How does running a business fit around family life? A toy business has its pros and cons when it comes to family life. I have three children under 12 - a handy consumer group. It’s vital to see the their reaction to toys we plan to sell. On the other hand it can seem like Christmas every day and it’s hard to prise a sample from a five year old’s grip!
What plans have you got for the future? We’ve just launched our exciting nursery scheme. Nurseries throughout the UK can sign up for FREE luxury toys and books through their wish lists, supported by the parents who purchase their gifts through Bundles of Joy. It’s a win win situation for everyone.
What plans have you got for the future? Three years in we’re steadfast in following our original formula. It’s all about the products and the online experience so, simply, more unique toys offered to more people around the world. We are gradually moving into bedroom and playroom interiors and, when the time is right, we’ll have a showroom no doubt.
What makes PLEK unique? PLEK sells original art and products for the home and for little people. Each designer or artist has been hand picked for the quality and originality of their work. These pieces are also not found on the high street, so people can find something truly unique at PLEK that represents great value. How does running a business fit around family life? I work when my son is sleeping or napping, which is tiring but he will be going to nursery soon so that will help free up more time for PLEK. My husband has also been an amazing support and helps out when I need to make phone calls or makes dinner when I haven’t had time during the day. What plans have you got for the future? I plan to build on PLEK’s product variety and get more artists and designers involved and increasing their profile. Hopefully one day PLEK will be a shop and people can browse products in person and view curated shows in an informal space.
Cosyplay
Gambado Chelsea
Dr Kerstin Castle www.cosyplay.co.uk
Deborah Jones www.gambado.com/clubs/chelsea
By a twist of fate Linda, Nel & Sarah were all made redundant in early 2012. Linda and Nel, both with backgrounds in buying, joined forces with Sarah, a former merchandiser at the same company as Nel. They all shared the same passion to launch their own business.
Kerstin wanted to make the most of her maternity leave and knew that the most important part of bringing up her baby was to spend as much time as possible having fun, playing, chatting and singing together. Unfortunately, she couldn’t find any play mats that were large and comfortable enough for the both of them. From this, Kerstin started experimenting with memory foam, which is extremely comfortable and her adventure with the cosyplay mat began.
What makes Cocobaci unique? From our own experience we knew that finding the perfect baby collection under one roof was near on impossible. So we decided to create our own personal edit of the most beautiful clothing brands and unique gorgeous handmade gifts we could find. In addition, we’ve created a range of fabulous newborn gift bundles. We’ve also collaborated on beautiful exclusive jewellery and furniture collections. We believe we have created a simple but exquisite boutique where shopping is made effortlessly easy and enjoyable. How does running a business fit around family life? We’re certainly kept busy, but the beauty of having your own business is that you can be flexible and work around your children and family life. If anything we’ve all had to discipline ourselves to get a work/life balance as when working from home the work temptation is always there to keep going! We do everything in the business ourselves and thankfully we all have very supportive other halves. What plans have you got for the future? Having just launched, our priority is to ensure we understand our customers’ needs. We’re also in the process of developing our own Cocobaci baby range so watch this space!
What makes Cosyplay unique? The cosyplay mat is the only baby play mat made from memory foam for indoor and outdoor use. Memory foam is great for impact absorption too, preventing any bumps to babies’ heads. Cosyplay mats use antimicrobial, waterproof materials to protect the memory foam from any dribbles and wet ground. It also has a zip removable fleece cover, which can be machinewashed. It’s simple and practical in design, so it gets a huge amount of use, even beyond the baby age.
Over a decade ago, Gambado’s managing director lived abroad with his family, working within the fitness industry. During this time, they visited a small play centre which they really enjoyed, and thought how great it would be to bring a bigger and better concept to the UK, incorporating his passion for keeping kids active. What makes Gambado unique? We pride ourselves on providing a higher standard of product, service, and care of every member who visits us, and we hope this has been reflected in the awards we have won (such as best indoor play provider in the UK). We’re a small, close team who make sure everyone has plenty of fun, and we’re always striving to be the best! We want to make sure all our lovely visitors have a fantastic time, every time, as we understand that family time together is so precious with today’s busy lifestyle.
How does running a business fit around family life? Bringing up four kids and running a business is tough. There is no sugarcoating it. It just involves lots of work. Fortunately, I have a partner who is a constant source of support and encouragement.
How does running a business fit around a busy home life? It can be very difficult, particularly during our busier trading times, and I certainly don’t always get the work/ life balance right! I am often in trouble with my family and friends for being a workaholic, but I love it! Gambado and my team are such a huge part of my life, which I am passionate about helping continue to grow and develop.
What plans have you got for the future? The cosyplay mat has just received European patent grant, so it’s Europe here we come. Apart from that, I am also working on extending the range with more simple and practical solutions for baby playtime.
What plans have you got for the future? Our managing director is constantly looking to expand. We’re very proud to have six centres across the UK. We want to achieve becoming a larger, more national brand over the next few years – so it’s very exciting times ahead.
Surrey Special
Cocobaci Linda, Nel & Sarah www.cocobaci.com
SnoozeShade
Auraley
LOVEYUSH LONDON
Cara Sayer www.snoozeshade.com
Kate Bennett Rea www.auraley.com
Bhakti Natha www.loveyush.com
Like all new mums, Cara needed to get out after giving birth. She was in a wheelchair for the final three months of pregnancy and for three months after. Once mobile again, popping out was initially easy as her daughter slept deeply and often, but it became harder as light, noise and other stimuli kept her awake. Unable to find a suitable solution (all let in too much light, were too bulky or let baby see out), she told friends someone should invent something so they said “Go on then!” SnoozeShade was born in 2010.
Prior to and after the birth of her two boys, Kate realised there was a gap in the market for luxury sleepwear for children aged 2-8. The market appeared saturated for babies yet she could never find high quality, stylish sleepwear for her own children! Since university, she had always wanted to be an entrepreneur and had a passion for design, yet due to economic realities, chose to become a corporate attorney! After reaching 30, she planned for the launch of Auraley, which took over three years to get off the ground.
Bhakti Natha found new inspirations and ideas from her little boy. Her experience of nursing her baby in public discreetly was a constant struggle. When using a normal scarf it would either slip off or be pulled off by an inquisitive baby, a bulky apron type nursing cover was not easy to carry around and actually drew more attention while feeding. Unable to find anything practical, she sewed her first loveyush scarf and received lots of positive comments.
What makes SnoozeShade unique? A universally-sized, breathable sun and sleep shade for prams/pushchairs with UPF50+, SnoozeShade was the first product of its type in the world and is today sold in over 25 countries, with safety testing of paramount importance. Its innovative design/ features are multi-award-winning. Maintaining close relationships with customers and encouraging feedback/ reviews helps the range evolve.
What makes Auraley unique? Auraley sleepwear is different than anything else on the market as products are designed using the highest quality, sustainably sourced materials that are so soft and comfortable. Our sleepwear is also styled, meaning it’s fashionable with a strong attention to detail, yet taking into account the needs of a child. We are the only luxury brand focused exclusively on children’s sleepwear.
What makes Loveyush unique? The Loveyush scarf is practical and stylish. Its simple yet clever design makes it easy to wear, just slides through, even with one hand, provides full coverage and you can maintain eye contact with your baby. When not nursing, you can use it as a fashion accessory which can be styled in many ways. The trendy design gives an elegant touch to any clothes. It can also be used as a sunshade for a car seat or a pram.
How does running a business fit around family life? I wish I’d used more childcare to grow my business initially, rather than juggling a few hours of nursery here and there. Like advertising, I believe childcare should be a legitimate business expense. Now my daughter is at school and I have a strong team, it’s easier to focus on SnoozeShade. What plans have you got for the future? The range has grown from one product to seven with more planned including a new deluxe line. We are currently launching in the USA and are expecting 2013 to be another successful year.
How does running a business fit around family life? The birth of my two boys forced me to evaluate how I would balance a career and a family. I have the flexibility to work at home with the help of a very supportive and involved husband. I believe it’s important to set an example for my boys that motherhood and a career are possible. What plans have you got for the future? I intend to develop Auraley into a luxury brand. Auraley is a passion and I will ensure it grows at a pace appropriate for the brand without losing its brand identity. We unveiled new pieces at bubble London in January.
How does running a business fit around family life? Being your own boss has its pros and cons. Organising and sticking to the plan is the key but also my weakness. Setting up a business is very demanding especially with a young toddler, but a very supportive family has made this happen. What plans have you got for the future? The launching of Loveyush this spring is exciting, introducing this lovely scarf to mums and see them loving it is the achievement. With lots of new product ideas in the pipeline Loveyush aims to make quality products for mother and baby.
Kiddylicious
Claire Payne www.fablittleshop.com
Sally Preston www.kiddylicious.co.uk
Named after Claire’s three children (Florence, Amelia and Betsy), Fab Little Shop’s main inspiration derived from all three of Claire’s girls. A lot of time had been spent finding something different for them to wear, to brighten up their nurseries or to give as a gift. After admitting that she was envious of many family and friends’ delightful purchases, Claire set up Fab Little Shop to work as a platform selling site dedicated to little people and Fab products.
As an experienced food scientist who started her career with 11 years at Marks and Spencer, Sally was well placed to challenge the baby food industry and the quality of the food we feed our babies and young children when she became a mum to Hannah and Jack.
What makes Fab Little Shop unique? It’s a unique online children’s marketplace. We have the biggest range of products carefully selected for little people, made in Britain. We champion talented artists whether established or emerging, small boutiques and exciting new products. All of our products are produced to a high quality with a twist on the traditional. How does running a business fit around family life? Fab Little Shop started back in 2008, but falling pregnant with twins in 2010 meant all plans were put on the shelf. The twins are two now, so I have more time and independence to work. As a mum of three beautiful little females I have total admiration and support for mums working from home with their children by their side, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Fab Little Shop was launched on the twins’ birthday so I’ll never forget how far I have come. What plans have you got for the future? We have a number of great plans for Fab Little Shop, some are a little bit of a secret but if you ask one of my children, they will probably tell you.
What makes Kiddylicious unique? I founded Babylicious in 2002 – frozen baby food that copies what mums do at home; Kiddylicious (the first toddler meal range) followed when mums asked me what they should feed their babies when they were 11-12 months old. The brand has expanded being the first fruitbased UK snacking range for toddlers – we now sell Fruit and Vegetable crisps, Fruit Wriggles and Smoothie Melts to every major supermarket across the UK (sold from the baby aisles) and in the last 12 months has doubled their market share with new ranges being launch this summer. How does running a business fit around family life? Family comes first for the whole team. I’m happy for people to take time off for sports days or school assemblies; everyone makes up the time so the job gets done. I’ve a great work/life balance. I see Hannah and Jack every morning for breakfast, check emails and walk our dog - putting me in good stead for a busy day at the office. In the evening we sit down as a family and have dinner together. What plans have you got for the future? My ambitions are to expand and this is imminent. Kiddylicious snacks are about to be launched in the US and we’re just about to air our first TV ad on Nick jr.
Faye & Lou Faye Norton and Lucinda de Watteville www.fayeandlou.co.uk
Inspiration struck whilst Faye and Lou were working at an orphanage in India. They were constantly coming up with solutions to problems they faced in the orphanage, testing their combined 40 years of childcare knowledge. Putting their valuable experience to use they created their own products. What makes Faye & Lou unique? Being nannies that have set up a business is quite unique. Our own children have helped with the design and development of the products. Years of working with different families gave us a unique insight in to what parents need. Being perfectionists, we wanted to make our products to the highest, long-lasting standard - simple but stylish and needed by mothers! How does running a business fit around a busy home life? We both have to fit work around caring for our children and this can be very challenging. We’re constantly messaging each other. Faye was even emailing from her hospital bed after giving birth. We couldn’t live without our phones! Our team’s invaluable and all work incredibly hard which has been a huge help to us both. What plans have you got for the future? We’re very excited about new products planned to launch over the next year. Including some new fabric designs to our Breastfeeding Butterfly range and introducing more beautiful coloured muslin products. We’re keen to develop social media coverage. We love our Facebook page as we can talk and advise our customers on a personal level.
Surrey Special
Fab Little Shop
LOVEYUSH LONDON
Mamma & Me
Bambino Merino
Bhakti Natha www.loveyush.com
Julie Buckland www.mammaandme.co.uk
Rochelle Milligan www.bambinomerino.com
Bhakti found inspiration from her own experience as a mother. Nursing her baby discreetly was a constant struggle with a normal scarf as it would either slip off or be pulled off by her inquisitive baby. The bulky apron type nursing cover was not practical enough to carry around and actually drew more attention while feeding. Unable to find anything practical in the market, she sewed her first Loveyush scarf and received lots of positive comments.
Julie’s idea was inspired by a relatively simple concept, she wanted to source a cashmere poncho similar to her own for her daughters, aged 10 and 16. After no success she decided to design one. Julie spent time researching and sourcing the perfect cashmere supplier before deciding on the right company to produce her designs.
Rochelle created Bambino Merino following the unexpected premature birth of her son eight years ago. Concerned about the health of her baby and the dangers of overheating, she sought out baby sleepwear made only from natural, breathable fibres to help ensure her son slept safely. With few quality merino garments available, Rochelle set about designing the first range of Bambino Merino baby sleeping bags and sleepwear from her New Zealand homeland.
What makes Loveyush unique? The Loveyush scarf is practical and stylish. Its simple yet clever design makes it easy to wear, just slides through, even with one hand, provides full coverage and you can maintain eye contact with the baby. When not nursing, you can use it as a fashion accessory which can be styled in many ways. The trendy design gives an elegant touch to any outfit. It can also be used as a sunshade for a car-seat or a pram.
What makes Mamma & Me unique? The aim of Mamma & Me is to create high quality, chic, understated pieces which strengthen the unique bond between mother and daughter. There are some items of clothing and accessories that are perfectly suited to adults and children - our cashmere poncho is an example of that. We have chosen beautiful neutral tones that are the perfect complement to any wardrobe and the joy of cashmere is that it is so versatile it can be worn at any time of the year. We have put a lot of thought into every aspect, including the bespoke design of our packaging.
How does running a business fit around family life? Running my own business is very demanding especially with a young toddler yet it does have its rewards. Being able to stay with my child and play with him compensates for all the hard work. A very supportive family helps me through the ups and downs of the business.
How does running a business fit around family life? Like most working mums, it’s important to have a good balance between business and family life. Naturally this can be quite difficult to juggle, however, I love being busy and I enjoy the challenge!
What plans have you got for the future? With the successful launch of The Loveyush Nursing Scarf online, we aim to take this practical and stylish scarf to the next level and expand distribution channels. With lots of new product ideas in the pipeline Loveyush aims to expand their product range too.
What plans have you got for the future? We have had such a great response to our brand - especially our cashmere ponchos - I’m really excited about the future for Mamma & Me. I’m currently designing additional products which will be launched in the next few months, including a classic tote bag.
What makes Bambino Merino unique? Our focus is on practicality, quality and style and we’re often complimented on the practical features and elements of our designs. Hearing from parents that they find our garments easy to use and that they’re helping everyone sleep better is very rewarding. We listen to what our customers tell us they’d like and our past, current and future customers all influence our range. How does running a business fit around family life? I structure my working day around school hours and our showroom is just a short cycle ride from both school and home so it’s an easy circuit between all three. I work with a great team and between us we plan our week to enable the business to run smoothly yet each have plenty of family time too. What plans have you got for the future? A few design tweaks to some old favourites are on the way along with a new merino sleeping bag for babies to use on the move. We’re also expanding our export business and now supply over 30 countries with more in the pipeline.
Surrey Nannies
Heaven Nutfield
Freya Goodier www.surrey-nannies.co.uk
Jen Walsh and Emma Loughran www.heaven-nutfield.com
After Lucy was made redundant when pregnant with her first child Maisie, she knew she wanted to do something that fitted around family life. Lucy’s love of wooden toys and games initially inspired her to set up her website, and with two small girls they were the perfect market research group. Setting up a website and working from home complemented Lucy’s lifestyle and she hasn’t looked back since.
Surrey Nannies is the sister branch of the original agency Hampshire Nannies. As a group, they now provide Nannies to families in Surrey, Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset, Berkshire and Sussex.
After hauling their toddlers around Surrey, in and out of various classes, then off somewhere else to grab some lunch, Emma and Jen decided to try to create a venue that brought everything together under one roof. Heaven Nutfield offers classes and workshops, a crèche, pamper rooms, a fantastic childfriendly café, a play room and a gift shop, delivered with a real community feel.
What makes Olivia Pink unique? We have a selection of artwork, toys and lifestyle products. We knew we wanted to develop and produce our own products and have just released our first, the Sossiboz, and sell it exclusively on our wesbite! Our handmade and bespoke section is also an interesting and unique collection.
What makes Surrey Nannies unique? We decided from the outset the high quality of the service is essential, but we also wanted to keep fees affordable. Children love being cared for in their own home and, for the parents, the confidence knowing their child is being cared for by a professional is invaluable. Our clear fixed placement fee structure helps parents assess the cost of hiring a nanny, which can be significantly less than many parents expect! We provide professional and friendly advice and support throughout each stage of the recruitment process and beyond.
How does running a business fit around family life? My youngest has just started nursery in the mornings, so after dog walking I usually have a few hours to do some work. Mostly, I seem to do bits and pieces throughout the day and the laptop is always switched on. Fortunately my suppliers seem to be used to children making lots of noise at the other end of the phone!
How does running a business fit around family life? Most of our team are parents themselves and work flexible hours to be able to mix and match family life with work requirements. We use modern technology to help us at every turn and to make sure we’re always contactable for our clients, including laptops and mobile phones for when working on the go.
How does running a business fit around family life? It’s the most difficult part – trying not to short-change our own children in the process of supporting others. We’re extremely close and trusting of each other, and have confidently parented one another’s children since they were born. We put “fences” round certain times where we refuse to answer calls so we’re available to the kids.
What plans have you got for the future? We are currently planning on expanding the Sossiboz range and have a few ideas in development! We are going to be adding to the website and plan to include an arts and crafts ideas section, I have just started an arts and crafts toddler group nearby and love it. Also looking at recipe ideas to do with your little ones too!
What plans have you got for the future? We’re about to offer paediatric first aid training courses, helping those registered with us improve and maintain their qualifications. We’re also building relationships with overseas childcare agencies so that we’ll be able to offer parents Aupair services. It’s a great way for children to learn about new cultures too! Watch this space!
What plans have you got for the future? We’d love to see Heavens rolled out across the UK and beyond. Right from the beginning we saw the potential for franchising this business. We both enjoy the idea of supporting others in the process of setting up their own Heaven. We’re just waiting, really, for the right people to knock on our door, ready for the adventure!
What makes Heaven Nutfield unique? It’s not only the bringing together of all these lovely things under one roof, but also the warmth and friendliness of our staff who ensure guests feel well looked after every time. We’ve created a culture here that says it’s okay to admit that good parenting can be a challenge, and to accept help whenever it’s offered, and to laugh about it!
Surrey Special
Olivia Pink Lucy Olivia de’Lemos www.oliviapink.co.uk