Monday, January 24, 2011

Spotlight on Mommy Post -- Sally of Francesca Baby



This week, I would like to introduce you to Sally of Francesca Baby. She opened up this shop (2nd of 2 shops she has on Etsy), after becoming a grandma.  She strives to make adorable, practical, and high quality gifts that will be enjoyable for mom and baby alike! Most items are one of a kind and ready to ship. Sally can also custom make orders, so if you see an item in her shop that you just have to have, just send her a message through Etsy and she can work with you on the size and style you want.  What is great about Sally's products is that, having been a seamstress and artist for many years, all her products are of  professional boutique quality. All of the fabrics are preshrunk, machine washable and have completely enclosed seams. I highly suggest checking out her shop today if you are expecting a baby, have a new baby at home, or are looking for the perfect baby shower gift.

And, don't forget to come back on Friday and read my review about the bandanna bibs Sally sent for my daughter, Savannah to try out. In addition, you can enter to win 1 item from Sally's shop (excluding dresses), as well as receive a 20% coupon code to use for yourself or share with family and friends.

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Name: Sally Webber
Company Name/Product/Service: Francesca Baby
Company Location: Denver, Colorado
Company Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/FrancescaBaby
Age of Company:  1 1/2 years 
Favorite Book: The Bible

 

Tell us a little bit about yourself.  How many children do you have?  What are their ages? Your hobbies? Etc.: I have three grown children, two stepchildren, five step-grandchildren, and four grandchildren under 4 years old.  I enjoy playing with and babysitting the little ones. 

My hobbies include knitting, cooking, making jewelry (I have another etsy shop:  bijouxbyfrancesca), ceramics, and dichroic glass.  I am also active in my church, where I take part in several ministries, especially mentoring younger women.

Briefly explain your business.  How did it come about?:  After I retired, I was wanting to find something I could do at home to keep me busy and earn a little extra money.  A friend told me about Etsy and so I opened my first shop, bijouxbyfrancesca.  Then, I decided to add Francescababy about two years ago.

What is a typical work day like?:   I am fortunate enough to have a flexible schedule.  If I am not babysitting for my grandchildren or going out, I usually work from 5 to 7 hours a day, at least 5 days a week.   

What has been a struggle while starting up your company?: Learning to use the computer on my own has been a challenge -  the only class I nearly failed in high school was typing.  The teacher made a deal with me -  If I promised never to take another typing class, she would give me a D.

What did you do in your past work life? When I was pregnant with my third child, I started a business making window shades for designers.  I worked in my basement and had the luxury of being home with my children.  It was difficult, but I never regretted it.

What have been some of your major successes?:  To raise three successful, happy children, and to have been able to support my family.

What have been some of your major challenges?:  I am a horrible procrastinator (who knew, Robin?).

On those impossible days, what motivates you to keep going?:  I really enjoy what I am doing, but if I take it easy on a particular day, I cut myself some slack and try not to feel guilty.

What is your balancing secret in managing a business and family?:  I don't have to any more because it is just me and my husband.   But honestly, I don't know how I did it all those years ago, except to say that since I was young I had a lot more energy.  I was able to focus on my business and my family without worrying about other things (housework, laundry) very much.

What is next for your business?:  I am going to add some hand built stoneware baby dishes.  I hope to have them up in the next month or so.

Do you have any advice for other mom entrepreneurs that are starting out and struggling, or are on the fence about starting a business?:  I would not give anyone advice, but can only tell  you my own experience. It was hard, but I loved what I did and I was the best mom I knew how to be.

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