Today we welcome Julia of The Kids Depot, a much appreciated sponsor of Childhood 101, to share more about how her business began and how she manages the daily juggling act of being a mumpreneur!
Describe The Kids Depot in 20 words or less
Quality products at reasonable prices! From essentials to toys we’re not budget, not boutique…somewhere in between!
What prompted you to start your own business?
I moved to Busselton, a small town, from Perth and found shopping for my new baby quite frustrating. On a trip to Perth I found a long sleeve bib, and took orders from Mums in my mothers group for more, it grew from there! I want to share products I have found useful for my own family (or wish I had found earlier!)
What did you do in your previous working life?
I was a corporate city girl! A home insurance underwriter, before that an insurance broker totaling 20 years!
What are the main challenges associated with working from home?
Time management definitely, especially as Oliver gets older. Before then with daytime sleeps it was easier to process and pack orders, etc. I find making a timetable is easier, but taking telephone calls is a constant battle!
How many hours a day/week do you work on your business?
24/7 it seems! Ollie is at kindy 2 days now, so I probably put in 30 hours a week, but the email and phone is always on!
How do you draw the line between managing a household and managing your work?
I try to stick to my timetable and I have a weekly to do list on the fridge, that is essential for me.
What child care arrangements do you use to allow you time to work?
My son started kindy in February for 2 days a week and has 1 day in childcare, he benefits from the time there,and as I can work solidly when I pick him up I am all his – though sometimes he doesn’t appreciate this and just wants to watch TV!
Do you employ any staff?
No but my husband is my local delivery guy, unpacker, new product consultant etc etc! You need someone to bounce things off.
What start up costs were associated with launching The Kids Depot?
Setting up the website was a massive cost, I wanted the site to look a certain way and have search features…plus stock, all up probably $20,000.
What do you wish you knew before you began?
Definitely more about web design.
What would you say are the 5 most essential skills for starting your own business from home?
- Ability to work on your own and not be lonely
- Self motivation
- Time management
- Good organisation, and for me,
- The will-power to resist working when you should be doing other things!
Childhood 101 readers have the opportunity to win with The Kids Depot! To be in the draw to win a $25 voucher to spend in store, sign up for The Kids Depot newsletter here BUT BE SURE TO TYPE ‘Childhood 101’ in the Comments section of the subscription form to be in the running to win.
Entries close Sunday, June 13th at 6pm (WA time) and are open to Australian residents only.
The Kids Depot’s monthly email newsletters are a great way to stay up to date with new products, member discount codes and special features, such as a recent Toilet Training feature.
Christie Burnett is a teacher, presenter, writer and the mother of two. She created Childhood 101 as a place for teachers and parents to access engaging, high quality learning ideas.
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