Inside the World of Mompreneurs: How They Juggle Business and Parenting

Running a small business while also being a mom can be incredibly rewarding, but it's no easy feat. As a mompreneur, you're not only responsible for running a business but also caring for your children. This requires exceptional time management skills and the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

As a mompreneur, you wear many hats—you're an entrepreneur, manager, employee, helper, and most importantly, a role model to your children. Despite these challenges, many mompreneurs have managed to succeed and thrive. So, what's their secret sauce? We asked successful mompreneurs about their experiences, and they had some valuable insights to share. In this article we dive deep inside the world of mompreneurs and take a look at how they juggle business and parenting.

LaToya Stirrup, CEO & Co-Founder of Kazmaleje

Tell us about your company.

Kazmaleje is a company that I started with my two sisters to create innovative hair tools and accessories for textured hair. We are sold in Target, SalonCentric Marketplace, HSN, and more!

How do you do it all?

I don't. I have help. I would not be able to do what I am doing without my tribe; they mean the world to me. Listen, when they say it takes a village, believe it 1000%. This idea of being an independent superwoman will have you out here stressed from head to toe. It's not sustainable or scalable. Corporations and brands are operated by teams for a reason. You may not be able to start with 100 employees but delegate where you can bring on interns. Hire a nanny. Get a housekeeper. Don't try to go this road alone. We want to nurture our kids as well as our businesses but to do that. We need to make sure we take care of ourselves and have proper help.

What is your self-care routine?

My self-care routine is rooted in my ability to listen to my body and my mood. When I'm feeling stressed, I will schedule a massage. If I'm feeling like I'm fighting against the current too much, I will disconnect and do something else to rebalance my energy, like go for a walk or take a quick nap. The beauty of being an entrepreneur is that I am in control of my time. I am not punching someone else's clock. Therefore I can build flexibility into my schedule to meet not only the needs of my business but also my family's needs.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their businesses but are hesitant because they're unsure about how to balance it all?

Release the idea of trying to achieve perfect balance because entrepreneurship is not a predictable ride. You will need to recalibrate as you go. The most important thing you can do is to be clued into YOU. Know how you're feeling - mentally, physically, and emotionally. Listen to those cues and act accordingly. You will have days where you are in flow and crush your to-do list. You will have days that feel like hell. All of it is a part of the journey. So buckle up, build your squad, and go make your dreams happen.

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Ticina Williams, Founder of Creativiti Custom Designs and Events

Tell us about your company.

Creativiti Custom Designs and Events is a full-service event planning, consulting, and party supply company based in Chicago, Illinois.

Creativiti offers a wide range of services, including event planning and coordination, custom decor design and setup, and party supplies, including custom invitations and banners. Creativiti Custom specializes in creating unique and personalized events that leave a lasting impression on guests.

​​How do you do it all?

The secret is I don't try to do it all! In reality, it is impossible for anyone to do everything alone, and attempting to do so can lead to burnout and stress. Don't be afraid to ask for help: As a mom, you're used to being a problem-solver, but it's okay to ask for help when needed. Juggling motherhood and business ownership requires strong organizational skills. I use tools such as calendars and to-do lists to stay on top of my priorities.

What is your self-care routine?

I typically wake up 15-30 minutes earlier to pray, read my devotional, and write in my journal before I start my day. Prioritizing self-care and incorporating it into my daily routine has helped me feel more balanced and energized, ultimately leading to greater success in my business and personal life.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their businesses but are hesitant because they're unsure about how to balance it all?

I would advise any mom unsure about starting a business to start small and build her business gradually as you gain confidence and experience. I also suggest seeking support from other mom entrepreneurs, business coaches, or mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and encouragement. When I started my business, I researched free business mentors and was connected with a mentor that gave me invaluable advice about how to build my business online.

Lastly, involve your family because starting a business can be a family affair! My entire family helps assemble products, make deliveries, and set up events for my business, which helps as I continue to grow my business. Your partner or children can help out with tasks or by providing emotional support.

Cindy Tawiah, Founder of Diva By Cindy

Tell us about your company.

Diva By Cindy is a hair care brand. We also have the Diva Day Spa and Healing Center.

How do you do it all?

I make sure I balance running my business with being a mom by keeping separate calendars for work, family, and children's activities. The biggest misconception is that moms can't do it all. We are able to multitask and balance life and work balance very well.

What is your self-care routine?

I get massages twice a month and have a healing and meditation room in my home where I retreat.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their businesses but are hesitant because they're unsure about how to balance it all?

I always tell moms that if you don't do it now, then when. The children will grow and go away, and you, as a mother, need to have a passion and purpose you can pour your heart into. Follow your heart and a way will be made; your decision to start your own business can become a catalyst and an inspiration for your children.

Tianna Trinidad, Founder of Loved Served Warm

Tell us about your company.

I am a Master's Prepared Registered Nurse and PCOS hormone coach. Loved Served Warm help women with PCOS learn to lose weight, fix their period, and have healthy pregnancies naturally.

How do you do it all?

I believe the secret to doing it all is in your morning routine. Before you pour into anything or anyone else, you need to ensure that your cup is overflowing so that you can serve from the overflow. That's why I named my business Love Served Warm.

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about mompreneurs is that you have to be all to have it all. When it's just the opposite. Learning to say no to certain things opens your capacity for the things that will actually help you to grow and achieve your best

What is your self-care routine?

My self-care starts in the morning. I wake up an extra hour or two before my kids and the rest of the world to first have silence. We often live in a world filled with so many distractions that we don't find the time to sit with ourselves and just breathe.

Next, I practice positive affirmation, pouring into my cup so that I can pour into others. Then I read something to stimulate my mind and keep my critical thinking in top shape. Lastly, I try to get some movement in, whether it's something like yoga, walking, stretching, Zumba, or anything else to get my heart pumping and ready for the day.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their businesses but are hesitant because they're unsure about how to balance it all?

The time will pass anyway, so why not spend it doing something that absolutely sets your soul on fire? We each have a dedicated amount of no we receive before we finally get that yes. In knowing this, allow failure to excite you because every failure means that you are that much closer to actualizing your own goals and dreams.

Amy Bien-Aime, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Greyson Enterprises

Tell us about your company.

I am passionate about helping young professionals and entrepreneurs achieve their goals through innovative and effective strategies.

Greyson Enterprises is a consulting and design agency provides emerging entrepreneurs with business solutions such as branding, project management, design, and more! With my extensive IT, Project Management, and Human Resources background, I provide entrepreneurs with the tools and insight they need to succeed online by structuring their businesses for impactful results.

Greyson Enterprises was established in 2019 as a side hustle and has now become a thriving agency that assists business owners with their digital designs and online visibility. At Greyson Enterprises, we believe that creating a successful business does not have to feel impossible to achieve. That's why we strive to make the process enjoyable for our clients by providing a fun and supportive environment.

How do you do it all?

As a mom and entrepreneur, I believe that balance is key. I prioritize my time and delegate tasks as needed to ensure that I can give my best effort to my family and my business.

I also remember to prioritize self-care, especially if I feel burnout lurking around the corner. Taking time to recharge and do things that bring me joy, like meditation, spa days, traveling, or even "girl time," allows me to come back to my work and family life with a refreshed mindset.

One misconception about mompreneurs is that we have to sacrifice one aspect of our lives for the other. With proper time management and support in place, we can be successful in all areas.

As a mompreneur and single mom, I'm proud to be an example to my daughter, Aubrey, that it's possible to create a fulfilling legacy for ourselves and our families while pursuing our passions.

What is your self-care routine?

Self-care is definitely a vital part of my routine. I prioritize mindfulness and meditate every morning, easing into my day with a clear and focused mindset. Additionally, I enjoy jogging to clear my head and get my body moving.

Mani-pedis, spa days, and brunch with friends are also great ways for me to unwind and recharge. I value "play time" with my daughter and often make it a priority to spend quality time with my girlfriends. I love to travel and immerse myself in new cultures, which is always an enriching and refreshing experience.

When I'm at home, gardening is a therapeutic activity that helps me connect with nature and spend time in the sun. By taking care of myself, I'm better able to take care of my business and my family, which is why I encourage all entrepreneurs and mothers to prioritize self-care in their routines.

What advice do you have for moms who want to start their businesses but are hesitant because they're unsure about how to balance it all?

Starting a business while raising a family can be challenging, but it's important to remember that it's not impossible. My advice for moms who want to start their own businesses is to take things one step at a time and to be patient with themselves. Break down new projects into bite-size chunks so that you can clearly see your progression so it does not feel as overwhelming.

Balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood also requires strong time-management skills and a willingness to seek support when necessary. It's important to establish a strong, supportive tribe, whether it's a partner, family member, or friend who can help with childcare or even outside support to assist with your business needs.

Finally, I recommend creating a schedule that works for both your business and family needs and sticking to it as much as possible. Carve out dedicated time for work, but also make sure to schedule self-care and family time as well. And don't forget; it's ok to ask for help when you need it!

Portia Mathis, CEO of BarBella Co.

Tell us about your company.

BarBella Co. provides nail care products like gel polishes and acrylic powders that are vegan, non-toxic, and cruelty-free for conscious consumers with reactive skin conditions. We help consumers by removing the worry from their self & nail care routine, so they can continually live a healthy lifestyle inside and out. Please help us be the voice to make changes to elevate the standard in the nail care industry!