Tell us a bit about YOU and your family (where you are based, single / married, number of kids, etc)
My name is Karen Randall. I’m married with an 8 year old daughter. I’m a mom :, photographer, story writer and game ranger (and yes, I really am qualified to catch venomous snakes:). We live in the beautiful bushveld town Hoedspruit in Limpopo Province.
What is the name of your company and when did you start your business?
My business is called BushyTale. I started this business in March 2009. I also have my own photography business since 1996.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I would say my biggest inspiration to start my own business was to be home with our daughter. I left my full time corporate job when she was born 8 years ago. Being a Mom was my first priority, but I still wanted to live out my passions. I love being able to manage my own time and be there for our daughter. Children grow up so fast! It is such a privilege to be there for our daughter, to see her grow up. My love for the nature is also a great inspiration. I love being able to share our wonderful animals, plants and bush with children all over South Africa.
What are the challenges you face or have faced being a working Mom and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge must be to manage my time, especially working from a home office. I have to be very careful not to spend too much time working. I’ve overcome this by setting down some “rules” for myself. I work mostly in the mornings. In the afternoon after school, I spend time with my daughter, doing homework, playing, etc. My work hours then start again after her bedtime. My working hours can sometimes be very long, but I love the freedom of managing my own time. When business is very busy, I get great support from my husband and daughter.
What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business?
I think the biggest struggle is marketing. A unique product like BushyTale is not easy to market. I’m however learning every day, and loving it!
How do you balance your business and your family?
My first priority is to be the best mom I can be. Then, I do business. Client service is my biggest priority in my business. I therefore put everything in when my daughter is at school and work later at night to get everything done. Weekends are family time (with a peek every now and again into my inbox when the house is quite).
What or whom has been the greatest support for you and your business?
My greatest support comes from my family. My husband supports me tremendously and helps wherever he can. My daughter has a great imagination and is a free spirit. She is my inspiration (and Bushytail’s biggest fan). My business fits our family like a glove. We love the bush and we dream together!
If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
I’ve learned so much, I will not change a thing!
What advice can you give other Moms out there who are starting a new business?
It is hard work to master your freedom, but it is so worth it! With the right attitude, you can do whatever you want to. Follow your passion!!
If other Moms would like to keep in touch, how can they contact you?
I would love to hear from other Moms!
Email: karen (at) bushytale.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/BushyTale/334966862150
Website: http://www.bushytale.com
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