1. How did Peekaboo Beans Inc. begin?
Peekaboo Beans—a name born out of trying to get my daughter, Cailin, to eat her veggies—was created in 2006. As a new mother I often wondered why toddler clothes were so complicated and fussy. I equated dressing a child to dressing an octopus. At this stage in their young life, they are hardest on their clothes; they are learning to dress, potty train, coordinate, and gain a sense of style and individuality. Why did the simple task of dressing have to be so difficult? I didn’t have time for fussy dressing; I was an active working and very busy mom, always on the go.
Then as the clincher, my husband would show up to various social events with our daughter dressed in very “imaginative” combinations. So that did it. I took matters into my own hands, and alongside a superb team, I created a line of children’s playwear for boys and girls aged infant to eight. It is everything a mom wants wrapped into one playwear line—no-fuss dressing for kids, stylish and totally comfortable, well-made for constant play and of course completely “daddy proof”!
2. What is the biggest challenge in being a mom entrepreneur?
Accepting the reality that there just isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done. To remember what would we tell our children—just do the best you can every day!
3. What are some of your greatest successes?
Taking a stand for kids and creating a brand of clothing that supports play, independence, freedom and ease for children. From a media standpoint, winning Best in Show at the New York Children’s Club and Parent Tested Parent Approved Media Awards last year.
4. How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
I am not certain a perfect balance exists when raising a young family and growing a business. I have decided to enjoy moments when they are in front of me and to feel grateful for all that I have. I have finally realized that I cannot do everything and to accept help when offered. If I want to make a bit of time for just me, it would include one or all of the following, The Spa, Shopping, Instyle magazine, a good bottle of red and Hawaii anytime!
5. What tips can you offer to other busy mom entrepreneurs?
I think one of the hardest things to do is to live in the moment, with juggling so many things. Be as organized as you can in advance, so you can be “IN” the moment at any given time. If you are with your kids focus on them 100 percent; if you are working, focus 100 percent on that. I try to imagine little nicely wrapped gift boxes of thoughts—wrap them up and stack them in a closet until you need to open them. It doesn’t always work, but it is a good start!
6. Why do you think women are good entrepreneurs?
I think women have great common sense, great instincts and creativity, and are amazing multitaskers. Women can be strong but empathetic, inspiring and insightful, smart and savvy!