Shop Small Supports Families.
Turning from working professional to SAHM (stay-at-home-mom) I needed something that was creative, challenging and connecting me to other people because motherhood can be, and for me was, extremely isolating. That's why I decided to turn to blogging. It was a creative outlet getting me outside of the four walls of my home. But as I began to really dive into the world of blogging I quickly learned that it was more than a community of individuals writing about their favorite clothes, products, and places to travel but it was actually a network of people, mostly women like me, who were trying to do exactly what I was doing. We were all trying to provide for our families while helping and supporting other small business owners who were trying to do the same thing for their families.
A beautiful chain of women, bloggers and business owners, supporting each other.
Here are a few of the amazing small business owners that I have been able to partner with in this adventure and hope that you consider to shop small with them not just the Saturday after thanksgiving, but every day.
Meet Maria from Citi Babies.
Where are you from?
Grew up in WV, lived in Northern Va for 10 years and recently moved to North Carolina to be closer to family. Any Children?
2 boys - 1 year old and 2.5 years old. Atticus is the oldest and is very meticulous and determined. Elias is the youngest and is happy-go-lucky and caring. What is your favorite thing about mom life?
My favorite thing about Mom life is taking in the boys' innocence. I love watching them try to understand their emotions and relate to others' feelings. I love when they help with cooking or do yoga with me or simply talk to me about the color of the sky while walking the dog. Their observations are so clear, unfiltered, and untainted. It's absolutely refreshing!
Why did you decide to start Citi Babies?
We started the shop in hopes to simplify and improve the mainstay products of parents. We also hope Citi Babies will eventually allow us to have more flexibility so we can spend more quality time with the boys
Favorite quote?
"You can do anything, but you can't do everything." I think as Moms we try to do too much and it's a good reminder that we are strong, smart and really can do anything but we need to not put everything on our plate at once.
Shop at Citi Babies here
Meet Maddison from Gray and Mama Co.
Where are you from?
Northern California but living in Southern California
Any Children?
Two amazing boys!
Favorite thing about mom life?
I feel like being a mother will be the most selfless thing you ever do in life. You give your all day in and day out for this little human that you've loved before you even knew what or who they would be. On the days that you are just so drained and exhausted, they look at you with a little smile or cuddle you and say "I love you". Those moments are the best thing about mom life. Those little moments that remind you how amazing life really is and how lucky you are to be their mama.
Why did you start Gray and Mama Co?
I started Gray and Mama Co when I quit work to stay home with the boys. As much as I love staying home and raising them I knew I needed something that was just mine, just for me. My little shop is ever changing and evolving just as I am. I love the community of people I have met and can't wait to see where it takes me.
What do I hope to gain from it?
I hope to show other women or mothers that they too can do whatever they set their mind to. I hope to show other people that when you put your heart and soul into something, only positive and good energy can come from it!
Favorite quote?
Ohhh that's a hard one! I love quotes and read them every morning. One of my favorites would be, "Good things come to those who work for them." Or, "there may be bad days, but this is not a bad life."
Shop at Gray and Mama Co here
Meet Miranda from Steph and Kate.
Where are you from?
Columbia, MO
Any Kids?
No kids yet, just two cats, Steph & Kate.
Favorite thing about being a cat mom?
We love snuggling with our fur babies and alway being surprised by the crazy situations they get themselves into.
Why did you start Steph and Kate?
Since we got married and bought a house we have been seeking out well made unique items to fill our home with. We are both creative and crafty and decided to make some of items ourselves and now we are hoping to share our small batch products with others.
What do you hope to get from it?
It's a great outlet for us creatively and we really enjoy how much time we get to spend together as as a team building our business, learning new skills, and having a lot of fun in the process. Favorite quote?
"Doing your best in this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment" Oprah Winfrey.
Shop at Steph and Kate here