November 19th is Buy From A Black Woman Day.

Created by Nikki Porcher as a way to bring awareness and support to black women business owners, Buy From a Black Woman Day is part of her nonprofit buyfromablackwoman.org.

On the nonprofit's website you'll find business resources, a directory, and a swag shop. 

If you'd like to support their mission, you can learn how to do that here.

For this blog post, we wanted to highlight black MOBs. These women are  community builders, artists, trailblazers, and more - learn more about them below!

For even more highlights, check out last year's blog post.

What inspires you? 
​
I love all things art related! Also being a mom gives me an edge on my face painting business, as I'm mostly working with children, because I'm constantly inspired by my own 11 year old daughter, Londyn.

What lessons have you learned this year? 

Just when you think you've taken on all you can, stretch a tiny bit more; you'd be surprised the opportunities that can happen.
​
What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

Being a MOB (and also a single mom) means setting a first hand example for my daughter on how life has so many options. Also passing on the knowledge I have to future women entrepreneurs so that they can avoid making mistakes that I've made by doing things by trial and error.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

You're different, and that's ok. It's going to be your biggest advantage one day!

Connect with Celese:
www.mystiquesfancyfaces.com
www.facebook.com/mystiquesfancyfaces

What inspires you?

Fearless people.

What lessons have you learned this year?

The importance of momentum.

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

Being a mom business owner allows me to role model entrepreneurship and the benefits to work family life integration for my children.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

To be present more, trust the voice within and to be fearless.
 
Connect with Tiffanee online:
www.theunicorndreamer.com 
www.winnasium.com/
​www.instagram.com/winnasium 
https://www.facebook.com/TheUnicornDreamer/

What inspires you? 

When I'm creating I'm very inspired by vintage art, fashion, movies, and photography. I love to take inspiration from something old and give it a modern and fresh spin.

In terms of business, I'm inspired by people/business owners who never gave up and created something out of nothing. I'm also inspired by people who are unapologetically themselves.

What lessons have you learned this year? 

I've learned that as a mom & wife with BIG dreams, it is not the responsibility of my husband and kids to rearrange their lives to subscribe to my dream. Just because I have big dreams, doesn't mean that they have to accommodate them. I learned to work my dream around THEIR lives. I don't feel entitled to insert my dream into their lives. So I learned to work around it. It was hard AF. But I also learned that there is ALWAYS a way to get the job done if you are willing to pay the price.

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

In my experience, it has been extremely difficult learning how to balance both things. It is like operating two businesses at once. I definitely try to keep those 2 things separate as much as possible.

I think mom business owners are the most dynamic, exciting, and successful because there is so much more on the line. We can juggle 10,000 things at once while also giving our kids and partners everything they need. We are incredible because we tend to put our needs LAST. We take care of everyone else first, and lead our lives with love and care making us incredible business owners. That's pretty bad ass!

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Don't worry about how long it will take to accomplish your dream. The time will pass anyway. So just work hard, stay focused, and eventually you will make it!! You are exactly where you need to be. 

Connect with Sarah:
https://www.poppnmag.com/
https://www.instagram.com/poppnmag/
https://www.popawardspdx.com/ 
​https://www.instagram.com/popawardspdx/
​

What inspires you? 
Pain.
​
What lessons have you learned this year? 

Keep going, no matter what.

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

It means creative control over my time and unlimited possibilities to put what matters to me most, first.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 
Cry standing up.

Connect with Denise:

https://www.doriandenise.com/
https://www.instagram.com/doriandidwhat/

​What inspires you? 

My customers inspire me as well as keep me on my toes. Daily I’m challenged by being creative on the spot and I love it when I get a fun festive order that someone says I trust you and have no fear in my artistic ability.

What lessons have you learned this year?
 
Bring a brick and mortar store is hard but not worrying about what what others are doing just do your own thing. Trust the journey. Also on a business note I have learned tons about SEO and how it is important to constantly work on this.

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

Being a mom business owner means that not only does your family know your mom but having them stand behind me and know my family is proud of all the things their mom has accomplished. They make me very proud.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Stop and eat! Life on the go won’t take you anywhere. It’s OK to enjoy it you are the boss!

Connect with Selena:

www.westlinnflowers.com
https://www.instagram.com/westlinnflowers
https://www.facebook.com/westlinnflowers/

What inspires you? 

Life in all of its ups and downs inspires me. Kids inspire me. The potential for growth inspires me, the state of the world inspires me. My community inspires me, and the need for diversity and representation inspires me and my entire staff.

What lessons have you learned this year? 

Greatness comes from the inside out. THE WORK THAT YOU DO ON THE INSIDE will manifest itself on the outside when the alignment is right. Never underestimate the importance of working on yourself as a tool to build strength in everything else.
​
What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

For me, it has been about creating a community that I am proud for my kids to grow up in, contribute to, and be a part of. It is about them seeing me follow my dreams so that they are relentless in following theirs.

It is being an example that moms can be multifaceted, strong, purposeful, passionate, and career driven while also having a family. It is inspiring my kids to create a life that is supportive of their own HAPPINESS.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 
​
INTUITION NEVER LIES.

Connect with Vanessa:
www.xcapedance.com 
www.instagram.com/xcapedanceacademy
www.instagram.com/vanessafullerdance
www.facebook.com/xcapedance

 DB Dessert Company is one of Portland's most creative bakeries providing superior quality desserts, pastries and custom cakes.

​What inspires you? 
​
I am inspired by so many things from my children to my community and my fellow baker friends.

What lessons have you learned this year? 

This year I have learned that entrepreneurship is a beast and my mindset is more important than any thing else to be successful

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

It means a lot to me to show my children what it looks like to chase a dream and to fight for what you want in life.
​
What advice would you give to your younger self? 
Shake the fear in life and just jump.

Connect with Damala:
www.dbdessertcompany.com
​www.facebook.com/DBDessertCompany
https://www.instagram.com/dbdessertcompany/

​What inspires you? 

The ability to do something I was told I could not do!

What lessons have you learned this year? 

My brick and mortar opened on April 22, 2019. On July 28 (my birthday) the trailer I use to haul equipment and set up portable pop ups was stolen from behind my facility. The hurt and feelings of violation were plentiful. When the dust cleared my insurance agent informed me that the trailer was included in the wrong policy and was not covered! Triple check ALL the paperwork and make sure your t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted!

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

It means I have the chance to show my children that they can balance both being a parent and running a business. Being a MOB allows me to have flexible scheduling so that I can work around school events, conferences and still be present.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Not everyone is a supporter of your dreams and goals. Protect your heart from the negative.

​Connect with Janita:
www.instagram.com/thetribecalledsweat
www.jjtstudios.com

​What inspires you? 

Helping people become their best selves!
​
What lessons have you learned this year? 

I have learned to dream again. Before becoming healthy myself earlier this year I was just existing, and I had come to accept that as commonplace. I couldn’t remember feeling differently. Now that I’m ALIVE again, I have started to plan and dream for the future versus making it through the next hour or day. I know that the future is possible. Making it bright is up to me.

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

As a single mom it means that I don’t have to worry about the number of sick days that I have left when my son gets ill or has a doctors appointment. I can attend most (if not all) school events and field trips. I can volunteer in my sons classroom in the middle of the day and pick him up from car line. To sum out up, I don’t have to choose my career or my son. I can have both.
​
What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams! Even when others don’t support your vision. Surround yourself with a community of like-minded people with similar goals to support you along your journey.

Connect with Marla:
www.facebook.com/groups/thelibraryescapade www.instagram.com/marlagreen.mbb
www.facebook.com/mindbodybooks

What inspires you? 

Having the ability to make others feel glamorous, fashionable, resilient with each piece I design, inspires me. Helping to change the narrative of how we see ourselves & feel about ourselves, inspires me.

Knowing that I offer not just a product but an experience that celebrities receive all the time.....that feeling of being uplifted and appreciated, that feeling of being adorned & recognized. Making an impact in even the smallest way inspires me to keep doing what I do.

What lessons have you learned this year? 

This year has taught me how to pace myself. That I am an intricate part of the world around me. I've learned that my voice is more powerful than I've recognized. That just because someone doesn't see the value in what you do/say/create doesn't mean that it's not valuable!

What does it mean to you to be a mom business owner? 

As a Mom of 5, I am instilling in my children that no matter what their gift or talent is that they can go far in their endeavors. However, these endeavors require hard work, patience, persistence, and self-motivation.

I am creating a mindset that shifts the cultural norm that says we get a good education, earn a degree or two, and go dedicate our lives to a company until your old enough to retire. Seeing that life doesn't happen that way. I am teaching my children that you don't have to stop at just working for someone else when you can build while you work. Your dreams can become a reality if YOU want them too.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Push pass what others think and embrace the lion that's within.

​Don't be afraid to roar or be heard. Someone is waiting on what you have inside you to be released. Your next is the catalyst for their first. Be careful what you're loyal to because some may just be loyal to the "need" of you.

Connect with Marcia:
www.facebook.com/designs.by.leyon.mccoy
www.instagram.com/designs_by_leyon

Fawn Dietz is a foodie, mom of two, and lives on a mini farm with chickens, a big garden, and lots of fruit trees. She shares “I have just enough space to have lots of chickens, a large orchard, a big backyard, and as big of a garden as I could ever hope to tend. We have lots of apple and plum trees, a couple pear trees, an extremely old Concord grape vine, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and of course as many blackberries as we could ever want.”

She and her family live about 30 minutes outside of town which gives her the connection to nature she needs. “I love gardening and being outside. Putting my hands and feet in fertile earth makes me feel so connected and at peace. Feeding my children food that I have grown and teaching them about where food comes from feels so right. They know food doesn't come in plastic packaging from the store. We plant seeds together and watch them grow. They know what ripe and unripe food looks like. This doesn't always translate to them eating it all, but their tastes will develop with time,” she explains.

Fawn has been cooking and getting creative with food since she was a kid helping her mom in the kitchen. They lived outside of town with the nearest grocery store was 25 miles away. Fawn learned to use what was available in creative ways.

After her son was born, she realized he wasn’t growing as expected. “He was born a big guy but was tiny by the time he nine months old.” Her son would eventually be diagnosed with celiac disease. Fawn says once gluten was removed from his diet he started growing and hasn’t stopped yet!

While learning to cook in ways that were safe for her son, Fawn realized she was gluten intolerant. When her daughter was born, Fawn recognized the symptoms of a gluten allergy in her as well. Although her husband has no food allergies or sensitivities, he’s supportive and their entire home has been gluten free for over six years.

Fawn’s Eugene food cart is called STFU & NOM. STFU stands for “Sustainable, Tasty, Fresh, and Unconventional.” She opened it in 2018 with a desire to bring delicious food simply made to more people. She is proud of the fact that her gluten-free food is so good that many new people to her cart don’t realize the food is gluten free.

STFU & NOM’s menu items include dishes like Pulled Pork Panini, Duck French Dip, Steak with Red Wine Reduction, Latkes, Rosemary Garlic Fries, Pear Salad, and Butternut Squash Soup.

Fawn says that being raised by a single mom who worked for herself showed her the benefits of owning her own business. “I saw that she was able to make that decision on working- what is too much work and how much enjoyment vs money from work. She could take days off to feed her soul in her garden. Now she takes time to go to Mexico to do that as well,” Fawn explains.

She is also grateful for the support of a close friend “She is able to be that ‘hard truth’ person for me. She convinced me to make some difficult changes to the business that now at the heart of the business as it is now,” she explains.

Fawn also says there are several professional women chefs she admires.
“Just before my daughter was born my husband and I took an overnight trip to the coast. We had a beautiful dinner at Restaurant Beck which is in this little hotel on the side of Highway 101 on a cliff looking over the Pacific Ocean. It doesn't look like much on the outside. The inside is a wonderfully comfortable, intimate dining experience. What I loved the most about it was reading where all the ingredients that were in each dish came from. They only used in season and local products. The food told the story of our region and is one of the places defining Pacific northwest cuisine.”


Fawn says her biggest struggle in business has been getting carried away with ideas and possibilities. “When I first opened I had so many great ideas that I couldn't contain myself and we ended up with a new menu every day! I would try to make decisions based on what people were buying, but I was so eager to please I lost myself a bit into it. I have learned to really design a good menu I needed to look inside myself and what I want to cook and present and give, not what everyone wants,”

She would advise someone thinking about opening a food cart to work for free in the coldest and hottest months to understand exactly what the work can be like. “It is hard, back breaking work. But if you love it all the personal and family sacrifices will make everything worth it.”

She’d advise her younger self to trust in her food and to have faith in herself. She loves hearing compliments on the business or her food and knowing she is completely responsible for it.

Fawn loves when someone new comes to her food cart saying they heard about it from a friend. She also loves that her cart is entirely gluten free. “When someone says they heard we have gluten-free food and ask what the options are for them, they don’t always believe me! They say, ‘but what about this item?’ and I get to tell them its gluten free. They get so excited! I've even had people cry before.”

Shannon Lee, owner of Shannon Lee Strategy, was inspired to start her business in 2010 after spending 20 years in corporate marketing. “I was ready to get out. I wanted to simplify online marketing. Marketing strategists often talk over potential clients. I’ve found that if you explain things in simpler terms, you gain trust and get the business,” she explains.
 
In her work as a marketing strategist she helps entrepreneurs simplify their online strategy. She says her work has influenced the success of large and small business organizations, non-profits, and entrepreneurs.
 
Shannon looked up to Sue B. Zimmerman, an Instagram expert, so much she hired her as a mentor for her own business. 

Shannon’s biggest struggle may come as a surprise, but her biggest challenge is marketing herself. “I have no problems telling my clients what to do, but when it comes to my work, I get stuck! Luckily, I have a mastermind of other strategists who are help me.”

She advises someone who has a full time job but is interested in starting a business to work around their day job before going out on their own and to believe in themselves.


Shannon says being a member of the MOB Alliance has changed her business on both a personal and profession level. Personally, she’s made great friends, and on the business side she has gained referrals for new business.

She shares that one of her favorite MOB Alliance benefits is the tightknit and active Alliance community. “The Facebook group is very active and there's always someone to help when it's needed.”
 
Shannon’s best referral is someone looking for marketing coaching. Her special offer for Alliance members is $20/month off her coaching programs and any referral who signs up, earns the referrer $50.
 
 
Connect with Shannon online:

www.www.instagram.com/shannonleestrategy 
www.shannonleestrategy.com 
 

We’re excited to profile Jalynn Schroeder, one of our speakers at MOBCON 2019! She’s a mom, multiple business owner, leader of a multi-million-dollar direct sales team, and speaker who has been building her online brand since 2009.

Jalynn says she has always been interested in being an entrepreneur. “I have always had an entrepreneur head and heart and my passions are what drove me to the businesses I have now,” she says.

She started her Red Closet Diary blog in 2009 during a hard time in her life. “I was suffering with massive anxiety and in a very terrible marriage. I have always loved fashion and it was a perfect outlet. I named my blog The Red Closet Diary for a few reasons. First, it was my diary. I was sharing my life and experiences. Second, I love what the color red stands for and wanted to always remember that: energy, strength, power, and determination. Third, I always wanted to paint my closet door red. Go figure! After I finally got divorced, I took a break from my blog to find myself again.”

​Once she started her blog again, she never looked back. Over the years she has had opportunities to work with amazing brands and meet great people. “It was slow growth for me, but that was all on me. Getting out of my way and learning how to identify and deal with my anxiety was a long process. I took very slow baby steps and didn't do much outside of my comfort zone,” she explains.

In 2016 she discovered LipSense and a new path was opened to her. “I fell in love with a lip color that didn't come off. I loved it so much I jumped on board and became a distributor for SeneGence, most know from the product LipSense. I saw a killer opportunity and even better product and I wanted to share it with the world.”

Jalynn immediately understood that selling a product like SeneGence meant she’d need to step outside her comfort zone and push herself in new ways if she wanted to grow. “It's been three amazing years and I have grown leaps and bounds. Do I still struggle with anxiety? Yes! But I have so much more confidence and I have learned so much that has really helped me hit the fast track to seeing success. The first 10 months of that business venture my team sold 19 million dollars in product. The next 12 months we sold 48 million. Getting out of my way and making the decision that I was going to be successful, really paid off! This is where my business, The Red Closet Beauty came from.”

Her Red Closet Beauty business has taught her how to build a business from the ground up and how to be a leader. She says she has gained confidence while helping other women to do the same. 

“In November 2018 I re-launched my shop, The Red Closet Shop. It was previously a fun hobby that I would do occasionally. When I re-launched, I treated it like a business, and just like my previous business I hit the ground running. Just in a few short months we have grown from almost nothing to seven-figure earnings a month. My major goal for the shop is to not only offer fun, bold and unique pieces but to offer clothing for every body type,” she explains.
 
Jalynn shares that part of her mission with The Red Closet Shop is to show women that when they feel good on the outside, it gives them more confidence to shine from the inside. She also believes the key to her business success has been staying true to herself. “Through all my businesses it's been super important to me to stay true to my brand, which is ME! I am not selling product, I am selling myself, selling my mission, selling my dreams!”

She says her biggest struggle in business has been to find her people. “I'm not willing to change my brand for others. But sometimes it is hard to find "your people". The people that love what you do, love what you are selling, and love you. I have lost a lot of followers being so open in every part of my business, but I’ve also gained so many! It is hard finding your audience, especially if you have a very specific audience, but when you do, it makes it all that much better!”

She would advise new business owners to start now instead of waiting for the perfect time. “I hear people say, ‘as soon as I do this, I'll start’ or ‘as soon as I have more money, I'll start.’ If you wait for perfect, you will NEVER start! It's just like having kids. Were any of us fully ready to have a newborn? No! But we did it anyway,” she says.

She would even offer that advice to her younger self! “Be confident! Don't let anxiety run you. I can't imagine the things I could have done if I would have jumped in earlier!”

When things get challenging, she relies on her whys to offer clarity and direction. “You HAVE to have a why for every business. You have to have something to fall back on when times get hard.”
 
Jalynn says she loves everything about working for herself. “I love that I can make my schedule (aka 24/7), I love that I have control over my income. I love that I get to be creative and I don’t have to report to anyone! it's so rewarding in every way!”

Get tickets to hear Jalynn speak at MOBCON.

Connect with Jalynn online:

https://shop.theredclosetdiary.com
https://www.instagram.com/jalynnschroeder
https://www.instagram.com/theredclosetshop
https://www.instagram.com/theredclosetbeauty

Etc Eatery
6500 SW Virginia Ave.
Portland, OR

Etc Eatery is a laid back restaurant in SW Portland. Located just off of Macadam, it is a great meeting place for those on the Westside and close-in Eastsiders.

The menu is casual and creative with some fun options for kids. The play area is stocked with books and toys to keep the little ones happy while adults enjoy their food.

Full Belly Fare

Full Belly Fare's highly customizable and unique dishes make it the best meal delivery option in Portland. 

Highlighting organic and local when possible, Full Belly Fare creates healthy, delicious meals delivered right to your door. They go beyond just being Portland's best paleo choice! With options for keto, gluten free, dairy free, soy free, and so much more - Full Belly Fare has you covered!

Fan Fare Theme Catering

Fan Fare Theme Catering is the place to go for fun catering with a twist. Their special skill is helping you celebrate with creative themed menus that set the tone for your party or event. 

Although they love a good geeky event, Fan Fare can also create winning menus inspired by books, travel, tv shows, and almost anything you can think name!

Mundo Catering

Mundo Catering caters weddings, events, and film productions in the Portland area. As one of Portland's premier film catering companies, they understand the challenges of feeding a crews with different dietary needs. 

Their ability to deliver great food, on time, and thoughtfully prepared to your event makes them a stand out. 

Etc Eatery 

Etc Eatery's catering brings the taste of the Pacific Northwest to any event - corporate, wedding, office lunches, and more. 

Their restaurant space is available for events and their Bar Nomad travels to wherever you need it to go!

Gifford's Flowers
704 SW Jefferson St.
Portland, OR 

Whatever your floral or plant needs, Giffords Flowers has an arrangement or plant for you!

As one of Portland's oldest flower shops, they have the experience and skill to create whatever you need. Although they are best known for their creative and stunning wedding arrangements, Gifford's can also fulfill your special occasion or "just because"  arrangements. They can even deliver flowers weekly to your office or home as needed. 

Mary Rose NW Boutique
509 Main Street
Oregon City, OR

This cute, size-inclusive boutique is located in downtown Oregon City. Their motto is "Where all women are beautiful and deserve to feel that way."

A portion of each purchase goes to support the Mary Rose Foundation and helps to fund eating disorder treatment for those struggling with the financial aspects  of recovery.

Cascade Cigar & Tobacco
9691 SE 82nd Avenue
Happy Valley, OR

Home to the largest cigar humidor in the Northwest and a 1,200 square foot smoking lounge complete with leather furniture and multiple big screen televisions, Cascade Cigar & Tobacco recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. 

Their dedication to customer service, selection, and welcoming atmosphere make them the best cigar store in Portland.

How Sweet It Is
3530 SW Multnomah Blvd.
Portland, OR

​A small batch candy and confection company made with quality ingredients, How Sweet It Is is quickly becoming one of Portland's most creative and best candy stores.

Some of their creative confections include Rosemary Brittle Bark, Zebra Grahams, and Brownie Bites make with three kinds of chocolate.

Brick and Mortar Grooming and Supply
1429 SE Hawthorne Blvd.
Portland, OR

Brick and Mortar Grooming and Supply goes beyond just haircuts! This is a comfortable, welcoming space with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available while you wait.

Here you'll find traditional cuts, fades, and beard clean-ups as well as straight-razor shaves. Children's cuts and play area also available as is a retail section to meet your grooming needs.

Hearing Resources Audiology Center
4311 NE Tillamook St.
Portland, Oregon

Offering hearing heath care for both children and adults, Hearing Resources Audiology Center is the destination for evaluations, hearing aid technology, and other assertive technology.

HRAC is also passionate educating the public about hearing health care and education. 

Candace is a wife, mother and founder of Hello Wild Baby Co. She lives in Northeastern Nevada with her husband of 5 years and her two daughters.

She says she enjoys long nights of sleep, sarcasm and a delicious cup of coffee. “You can find me adventuring outdoors with my family, hiking, hunting, and camping or in a cuddle puddle on the couch watching the most recent Disney princess movie obsession with my babes. I have had an entrepreneurial spirit for much of my life and don’t like to sit still for too long.”

She founded Hello Wild Baby Co after quitting her job to be a stay at home mom. She tried a few different MLM’s and small business ideas that didn’t get very far. “I learned pretty quickly that being a stay at home mom was not my jam and I needed something more stimulating for my soul. I didn’t want my one year old to be raised by anyone else but I also couldn’t stand not doing anything for myself. Over the past 3 years it has grown from there into a way more balanced mom and work life but it took a great amount of time and quite the journey.” 

She says the best part of working for herself is being able to be with her kids and watching them grow while growing herself and her business. “As a bonus I get to show my daughters right in front of their eyes that hard work and dedication pay off. You can be a mom and a business owner if you truly want it,” she says.

Candace started by making bibs for her daughter. “She was so slobbery and I hated all of the bibs on the market at the time. I wanted something stylish and cute that didn’t have wording or pastel animals on it and that meant that I would have to make it myself,” she says.

Candace and her sister were chatting one day and realized they felt the same way about the baby industry and what they wanted to do to make it different. “We came up with a rebranding of both of our businesses together as one, in about an hour in her kitchen.  We rebranded to Hello Wild Baby Co with the intentions of making nature inspired baby goods for all the wild babes and started with a small collection of prints. Since then, my sister has left the business to pursue other things and I have carried on with the same intentions to make baby goods and now clothing, modern, fun and wild,” Candace explains.

Candace says she is inspired by Alison from The Alison Show because she enjoys her free spirit and boss babe attitude.

​“I have watched her brand herself over the years and have been so intrigued with everything she has done. She is so inspiring with her story and all of her success in podcasting, branding and now teaching all of her magical knowledge to all the small business owners who want to learn.  Her class has helped me find my motivation for my business and grown my vision to where it is an actual brand instead of a side hustle.”

Candace’s biggest business struggle has been online sales.

She says it is hard for people to understand the level of quality her products have when they can’t touch them. “My in-person experience with customers is always fun and invigorating because of the amount of support and kind words I get from people who see my work. But online has been an entirely different animal for me and the main struggle for the existence of my business. But I see it as a challenge to keep me growing and improving in my marketing strategies and have grown in my website development, social media vulnerability, and confidence around random small business skills that pop up,” she explains.

If Candace could go back in time and give advice to her younger self she would say: “It is ok that being a stay at home mom is not what you hoped and dreamed. It is ok that you still need something beyond being a mom to fulfill you as a person. Your kids know you love them and you are and will be just the right mom that they need. Also growing a business takes a ton of time and hard work. Celebrate the little successes and keep going! Because this will all be worth it in the end no matter what the outcome. This journey of growth is so worth all of the struggle! And snuggle those babies as much as you can because they will grow too fast.”
​
When we asked her what advice she’d give to a new business owner she said, “Part of me would want to warn them about all of the things you are not aware of having to learn and do to run a small business. But then if I would have known all the challenges and struggles I would have to face, would I still have done it? It is important to know that starting a small business is not easy and usually not the best way to make a bunch of money. It takes a ton of time, energy and most of all dedication to even get to a profitable state. But don’t let any of that deter you because I would do any of this all over again even if it meant my business wasn’t growing. Because this journey of learning new skills and growing myself as a person has been so incredibly rewarding as is. Please don’t give up on yourself and your business if it isn’t working at first, or even after the 100th attempt at a new strategy. Most successful businesses and people went through a ton of failed attempts and “no’s” before they got to where they are. It does not happen over night like it may seem.”

Candace has two sets of ideal customers.

The first are grandmas or friends of a baby mama looking for a unique baby shower or infant birthday gift to give. “I offer different gift set options or separate items for purchase to make it easy to put together exactly what you are looking for and price range.”

The second are moms who prefer higher quality, modern, and stylish baby goods for their own babes. “Moms who do not want to know the gender of their baby until birth are also great clients because I offer a wide variety of gender neutral prints and items,” she explains.

Candace says the MOB has been a way for her to connect with other women who are going through the same mom and business struggles that she is facing.

“It is great to have a community of like minded, strong bosses who can teach you and help you grow as well. I also have enjoyed the collaboration aspect of the MOB. I’ve been able to work with many MOBs in my area and all over the country to grow my business or help theirs too. I love when there is a post about a business need and multiple people are tagging you and promoting your business to support you. It’s a great feeling knowing you are not in this alone!”

She says she loves free meetups for MOB Alliance members and being a part of the private Alliance Facebook group.  “It has been great to learn from the MOB talks and grow in the different topics talked about. And networking with the new women at each meetup has been so beneficial as well. I have made great connections that have grown my business reach and built up my business in ways I never thought possible. I also enjoy that the group is all over the country and love that I have connections in several different states if I need anything at all because there’s always a MOB for that.”
She offers 15% off to MOB Alliance members.

Connect with Candace and Hello Wild Baby online:

www.hellowildbabyco.com
www.instagram.com/hellowildbabyco
www.facebook.com/hellowildbabyco
www.pinterest.com/hellowild

​Melanie is a SAHM mom of three children and a member of the MOB’s Boise, Idaho chapter. Although she is new to the MOB, she says she is excited to be a member and can’t wait to see where her business goes! Her favorite benefits are the opportunity to meet and connect with other mom business owners in her area and the educational aspects of the weekly MOB Talks.


She decided to start her business as a way to stay home with her children and bring in extra income for her family. She’s lived in several places and spent five years in Germany when her husband was on active duty. She says she loves to spend time with her family.

She’s an enthusiastic fan Thirty-One Bags and credits the company for providing support and encouragement. “They are always encouraging consultants of every level to have faith and confidence in yourself and your abilities,” she explains.
Melanie says she looks up to fellow rep Rachael and says she’s been a great help on Melanie’s journey.

She says her biggest struggle has been finding her own groove with sales and marketing. “I am naturally very shy and breaking out of that has been a struggle. I also do not have a very big social circle which makes it hard to expand out to others.”
Melanie advises new business owners to have faith in themselves and know they make it work She says  “You can do anything if you just have the confidence to put yourself out there! Know your product and have the passion to inspire others!”

Her ideal referral is someone Anyone who loves Thirty-one as much as she does. “Ideally, I would love for someone to love it enough they choose to join my team and make their own opportunities with their own business,” she explains.

She loves the freedom and flexibility that comes from working for herself. “I work when I choose to work and I’m still able to volunteer in my children’s classrooms. I get to make memories with them instead of being stuck working in an office doing something I don’t enjoy.”

Melanie offers MOB Alliance members free shipping on orders over $50. You’ll need to contact her with your directory listing link to claim the special.

Connect with Christy at www.facebook.com/christyjones31bags
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​Sara and her husband started Bend's Woody Tree Service in 2012 when they realized there was a need for qualified, safe arborists with forestry backgrounds and power line certification. She says “We knew we wanted our own business. We had those qualifications. Our parents both owned their own businesses. We decided it was time!”

She says she runs her business like her father ran his - giving the best service to their clients while treating their employees like they are the most important product they have. Sara says she is proud of what they do. “We provide fair, safe, clean and prompt arborist services to a community we live in and care about.”
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Since the business is seasonal, the biggest challenge is finding business in the off season. “The first year we didn't work from October to March....yikes! We have continuously had less and less days off in the winter. Thank goodness! Now the only month we would like to see more business is February,” she says.
She tells new business owners to have tenacity. “Don’t give up. Find a way to make it work. Show up every day. Ask a bazillion questions to people who admire in business. DONT GIVE UP!”

Like many businesses, Woody Tree Service gets most of its business from happy customers. “We quit all advertising two years ago, except for social media and Google. We found that our word of mouth advertising was giving us the most business by far! What a compliment of how we run our business!”

​Sara says the MOB has enriched her life and her business and she loves the educational benefits. She’s also grateful to the women who created and grew the MOB.

“I was asked to come to MOB by another member, Alison Mata, last fall. It was on a day that was, like always, so slammed. The last thing I wanted to do was go across town and meet new people, I put my game face on and I showed up to life!

I think of how that one choice enriched my life and our business. The education from the speakers alone, was well worth coming. I was renewed with energy from the speakers and armed with some really applicable advice for our business.

The contacts I have made have become a business support staff. We are all walking different business paths, but its like we have a huge company of talents sharing different goals, but helping each other create success in our individual companies! Like employees you don't have to pay! Lastly, I suddenly had a group of ladies that related to my life and business struggles. There was an instant feeling of camaraderie with these wonderful women.”

She would tell her younger self “You will be successful, because you won't give up. So to make life easier, pick something you absolutely love to do! Follow your bliss."

Sara says she loves working for herself because it allows her to create her own schedule and enjoy the things she loves. “I do not have to worry about who will take care of my kids, or when I can go on vacation. If I am sick I don't have to give up vacation days. If there are sports for kids, I can leave and watch them,” she explains.

She offers MOB Alliance members free estimates.

Connect with Sara online:

www.woodystreeserviceinc.com
www.facebook.com/woodytreeserviceinc
www.instagram.com/woodytreeserviceinc

​Anna DeSalvo is a health mentor and time strategist to working moms in demanding jobs. She specializes in moms with older children to help them create sustainable health habits, household systems, and routines. Anna says, “I love working with other busy women to help them see what is possible for their lives through better time management.”

She was inspired to start her business when she found herself in the same situation as many of her clients. She was overwhelmed and her health was suffering. “I was a new wife, a mom to a teenager, dealing with mom guilt and unable to manage my health. My life had been taken over by anxiety, tight jeans, and tears. I really wanted to change my life, help others change theirs and potentially find more time to spend with my family,” she explains.

Anna is inspired by women like Rachel Hollis, Melanie Mitro, Kelsey Shackley, and Chalene Johnson.
“All of them have inspired me in some way or another to dream big and GO FOR IT. Chalene Johnson has taught me how to systemize my time, outsource help, create crazy big goals, and reverse engineer. Melanie Mitro gives me no BS talk when I need it. Kelsey Shackley is a systems genius. Rachel Hollis gives me the strength I need to wash my face.”
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Anna believes owning a business is a mindset journey. “In the beginning, I read personal development because it was part of my job. Now, I read personal development to keep myself doing my job. So many no's, disappointments, highs, and lows. It's hard to remain positive and pushing forward. That said, I feel so much stronger now pushing through each obstacle and I give less cares than I did in the past,” she explains.

She would tell her younger self that it is ok to be bad at something. “In fact, you better get really OK with being bad at something for a while until you get good at it. I tell my students this all time, but it's much harder as an adult. I wanted to be so good at sales, or marketing right away. I had a business degree for goodness sakes! At the end of the day, there is always something to learn. To be great at anything, you have to suck a lot first.”

She recommends that new business owners to connect with mentors and inspiring people in their field and to trust themselves. She says, “Look for people that are doing what you want to do times ten and follow them to surround yourself with like-minded people. I also think a huge piece is to follow your gut and senses while taking in content. When all else fails, learn to trust yourself!”

Although Anna loves the freedom that comes with working for herself, she admits it can be tough. “You really have to be disciplined to get up and do the work. I enjoy pushing myself to accomplish new things and setting my own success,” she explains.
 
The best client for Anna would be a working mom of a young teenager who often feels overwhelmed by life. She says, “They are hard on themselves about "dropping the ball" because they have 10,000 of them juggling at once. They often are too tired or busy to take care of themselves but have a loving spouse. They are tired of living an overworked life and are ready to take on their health journey!”

Anna says the MOB has impacted her business by giving her the opportunity to be surrounded with likeminded entrepreneurial women. “When the MOB Alliance came up, I joined right away without attending one meet up. My first meet up, I joined as an Alliance member. I just went all in because I knew I needed others like me to become my best self.”

She says she loves that MOB meetups are included with her monthly membership. “It takes away the excuse that it is difficult. I enjoy that I can grab a ticket online and show up. It is very casual but professional. My biggest goal in being part of the MOB Alliance is to grow in my business, mindset, and friendships. I look forward to meeting more MOBs!”

Anna offers MOB Alliance members her Busy Mama Meal Planning Course for free with any purchase of a health package.

Connect with Anna online:

www.annadesalvo.com
www.instagram.com/a_de_salvo
www.facebook.com/desalvoa

Kallie Kerne has a degree in Business and a Property and Casualty license. She's a boy mom,  an optimistic hope giver, and a lover of all things health and wellness.

Her passion is to advocate for people, help them seek out that little voice of intuition, and encourage them to share their story. 
She is the founder of  Faith and Frankincense, a health and wellness community. 

Connect with Kallie online:
https://oily.life/faithandfrankincense/
https://www.facebook.com/faithandfrankwellness/
https://www.instagram.com/kalliebkerne/