Toledo-area mompreneurs are crushing it, balancing the demands of motherhood with creative businesses that serve the community. We asked seven local mompreneurs to share advice with other parents who are thinking of launching their own ventures. Read their experiences and be inspired!
Narges Barefoot: Crisp Olive
Narges Barefoot, Perrysburg mom of two, offers a curated collection of goods at trunk shows, local shops and her online website.
“Your first roadblock is mindset, then over- whelm, then repeat. Focus on your first step, that’s all you need. And find someone who has gone down the path before you.”
Mariah Maddox: Milk and Muse
Mariah Maddox, mother of a three-year old, combines her love of storytelling with visual mediums to capture mother-child moments in time. She also offers doula services and hosts community gatherings that honor and celebrate the experiences of Black mothers.
“If you’re thinking about starting a business, I encourage you to first make sure that you have a community you can lean on. Being a business owner is not straightforward, and there’s no blueprint that works for everybody. You go along figuring things out through trial and error, so you need people who can pour into you when you’re ready to give up. You need people who believe in you even if they don’t fully understand your vision. You need people willing to catch your tears and help you to lift your head up. You need people in your corner who will let you dream.”
Jocelyn Blank: Eco-Fill Shop
Jocelyn Blank, mom of three, operates Eco-Fill Shop in Bowl- ing Green. She offers non-toxic, low-waste products that discourage the use of single- use plastics.
“Time moves fast. Do not miss out on the kids while growing the business. Business can be done little by little, but you only have small children for a short time with no do- overs. Being a mom and business owner can be tough, but you can do it!”
Callisto Terra: Taylor Holloway
Taylor Holloway, mom of four, hosts classes in candle making, painting, jewelry and more.
“Get into it, friend! Utilize every resource and whenever possible, literally when- ever, include those kids. Empower them to learn and grow and offer insight. Children are a gift and they’re so observant. I don’t suggest the free labor bit people love to say, but allow them to work to give them a sense of responsibility for what you are building for the household you share.”
RELATED: Taylor Holloway Teaches the Art of Candle Making at Callisto Terra
Ana Bello: The Host Concept
Ana Bello, a Perrysburg mom of a three year old, offers balloon-themed party décor for a variety of celebrations.
“My advice is whatever you do, it should be something you are passionate about, something you love. Seek training and advice from professionals. This will help you on your entrepreneurial journey. Passion is very important because (your time working) is time spent away from your family, so it should be something you love that benefits the family. Toledo has wonderful groups of women who are willing to help you start your venture. Believe in yourself and your abilities.”
Tiana Lashae: Motherhood Portraits
Tiana Lashae, mom of four, specializes in family photography, with a focus on capturing the precious moments with newborns and parents.
“Finding balance between motherhood and entre- preneurship can be challenging. Scheduling time to do absolutely nothing is a MUST, especially if you’re planning to be the sole worker in your business. Curating the life you want as a mompreneur takes a different kind of science, including mental agility and flexibility. My neurodivergent brain has worked best having set work days and hours and sticking to that.”
Laurel Sanner: Laurel’s Princess Parties
Laurel Sanner, a mom of two, specializes in character entertain- ment, providing an immersive experience for birthday parties, community events and large-scale productions.
“The biggest piece of advice I can give to other mompreneurs is to just start. It’s easy to get caught up in waiting for the perfect time or feeling, like you need to have everything figured out first. I started my business with nothing but an idea, a costume and a passion for bringing joy to kids. If I had waited until I felt completely ready, I never would have taken that first step.”
