BETH SCHUTTE Founder, The Little Monkey Company Children: Isabella, 11 and Penelope, 2
Tell us about your company. My idea for developing a high-neck baby bib began in March 2017, when I was feeding solids to [my daughter] Penelope. Her neck was breaking out in a rash and her clothes were getting stained because the bibs did not provide enough coverage. After searching the market and finding nothing, I decided to create my own. What inspired you to open your business? My fiance. When I told him my idea, his immediate reaction was, “Go for it!” How do you balance motherhood and your career? It’s important for me to be fully present with my girls because I know I won’t get these years back. I’ve learned to focus on the business while they are in school or sleeping. What motivates you? My daughters motivate me and keep me going every day. I know they are proud of what I’ve accomplished so far, which makes me want to continue to succeed and grow my business. Advice for other moms wanting to start a business: Know that anything is possible if you have passion and you are willing to put in the effort. Start with a checklist and focus on accomplishing one or two items a week. Before you know it, you will have checked those items off your list and you’ll be ready to get the next set done. How have your children influenced you? Penelope inspired the idea and Isabella offers input on everything from bib design to marketing. I also named two of the seven bibs after my daughters. What lesson do you hope to pass on to your children? Failures serve as motivation to help you move forward, and small achievements lead to big victories. Most valuable lesson you’ve learned since opening your business: When one door closes and someone tells you no, another door or two always opens.
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Uptown May ‘19