This horse-riding momtrepreneur created a nifty product that was in such high demand from her community, she just had to make it her business!

What business did you start up?

BearHugs Unlimited.  I produce and sell the BearHug, a 3-in-1 Kids Blanket.

What motivated you to do it?

The incessant requests from neighborhood families for a BearHug after I made the initial ones for my own kids…and my husband…

How many children do you have, and how old are they?

Three. The oldest is a girl, 12, then a boy, 9.  Our youngest is also a boy, 4.

How long have you been running your business?

Since June of 2006.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?

Quite a while, I must say, as my growth had to happen during a recession!

How did your family react to you starting your own business?

They were the ones pushing me to do it! I think the kids thought it was pretty cool.

Easiest part of your job?

The creative process.

Hardest part of your job?

Selling.

What skill would you most like to improve?

A ‘take-no-prisoners’, ‘eye-on-the-ball’ zest for the Big Sale.

Can you recommend 3 essential websites for moms in, or going into, business?

I love the community and support of Citymommy.com, WorkitMom.com and hatchnetwork.com.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

The design of the BearHug.

Favorite part of a typical day?

I feel so moved when a parent emails me with their kids’ reaction to the Hug!

A few more questions, just because American Express should be featuring more momtrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition…..to be happy.
Fondest memory…..riding my horse through the forest on a fall morning.
Indulgence…..my daily soap opera!
Last purchase….. fabric for my kids’ Halloween costumes.
Inspiration…..nature, music, people.
My Life…..is full of surprises, occasional detours, love, wisdom, pain, beauty.