Mum in Business

Puka-Puka - Nina Still


Tell us about your business

I create modern handmade mobiles under my Puka-Puka label, which in Japanese means ‘An object floating gently in space’. Puka-Puka mobiles are contemporary works of art that reflect shapes, colours and landscapes, each mobile is unique.

I launched Puka-Puka in 2007, after a little research, and sourcing Australian made materials and manufacturers.

My Studio is based in Sydney and I am generally a sole practitioner. www.pukapuka.com.au

Why did you start your business?

I couldn’t find any mobiles I loved, and I wanted to work creatively for myself. After working in Architecture for a while I got sick of sitting in front of a computer, I needed to get my hands dirty again making things!

I have also studied to be a jeweller so making mobiles is a great fusion of architecture and jewellery.

Has starting your own business lived up to expectations?

Yes, it seems to just keep growing without me pushing it!

While sometimes I miss working within a team of people, I also enjoy the solitude of making. I love working in the studio creating beautiful things and it is very satisfying when your customers sincerely thank you.

What have you enjoyed the most about running your own business?

Being my own boss, and flexibility with work hours and work places. Sometimes I take all my tools and work up the coast.

What is the biggest challenge for you in running your own business?

The biggest challenge is making sure I am thinking creatively and developing new lines for the future, rather than just getting on with the day to day running!

We tend to go away for the weekend quite regularly and this helps me stay inspired.

I am not particularly business minded, so keeping up with promoting and marketing is an area I need to work on! Another challenge for the near future is how to delegate and outsource.

How do you manage the juggle of running your own business with family?

I don’t have high expectations of getting everything done, and I don’t work full time so I can take the kids to the beach when they ask!

I have a 3.5yr old and a 2 yr old so they need to run around, I aim to tire them out in the morning so I can get a little work done in the afternoon rest zone.

Having time for me is always a challenge with young children, so I try to go for a long swim, this invigorates me.

Do you have a favourite networking opportunity or event?

Online mainly, at the moment I don’t have time to go to many events.

I do go to the Life in Style trade fair to see what is around. Meeting with retailers is also great, they can give invaluable feedback.

Do you have any advice for anyone out there who may be thinking about starting their own business?

Find a niche, be original, and persevere!

Running your own business can be a little daunting at first, knowing you have to juggle everything, you need to be prepared to work pretty hard, and truly believe in what you are doing.