Business in Profile

RUDY & THE DODO

1. Briefly describe your business.

I am a Sydney based work at home Mum running my "terribly fabulous" online shop featuring quirky toys, gifts, clothing and homewares for little individuals aged 0-5 years.  I also offer a gorgeous range of French bags and goodies for mamas! www.rudyandthedodo.com.au

Our online shop was born around the same time as our second son, Rudy (now one) and is continually inspired by him and his older brother Hugo, who pronounced his name as "Dodo" when learning to talk. 

2. Why did you start your business?

As a serious shopaholic in days gone by (i.e. pre-baby) I was constantly frustrated by a lack of childfree shopping time and energy when searching for fabulous goodies for my own children and gifts for family and friends. With so many friends baby booming at once, it seemed there was always a new arrival, a baby shower or a birthday party around the corner so I decided to take things into my own hands and start up my own shop!

3. Has starting your own business lived up to expectations?

I LOVE it!  It has involved a LOT of hours working at my dining room table after my boys have gone to bed, but every thing I do is ultimately going to benefit us and the business.  Being in control of your own destiny is very rewarding.

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

The SHOPPING!  I am in my element when shopping for new and original goodies for the shop.  I source terribly fabulous stuff from all over the globe and get VERY excited when I make a new discovery. It has also shown me how women rally to help, advise, encourage and support a "sister" trying to do it for herself.

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

Balancing babies, husband, house, life, business and good old mother guilt. Occasionally, like most mums, I get a little worried I am not doing any of it well! I also find it tricky to switch off as I work from home and the laptop is only ever an arm's length away.

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

See above!  It's tricky but we somehow manage.  I have a great family support network with my husband, parents and in-laws and really couldn't get by without them.  I try to structure my week to incorporate both work days and play days with my gorgeous boys.

7. Do you have a favourite networking opportunity or event?

I am a member of Business Women Unite which is a site for business women (obviously!), however attracts a lot of Mums in the same boat as me.  This has presented some great business opportunities as well as the social aspect and reassurance of knowing you are not the only one with so many balls in the air. I have also held a few Rudy & The Dodo parties with friends which are a great networking opportunity and SO much fun.  Women love to get together so we combine this with champagne, cupcakes and shopping - the perfect evening in!

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

Just do it!  There will always be a reason or two not to, but if you are passionate about it and it is your dream, then go for it.  The best advice I can give is to choose something you are really passionate about as that makes it easier (even fun) to be working on your laptop at your dining room table at midnight.  It is so true.

For more information about Rudy & The Dodo ...click here