Contestant's Case to Win

I think that the majority of moms will tell you that being able to stay at home with their kids and run a home-based business to support that is their ultimate dream. This entrepreneurial subtype is the foundation that "home-based" businesses were built on. For most, it is a mere fantasy. But, I found a way to turn that fantasy into reality shortly after my son was born.

I had been searching online for some cute slogan onesies and tees and was sorely disappointed after hours of shopping. I would find the slogan I was looking for, but the design was awful. As a graphic artist, I am extremely picky about font choices, proper kerning... and cleanliness. I just couldn't stomach putting my child in something that was not esthetically pleasing to me. After ordering a few that I could live with, I was let down again by the quality and style of the garments - not to mention the lack of color options. So, I decided that the only thing to do was to make my own!

My father paid his way through college by running a screen printing shop for sororities and fraternities. He expanded into housewares when I was growing up, so I had first-hand knowledge of what it took... as well as a wonderful mentor to guide me. I purchased my equipment and supplies (all on credit) - and hit the local festivals and bazaars. My designs were modern, fresh, simple, funny... and even a little controversial. My collection included only what I would be proud for my own son to wear. And, as it turns out, there were people out there with the same taste as me!

In 2006 I opened my doors to the world by designing my own website, and even using my second son as my model - doing all of the photography myself. Within the first year, I was able to pay off everything that I had charged to my credit cards when I initially started... and my overhead remains very low to this day. I do everything out of my garage! I am proud to offer over 250 designs for babies in several styles (and in all sizes) - all of which my customers can color customize to their liking. Shipping is free and my pricing is reasonable for the high quality baby tees and onesies I meticulously chose for my designs. My screen printing is top-notch, holding up wash (and dry) after wash.

I continue to attract customers who are looking for the same thing I was back in 2004. They "get it". They aren't afraid to spend money on dressing their babies in high quality fashion - as long as they can find it. The recent recession hasn't affected my little business in the least - parents are still spending money on their children, even more than on themselves. That won't ever change.

Running my own home-based business has been extremely satisfying and tons of fun. I wake up each day super excited about it. But, best and most important of all, I don't have to miss a minute of my sons' precious childhoods!