Contestant's Case to Win

My company handcrafts inspirational and customized bookmarkers made out of laminated fabric. My business is home-based and I started it from the ground up using fabric scraps donated by my sister-in-law. I am a single mom raising 4 children, two of my own and two of my sisters (ages 5, 11, 13 & 14). I started selling my book markers at arts & craft shows and after a few years was offered the opportunity to put them into retail stores. I am a small business and do not have the revenue of a large company, so right now I am responsible for running every aspect of the business which includes but is not limited to marketing, advertising, bookkeeping, manufacturing, distribution and even building and managing my own website. There are also times when I must go to a store to setup a display or to deliver an order. Many days are very challenging as I often must combine the daily operations of running the business with my primary role which is being a MOM. This is the job that has unlimited responsibilities, but is very rewarding. This is a family-owned business where each of my children have some responsibility in the company. It has provided us with an opportunity to do something positive together and has taught my children to believe that with hard work and determination a vision can truly become a reality.

My bookmarkers are unique, eye-catching and extremely durable. They make wonderful gifts and are all originals. No two will ever be the same. I feel that I should be considered as one of the 200 winners of the National Leading Mom’s in Business Competition because being a mom and running a business can and is often very challenging. As a winner, it will provide some great advertising for my company and would expose my business to a much broader audience.

I thank you for your consideration.

Janet Parker