Rena Rau tells us how she supports and celebrates fellow mothers with her business, Bubsmamy.
We love entrepreneurs and small business owners at Honeycombers, which is why we’ve created Launchpad, a digital networking platform (with IRL benefits) that encourages connection, business support and community. It’s a privilege and pleasure to learn from so many talented folks! Looking for inspiration? Check out how Rena Rau, the founder of Bubsmamy, gets it done like a boss.
Tell us the story behind your business.
Bubsmamy was inspired by my journey into motherhood, especially during the challenging times of Covid-19. Like many new mums, I felt a loss of identity as I navigated the demands of parenting in isolation. This little project that started out of our HDB rented apartment has now pivoted to curating products that could address the issue many mothers face: the lack of functional yet stylish brands that mothers need.
Many products in the market focus on the baby, but I wanted to focus on mothers. Our flagship product, the highly-rated diaper bag, combines practicality with fashion, helping mums feel confident and organised while on the go. Bubsmamy is about more than just selling products; it’s about supporting and celebrating mothers.
What are some milestones or achievements you’re most proud of?
One of the milestones I’m most proud of is coming out of the Covid-19 lockdown and attending my first trade show. For someone with no prior business or product experience, this was a significant step in my entrepreneurial journey. Gaining recognition organically and running Bubsmamy as a small business is something I never envisioned. Building a community around Bubsmamy, where mothers message me privately to share how my curated products have made their motherhood journey easier, has been the biggest fulfilment and inspiration.
Share with us a setback that taught you a valuable lesson about running a business.
As a mum juggling many roles, a significant setback I experienced was trying to grow Bubsmamy faster than I could handle. This led to burnout and stress, leaving me unable to enjoy time with my kids and family. It was a tough period, but it taught me a valuable lesson about balance and setting realistic goals. I learned to take a step back and appreciate the present season of life. It’s possible to have it all, but it’s crucial to set the right priorities and make a mindset shift. This experience has made me more mindful and intentional in managing my business and personal life.
Describe a typical day in your life and what you love most about it.
A typical day for me starts early with getting the kids ready and sending them to preschool. After the morning fun with the kids, I reset the house and enjoy a coffee while calibrating what’s on for the day. Then, I head to my warehouse office space to dispatch orders from the day before, check my emails, and handle any admin work.
In the afternoon, I focus on my business and marketing strategy, plan social media content, and work on the creative aspects of Bubsmamy. Later, I pick up my kids, cook dinner, and shift my attention to family time. Once the kids are in bed, I spend time resetting the home and connecting with my husband.
What I love most about my day is the blend of work and family life. I cherish the flexibility to be present for my kids while growing Bubsmamy. The support and feedback from our community of mothers is incredibly rewarding and keeps me motivated every day.
What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show that has influenced your entrepreneurial mindset?
I love podcasts. My favourite show is “How I Built This” by Guy Raz. It’s incredibly inspirational and offers great insights into the mindset of running a business through the stories of successful entrepreneurs. Each episode provides valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and the power of perseverance.
In the local scene, I enjoy listening to “Who We Are” by Rachel Lim. It really gets me thinking about my personal development journey and how I can grow as a person and a business owner.
Another podcast that has greatly influenced me is the GaryVee Audio Experience. Gary Vaynerchuk’s energetic and no-nonsense approach to business and life is motivating and practical. His emphasis on self-awareness and the importance of adapting to change resonates deeply with me.
These podcasts have been instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial mindset and approach to personal growth. They provide continuous inspiration and practical advice that I apply to my journey with Bubsmamy and everyday life.
Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
My first tip is to just start. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect; take the plunge and begin working on your idea. We’re all just winging it and making it work for us. Overthinking can lead to paralysis, so take action and adjust as you go.
Embrace your uniqueness; you don’t have to be the same as others. Every business is different, and everyone has different goals and priorities. Focus on what makes your business unique. Build a strong network by surrounding yourself with supportive mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, and industry experts. Networking provides valuable advice, resources, and opportunities for growth.
Top tip for maintaining a good work-life balance?
Prioritise and disconnect. It’s okay to let go and set boundaries.
Favourite thing to do on weekends?
Family time, of course! And anything that fills our bucket with the kids.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I worked as a registered staff nurse at a local general hospital for almost two years!
Get in touch with Rena Rau online.
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