LOVE what you do and how you do it with Amanda Lee (Interior Motives)

Tell us about the first steps you took in starting your business?

I knew from the beginning that I wanted to sell my products online and work from home. Having 2, very active, small children I needed my business to be flexible. I have a passion for interior styling, DIY and being creative. So I looked at what I could create to fit in with the current market, trends and I also wanted to make something practical. I came up with the Magnetic Poster Hanger because I couldn’t find a poster hanger on the market that suited the style I like, was affordable, and didn’t damage the posters or photographs they held. Secondly I looked into how I was going to advertise and get my product out there through social media, website, makers markets etc.

What is a personal habit that you believe contributes to your success?

I like to get things done. D.O.N.E Tick them off and start the next job! I can’t sit still without thinking about what I could be doing right now and how much time I’m wasting by not doing it. So I think by having this habit of not procrastinating and also the fact that I absolutely love making my products and sending them out, definitely contributes to the business’ success. I still view it as a hobby and not ‘work’ because I love it so much!

Give us 3 tips on how to use Instagram to boost business

#hashtagitup. Using hashtags that relate to your post allows people to find your photo and feed easily.

Network. IG is an amazing community, especially for mumprenours. I’m blown away by the amount of talented mummas out there who have created something amazing from scratch and are running successful business by themselves. We support each other, ask questions, share stories and become friends. So definitely get yourself and your business out there by making contact with others who share a similar market or style.

Clear, well photographed posts are a must. I feel I’ve improved a lot since starting but I’d love to do a mini photography course to learn the basics and pick up a few tricks. I think that would help a lot of newbies entering the instaworld too.

How do you balance #mumlife and business life?

I don’t lol. It’s a constant battle, one that I often loose. I try to dedicate certain hours to work and stick to it so I can still enjoy doing mummy things with my girls. But I think the beginning stages of any business are quite full on and it does require a lot of attention. Interior Motives Aus has been running for 6 months and each week I feel like I am picking up easier ways of doing things, becoming more time efficient and creating a work schedule that allows mum time. Being organized is key.

What one piece of actionable advice would you give someone just starting out?

Be kind online : be helpful, be encouraging, build relationships built on genuine interest, and have integrity. Just like in the real world, your reputation and the way you treat others is important and helps build strong networks that last. Also. Make sure that you love what you’re doing. If you love your product and your brand you will be motivated to make it a success.

A Mum with Hustle you admire and why

Kate from Little Dwellings – She has created an amazing business from scratch with equally amazing styling all while being a mother to two gorgeous children. She is friendly, helpful and supports other small businesses like mine. I admire her work, enthusiasm and dedication to her family and making her business grow. And most of all you can tell that she really loves what she does, very inspirational.