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-Name:
Leslie Danford
-Name of company and year launched:
Vitaminis (2020)
-IG handle:
-FB link:
https://www.facebook.com/VitaminisBrand/
-Kid(s) and Ages:
3 boys (ages 8, 7, 5) and 1 girl (age 1)
-Where is your business based?
Western Springs, IL
-What was your “aha” moment that made you decide to start your company?
In 2020 I got laid off from my job in hospitality as a result of the pandemic and our daycare and school were shut down. I had more time on my hands and was thrown into primary caregiver role. I have always been disappointed in the convenient family friendly snacks and beverages I saw in the market, which were full of sugar and void of nutritional value. This was really brought home when I was fully in charge of feeding the kids all of their meals and snacks!
When we were getting ready to send our kids back to school, there were few natural and convenient options to boost their immunity aside from super-sugary gummy vitamins. We also dealt with a bout of consitipation during this time and wanted a more natural solution than laxatives. I had my aha moment!! The market needed a natural food and beverage solution for minor health concerns that suits the whole family, with no added sugar or mystery ingredients. The idea for Vitaminis was born.
-What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting a new business?
Starting your own business can certainly be daunting. I would offer two pieces of advice to conquer this fear. First, think about the small concrete steps that you would need to get started, such as interviewing a potential customer or purchasing a web domain. Breaking things into small steps feels more manageable, and these small things can add up to big things. Second, keep in mind that entrepreneurship is a learning process. You don’t need perfection right off the bat, in fact, perfection can be the enemy of progress. Do the best you can and remember that the process will bring learnings that you can use to continuously improve. Nothing is set in stone!
-Do you have any #momhacks/ #parenthacks to share that makes this easier?
Be present. Whether I’m working or spending time with my four kids, I try to make myself fully present to maximize each moment. That means unplugging from work when I’m with my kids and setting aside my phone. Likewise, when working I create a quiet workspace where I can focus without interruption. I find that trying to multitask both short-changes each side and can be very frustrating for everyone.
-Name one regular routine you have implemented to keep your family running smooth.
We do family dinner every night, no screens! Even if it only last a few minutes, it’s a great time for us to reconnect as a team. I love to go around and ask everyone their favorite thing from the day or one thing they learned, mom and dad included!
-What is one piece of advice for new parents that you wish someone told you before parenthood?
Don’t try to do it all I used to take pride in doing everything myself without any help, but that was futile and I burned out fast. Now I realize people often want to help, so I just ask, whether having the kids help with chores or asking a babysitter to fold a load of laundry after the kids are in bed. This makes more time for me to spend quality time with my family without being exhausted, resentful or otherwise short of patience.
-When you have time to yourself, what do you do to unwind?
Exercise, including running and yoga, are therapeutic to me. I can let my mind wander, reduce stress and sleep better, all while feeling like I’m accomplishing something and taking care of myself. At first I felt guilty taking this time for myself, but I’ve come to learn that self-care helps me be the best mom and professional I can be, so everyone benefits. Plus, I’ve had some great insights to business problems I’ve faced while working out!
-What is one product you can’t live without?
The Bumco diaper cream spatula! Keep that nasty cream out from under your nails!
-Fave mom influencers:
@tiny.talkers
@chikidsfeeding
@playingatyourplate
@katiecassman_
@lovedandplanted
@amandatice
-Last show you binged:
The Bachelor
-Last book you read:
The Most Fun We Ever Had, by Claire Lombardo
-Favorite quick family recipe:
Baked potato bar (full disclosure, my husband is usually in charge of cooking! I’m a terrible cook!)
-Favorite beverage:
Arnold palmers (ice tea and lemonade)
-Go to take out:
Indian
-Favorite dessert:
Soft serve
-Would you like to share a unique coupon code for the BCB community?
use code VITAFAM20 for 20% off at check out
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