I'm always interested in female-led small businesses I come across. Let me introduce you to Melissa.
Tell us a little about yourself and what you do.
I’m a 33 year old single mom, soon to be married. I’ve always had a passion for baking. Due to retrenchment, I decided to take the risk and go full time into Milliepops Creations. I was always praised for my work and thought why not use my own skills and talent and create my own brand. I love what I do and I’m all about creating. My mind sometimes is like a maze with so many ideas.
How old is your business now?
I’ve had Milliepops Creations as a side business for the past 3 years. I’ve gone into it full time since May 2020.
How did you come up with the idea of and name for your business?
An ex-colleague, a very sweet lady. Whenever she would come for her daily coffee or food purchase, she would always refer to me as Millie. She was always impressed with all my baking and how great it looked. That’s where Milliepops came in. She would always tell me her daughter thought I was a genius with all my cakes and baked goods. Milliepops just 'popped' for me and I thought why not. It was somehow linked to my name. I added creations because I love creating.
What is that “one thing” that this Lockdown period has taught you and that you will be using in the future? How will you be doing business differently?
To be humble and have patience. It has also taught me responsibility and to always help others.
What makes your business unique?
My products are made with lots of love and I always try and go out of my way to help my clients.
Are you a solo-entrepreneur or how many members does your team currently comprise?
For now I’m solo until I’m able to setup my own kitchen in the future.
How do you market your business, and which methods have been most successful for you?
Mainly Facebook, but I also use Instagram and my Whatsapp status.
What does a typical day look like for you? And how many hours, on average, do you work daily?
During the week it’s relaxed; weekends get pretty hectic. Saturday’s from early morning until about midnight, even later.
How has being an entrepreneur affected your life?
It’s given me freedom. I have more time to myself but it’s also allowed me to be as creative as I want. It has taken me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to put my own skills and talent to use.
If you could go back in time and start up your business all over again, what would you do differently?
Gain more knowledge regarding how to run a business.
What is one piece of advice you’d like to give to someone just starting out?
Never give up even when things are tough. Keep going and keep a positive mind-set.
Where can we find your business on social media?
Facebook page link: Milliepops Creations
Instagram handle: Milliepops_creations
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