After a year of research, planning, preparation, crafting and good old-fashioned hard work, Rebecca Cousins officially opened Freckles Crafts for business in March.
Freckles Crafts specializes in unique, convenient, educational and fun craft kits for kids ages three and older. All of their crafts are uniquely designed, hand packaged and created with the parent and child in mind. “With Freckles Craft Kits there is no more feeling overwhelmed with having to come up with craft ideas, go to the store (often with kids in tow) locate the craft materials, and get home just to realize you forgot something to complete the project,” said Cousins. Each craft kit comes with everything you need to complete the craft including simple, detailed instructions.
Cousins said that she struggles with some of the same things that many other work-at-home-moms do.
“Working from home is wonderful because it allows me the freedom to be with my children and be a daily presence in their lives. On the other hand, when you work from home it can be difficult to separate work time and family time. I have had to learn to set boundaries for myself so that I am not constantly tending to my business,” she said.
She said in order to maintain balance, she often wakes up early to answer e-mails and check for orders that need processed. Then, at night when the kids are in bed she assembles craft kits while spending time with her husband. “When it comes to housework, I am very fortunate that my husband takes a very active role in keeping up with the daily chores,” she said.
“The biggest lesson I have learned from running a home based business is that I have to let some things go. My house may not be the cleanest and I may not always be able to volunteer for every PTA event, but by keeping my focus on my family and our goals everything else just seems to fall into place,” said Cousins.
Like many mom business owners, Cousins feels that you should be passionate about your business. “Running your own business is very rewarding but also a lot of work. When you have a passion for what you do, the long hours required to run your own business will seem less like work and be more enjoyable,” she said.
She also said that it helps to have a great support system of family, friends and business mentors. “I am so fortunate to have a great support system of family and friends who are always willing to listen to my ideas and offer advice or resources to help me achieve my goals. Having a cheering section can really get you though those tough days when you begin to wonder what you have gotten yourself into!” Cousins concluded.
In addition to the main website, Freckles Crafts can be found on Twitter and Facebook!