Meet a Canadian Mompreneur

The birth of a baby is not only life-changing but, for many women, it can also be inspirational. At Lusso Baby we are proud to celebrate the Canadian women who have taken on the challenge of being moms while at the same time launching a new career. Inspired by the needs of their own children, these moms have created unique, organic and engaging products that parents everywhere can love. In our new column, we will present our fans our favourite Canadian-made goodies, from clothes and shoes to toys and strollers.

THIS WEEK: KINDEREL
WHO: Liana Arsene
CLAIM TO FAME: Bamboo sleep sacks and baby clothing
PHILOSOPHY: Merging style and sustainability

Can you tell us a bit more about your sewing background and how you came across the European sleepwear that inspired you?

My grandmother introduced me to the world of sewing as a child. I always loved to sew clothes for my dolls, later fashion dresses for myself and my sister, and now of course, for my little Gia. When she was a baby she didn’t sleep well and my mom sent her a sleep sack from Europe, where I am originally from. She enjoyed it, and, surprisingly she slept through the night, but there were some flaws in the design. I designed a sleep sack for her, which captured all the elements that I wasn’t happy with in the products found on the market. That was the very first project that later on Kinderel took over.

How do you balance work with being a mom?

Life is a battle with time. There are always challenges that you have to manage. The most difficult part is when you have to extend the working hours and to postpone a walk in the park or play time with the doll house.

What are the challenges of running your own business? The benefits?

The greatest benefit is that you can learn from your own mistakes. The greatest challenge is that you make mistakes and have to manage the consequences. The good part is that you can enjoy doing what you love. Serving your customers well is the greatest reward that you can have as a business owner.

What is your favorite creation so far and why?

I believe in all our items that I’ve designed. Our mission is to create safer and healthier environments for happy babies. Our babies deserve a good start. I’m proud for my last creation: the nightie without side seams, but I love them all.

What do you wish someone had told you about starting your own business?

I was lucky that prior to starting my business I took the Self Employment Program at Douglas College and I’ve been mentored by skilled advisers. It was just unbelievable how much business knowledge I’ve learned. It would have been much worse without being prepared on how to start a business.

What’s your advice for the moms (and dads) out there who are thinking of launching their own business?

Don’t just jump into it without doing your homework. At the very minimum, prepare your market research and a business plan. The ideas can be great, and it’s easy to get excited, but you have to see the numbers on paper prior to starting. It is better to make your adjustments ahead rather than figure them out a couple thousand dollars later.

What’s next for Kinderel?

We’ve just prepared to launch the new crib line, which is completing the sleep theme. This is honoring my grandmother, Mimi, who was born on October 17th. We’ve already started working on some future projects, but we haven’t decided yet what will come out the funnel.

And when will Kinderel be available at Lusso Baby?

Look for Kinderel products launching Saturday October 16th at Lusso Baby as part of our first anniversary celebration! Join us at the Lusso Baby store at 1037 Marine Drive in North Vancouver any time October 15th through 17th for treats, surprises, and big savings.

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2. Word of Mom: Stonz
3. Word of Mom: Boské Kids
4. Word of Mom: Peekaboo Beans
5. Word of Mom: Sugglings