The focus of the Starting Small series is to introduce you to some amazing individuals who have built their own businesses from scratch. They are full of passion, life, and love. Once a month, we feature a new business owner, and pick their brain regarding how they started their business, advice for those who have/wish to have a business themselves, how they making time for themselves, and most importantly, which they love most about being a small business owner. I hope these individuals will inspire you, motivate you, and fill your heart with as much love as they've filled mine!
Bip and Bop is such a creative and whimsical name for your brand! What was the process like for deciding on this name? // I knew that I wanted a fun name that was memorable. Bip and Bop is one of many, many nicknames we have for my twin daughters, Brooklyn and Isabella when they were newborns.
Now that you've been in business for several Christmas seasons, what is one tip you'd give other business owners about managing the holiday rush? // Oh boy, Christmas season is so fun and crazy! I have learned (the hard way) to stock up anything and everything you think you will need. The last you want to do is delay shipping because you run out of something simple like jump rings or ribbons. I would rather be swimming in extra supplies than be stalking the mailman everyday, waiting for supplies. Also, learn to delegate anything you can! I always hire a couple of extra "elves" to help with wrapping and shipping.
If you could magically jump back to the time right before you started your business, what are three pieces of advice you'd give yourself? // This is so hard to answer, because I think all of the trial and error along the way has been a beautiful adventure that lead me to where I am now. There is a silver lining to every cloud. If you make a mistake, don't waste time by beating yourself up. Just figure out a lesson that can be learned from it and go from there. Learn to delegate because my little ones only have one childhood, and it goes by fast. Network with other small business owners and surround yourself with people who support your dreams and who can inspire and motivate you.
Describe a day in your life! How do you incorporate your business + family + personal time into your day? // I always start my day with a workout (hello, sanity saver!), come home and eat breakfast, get the girls ready for preschool, come home and work as much as possible while they are gone. I do everything from making the jewelry, answering emails, product photos, social media posts and all of the fun behind the scenes type stuff (and yes, I do need a virtual assistant!). Once the girls are done with school, they have my undevided attention. They love to do little art projects or bake, and I gladly oblige. After dinner with the girls and my husband, it's bathtime and bedtime. Once the girls are in bed, my hubby and I usually try to spend time together binge watching our current favorite netflix show.
From your signature hand-stamped necklaces to your amazing collection of earrings, Bip and Bop has it all! Do you currently have a favorite piece?! If so, why is it your favorite? // I literally wear my "Skinny Jessica Bracelet" and my "Jessica Necklace" 24/7. The best part of these pieces is that they are so comfortable that I usually forget I'm even wearing them.
You started Bip & Bop as a way to work while raising your adorable twin girls! How have they inspired your brand? // My daughter Brooklyn had a really rough start in life and had a feeding tube and open surgery within her first year. She has since overcome every obstacle that life has thrown her, with a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She is proof that with a little determination and the right attiude, you can do anything you put your heart to. If I ever feel discouraged about anything, I remember those days and everything she overcame.
What has been the most rewarding experience since beginning your business adventure? What has been the most challenging experience? // I wear my heart on my sleeve, and have had a couple of customers that have been downright mean, mostly because they are able to hide behind their computer screens. I have come to realize that you can't please everyone, and 99.999% of our customers are thrilled with their purchases, and later become return customers. I think the most rewarding part about my business adventure is seeing our customers cherish their jewelry, wear it 24/7 and tell their friends and family about my business. That's how I know we have created something special.
Want to know more about Nicole, and her amazing business, Bip & Bop? Follow her on Instagram, and check out her beautiful website!
