“Find a need and fill it. If you do, you’ll be rich.” I remember my father’s words during dinner-table conversations that would often center on his fascination with innovative products and the people behind them. Perhaps that’s where my own interest in business was cultivated. The result: nearly a decade of reporting on women in business, with an emphasis on female entrepreneurs who took an idea and birthed a company. That’s why I grabbed this cover story assignment for myself!
My father’s theory has played out for the 11 Orange County moms we profile in this issue; mothers who made the choice to stay home with their children, but who also want fulfilling careers. Most have a different spin, however, on the definition of “rich.” To stay-at-home-work-at-home mothers, the flexibility to call the shots regarding their own hours (where and when they work) is the payoff. That’s worth more, some would say, than any corporate gig might pay.
I share my dad’s fascination with the people behind the products. Take, for example, Shona Killoughery of Huntington Beach. This mother of two isn’t home crocheting doilies for the neighborhood bazaar. She designs and markets her own apps for iPhones. How cool is that?
And then there is Joanna Warbiany and her sister, Tara Hoke, who took their inspiration from their mother’s Rice Krispy treats and launched a business. Laguna Niguel-based Krispy Dips makes and sells the grown-up version of those treats you loved as a child. They’re also a favorite of team moms looking for that perfect treat for snack day.
The creative types are making and marketing their own jewelry in a big way, but not just pretty bangles; they’re incorporating motivational messages with their products. Read more about Jan Thomas, who founded Loved Unconditionally, which manufactures and sells “affirmation bracelets” designed to remind the wearer that they are “enough.” Jamie Dadant created Circle of Sentiments, a business that specializes in personalized hand-stamped jewelry, often with the names of children or special dates stamped on the items.
For now, these women all continue to make the “stay-at-home” part of their title a priority. However, many plan to grow their businesses once their children are in school and they have more time to devote to work. Don’t be surprised if some land on a special annual list published by our sister magazine OC METRO, that spotlights women-owned businesses that have reached the million-dollar mark. Be sure to get your hands on a copy of the June issue of OC METRO, or check out the list on ocmetro.com.
If you run a business from your home, post a video on our Web site that shares how YOU did it. In the meantime, read the profiles of all 11 women featured in this, our Moms Issue, and be inspired.
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