Want to be inspired by entrepreneurs who are doing something great? Then read on. Each day we feature new entrepreneurs who are passionate about their business and who are living their dream.
Today’s entrepreneur is Shaheen Hirji of Organically Hatched.
When and why did you start your business?
When my son was born in 2006, it was difficult to source out the best organic baby items for my little one. With feedings every 2 hours, I didn’t have the luxury of time to go to several different stores looking for these products and thought that it would be great if there was one store that carried everything I was looking for, that I could go to at a time that suited me. The idea was hatched and that’s how it started. We launched in 2008.
What do you love about being an entrepreneur?
I love the flexibility. I have the ability to schedule events and appointments for my kids during the day and not have to worry too much about work. I can then catch up with work once i put them to bed.
Describe your business in 20 words or less.
We are an online organic baby store that brings our customers the best in organic baby products. We look for great natural, eco-friendly and functional baby products.
Where do you get your inspiration from and how do you stay inspired?
I am inspired by moms who are successful at juggling their professions and motherhood. It’s tough to be great at both, but I see so many moms out there doing it and hearing their stories inspire me.
What is your biggest success or accomplishment you’re most proud of in your business?
Biggest success is doubling our sales in our second year. I didn’t think it would happen so quickly and it goes to show that we are doing something right. I am proud of working hard to bring a store like this to fruition and i continue to work hard to make it better for our customers.
What advice would you give other entrepreneurs when they are first starting out?
Choose something you love to do, because this will ensure that you will stick with it for a long time despite the ups and downs. Also do your market research and know your product/service well. Lastly don’t be afraid to follow your gut.
What is one mistake that you made that you really learned from and what did you learn?
There are many mistakes you make along the way as you get started and that’s part of the learning curve. I am still learning as I go along and every day there is a new challenge. I can’t think of one particular mistake but I can tell you that being online is quite challenging as the rules of SEO are constantly changing and so keeping up with this is a daily challenge.
Where do you see your company in three years?
We have just started to franchise so I’m hoping to see a few Organically Hatched franchise stores out there in the next three years.
Do you sell your products wholesale and, if so, what is one strategies that you use to get your products in stores?
We are an online retail store, so we don’t sell wholesale.
What is one thing you wish you knew about being an entrepreneur when you first started out?
I knew the hours would be long and the pay would be little to none, but I didn’t realize how fulfilling it would be to be doing something that I love. The sense of accomplishment is tremendous after a long day of work. You feel satisfied knowing that you got things done and you look forward to the next day.
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