Avidiva is a small Perth-based business focused on sourcing the best in natural and stylish products for your little ones, and run by mum-of-one, Caroline. We were so excited to chat to her this week about how having a premmie baby (and spending three months in NICU with him) prompted the decision to start her own biz…
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Caroline, mummy to Alfie and wife to Ben. We live in Perth but are originally from England… just haven’t been back since we moved to Brisbane 8 years ago! We love it here, the weather and the lifestyle. Plus Alfie is a born and bred Aussie… will be interesting to hear what accent he ends up with! He’s just turned two so we have the joy of full on tantrums, and over use of the word ‘no!’!!
How did you get started with your biz?
I was looking for something to focus on that would take my worry away from all the mum anxiety. Having my little boy early, we spent 3 months in NICU with him which was a big rollercoaster ride. Prior to that I was in hospital for 8 weeks which wasn’t too fun either! So the whole ‘new mum’ experience really wasn’t all that straightforward. We brought home a gorgeous little boy who is now healthy and happy but the journey has been a big one.
What (or who) are your biggest influences?
Good question! I don’t know really… I take my inspiration from everywhere to be honest! I love to learn and experiment (much the same with cooking too – though don’t have much time for that at the mo!). There are many people I admire but I just try to do my own thing, too.
Do you experience mum guilt and how do you tackle that?
I really try not to! I have been much better at it since putting my boy in daycare 3 days per week. That way I do actually have time to get the big jobs done while he’s out, and really try to plan fun things to do together when he’s at home. I find that getting out the house together is the best solution, as otherwise my mind wanders and my laptop appears… when we’re out he has my undivided attention (mostly, bar Instagram!)
If you could sum up your day in three words what would those words be?
Today… frustrating, peaceful and satisfying
What does your workstation look like?
Oooh we have just moved house so I so not set up with my new space just yet!! Here goes…
Give me your best kid distraction strategy:
Asking him if he can spot any trains while we’re out in the car… he is obsessed, and enjoys a good whinge on car journeys! At home, any kind of snack, or if it’s witching hour after daycare and the craziness has kicked in… 10 minutes of telly!!
What are you most proud of achieving biz wise?
My rebranding and new lines I have taken on. I am really happy with how the store is looking and the brands we represent. Now to get on with the marketing and sales!
What are your big goals for the next 12 months?
To build our little family (at home and work!). I am working on creating a real community, not just an online store! We have begun our new blog, The Mum Collective as a space to share other amazing businesses that can help new mums, give tips and make mum life that bit easier. I really want people to feel they can pop over to the site and find a useful article or a yummy recipe (as well as shop for gorgeous natural gifts and baby goodies).
EXLUSIVE READER OFFER
Caroline is very generously offering our lovely bunch 15% off your shopping basket with the code NESTLE15. And Avidiva also have free printable milestone cards if you jump on over to the site! www.avidiva.com.au
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