Katie creates some of the most beautiful handmade paper decorations for your home and nursery that we’ve ever laid eyes on. We’re talking SERIOUS gorgeousness, guys! We chatted to the talented mum-of-two this week to find out what inspired her to create a business out of paper…
Tell us a bit about yourself!
I am Katie, the ‘Pom’ in Pol & Pom and my husband is the ‘Pol’. I met him while we were both teachers in London. He had to return to Melbourne after a while because his visa ran out and I decided to come back with him for a year. It’s 9 years later, a husband, two toddler boys and a mortgage and I’m still here. Whoops! I’ve been a Primary School Teacher, Graphic Designer, and studied Interior Design and Social Media – all things that have lent themselves well to my new venture.
How did you get started with your biz?
I started Pol & Pom just 4 months ago. As I was putting everything in place I was getting a different kind of excited than I had ever felt before. I realised that all my career choices had been steering me in this direction. I’ve been a secret crafter for forever, so one of my little projects was bound to grow legs at some point. I’ve always wanted to create a job for myself that suited the lifestyle I wanted. I want to work 10am – 3pm. Why so specific? Because I want to be a present mum, but I want something for myself too and I want to contribute to our family financially. Ha Ha! I want it ALL! I am a better human if I’m being creative though.
What (or who) are your biggest influences?
The amazing ladies of Instagram. I’m so inspired by all the businesses operating with Instagram as their primary means of marketing. So much creativity that it breads creativity! And Pol – for being my biggest supporter. I’ve taken a few bruises to my confidence in my abilities but he won’t let me let that keep me down!
Do you experience mum guilt and how do you tackle that?
Yes. Yes. Yes. It’s slightly better now the boys go to childcare 3 days a week. I hated having to ignore them whilst I got things done. We now have 4 days in the week where it’s (mostly) about being mum. If I’m going to devote my time to them it means letting some stuff go. I now only do a proper clean if I know we’re having visitors!
If you could sum up your day in three words what would those words be?
Never. As. Planned.
What does your workstation look like? Share a photo if you’re brave enough!
Actually, it looks quite nice now! My work space a month ago were enough to have this outfit shut down!
Give me your best kid distraction strategy.
I set up a mini-desk in my office for Finn to draw and play at whilst I work when Ollie is asleep in the middle of the day. Still hard to work though – Finn asks a lot of questions!
What are you most proud of achieving biz wise?
Starting. Working hard. Getting my first 1000 Instagram followers (I’m hoping there will be more…). Being asked to collaborate with the big girls. Making Insta friends. Making some money!
What are your big goals for the next 12 months?
I trained as a graphic designer before I had Finn. I’d really like to incorporate that more this year. I have prints and wrapping paper designs ready to roll out.
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Can’t get enough of all the paper prettiness that is Pol & Pom? Shop, follow and stalk Katie here:
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