2Inspire Profile: Gaby Lixton and Caroline Sparks - Founders of Turtle Tots

Gaby Lixton and Caroline Sparks converted their love for swimming into a successful baby swimming programme -Turtle Tots. Their business story illustrates the importance of working in an area you are passionate about.

Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?
I don’t think Gaby and I have typical days! Every day is different. For example last week we had our monthly meeting with our finance manager, we attended a High Growth workshop on managing teams, we attended the Accelerate 2013 conference in Liverpool on Thursday and then on Friday we had a meeting about a new CRM system and visited our new office that we are leasing from September. We love the fact that our days and weeks are so varied.

What made you start the business and how did you get started?
Gaby and I founded Turtle Tots Ltd in 2011.

Having run and sold a very successful baby swimming business before launching Turtle Tots, Gaby had seen numerous new mums struggle when they came swimming with their newborn the first time, because they lacked confidence in and around the pool with their precious new baby.

We both have young children ourselves and therefore knew the importance of a healthy lifestyle and pre and postnatal exercise, but also how it can be a struggle to find the time to exercise when you have a baby or toddler.

Using her knowledge and experience Gaby wrote the innovative Turtle Tots programme, which starts with Turtle Tums - aqua-natal yoga for mums-to-be. The Turtle Tums course is an aqua yoga course that provides a relaxing and supportive method of exercise during pregnancy, and also teaches the mums-to-be safe holds and methods to use in the pool with their baby once he or she is born.

The programme continues with Turtle Tots baby and toddler swimming classes. First and foremost the classes are to introduce babies and toddlers to swimming in a fun and safe way, but every movement mum makes in the water, also contributes to her post-natal fitness. A personal trainer has endorsed these lesson plans and mums (and dads!) can burn up to 250 calories in a 30-minute class.

Having launched Turtle Tots as a sole trader in Bristol, Gaby’s classes quickly grew and after a year she was teaching 100 babies. At this point she realised what a lucrative and flexible business model Turtle Tots was. Gaby knew that she wanted to offer others the opportunity to run a Turtle Tots business, but without using a restrictive and expensive franchise model. At this point Gaby approached Caroline about launching Turtle Tots as a licencing business. Caroline could see the huge potential and together they formed Turtle Tots Ltd.


What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the

business world to date?
In May we had were invited to join the Accelerate 250. The Accelerate 250 is the UK’s so-called “vital six per cent’, the businesses that create more than half of the nation’s new jobs by disrupting industries and creating new markets.

Turtle Tots was one of the first members to be announced of the 250-strong group, hand-picked by former Tesco boss Sir Terry Leahy and the prime minister’s enterprise adviser Lord Young. And we were thrilled and delighted to have been recognised and included.



The inaugural meeting of the Accelerate 250 took place in Liverpool on the 27th June and Gaby and I travelled up to Liverpool, looking forward to an interesting and informative day. In fact, it was far more than we’d ever expected!

Throughout the day we listened to an inspiring selection of speeches, panel discussions and debates from (amongst others) Jimmy Wales, - the founder of Wikipedia, Martha Lane Fox CBE – the co-founder of lastminute.com, Lord Bilimoria – Chairman of Cobra Beer and a very amusing Doug Richard – the founder of School for Startups. Dr. Pippa Malmgren, former special assistant to the president, was insightful and made macro economics sound refreshingly simply and interesting!

We came away from the day completely inspired, motivated and excited, not just about Turtle Tots as it is today, but about the future growth of Turtle Tots.


What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?
Time management is a constant challenge. Both Gaby and I have young families and busy husbands! It can be a juggling act, especially when we need to be away overnight to attend a conference or exhibition. Luckily our husbands and families are very supportive, and modern technology such as smart phones and Skype helps enormously.

What are your future plans for the business?
We want to continue to build the Turtle Tots brand in the UK, and help our existing and new licencees continue to grow successful businesses. This will involve continuing to develop our Turtle Tots merchandise so that licencees will have additional revenue streams, and investing in products such as woggles, towels, water toys etc.

We have just trademarked in Australia and will be launching there in 2014, and we are also trade marking in several other countries too, so we see internationalisation as a key part of our strategy.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
I don’t think we’d do anything differently. Every positive AND negative experience over the last two years has helped us to grow our business to where it is today.


Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?Life is short, and before we know it we can all be on a treadmill, doing a job we’ve just fallen in to doing. Even in 2013 there are still many stereotypes and many young women leave school or college with limited aspirations and self esteem. It’s important for young women to follow their dream and realise nothing is impossible, to ensure they live fulfilled and happy lives, and also contribute to society as a whole.


What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?
Don’t be afraid to ask advice from people that already run successful businesses and do as much research as possible, and more, before writing a really thorough business plan. Investigate what resources are available in your area to help people start businesses – in Bristol, where we are based, there’s an organisation called Business West, which are hugely helpful, and they also run lots of free and low cost training courses and networking events.


What or who inspires you in business and why?
The Co-founders of Innocent – Richard Reed, Adam Balon and Jon Wright inspire us. We love the Innocent brand, and have just read their book about how they got started. They have a refreshing, personable and non-corporate approach to their business, and have overcome huge obstacles. They also had no prior knowledge of their industry. We also love the fact that they have set up the Innocent Foundation – a grant giving foundation. This is something we would like to emulate in the future.
They are also great believers in the saying “Just Do It” – which we are too!

What is your favourite inspirational quote?
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” ConfuciusContact Details  
Turtle Tots Ltd
Railway House
Station Close
Backwell
Bristol BS48 1TJ
Tel. 01275 857805
Email info@turtletots.com
Web www.turtletots.com
Twitter @turtle_tots
Facebook www.facebook.com/TurtleTotsUK

The Creativity of Women celebrated at The 2Inspire Network Ladies Day

PRESS RELEASE

The Creativity of Women celebrated at The 2Inspire Network Ladies Day

The 2Inspire Ladies Day event took place on 9th March 2013 at the Crowne Plaza, Docklands.  Coinciding with International Women’s Day, "Celebrating the Creativity of Women" it was a free event that showcased budding and established female entrepreneurs; particularly those in the creative sector.

The 2Inspire Ladies Day offered a platform that promoted and celebrated the creative talent of women.  Some businesses owners had only just launched their products and services and felt that The Ladies Day was a superb entry to market. With poetry readings from Joanne Mills, LD Henriquez and Cezanne Poetess delegates were treated to some superb entertainment topped off with exclusive singing performances from Linda E and Nyarai. The 2Inspire Ladies Day was honoured to have Councillor Joy Laguda MBE as one of our guest speakers; encouraging women to take ownership of their goals and strive for the best in life.

The event included stands from organisations and education as well as a wide range of creative businesses and services selling everything from natural beauty products to cupcakes and fashion. There was also entertainment and workshops to meet the lifestyle, personal and business development needs of attendees. Workshop topics included health, education, personal development, business start-up, media and styling. Feedback of the event has been empowering and inspirational; many delegates staying for the entire programme and stall holders keen for the next event which will hopefully take place in September 2013.

The 2inspire network was launched in May of 2012, “Empowering individuals and helping them to realise their potential is something that I am passionate about. I believe that women should work together and support each other on their journeys, this belief is the foundation of the network, an organisation that provides forums and platforms that help to empower, promote and inspire women” says Founder Hazel Chawapiwa. Hazel has been nominated as “Role Model of The Year” at this year’s Women4Africa Awards.

The event also marked the official launch of the 2Inspire Network’s Academy; a personal development and life-skills programme for young people aged between 16-21.

For more information log onto www.2inspirenetwork.com

marketing@2inspirenetwork.com

@2inspireltd

#2inspireladiesday

Notes to Editor

Images available upon request

Business Profile: NeDay Craft

In today's business profile Vicky LLoyd, the founder of Neday Craft shares with us her life as an entrepreneur and a mother.Vicky creates Neday Craft to encourage children to get creative and to be able to spend more time with her family. Another amazing story that we hope will inspire you.

1/ Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

A typical day for me, is getting up around 7am and making sure my children are washed, dressed and in school for 9am. Because I work from home, I have to be disciplined and make sure my to –do list is started immediately. I normally reply to emails as they come in, as well as ensure all phone calls and tasks are taken care of. I may have a client meeting, a design project to complete or information to upload to my website. Every day is very different for me. I love a varied work schedule and life is never boring. My business works around my children and my family, so I could end up working until late into the evening and at weekends.



2/ What made you start the business and how did you get started?


I was unhappy in my full time job and wanted a better work/life balance with my family. Most of my wages were going on childcare and missed taking my children to school and picking them up. In early 2009, I was looking for arts and craft classes for my own children to attend and after some research, it became apparent there was very little available in the area, so decided to launch my own business doing just that.


3/ What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

I have achieved lots of things in the last 4 years, but I have to say being one of Theo Paphitis chosen #SBS (small business Sunday) winners, meeting Theo and having my photo taken with him is the greatest business accomplishment to date. That feeling still lives on a year later and one experience I will never forget.

4/ What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?
 

Many small businesses have been struggling the last few years, because of the economic climate. But like many crafts businesses, many advisers and professionals see it as a hobby, not a proper business, so crafting has been stereotyped. I have always stood my ground and fought for being a sustainable business. After 4 years, I think I have finally made many people realise I am a business and I am a serious businesswoman on a mission to succeed.

5/What are your future plans for the business?

My business has changed so much in the 4 years and its a must for any business to succeed in these tough times. My new website and business direction has just reached its 3 month mark and because it has been a huge success, I am taking the business global. I have huge ambitions for 2013 including my own online TV channel or programme. Something I have wanted from the very beginning, so I am very excited for the future.


6/If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I wouldn't have spent so much money on PR and advertising, although its a great way to get the business name out there, but social media is the best way to do that and is a proven way to get more business too in a more cost effective way.
I would have loved to have had a creative mentor to guide me in the right direction – something which is seriously lacking here in the UK and where I am now helping many other craft businesses on their journey, through blogs and video mentoring.

7/ Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

As I said in the last question, many crafts businesses really don’t know where to turn and lose faith. Showing them that I have made a successful craft business, encourages and inspires others to do just that. I love seeing happy people who have the confidence and determination to make things happen. I have had the tough times too, but lived through them and come back stronger each time.


8/ What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Always have faith in yourself and believe anything is possible. Positive mental attitude works wonders for any new business, but also understand you are not alone when things are tough. I would definitely recommend any new craft business using social media – its a great way to do business, but also a big community of like-minded people who can help in times of need or to ask for advice.

9/What or who inspires you in business and why?

I have lots of people in business who inspire me, but I guess Theo Paphitis is the most influential of successful entrepreneurs who I really admire. He has learnt so much for himself over the years and is doing his bit supporting small businesses now. Theo has lived those tough times, just like many businesses. But he is a true inspiration to listen to and a really nice guy to meet and tweet with


10/What is your favourite inspirational quote?

“Creativity is contagious, pass it on” – Albert Einstein

Contact Neday Craft


www.nedaycrafts.com


Email : info@nedaycrafts.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/NEDay-Crafts

Twitter: @NEDaycrafts

Business Profile: Spilly Spoon

In this business profile feature we meet the founder of Spilly Spoon, Philippa Le Boutillier, an extraordinary businesswoman with a fascinating story! We were inspired interviewing her, we hope you are inspired by reading this interview.

1/ Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?

After getting 3 children ready for school and nursery I head to the office to answer emails and process orders. We are getting a lot of enquiries from overseas countries, as Spilly Spoon is a medical device we have to adhere to very strict regulations so I spend a lot of time researching the rules for every country. We are also working on new product developments. The social media work tends to kick in once the children are in bed!  Thank goodness for Ipads and Blackberrys as I can work whilst waiting for the children to come out of school.  I feel I should join a circus as I am becoming a master at juggling!

2/ What made you start the business and how did you get started?

As I have 3 young children plenty of medicine has been administered and plenty spilt whilst chasing them around the kitchen! As with many parents, I’ve also had to get up in the middle of the night to give a sick child medicine (whilst half asleep) and end up stripping the bed or the child as they’re covered in sticky medicinal goo! Thus Spilly Spoon was born!

Two years ago I began searching the internet but didn’t find anything on the market so decided to design my own non-spill medicine spoon. I wanted to combine fun with function so came up with a character theme design that was also practical for the parent.  The most important thing was its simplicity - being able to lay a spoon, full of medicine on a table or worktop without spilling while you get your child ready.

After various drawings and designs I finally came up with the caterpillar shape, the calibrations of its body formed the medicine measurements. The design was tactile and easy to hold for the child as well as simple for parents to pour an accurate measurement of medicine.

3/ What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the business world to date?

Within 12 weeks of launching, Spilly Spoon was available on the High Street. It’s the most amazing feeling to walk into a shop and see your product hanging on the shelf and to think you did that!.

4/ What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?

Gaining the CE Certification, with no understanding or background in manufacturing or medical devices - Learning about the unknown has got me to where I am today!

5/What are your future plans for the business?

We are currently working on new products and hope to build Spilly Spoon into a global brand.

6/If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

Nothing, because each stage has enabled me to learn so much - both good and bad! However, I would definitely save money 2^nd time around!

7/ Why is it so important to inspire young women in particular to follow their dreams?

Anything is possible and if you believe in something so passionately you must pursue it.

8/ What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business in your industry?

Research, understand your target market and seek advice and listen, sometimes it may not be what you want to hear. 

9/What or who inspires you in business and why?

There are some very successful women in business at the moment who like myself had no background in their products but with a lot of passion, determination and hard work have created global brands and they are keen to help share their knowledge which is invaluable.  My biggest inspiration would be my children as without them I wouldn’t have started the Spilly Spoon

10/What is your favourite inspirational quote?

‘You only have one life and it’s not a dress rehearsal’   

Contact Spilly Spoon

Www.spillyspoon.com
Facebook: Spilly Spoon
Twitter @spillyspoon
Email: info@spillyspoon.com

You can buy Spilly Spoon online or via JoJo Maman Bebe or the NCT Shop