Mums in Business – Clara Bentata

Good morning everyone, this morning we have lovely Clara from Lucy & Belle on the blog to tell you a little about herself and her business. Have a read and then pop over and visit her beautiful website. Clara has been kind enough to offer you all a 10% discount code, just quote “THANKYOU10” at the checkout, this is valid until the end of February 2015 🙂

You can also find Clara at the following places…

Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram

Pop over and give her some support.

Who are you?

Clara Bentata

What do you do?

Business Owner, Lucy and Belle

When did you establish your business?

Our website launched in September 2014

What made you start your own business?

I am not sure whether you can be born with a business instinct or a “get up and go” mentality or whether through life events and circumstances you develop this. I think, for me, it is a combination of both genetics and being brought up by hard working and resourceful parents. I have to say I really do love working and making my own income!

After I qualified as a solicitor I worked for a luxury beauty brand in a role which combined my legal and business skills.  It was when I became pregnant with identical twins (!) my path changed and I was unable to work full-time due to severe morning sickness. When I became better, and after my twins were born, I worked for my husband’s business on a part time basis.  I was happy to have this opportunity but I did not feel I was fulfilling my full potential. I often thought about business and had a real desire to do my own thing.

My light bulb moment came from spending time with my daughters’ Lucette and Annabelle. They helped me appreciate what is out there for little people and, more importantly, what is not there. It was seeing such a gap for luxury baby gifts and accessories at affordable prices that led me to start Lucy and Belle. At Lucy and Belle we work with beautiful brands and use high quality materials to bring our customers gifts and accessories which are not only adorable but will stand the test of time and be treasured by loved ones.

What do you love about working for yourself?

I love the flexibility of being able to fit my work schedule around the needs of my family and of course, I love being my own boss!

Is there anything you do not like about working for yourself?

I do find it hard to switch off. When I initially launched my business I was working around the clock and after the launch I definitely had to be more disciplined with myself to take some time out and relax at the end of the busy day. I have not quite got the balance right… But I am working on it!

Is there anything you would go back and do differently if you could? 

I don’t think in life everything is perfect and of course I make mistakes all the time but I truly believe that it is only by making those mistakes, as painful as it may be, it is through those that you learn.

What advice would you give to a Mum considering starting her own business? 

If you have a passion, go for it! What have you got to lose?!

Thanks so much for letting us feature you Clara, we wish you every success with your business xx