Susan Purse is the other part of the two-woman team behind British Baby Box. Here we find out more about her motivation and ambitions for the brand.
What was your career background before British Baby Box?
I spent the first 20 years of my working life in London working for various law firms but left London after the birth of my children to move to the countryside.
I have always loved being a mum and therefore, once my children were a little bit older, my husband and I decided to foster babies. This stage of my career was definitely the most rewarding and led to me adopting.
What is the story behind the setting up of your company?
Very sadly I lost a baby who was stillborn. I suppose you could say this created the driving force for my business. I wanted to champion a product that had a child’s safety at its heart.
When we adopted our youngest as a baby – a little boy we fostered and couldn’t let go – I looked carefully at safer sleeping products and realised there were limited options. This was when I first came across the Finnish tradition for Baby Boxes.
My husband and I were astounded that initiatives like this were not being run in the UK and world-wide. That is when British Baby Box was born.
What does creating a work life balance mean to you?
A work-life balance is paramount given I have four children but to be honest I am not sure I have found the balance yet! I think of my company as my fifth child – and just like my babies, it needs my attention to grow and develop.
What advice can you offer women who are seeking to start their own business?
Go for it! If you truly believe in the idea never let anyone dissuade you from your ultimate goal.
What do you consider your greatest achievement in life?
My children without a doubt!
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Never compromise on your goals and aspirations.
Who inspires you and why?
My husband and children. My husband has always believed in me and what I can achieve even if sometimes I don’t.
My children never fail to make me laugh and smile and are my greatest distraction from the day-to-day grind.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Happy, healthy and hopefully getting this elusive work/life balance right!
What do you hope British Baby Box will achieve in the next 12 months?
Watch this space!!!