In light of August being Women’s Month, I thought it would be the perfect time to promote some hard working mums. You could find the service provider you were looking for or be inspired to take that leap you’ve been dreaming of.
Q&A WITH LIEZL
1. Tell me a little about yourself without including details of your family and work (it’s tough I know 😂)
I am a born ‘n bred Durban girl and grew up on the south coast. I am passionate, loyal to a fault and stick to my moral guns no matter what. I love God and my family, as well as flamingos, dachshunds and llamas! My greatest pet peeves are incorrect spelling and grammar – much to my husbands despair as I point out spelling errors everywhere ha ha!
2. How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have 2 children, Amelia (5) and Diego (3). Amelia was God’s plan and she changed our lives with her sweet, caring nature – Diego was our plan and he is a firecracker!
3. What is your side hustle? And when did you start?
My side hustle is multifaceted – I have done freelance Graphic Design since 2013, but having always loved parties and baking. This year I decided to start my party planning business, Sugar & Paper! I call myself “a celebration enthusiast” – I can conceptualise, design, coordinate and style your event, and even bake the tasty treats! A one-stop-shop of good taste!
4. What did you do before starting your own business AND what made you leave
When I was pregnant for the first time, I had all intentions to go back to full-time graphic design work (begrudgingly) once our baby was born. But then Amelia came along and I realised that I just could not leave her with a stranger and return to work. So, I decided to stay at home with her and become a WAHM.
5. How do you allocate your time between work and family?
Amelia attends school half-day and Diego is still at home with me, so I try not to work too much during the day (design-wise) and spend the majority of my time with my kids, running errands, etc. I work at night once they are asleep and I’ve finished all the household stuff (I’m not the best domestic but I do try!) However, I do bake and source party paraphernalia with my tiny business partner/s in tow! They don’t mind as they enjoy it and I try and involve them in small ways, like baking extra cookies for them to decorate while I am busy.
6. What have been the hardships of running your own business?
Obviously making sure you have enough clientele to cover your expenses. I am very fortunate to have a supportive husband, who keeps us afloat most months. But I am really proud to contribute financially when I can.
7. What have been the highlights?
The highlights so far have been the positive feedback from clients, the genuine happiness drives me.
8. What advice do you have for other women who are on the cusp of taking the leap into entrepreneurship?
It’s a scary endeavour but you will never look back!
9. How can we get in touch with you?
You can visit my websites www.sugarandpaper.co.za (Party Planning) and www.lastveigas.com (Graphic Design), follow my instagram feed @sugarandpaperparties. Otherwise, I can be contacted on hello@sugarandpaper.co.za for party stuff, hello@lastveigas.com for design work, or call me 0732881013.
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The Cheeky Optimist 