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 KARIENNE
1. Tell me a little about yourself without including details of your family and work (it’s tough I know 😂)
I always try to be a kind loving person. I have a heart for people, moms and especially babies. I love preloved goods and especially a bargain buy, from clothes to furniture… I always try to challenge myself but I am very aware of my limitations. I am not competitive at all and I’m always trying to better myself for the sake of others, my family, friends and the people around me. I have many shortcomings which include procrastination and road rage – which I am working on on a daily basis. I love my family and I enjoy afternoon naps and coffee dates with my friends.
2. How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
Both boys, Adam is 6.5 and Malan is 4.5
3. What is your side hustle? And when did you start?
ThriftBoutique and BabyBrain started almost simultaneously at the end of 2016 and beginning of 2017 respectively.
I always talked about starting something like a pre-loved clothing shop so when the opportunity came a long I had to take it! ThriftBoutique has some really exquisite clothing at a very affordable price! Items and brands that you always wanted but can’t afford! Zara, Mango, Diesel, TopShop, Witchery, Country road, Trenery, even some Armani, Prada and more!!! Handbags, jewelry, shoes and even evening dresses are among the items sold in my backyard shop!
BabyBrain is a mom and baby class which includes participating in age appropriate, stimulating activities. It’s an opportunity for mom to get out and interact with other moms who are experiencing the same situations as well as a time to bond with your child while making sure they are reaching their milestones. It’s informal and a fun way to learn about parenting and motherhood.
4 What did you do before starting your own business AND what made you leave?
I used to be a Social worker. After working for the Government which included facing many unsolved challenges, advocating for the poor, for helpless kids and driving up and down to court I realised that I wouldn’t be able to keep it up and start a family. It wasn’t an easy decision as I felt very responsible towards the needy who I was “leaving behind” but in the end it had to be family first.
5. How do you allocate your time between work and family?
I try to work while the kids are at school, between 08h00 and 13h00. Since I can arrange appointments for the thrift shop at a time that is suitable for us, it makes it a lot easier. Although it isn’t always possible to do so when the kids are here. I always try to prepare them before customers come by.
Baby classes are in the mornings except one class that is on a day that we (the kids and I) have no activities…
6. What have been the hardships of running your own business?
Keeping track of admin and following up on payments!
Being a Social worker at heart, it’s not easy for me to charge people and to follow up on payments that have not been made… I usually feel guilty for checking up but it has gotten better.
You have to put in money to make money.
It’s a fine balance and has taught be to be patient.
7. What have been the highlights?
Meeting amazing new moms and woman.
Spending time with adorable babies and toddlers.
Connecting people and empowering others with knowledge.
Making a small difference in the lives of others.
Being able to make someone else’s day better with a new outfit that they wouldn’t have been able to afford in the shops.
Seeing how strangers encourage one another and the joy finding treasures can bring.
8. What advice do you have for other women who are on the cusp of taking the leap into entrepreneurship?
Take the leap of faith, do what you love and what excites you. Don’t give up!
All so cliché but so true.
9. How can we get in touch with you?
0724476856 (best to WhatsApp or mail because I am terrible with unknown numbers)
333 Sadie street Lynnwood Park
Instagram and Facebook
Babybrainkarienne
Thriftboutique_
The Cheeky Optimist 
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