Let us introduce you to Heather -- the golden girl behind Way Tutu Cute. Read on to enter to win $25 to start shopping and all about her super sweet online shop.
{1}Tell us a little bit about yourself and the biz, Way Tutu Cute?
I am a mother of two beautiful little girls (ages 2 and 5). By day, I'm a marketing manager and have worked for the same company for just over 7 years. I've always been overly ambitious and enjoy a challenge. I've
always wanted to start my own business, but after a few failed attempts, I decided it was best to let the idea fall into my lap. In 2009, when my oldest was old enough to realize that she wanted to be a princess and a
ballerina, I realized how expensive things would be (especially with two girls). I decided to learn how to make a tutu for her because the ones I was finding online were so expensive. I posted a picture of the finished product on Facebook and instantly got requests from friends to create a tutu for their girls as well. Less than a week later, I had a website, a Facebook fan page and a new business. I wanted to sell tutus and hair accessories at a reasonable price. Luckily, I have the most amazing husband who I like to refer to as "super-dad". With his help, I was able to make time to create and sell.
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| {Way Tutu Cute, White Tank Dress, $25} |
After networking with some other local mompreneurs, I realized that although they had some amazing items to sell, they didn't have the outlet. I began listing other Mom-made items on the site and within six months, I was up to nearly 50 different lines. All of the items offered were designed by, created by or sewn by a Mom or Dad. We are now up to nearly 75 lines and have expanded to include some of my personal favorite lines such as mudpie and Jellycat.
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| {mudpie, Cupcake Flarey Longall, $30} |
I can't say I have a favorite item. I handpick each item before I list it, so I love every single one of them. At least half of my girl's clothes and accessories were purchased on my site.
{4} What is your favorite part about running your own business?
There is nothing I don't love about owning and running the business. Working in retail for over 11 years gave me a great background and taught me how important customer service is. I pride myself on always going the
extra mile for every customer and have not only gained so many regular customers, but some friends as well. I especially love helping my customers create their dream outfit for their kids birthday and then seeing the pictures and hearing how everyone went crazy over their original outfit.
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| {a line we love: Petit Couture} |
{5} Do you have any tips for Mom Owned brands trying to get started?
The most important thing is to have a plan. If you're selling tangible items, make sure to have beautiful pictures. Contact local photographers who may be willing to barter with you. You don't have to spend a fortune to get your business up and running. Do your research! What are others charging for similar products? Be competitive! And most of all, don't be afraid to network with other mompreneurs. You'd be surprised what a close-knit community you'll find.
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| {celebs love Way Tutu Cute} |
Sky's the limit for us! We just sponsored the Eva Longoria Rally for Kids With Cancer in Miami and we donated 10% of every purchase to the American Cancer Society. We will be attending a pre-Emmy's gifting suite in September. We also just launched a brand new line, Leg Candy, at the Baby Expo and the buzz has already started! Leg Candy offers leg/arm warmers in a variety of bright colors and patterns. They are available in sugar free (plain), extra sugar (swarovski crystals on one leg) or sugar rush (swarovski crystals on both legs). They come wrapped like a piece of candy and are ready to give as a gift.
When shopping for Littles we LOVE all of the FABulous things Way Tutu Cute shows off but let us fill you in on cupcakeMAG approved items for your Littles! The Pippy & LoLo Tie Dye A Line Dress is a must-have item in your Littles closet. It also was a Golden Globe Celebrity Swag Bag item for 2011!
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| {One of our FAVES for summer} |
Brag About Baby Blue My Mind Diaper Clutch: Perfect for the mommaista on-the-go who loves to be functional yet stylish. Once your Little is out of diapers use it as a makeup case or a clutch! What's not to love? We also can't get enough of their Glass Slipper Binkie Blankie -- it is definitely something we don't leave home without.
Snuggle Bug Kidz Simply Rose Swarovski Crystal Set of 4 Clippies: We absolutely love these gorgeous hair clips for girls. They add just the right amount of bling to every outfit.
Make sure you also check out Eight Baby Legs, Polka Dot Baby Bowtique, and Kota Couture --- just a few more of our favorites!
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{Read on to enter to win a $25 gift voucher to Way Tutu Cute NOW!}
