Julie Cole-Mabel's Labels Inc.

Julie's Story

1.      Tell us the story of your journey. Include details about what inspired you to go into business, was this a life long dream or a newer desire. Share as many details as you are comfortable sharing.

My business partners and I were all working in the traditional workforce and managing our young families. When my eldest son was diagnosed with autism, I quickly realized the law books would have to be shelved and the search for a family-friendly and flexible career began. In addition, there was a product missing from the market. We wanted to create adorable but incredibly durable labels for all the stuff kids lose. Our clever little business plan combined with the needs of our families provided all the inspiration we needed!

2.   Did you go into business before or after you had children? How do/did your children affect your decision to go into business.

The product idea came as a direct result of having children and noticing a product missing from the market. This observation would not have been made if not for being young mothers!

3.      Share your trials and triumphs. We want to hear about your highs and lows. Did you have any low points or worries as well as high points and huge shining moments?

   

There are several reasons we have felt successful. First and foremost, we are doing what

 we love. There are four business partners who together have a fantastic range of

knowledge that we've been able to apply to the business.

 As business owners, we are committed to Mabel's Labels and we have a team of amazing and loyal staff whose contributions are endless. Our products are innovative and fun and we recognize that our customers are at the heart of our business. We have been willing to take risks, and for small businesses that is a hard step to take. Because we took risks, we have reaped many rewards – from incredible press to prestigious business awards. The downside to risk-taking is the worry and stress that goes along with it! We self-funded this business and all left professional careers behind in order to pursue this, which made for some scary moments especially in those early days.

4.   Do you have any encouraging words to share with mom entrepreneurs that may help to keep their spirits up on a trying day. Not necessarily trade secrets that pertain to business but more directed toward encouraging another mom not to give up and/or to keep following a dream.

Women are starting successful businesses and a phenomenal rate. There is no reason why you can’t be one of those women. I have a few bits of advice that might be useful. Firstly, be sure to use your social capital. You know people who can help you so don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Also remember that you have to be the strategic thinker in your business so don’t get so busy working ‘in” the business and forget to work strategically “on” the business. We also remind ourselves that if you don’t love it, don’t do it. This applies to everything – how an ad looks, how a phrase in your brochure sounds, to the actual work you do every day. Know that sometimes you have to put the cart before the horse if you want to grow. That can be very frightening, but if you don’t take risks, your business will not move to the next level. Finally, while you may be the ‘boss’, treat everyone else like they are your boss – your customers, suppliers, employees, etc. If you are not completely accountable to them, you won’t be the boss for long!

Julie's site is www.mabel.ca