I love chatting to fellow small-biz owners about what gets them going and what grinds their gears about being your own boss. I have created a series of Q&As with some of my fave small brand owners in the hope we can share some behind the scenes insight into our lives as women in business.
I met the fabulous Anthea at a pop-up shop last year, her online boutique Kanstinator and Bear (named after pet names for her two sons - cuuuute) is a beautiful and so on-trend curation of kids and babies clothing.
Who are ya?
I’m Anthea. Im South Africa born, moved to the Netherlands, the US and now the U.K.
How and when did you come up with the idea for Kanstinator and Bear?
The idea for my brand started from the difficulty I had sourcing unique, modern clothing for my two boys. The name Kanstinator and Bear was born from my two littlest humans. Kanyon, also known as the Kanstinator from the movie Terminator. He’s my first born, and Bear is Broghan, our little Brogy bear. My little love bug. I get some serious mileage from him but he’s a keeper and I wouldn’t change him for the world. My love of fashion started as a teenager when I worked for fashion stores, although I have always had a big interest in fashion and was forever experimenting with different styles as I grew up.That then developed when I lived in the US whilst I studied fashion design at an all female college (Moore College of Arts and Design ) in Philadelphia . I guess it’s fair to say that this has played its part in where I am today. Two children later and Boom - we put the names together and instantly knew it was the perfect fit for my new venture.
What things do you enjoy most in your job as Kanstinator and Bear Boss Lady?
-
Control over my schedule. Being in charge of my day is one of the biggest benefits of having my own business. It means I get to make time for my kids and family .
-
More time for personal pursuits and not having a boss means I never have to feel guilty for turning up late .
What things do you enjoy least?
The stress of owning your own business. There is a bewildering array of things to worry about. Time commitment , in theory I have the freedom to take time off but in reality I find it hard to switch off and a 40 hour work week is a myth!
Any advice for anyone starting out in the world of small biz ownership?
Be a sponge, absorb everything
Keep it simple and not over complicate things
Know that, day you plant a seed is not the day it grows.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of Kanstinator and Bear? Where do you see yourself in 3 years time?
I would like us to have a full time presence in a store.
What’s your favourite breakfast?
Eggs accompanied by a flat white coffee, coffee and more coffee and every now and then I love a good smoothie too.
Where can we find you?
Come and hang out with us on the gram @kanstinatorandbear and on Facebook too or check out our website at www.kanstinatorandbear.co.uk
Leave a comment (all fields required)