#WestsideMumboss Series: Colour Chronicles
This week it’s the turn of the lovely Ruth from Colour Chronicles to share her story of setting up on her own. I met Ruth at the Baby Show earlier this year, and really loved her product (so much, that I bought 3 for my boys). The Book of You is a record of childhood from birth to 16 — a great alternative to the standard baby record books where kids have as much input as their grown ups — and is currently in the running for a Junior Mag Design Award.
What was your inspiration for setting up your own business?
I was inspired to set up my own business because I was wanting to buy a product that seemingly did not exist. After spending two months searching, I decided to set up the business and make one of my own.
And what were you doing beforehand?
Get Westside Mums’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Before Colour Chronicles, I was in the electrical industry managing accounts for a manufacturer. Sounds very boring but it was actually quite fun. I had a second maternity leave 5 months after going back from my first and then left to be a stay at home mum. I started Colour Chronicles shortly after my eldest turned 3 as it was then that I realised she should be having an input in to her childhood journal!
Best thing about being your own boss?
The best bit about being my own boss is owning my time and being able to be there for my children. I want to be that mum who is at the school gate, reading in class, and running the popcorn stand at the summer fete. I can squeeze my work in when I need to and feel like the right work/life balance is on the horizon.
And fill us in on some of your local faves?
My favourite restaurant is Naughty Piglets in Brixton, cannot recommend it highly enough. The food is unbelievable.
My favourite shops are the Mamahood pop ups, all full of gorgeous goods made by mamas and who all support each other. It’s well worth checking out. I’m all about shopping small now and it’s my go-to for all gifts. The real gift is for me knowing that I’m helping someone who’s doing the same as me.
Thanks Ruth for taking part, genuine love for the product. To see how these are being used IRL — head over to Insta.
