Mums in Cyprus

We have many working mothers in our MiC community, whether as employees in companies or self-employed and running their own business. All have one thing in common: trying to achieve a harmonious work/life balance under sometimes very stressful circumstances.

Being your own boss however, has the added pressure of financial responsibility - when there’s no monthly income guarantee the daily challenges seem greater. On the other hand it is endlessly rewarding to be fulfilling your dreams and ambitions, and these mumpreneurs often are an inspiration to others.

Our weekly interview blog puts the spotlight on these entrepreneurial women among us: who are they, what do they do and how do they do it.

Today, it is my pleasure to introduce Helen Tsimari (MiC nickname‘elene’), founder of Petals Baby Planners, an innovative business that helps new parents plan for the baby's arrival.

Hi Helen. How and when did you come up with the idea for your business and what inspired you to become self employed?

Well I thought about the idea 2 years ago when I saw two ladies on an American chat show talking about their company The Baby Planners. It seemed such a good idea and when I did some research I was amazed to find that there are only a few baby planners around the world. People have wedding planners why not baby planners?After my two daughters I had so much advice and information that I wanted to pass on that’s when Petals Baby Planners was formed. I am so enthusiastic about my business and just love talking about babies!

What business achievement are you most proud of?

In America baby planners are becoming more widely popular and known. Here in Cyprus it is a very new idea and I am the first baby planner on the Island. I consider it an achievement that I have been able to help the local Cypriots understand the concept of my company.

A lot of new start-up businesses run out of steam when the going gets tough. Was there ever a time when you doubted yourself?

Yes all the time! Running a business, a house and looking after two young children is hard work. It is not easy when you want to give 100% to your business and home life.

Being your own boss means there are no mentors to learn from. Who do you go to for business advice?

My husband is very supportive and is always saying ‘Go for it’. The other two people I depend upon are my mum and my Grandfather. He started his own business in the 1960’s and it is still going strong today. I value all his advice and help. The best advice he gave me was to keep small for a long time and slowly build the business up.

What have you learned about yourself since becoming self-employed?

I have learned how to prioritize my time and that my family come first. If I need to do some work but I haven’t spent time with the kids I will put them first. Above all I want everyone to be happy if I don’t have the time to take on clients I will book them in for the next month.

Do you feel you have achieved a good work/life balance?

At the moment yes as it is still a relatively new company so my workload is manageable. I know later on when I am very busy it will be tougher but I work well under stress. I enjoy being busy.

If you could give one piece of advice to an aspiring ‘Mumpreneur’ starting out today, what would it be?

Don’t take on more than you can handle. If you can get help then do so. Even if it means you get a cleaner a couple of hours a week. We are not superwomen and at times we can’t do it all.

What are your future plans for your business?

The aim is to get established in Cyprus with not only expats but also the locals. Then later on expand into other avenues such as lactation consulting and baptism planning.

Thank you very much for your time. Best wishes for continued success and happiness, both in your professional and private life.