Celebrating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship in Michigan: A Collective Journey of Resilience
On this Mother’s Day, women entrepreneurs across Michigan are sharing their journeys, emphasizing the intricate balance between motherhood and running a business. Among them are Mallory Vredeveld and Maddison Husted, co-owners of The Five Forks Bakery in Jackson. Their inspiration stems from the phrase "What is Legacy?" prominently displayed in their bathroom, reminding them of the life lessons they wish to impart to their children through baking.
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Five Forks Bakery blossomed from a side hustle into a thriving enterprise, with family at its heart. Vredeveld has three children, while Husted has two. Their bakery name reflects their five combined kids, and they began baking in their homes, often at night due to the challenges of juggling family and business.
Sharing insights on the struggles of young women in entrepreneurship, both women discuss the harsh lessons they’ve learned about trust and business partnerships. Adaptations, such as closing on Mondays and shortening weekend hours, were vital for family time, despite occasional customer pushback.
Similarly, Maggie Kleinheksel, owner of Tweed Baby Outfitters in Holland, emphasizes that motherhood often takes precedence over traditional business hours. She has adjusted her schedule to prioritize family while running her shop, a decision that resonates well with her customer base.
Jessica Hill, owner of Omoni Boutique in Bay City, reflects on her early fashion influences and aims to empower women with affordable, classy clothing. For Shardaira Jones, whose juice bar REV Road to Revitalize focuses on health and wellness, involving her children in her entrepreneurial journey is crucial for instilling passion and resilience.
These women are not just navigating the complexities of business; they’re redefining success by nurturing both their families and professional ambitions, inspiring future generations along the way.
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