If you want to run a business of your own but don’t have a clue of what to do? Let me give you a simple tip to discover the opportunity. Try to look around and see what you are frustrated with, the business opportunity lies there. This is also how Reshma Chulani Chugh started up her business Bubba & Me, when she couldn’t find the right accessories for her new born baby.
Let’s dive in and see how she did it!
Hello Reshma, please tell us a little bit about yourself and your business
I moved to Hong Kong 3 years ago and started a family immediately. Before I could figure out a Hong Kong life for myself, I had a baby and husband to go with it. I was torn with the lack of baby shops online and going in stores in Hong Kong was tricky as they scatter across the town (this is no easy for a new mum like me). And this gives birth to Bubba and Me. Initially, we started out by bringing products like our Paraben and Deet-free Anti-Mosquito Cologne into Hong Kong and we expanded gradually into our own line of onesies and shoes.
What motivated you to enter into this business?
A combination indeed….. the lack of baby product varieties in Hong Kong, and I always want to run my own business that can give me the flexibility and personal enjoyment!
How do you differentiate yourself from the similar products in town?
The products I carry are the things that I use for my son. I have tried, tested and swear by.
What have you found to be your most effective way of finding your clients?
Basically via Facebook and I try to hang out in those Baby groups and Mummies’ meet-up.
What is your business challenge and how do you try to get over the struggles?
My husband is here to support me and help out through the hurdles. Language barrier is definitely a big factor for me but thankfully my husband can get around it.
How do you keep yourself motivated during the difficult times?
You know I try to have fun with it. I put in my time and effort into the work that needs to be done but it’s also important for me to enjoy my work. It’s something I am passionate about so that is how I motivate myself.
What is a day of your life like?
As a mum, I usually get up at 7ish as I need to send my son Shiv to school after our breakfast at home. I spend my morning to check the website and send out the orders. And when Shiv returns from school, my afternoon is all for him by going to different kids’ activities/classes. If there’s a lot of work for the day then I will go back to work. Before I know it, it’s 6pm and dinnertime routine starts. Once Shiv is in bed by 8ish, I try to hit the gym or spend time with my hubby.
What is the upcoming marketing plan that you want to share with us?
We are launching our loafer line in the coming 2 weeks. I’m very excited as it is a line I have been working on for a long time. It’s currently made up of 6 designs, 3 of which are unisex and the other 3 are for boys. We use real cow leather for the unisex driving shoes/loafers and suede for the boy’s line.
As an entrepreneur, how do you see the “work-life” balance?
It’s all about the priorities and goals you set for yourself. Once you know that and you are able to manage your time wisely, it falls into place.
So how do you usually spend your leisure time?
My little boy is the center of my world right now. I love seeing the world through his little-big eyes. We are an adventurous family! Travelling is on the top of our list. We love swimming, water sports, and the beach.
If anyone want to get in touch with you, where should we send them to?
Email: info@bubbaandmehk.com
Website: www.bubbaandmehk.com
Facebook: Bubbaandme
Instagram: bubbaandme.hk
After reading Reshma’s story, are you interested to start up your business too? Try to discover the opportunities around and I’m sure you can make it too!
Reshma will be exhibiting at the Prestige Summer Fairs, which will be held at the Conrad Hotel Hong Kong.
Save the date: 3rd June
Time: 10am to 7pm
Will I see you there?
