Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erica Perrot, Owner of Raplapla, located in Montreal, QC, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I founded Raplapla in Montreal in 2005 with the desire to sew local fabric companions for children. I started with a sewing machine in my kitchen. Four years later, I moved to a fabulous location in Mile-End, where we still are.
A few years later, we opened our Hospital for fabric people. Now we have eight passionate women who sew, repair, and send stuffed animals around the world. We have seven sewing machines, a huge iron, and a stuffing machine.
Tell us about yourself
Each day that passes, I love what I do even more than the day before. What motivates me the most in my work is to know that the stuffed animals we make are real companions for the children; they bring them comfort. They become part of the family where they are adopted! Secondly, I love being an entrepreneur because even if it forces me to take risks and I have to assume every mistake, the freedom that comes with it is priceless.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My great pride, and what is very important to me, is my team. I feel a family bond with them. I also love my workshop, and I marvel at working there every day.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Discipline. It's never really been my thing (but I'm getting better at it).
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make a project that comes from you and that you care about 1000x.
- Surround yourself with great people and recognize their talents.
- Don't forget any detail to make your product or service perfect.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I don't want to put this too much forward, but if it can inspire some. I started my business when I was a single mother of 2 girls - aged 2 and 6 (single parent, not shared custody!), and I was not in my country of origin. I come from France; I arrived in Quebec when I was 20 years old. I was all alone, and I did it! Infinite thanks to my daughters, who had no choice but to "share" me with Raplapla to make this business grow along with them.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://raplapla.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raplapla/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raplapla/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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