Monica and Denise started Indigo Baby because they wanted a creative output of their ideas. Realizing that they wouldn't dare leave their babies for work, both decided to be SAHM (stay-at-home-moms) and eventually, WAHM (work-at-home-moms). Indigo is their brainchild, and this brand will be launched via press and photo releases in top broadsheets and publications. This is the second of two parts (read Part 1) of our discussion with the soul sisters. This includes tips for SAHMs and WAHMs, as well as Pinoy Entrepreneurs in general.

 

What are your products?

The pilot product of Indigo Baby is the signature Diaper Clutch. This chic creation is a must-have for the modern parent. It folds neatly in half and will fit into any handbag or firmly on your wrist. Designed for parents-on-the-go, it has a clear plastic compartment to keep you wipes moist, and a diaper pouch for 2-3 large diapers, and a large changing mat. Available in cool prints for hip parents: camouflage, zebra, pucci, and Indigo’s trademark combination.  This clutch can also be used sans the diapers for a stylish clutch!

Indigo’s makers practice attachment parenting making them advocates of breastfeeding. The revolutionized Nursing Cover makes breastfeeding as stylish as can be. Mothers can nurse their infants discreetly with this product. It is made of lightweight and breathable material to ensure comfort for both mother and child.  Also available in hip prints.

Indigo has an organic Bath and Body Line for parents and babies. A bestseller is the unique Jar of Hope. This blue chamomile gel is a lifesaver for fussy babies. Shoo Fly Don’t Bother Me Insect Repellent is safe and effective for your babies’ most sensitive skin. Lavender massage oil and linen spray keep parent and child calm and relaxed for better bonding and quality moments together.

More products in the production line: Diaper Belt Bag, Organizer Bag, Nursing Wear, and Baby Accessories.

You mentioned somewhere that "all our products were created for the modern parent in mind." Do you design and produce your own products? Or are you resellers?

We designed our own products, based on the needs of mums and babies since that is who we are. As mentioned, Monica’s son Santi is high-need/fussy, making the Bath and Body line super fab for him to help him relax. The other items were born out of our parenting styles and beliefs, i.e., breastfeeding, baby wearing, etc.

What's your target market?

Indigo’s customer is the modern-day parent. Parents who want the best for their children and want to be involved in their child’s life. Parents who are aware about the latest developments in childcare and parenthood. Advocates of breastfeeding. Young, hip, idealistic individuals who share a common vision of what parenting must be.

Where and how would buyers or potential investors get in touch with you?

Contact details:  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Monica Eleazar: 0928-5025038
Denise Gonzales: 0928-5040226

We will be at the Rockwell Urban Bazaar on November 16-18, 2007 and the Almost Christmas Cuenca Bazaar on December 8-9, 2007. For more bazaars and announcements, check out www.indigomanila.multiply.com (product line and photos). Orders can also be made there.

During all this time, would you say that home-based businesses are good options for other moms or other persons in general?

Denise: Yes indeed. It takes effort too, and some people think that working from the house is not working, but in fact, sometimes I feel like I am working double, the business, my office work, plus taking care of Benny. It is great though to be the master of your own time. The freedom that is given by a home-business / entrepreneurial venture is unending, yet you also have to manage it wisely.

Monica: I highly encourage other moms or even dads to consider having home-based businesses. Being hands-on parents is the best gift you can ever give your child. This just might save our world!

What advice would you give to other moms who may be thinking of the same thing? What problems did you encounter or potential problems that a home-based business would most likely encounter?

Go for it! Study the market and create your network. If deep in your heart you feel that you cannot leave your children alone at home, then a home-business is the answer.

Problems would be logistics, like how to get around and all, scheduling with each other, and managing time and resources while taking care of our sons (since we do not have yayas). I foresee that we will need more help, as simple as more hands to help out, assist to get things going. Any parent would understand that.

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Monica and Denise have been friends since college. They graduated from Assumption College in 2005 with a degree in Communication, major in Media Production. After college, pregnancy kept them in touch as they both got pregnant barely a month apart. Good luck to you, ladies.