Casting for memories: Q&A with mompreneur Amanda Merriman
You know that one blank wall in the nursery for which you can’t find the perfect piece of art? You want it to be sophisticated but whimsical, timeless but modern. It should be as unique as your baby, but not so unique as to be weird.
Amanda, the mompreneur behind Edmonton-based Love My Bump, has a solution: what about a plaster cast of your pregnant belly? Made with medical-grade plaster and decorated to match your chosen colour scheme, these casts are new to the Birth Source inventory list, and we're so excited about them. Talk about a beautiful and lasting reminder of what it was like when it was just you, your partner, and an empty nursery full of possibilities.
We took some time with Amanda to find out more about her business, her passion for the environment, and her favorite uses for completed belly casts.
What inspired you to become a mompreneur?
Like many mompreneurs I wanted to find a way to supplement my income while staying home on my maternity leave with my two children: Ailee, who is four, and Aidan, who is six months old. I also wanted to take my hobby of belly casting for family and friends and turn it into something that would not only be profitable but that would also help me share the beauty of pregnancy and capturing precious memories for others.
How are your belly casting kits different?
My kits are made with medical-grade plaster, which heats up and dries much faster and stronger. Plus, I am a local mom, and I support and collaborate with other local businesses, especially those who deal with baby and eco-friendly products. Finally, my kits come with detailed instructions and photographs to help get you started, plus my support if you have any questions or need some help.
What are some of the innovative ways in which you've seen moms use their Love My Bump belly casts?
So far, my casts have been used as wall art and to hold stuffed animals in the nursery. My daughter loves to look up at the casting and asks me to tell her stories about when she was in Mommy's tummy. Many casts are decorated to match the nursery, and each one is unique and equally beautiful.
How does your passion for the environment play into your business?
I am a teacher by trade and have been teaching biology and science for my entire career. With that comes a lot of discussion about the environment and living green. It is amazing how children of all ages seem to understand the concept completely and become totally devoted to helping the earth. My daughter goes around the house shutting off the lights even if we are still in the room just to help out the "erf". I try my best to live green as a good example for my children and include them in helping me recycle, shop for greener products, and pick up garbage in our neighbourhood. As a "green mommy”, I use cloth diapers and wipes, and I try my best to use eco-friendly and sustainable products. My casting kits are even in a recyclable box!
What advice do you have for other aspiring mompreneurs?
My advice is to get out there are meet other mompreneurs and support each other. Google your idea locally and email away! Right now, I have a few other mommies with whom I share weblinks on our sites, business cards, and brochures. We promote each other to our clients, friends, and family because word of mouth is a great thing! I also email with many of them and ask for tips and advice. One of the best places I think to get noticed is at baby sales throughout the city and area.
