Crib Sheet #57: Calm The Crazy’s Meredith Ferguson.

Doesn’t this photo say it all?  I’m just so happy that someone out there has figured out how to calm all the crazy.  As you’ll read below, Meredith defines success the way we all should in our own business.  It almost makes you want to forgive her for not being a sushi lover.

What business did you start up?

I started Calm the Crazy, LLC, a company that develops products that make life with kids easier…because more ease means more fun. We also believe that your life – your style, your attitude, who you are – shouldn’t stop simply because you have kids. So, we create products that are easy, smart, stylish and durable for moms (and dads!) by moms.  We are incredibly proud and excited about our first product – the Kikou: a unique and fashionable cover-up to protect your clothing from life’s little messes (a.k.a. spit-up, drool, snot). And it’s a great nursing cover, too!

What motivated you to do it?

My kids. I am fueled by my desire to both do something that allows me to spend more time with my family and sets a good example for them by following my dreams and doing something I’m passionate about. They have also inspired many of the products we’ve developed and are developing.

How many children do you have, and how old are they?

I have 2 beautiful girls–a 5 year-old and 3.5-year-old.  Both are full of life!

How long have you been running your own business?

Almost a year now…but we’ve just launched our first product in the last month.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?

Well…I’m not exactly profitable yet.  But in many ways, I feel successful for just taking my own business this far.  I’ve had tons of business ideas–from a doggie hotel to a bakery–but this is the first time that I’ve taken my own business concept all the way to launch.  And for that alone I would define this effort as a success!

How did your family react to you starting your own business?

They are very proud.  My girls are incredibly aware and excited about the business.  They know that part of the inspiration is for me to see more of them, so they are very supportive!  My husband is the backbone to the entire operation. I could never have gotten this far without both his encouragement and support.

Easiest part of your job?

Idea generation.

Hardest part of your job?

Turning the ideas into reality.

What skill would you most like to improve?

Media relations…when does persistence turn into annoyance??

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

It always takes longer than you think, so plan for that.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

Actually producing the first product. There’s no better feeling than seeing your vision turn into a reality.  It takes hard work and persistence…and sometimes you think it’s never going to happen.  But not giving up and seeing it happen–that is priceless.

Favorite part of a typical day?

When I come home from my “day” job.  My kids greet me at the door every day like they haven’t seen me for months.  It’s fantastic.

And a few more questions, considering that American Express should be featuring more momtrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition? Be my own boss.

Time of day you get the most work done? Evening after kids go to bed.

Last purchase? Oval Ring Belt from Eddie Bauer.

Favorite book or magazine? Life of Pi

Inspiration? Husband and kiddos.

Least likely to…..eat sushi.

My life…..is crazy…and fun!!