Crib Sheet #60: LoveCups’ Erika Kelly.

Raise your hand if you giggled just a little when you saw Erika’s product name.  Now raise your hand if you sighed a great big sigh of relief when you realized what her product could do for you.  This founding mom has taken the leap that so many people never do–she’s gone ahead and created a product that we need.  Yet again, you can hit your forehead and ask:  why didn’t I think of that?  And, it kills two yellow-breasted birds with one stone by making you and your boobs very, very happy.

What business did you start up?

LoveCups, the organic recovery bra.

What motivated you to do it?

I saw a need in the market, and wanted to build a business of my own.

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

One daughter, Annabelle.  She’s 11 months old.

How long have you been running your business?

Less than a year.

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

Still in the midst of field testing my product, but so far I have gotten a lot of great feedback!

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

Very supportive.

Easiest part of your job?

The creative side of things: designing the product, the colors, etc.

Hardest part of your job?

Trying to build a business within my control.  Not getting too big too fast.

What skill would you most like to improve?

Becoming more knowledgeable about the manufacturing industry.

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

Everyone has a little doubt when starting something on their own…there will always be risks.  But without risk there is no GLORY.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

Seeing an idea come to life – many people have great ideas, but what makes us founding moms different is that we are superwomen and we know IT can be done!

Can you recommend 3 essential websites for moms in, or going into, business?

WBDC.org, SCORE, The Founding Moms

Favorite part of a typical day?

Fulfilling orders!

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

Time of day you get the most work done? Night.

Last purchase? Humidifier.

Favorite book or magazine? Inc. Magazine

Inspiration? Sara Blakely (founder of Spanx.)