Crib Sheet #9: The Aba Agency’s Aba Bonney Kwawu

The Aba Agency is a marketing, public relations and special events boutique that none other than Aba agency business  herself runs. Find out how this high style momtrepreneur gets herself through her very busy lifestyle.

When did you start up your agency business?

August 2002.

What motivated you to do it?

I had a dream job in mind that I could not find, so I used my contacts and network to launch an agency business that would allow me the freedom to live my dream.

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

A 16-month old baby girl.

How long have you been running your agency business?

Almost seven years.

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

It took me about three years to become profitable and to win a few high profile clients.

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

My family, especially my husband, has always been very supportive. My family cheered me on when I was too scared to move forward or second guessing myself.

Easiest part of your job?

I love what I do! Really! Creating innovative strategies for our clients is fun for me.

Hardest part of your job?

One of the toughest parts of the job is the management and day-to-day administration. I just want to create and implement. However, to be a successful entrepreneur, it pays to be organized and knowledgeable about all aspects of the business from accounting to HR and beyond. Also, it’s extremely difficult to maintain any type of personal life with a schedule as crazy as mine!

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

I understand that it’s okay to say no now. There is just no way to be everything to everyone and more importantly every client without sacrificing your reputation. We are very focused on our niche now and work mostly by referral.

Any people or computer programs or other materials that you recommend for fellow momtrepreneurs to use/buy for their companies?

I am married to my blackberry!!! It allows me to manage my schedule, e-mails and my three-ring circus.

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

I love BabyCenter.com and Cookie Magazine.

Anything else I should have asked you that you should answer?

I am a real busybody. Though I have always wanted to be a mother, I was afraid of what it would do to me as an individual. I had my baby at a super busy time in the Agency and was afraid to take any time off because I would lose my motivation–or more importantly, that clients would forget about me. I worked from the delivery room (seriously: nurses had to ask me to put my beloved blackberry away because the baby’s head was crowning). In retrospect, having my baby girl has added an element to my life that I never imagined. When things are hectic and clients become increasingly demanding it is her face I imagine and she forces me to put everything in perspective. My baby travels with me everywhere I go on business (my mom travels with us or her daddy).

I am able to be a successful entrepreneur and work at being a great mom at the same time. What a blessing!