Crib Sheet #20: Rain Frog Apparel’s Karen Spaeder.

How could this ecofriendly writer not become a Momtrepreneur after having been a freelance writer for Entrepreneur Magazine.  Karen not only offers an ecofriendly approach to her entrepreneurial endeavor, but great advice for fellow Momtrepreneurs, too.

What business did you start up?

I am the founder of Rain Frog Apparel, bamboo fiber apparel that’s ecofriendly and environmentally responsible. Bamboo is a sustainable, fast-growing resource that makes for a soft, moisture-wicking, comfortable, antibacterial garment. It’s great for kids in particular since it’s so soft and hypoallergenic.

What motivated you to do it?

My son was my motivation. He was reciting the Pledge of Allegiance one day and, at the end, said “With liberty and justice for frogs” instead of “for all.” Having just written an article about T-shirt entrepreneurs (I am a freelance writer, too), I ran with the idea of creating a branded concept that has corporate responsibility at its core. I joined 1% for the Planet early in the game in 2007 and have been giving back 1% of my sales ever since.

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

1 son, age 6.

How long were/have you been running your business?

I have been in business since February 2007 and got truly up and running in August of that year, following production.

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

This is my year of planned profit, since the first two years have consisted of putting much time, money and resources into production and getting my feet wet. As a longtime writer for Entrepreneur magazine, I can tell you that most businesses, especially in the apparel industry, are lucky to break even after two years. Many new businesses fail. I am committed to making my business highly successful in 2009 and have growth strategies in place.

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

They have been largely supportive. They know I’m always up to something entrepreneurial, and they applaud my efforts, even if at times they must think I’m nuts.

Easiest part of your job?

Being creative — the fun things like designing and creating new things.

Hardest part of your job?

Accounting! That, and knowing which opportunities are worthwhile in terms of advertising and marketing.

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

I wish I would have chosen one avenue from the beginning in terms of retail, wholesale or e-commerce. I have decided this year to take my emphasis off of wholesale and e-commerce and to focus on retailing at unbeatable prices. I need to get my product in front of people to build brand awareness, then the e-commerce sales (and perhaps wholesale accounts) can come.

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

Entrepreneur.com, MyWomanOwnedBusiness.com, and Meetup.com for local entrepreneurial groups with mom-owned businesses.

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

Networking and referrals are so key for business owners. Don’t be afraid to get out and join the chamber and develop a close-knit network of business owners who support each other. Those groups are more likely to use your business products/services and refer business your way.

Also, get a mentor or two — financial, personal, spiritual, etc. — someone who is where you want to be and is willing to guide you to that place, too. My mentors are a surgeon and a nurse who retired after implementing a residual income strategy in their lives and now spend their time mentoring others and performing surgery in 3rd world countries.

Finally, I also want to mention that I’m moving into some retail space in Burbank in April – see AmericanBoutiquesLA.com – it’s a kind of “store within a store” where I’ll have the opportunity to sell my products at retail and get in front of buyers if I choose. I am looking to include a couple of other lines in my display, so if there are other eco-friendly vendors out there, I’d like them to get in touch with me at info@rainfrogapparel.com for details.

A few more questions, just because American Express should be featuring more Momtrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition….I wanted to be an artist or a pianist.
Fondest memory….sitting on my dad’s knee and having him hold up 4 fingers to illustrate my age back then.
Indulgence….wine, coffee and chocolate.
Last purchase…..a car battery..ugh.
Favorite magazine…..what are those? (I’m a bit time-stressed)
Inspiration…..my son.
My Life…is filled with happiness, possibilities and family. I am grateful!