Starting a Business with Kids in Tow: The Real, Honest Truth

Juggling Parenthood & Entrepreneurship—It’s Not Easy, But It’s Worth It

Starting a business is challenging. Starting a business while raising little ones? That’s next-level chaos. Some days, it feels like I’m switching between three full-time jobs—one as a mom, one as a product designer, and one as an entrepreneur. All of which require patience, creativity, and an endless supply of snacks.

When we decided to build Maeve & Rayne, it wasn’t just about creating a play space—it was about creating a life that works for our family. We wanted something that would allow us to spend more time together while building something meaningful for our community. If you’re dreaming of starting your own business while raising kids, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.

1. There’s No Perfect Time—Start Anyway

If I had waited for the “right time” to start Maeve & Rayne, I’d still be waiting. Life with kids is unpredictable, and honestly, it always will be. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, I had to shift my mindset: Start where you are, with what you have, and figure it out as you go.

✔ It’s okay to take small steps.

✔ It’s okay to make mistakes.

✔ It’s okay if your timeline isn’t as fast as someone else’s.

Starting is the hardest part—but once you do, momentum builds.

2. You Have to Be Flexible (Because Kids Will Keep You Humble)

One of the biggest adjustments? Learning to work around nap schedules, school drop-offs, and toddler meltdowns. I’ve had meetings interrupted by snack emergencies and emails sent at midnight because that’s when I finally had a quiet moment.

And you know what? That’s okay. Flexibility is a superpower in both parenting and business.

✔ Some days, I get a ton done.

✔ Other days, I feel like I barely made a dent.

✔ But every day, I’m making progress.

The key is to keep moving forward, even if it’s slower than you’d like.

3. Community & Support Are Everything

I’m learning that I don’t have to do this alone. Building a business while raising kids means leaning on my support system—whether that’s my spouse, family, friends, or fellow business owners.

If you’re starting a business:

✔ Find a mentor – Someone who’s been through it can give you invaluable advice.

✔ Build connections – Other parents in business understand the juggle.

✔ Ask for help when you need it – It doesn’t make you weak; it makes you smart.

And most importantly—don’t forget to celebrate your wins, no matter how small.

4. The Hard Work Now Will Be Worth It Later

There are days when I feel exhausted and wonder if I’m doing the right thing. But then I remember why we started this journey in the first place.

✔ We want more time with our family.

✔ We want to create something meaningful for our community.

✔ We want to build a future that gives us freedom and flexibility.

Right now, we’re putting in the work to make this dream a reality. And one day, when Maeve & Rayne is up and running, when families are laughing and playing in our space, when we can say, “We built this” with pride—it will all be worth it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about starting a business while raising kids, know this: It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Take the leap, give yourself grace, and remember—you’re showing your kids what it looks like to chase a dream and make it real.

You’ve got this. And if you ever need a reminder, know that I’m right here, figuring it out too.

♥️ Playfully yours, your mom-friend in fun, Lynne