Mom of the Month
November 2009

Pineapple Hill Designs
Decorative Embellishments

 

The Story:
Pineapple Hill Designs began with a desire to find uncommon items with quality and style at reasonable prices. We offer decorative embellishments for you, your home and garden. Monogrammed clothing and jewelry, holiday collectibles, vintage keepsakes and unique party favors are just some of the fun items you'll find.

Why did you decide to start a home business?
I worked as a Director with Southern Living at Home for several years. I loved the women on my team and enjoyed sharing ideas for entertaining and decorating. We had 2 kids in college, one in High School and two in Elementary School. Even though I wasn't confined to an 8:00 - 5:00 job, I started to realize I needed to find something with more flexibility to accommodate my family's schedule. My husband got a transfer and the time was right, so I took a leap of faith 4 years ago when we relocated to Houston and started my own e-store, Pineapple Hill Designs.


How did you get started?

I had been renting space in antique/gift shops over the past 8 years and had a good feel for what people were looking for. I researched different companies that carried unique products and found sources to get materials for things I make in bulk. One of the most important decisions for me was finding the right website design. I spent countless hours hovering over the computer searching for "the look" that would be a good fit for my style and the products I wanted to sell. One day I happened upon "Inkprince". After looking through her portfolio, I was certain she could create what I wanted. I love what she did.



How do you promote your business?
I do some craft shows and still have a booth at an antique mall. All of my labels include the website address for the e-boutique. I love blogging and am finding it is a great way to network. I have a separate blog for Pineapple Hill Designs where I share recipes and design tips and announce new and upcoming products. I also have an e-newsletter. I do special promotions for newsletter recipients and bloggers and use different discount codes to track activity.

What challenges do you have in working for home?
I love working at home. For me it has been the perfect solution. I can sew, update products online and package orders for shipment in-between, PTA, music lessons, dinner...etc.

Where and how do you network with other moms?
I mentioned earlier that I love to blog. It has opened up a whole new world. I have learned so much and developed friendships with women I've never even met. The WAHM Registry and other online forums are great resources for networking. Also, most importantly, everyone that knows ME knows about Pineapple Hill Designs. It is my passion and I love to talk about it.

What is the best advice you could offer?

You CAN do it.

Do you have a favorite quote?
"Hope is anything but wishful. It is expectation based on experience."