Friday, March 14, 2008

Growing a business: Stringbeans

Because I don't have nearly enough on my plate, I've decided to start a business. I'm launching a line of children's pants that are designed specifically for kids who are long and lean - skinny, like my two sons!

I don't know much about running a business. And I don't know anything about running a clothing company. But I do know that I'm sick of running from store to store with my measuring tape trying (in vain) to find pants that will fit my kids around the waist without being 3 inches too short. Call me crazy, but I'm not going to make my kids wear pants that look like capris, especially in Seattle where it's cold and wet 11 months of the year!

So my partner and I have been measuring kids and tinkering with size charts and picking out fabrics and researching contract sewers...and that's just the beginning. I'm starting to wonder what I've gotten myself into! But when I start to panic I just take deep breath and remind myself that most great things don't bloom overnight. What I need to do is plant the seed, add some water, let the sun shine down, and let it this business grow.

Of course, I can already see that this is going to cut into my writing time, just when I'm starting to find some minor success. I'm trying to be disciplined about how I spend my days. I think I'll have to say no to some social engagements. But I'm not willing to give up either endeavor. Does it count if I write about business?

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