Lucy Burke's website Our Grand Tour was created as a realistic and honest guide for mothers, featuring interviews with busy mums talking about their experiences. Here, Lucy chats to Emma Cruickshank, who runs PR showroom Public Library while raising children.
From Emma:
I live in a house full of boys! This includes my husband Dan, my two step children Jack and Oska (tween twins) and my son Wilder. The only girl representative besides me is our French bulldog Cola…. we stick together. I opened Public Library (an Auckland based fashion PR and Sales showroom) in 2008 when I was 24, after moving back from Sydney. We currently represent over 20 brands.
How did becoming a mother change your outlook on your company? Or did becoming a mother see the start of your company?
After Wilder was born I realised I had to make the business work. If I was going to be spending this much time away from him I needed it to be successful! I definitely felt like shit got real for me.
What are your five tips for juggling motherhood and a business?
1. I know it sounds obvious but try and be as organised as possible before you leave for work, otherwise you end up stressing all day about a messy house, washing that needs to be done, what you are going to cook for dinner etc. (I never thought there would be a day where I would say that). Men, why do you never worry about this stuff?
2. Try not to feel guilty. I think it is natural for working mums to feel guilty when they are not at home with their children. It definitely gets easier. I have been lucky enough to have my own business where I can still have one day with Wilder during the week. I know that is a privilege that a lot of mums don’t have.
3. Try and break away from your phone and computer when you do have your time with the kids This can be so hard and I am still not good at it but you will feel so much better going to work when you know you have spent quality time with them.
4. I found it really helpful talking to other mums who are also juggling motherhood and work. It's nice to have a support network.
5. Try and keep a balanced life. When work is getting too much, just remember it is only work! Family life is the number one most important thing.
What has been the biggest challenge so far since having a baby and working?
The biggest challenge has probably been managing stress and trying to not let it affect family. When you have your own business everything is on you and that can be a lot of pressure sometimes!
What are your main goals for the future of your business?
I have an amazing team and we are currently in the position where we want to grow our PR side of the business. I originally studied fashion design and I do miss using this side of my brain sometimes. I love being creative and coming up with refreshing solutions in regards to growing brands within New Zealand. I want to do this more!
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