Pink Tiger Spotlight:
Inspirational Working Mums
Spotlighting women who confidently reinvented themselves, re-entered the workforce or started their own business during motherhood
We all need role models to inspire us!
Here's to women who stepped out of their comfort zone, took action and created a career that both energized and fulfilled them.
Introducing: Leonie von Schweinitz, mother of four and Director/CEO of Annafie London.
I met Leonie in London and absolutely adore her classic luxury childrenswear brand which produces traditional hand smocked dresses, rompers and nightwear. Leonie is full of life and the perfect example of a woman who decided to pivot during motherhood (she was a practicing lawyer up until the birth of her second child) and create a career that was fulfilling, exciting and most importantly, fit in with the demands of raising a family.
In my interview with her, I asked her about what it was like to head back into the workforce and start running her own business whilst raising four children.
1. What was the deciding factor that inspired you start your own business?
I have been a big fan of Annafie’s classic designs for years. I bought almost the entire collection when I had my first daughter (after two sons). Then, when the opportunity to take over a business that I felt so passionately about, presented itself, I couldn’t resist, even though the timing wasn’t great… with my youngest just 7 months old.
2. What was your biggest fear or hesitation about going back to work?
Definitely how to juggle the kids and their needs and the challenges of running a business. But also fear of failure – I’m a lawyer, and like being prepared. I have since learned that nothing can really prepare you for having four kids, let alone whilst running a fast growing business, sometimes you just have to go jump in and then learn to swim….
3. What were some of the most crucial steps you first took to get your idea off the ground?
My first step and the advice I give anyone starting a business is: speak to everyone who you have the chance to. I had lots of conversations with people who knew more than I do, about running a business, social media, sales, etc. Everyone has a slightly different perspective and experience, and something you can learn from them. I booked a few coaching sessions with you, which really helped with my self-confidence and getting over the fear of making mistakes. I’m still learning, and making lots of mistakes along the way, but have the tools now to deal with these.
4. What kept you motivated to keep going during those inevitable challenges or roadblocks?
How proud my kids and husband are of me! They get so excited about my little successes. But generally, feedback from happy customers and a really amazing response from Annafie fans these last couple of years really motivate me.
5. What is one piece of advice you would give to a mother who is thinking about starting her own business?
Do it! But don’t hesitate to ask for help, and don’t feel like you have to get everything right. Let yourself be “good enough” most of the time.
Looking for beautiful hand-smocked clothing? Visit Leonie’s website: annafie.com
Pink Tiger Spotlight: Supporting, encouraging and inspiring women around the world to confidently reinvent themselves, re-enter the workforce or start a business during motherhood!
Would you like to be spotlighted here too? Know of a woman who has started her own business or re-entered the workforce during motherhood who you think we should spotlight?
Contact me at: [email protected] to be spotlighted and featured here.
Here’s to your success!
About Alexandra
Hello, I’m Alexandra Terhalle, and if you are looking to begin a new chapter in your life and create a compelling vision for your future, then you’ve come to the right place!
I am on a mission to support and empower women to step into their power, believe in themselves and their abilities and gain the self-confidence needed to take action and improve their life, for good.
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