Featured Mumpreneur: Bec Gange of Pretty Well Covered

Hi, I’m Bec Gange, owner of Pretty Well Covered – stylish and discreet breastfeeding coverlets. I’m a WAHM to two gorgeous boys. I’m a trained teacher and left my teaching career when my first child was due.

When he was born in July 2007, I began breastfeeding. I struggled in the first few weeks and nearly gave up, but I needed and wanted to continue. I had many bouts of mastitis but fought to keep feeding. I found a surprising passion for breastfeeding that I hadn’t expected to have.

Pretty Well Covered was launched in 2008 by a close friend of mine. As a mum of three breastfeeding her third child, she saw the need for a stylish and practical breastfeeding cover. I’ve been operating Pretty Well Covered since December 2010. The business continues to grow within Australia and internationally. We have friends in 15 countries around the world, and have sold our coverlets in throughout Australia and in the Philippines, Canada, the UK and New Zealand.

Our coverlets are popular because they are a fashionable alternative to wearing a blanket, wrap or nursing apron while feeding. The over-the-head coverlet has no clips, buttons or ties, making it so simple to use. With its sheer fabric it provides coverage for discreet breastfeeding which keeps you cool and comfortable. It’s easy to use, easy to store, and can also be used as a pregnancy poncho, pram cover or baby wrap. Our coverlets are available in 5 colours – purple, teal, vintage rose, coral stripe, and black/white stripe (new stock of latter 3 colours arriving in Jan 2012).

I’m passionate about breastfeeding, and passionate about giving mothers the ability to choose whether covering is right for them and their baby. I don’t believe that mothers should have to cover; but as a breastfeeding mum I chose to cover. I didn’t want my post-baby tummy and sides on display!

Wearing a coverlet doesn’t remove the boding moments that breastfeeding can bring – you can still maintain eye contact with your baby. I’m blessed to have a great husband who works hard so I can be at home with my boys. I’m very thankful that I have the best of both worlds – the ability to be a stay at home mum, and the ability to run a business I love! I’d love to hear from you with any feedback or enquiries you have!
http://www.prettywellcovered.com.au/
www.facebook.com/prettywellcovered

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Pretty Well Covered

Pretty Well Covered - stylish and discreet breastfeeding coverlets

Enjoy convenient and discreet breastfeeding in public or at home.

• stylish light-weight and breathable fabric, keeping you and baby from becoming overheated

• sheer fabric enables you to enjoy eye contact with your baby whilst maintaining privacy

• easy on/off garment without clips or ties. Just slip it on!

• three sizes to provide coverage for your back and post-baby belly

• comes with a cute and compact organza drawstring purse

• available in a variety of colours that you can wear any time

• perfect to use as a pregnancy poncho, light-weight baby wrap or pram cover

• invented by an Aussie breastfeeding mum!

Web: http://www.prettywellcovered.com.au/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/prettywellcovered

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Featured Mumpreneur: Melissa Haggerty of Fab Fit Pantyhose

Are you fed up with uncomfy tights? Over shapewear pantyhose that squeezes you so tight you can barely breathe? Or irritated by tights that dig into your waist leaving you with a bulging muffin top? 


You’re not the only one! But now there is a solution! 


Melissa Haggerty is the creator of Fab Fit Pantyhose. She spent years searching for tights that would look stylish and feel comfortable all day long. Every product she tried let her down so she decided to design her own! She wanted pantyhose that were extra long in the body with a soft but firm elastic top to make sure they stay in place and don’t roll down when you walk or sit. They had to be completely opaque to look and feel sexy so she made them 100 denier. The main thing is she wanted a smooth, flattering silhouette under a fitted dress but without having to squeeze into shapewear. 


Fab Fit Pantyhose are the answer. They are unlike anything else on the market because they give that smooth line we all want but without feeling like we’ve got a boa constrictor wrapped around us! Let’s face it, we don’t need to try to squash our bodies into uncomfortable “shapewear” that makes us feel unsexy and uncomfortable. We want a smooth look and to feel comfortable. 


 Melissa has a Marketing background but had never designed or manufactured her own product before. She had to specify her design, have a pattern created, find and brief a reliable Australian manufacturer and then ensure the final product met her high standard of design and quality. She then had to work out what to call her product and develop costeffective but attractive packaging and distribution of her Fab Fit Pantyhose. 


Melissa took her idea from concept to reality in less than a year...while working full-time! She said “I had a few different product ideas and I knew I wanted to create my own business but I didn’t quite know how to get started. I met with a business coach who helped me figure out what I needed to do and then I did it. I didn’t want to give up my job because I still had to pay the bills plus I needed to prove that my idea would work.” 


I’m now working on expanding the range to include footless tights and different colour options. It’s great working on my own business idea instead of just working on great ideas for my clients! My goal is to continue to grow the business and to become the number one high waisted pantyhose and tights brand in Australia. Fab Fit Pantyhose launched on Channel Ten’s The Circle and had a great response. The hosts even tried them and loved them! 


You can now buy Fab Fit Pantyhose online from the website www.fabfitpantyhose.com.au They come in packs of two so you’ve always got one to wear while the other is in the wash! Melissa is offering members of Connect2Mums a special promotion price of $29.95 for two pairs - that’s $10 off the normal price. On checkout, use the promotion code 'Connect2Mums'

Website: www.fabfitpantyhose.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FabFitTights
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Fab Fit Pantyhose

www.fabfitpantyhose.com.au

Are you fed up with uncomfy tights? Over shapewear pantyhose that squeezes you so tight you can barely breathe? Or irritated by tights that dig into your waist leaving you with a bulging muffin top? 


Fab Fit Pantyhose are leading a pantyhose revolution. Fab Fit Pantyhose provide: 
1. Ultimate Comfort - The extra long body with its soft elastic top reaches to just under your bust and stays there. 
2. Fabulous Fit - Our tights create a smooth, flattering line under clothes without giving you the squeeze. They come in size average, tall and extra tall so they'll fit you perfectly 
3. Ultra Flattering Style - Fab Fit Pantyhose are completely opaque 100 denier, guaranteed to make you look and feel sexier Try them for yourself.
Visit www.fabfitpantyhose.com.au  


Find us at Facebook: www.facebook.com/FabFitTights

Gail Vandermerwe Jewellery

www.gailvandermerwe.com

After completing an Interior Design Diploma in 2003 in Cape Town South Africa, a further desire to explore my creative interest led me to the design and preparation of costume jewellery.    This part time interest quickly grew into a small business venture, which was launched after acquiring a substantial commissioned order in 2005. 

My jewellery designs are classic and timeless pieces, which are individually and carefully hand strung by myself.

From custom made designs, remodelling of old or outdated pieces of jewellery, to the intricate precision of pearl knotting and stringing using excellent quality components, cultured pearls, semi precious stones as well as high quality fashion beads. Designs and crafting of the jewellery has no boundaries and can be prepared to meet your specific needs and desires.

Fashion trends are forever evolving, however the need for classic, timeless pieces of jewellery whether they are investment pieces or good quality costumes pieces are here to stay!

That’s where I come in, offering a service to repair, restring or remodel, adding further life & zing to your string of pearls, beaded necklace, or repair your earrings!  No need to discard those favourite pieces that can be restored and revitalised!  

www.gailvandermerwe.com

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Connect2mums Magazine Issue 4 Summer 2011

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Going To Hospital

Going to Hospital
http://www.goingtohospital.com/ is a online business offering a stylish, comfortable and practical loungewear range for women, a small men’s range and useful extras such as slippers, shawls and bags. The website also includes a blog and link pages offering related hospital and health information. Your order is delivered in a reusable drawstring bag, and delivered to hospital or home in emergency time.

The goingthohospital (gth) range is very popular with pregnant women, as well as people undergoing elective surgery or expecting extended stays in hospital. The fashion colours, soft easy to wear fabric and styling create outfits that make you feel good and prepared for visits from family and friends. However, the garments can be worn beyond your hospital stay – in fact you don’t even have to be going to hospital to wear the range!


Buy for yourself or a great idea as a gift for a baby shower, colleague heading into hospital or just family and friends who like to lounge around.http://www.goingtohospital.com/



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Babies and Bellies

Babies and Bellies

Babies and Bellies is a new online Boutique Baby store specialising in Beautiful Handmade and Organic Cotton Baby Clothes from newborn to size 2.

Our Handmade clothing is made at home by my Mother and we use a range of modern Cotton based fabrics; we can guarantee that our garments are made with lots of love and care.

Our Organic Cotton clothing line is from the very popular brand GAIA Organic Cotton.

We also stock a beautiful range of Organic Skin care for Mother and Baby made from Natural and Organic oils and extracts with exquisite scents. This skincare range will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth without causing irritation to sensitive skins.

Visit Babies and Bellies for gorgeous products for Mother and baby!




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WillowBlu

WillowBlu

WillowBlu is a family owned & operated business offering today’s hottest celebrity inspired 100% fully imported leather handbags – without the designer price tag!

All our handbags have meticulous attention to detail & are crafted from top quality Australian & Italian leather. Each bag is fully lined with leather trim, comes in its own protective dustcover & our own brand of WillowBlu!



Our range includes: tote bags, hobo bags, shoulder bags, messenger/satchel bags, nappy bags, clutches and purses.

The collection has something for every taste and budget and we want women to know they don’t have to lose money to GAIN style! http://www.willowblu.com.au/

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Lunalei

Lunalei – The Heart of Funky Kids Fashion

Lunalei is an Australian online store, that provides you with trendy, punk, rock, hip, baby, toddler, and kids clothes, for that little rock star to strut their stuff in.

When you purchase any of our cool range of clothes or shoes, you will know that your child is wearing a unique fashion forward outfit.

Our range is sourced globally to give you that difference.

Most of our clothes are unisex, so they can lead a double life.

We care about our customers and ensure they receive personal customer service, and with offers of free gifts with purchase, you will love shopping in our store

So Rock on over to Lunalei and get your kids funky on! http://www.lunalei.com.au/

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MumCho

MumCho™:

MumCho™: The Discreet Way to Breastfeed in Style Wherever You Go


Introducing the New Zealand-made MumCho – a lightweight, versatile wrap designed to enhance style, comfort and privacy for mother and baby during breastfeeding.

Every season, MumCho introduces a new collection featuring a range of beautiful fabrics including colourful printed silk and chiffon, bamboo and New Zealand merino wool.

MumChos are timeless fashion accessories to be worn in 4+ ways during pregnancy and beyond the nursing period: the merino MumCho is a smart winter wrap-style; the chiffon MumChos are chic beach cover-ups; and the organic eco-friendly bamboo MumChos are stylish, urban garments.

MumCho is a cost-effective wardrobe addition; the only breastfeeding accessory new mums will need, providing a stylish and discreet option for mothers tending to their little ones. http://www.mumcho.com/
 
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Avidiva

Avidiva

Avidiva – Is an online baby boutique that is the home of Hand-Made, Eco-Friendly and Organic baby products.

For gorgeous unique clothing visit  http://www.avidiva.com.au/

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Trendy Kidz

Trendy Kidz

TrendyKidz™ designs are high quality, well thought out, versatile and kid durable.



We believe all children should wear appropriate clothing that suits their age, rather than their size. TrendyKidz™ caters for children from newborn to teen & our range is very well priced.

Our clothing range is retailed in stores, online and via Party Plan allowing busy mums to shop at home.

A stay at home mum can start her own business with us for less than $100!

TrendyKidz™ provides many day-care centres, playgroups and schools with uniforms to suit their individual needs, it’s a great way to fundraise!

We currently have a limited number of opportunities for boutiques to stock our range.


Submit your application to beverley@trendykidz.com.au


Shop TODAY at www.trendykidz.com.au

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Little Threads

Little Threads

At Little Threads we import quality children’s clothes that are end of season or end of run stock. All clothing is of perfect quality and the brands are genuine. Some of the labels may be cut due to the distribution policies from the factories which ensure the clothing is genuine. Brands include Gap, Zara, Ralph Lauren, Catamini, Guess, Hollister, Abercrombie & Fitch, Osh Kosh and more. We range newborn to size 12, both boys and girls, and new stock is constantly arriving. Mostly priced between $15.00 and $30.00, you won’t find genuine brands much cheaper than this.

The website offers a secure shopping environment through Pay Pal transactions. Orders are processed and dispatched within 48 hours across Australia, and internationally. Little Threads is also available via selected markets in the Brisbane area, or shopping parties in your home or office by arrangement. Visit Little Threads here http://www.littlethreads.com.au/

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Princess Allure Jewellery and Accessories

Princess Allure Jewellery

The Princess Allure collection includes handcrafted earrings, necklaces, bracelets and hair adornments. I pride myself on good quality products that are unique and well made, along with excellent customer service.
The collection is made predominately with Swarovski crystals and pearls, along with lace, materials and sterling silver components. I have a distinctive range of personalised jewellery, where I hand stamp sterling silver discs to create special and individual ‘mummy jewellery’.

Princess Allure’s customers are given the opportunity to customise designs by colour and findings finish, thus giving them a special piece of jewellery that is exactly what they are after. I also offer a custom order service where clients’ jewellery or accessory dreams are brought to life. Visit Princess Allure Jewellery here http://www.princessallure.com.au/

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Zimmer & Jee

Zimmer & Jee

Zimmer & Jee specialise in babies and toddlers with a range of quality products at great prices, in one easy-to-shop location. An expanding selection of organic, natural low-allergy & bpa free products; we offer clothes in fashion & organic brands from premmie to size 3; shoes & footwear; feeding ware & drink bottles in bpa free & stainless steel; organic cotton & non-toxic wooden toys; natural dummies and teething toys; organic bath & body care; organic sleepwear & bedding; plus unique brands like TotSeat, Kanoe organic hammocks & Snooky organic clothing.

Free shipping on all orders over $50 plus most brands below RRP make shopping at Zimmer & Jee easy & affordable. Visit today at http://www.zimmerjee.com.au/

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Scootoot Online Boutique

Scootoot Online Boutique

We are a small boutique which stocks specially selected clothing which you can buy or give as great gifts to the special kids in your life.


The clothing is great quality and most are 100% easy care cotton and are made so that the colours and designs mix and match easily.


KIDS ESSENTIALS WHICH ALL KIDS SHOULD HAVE!

Go online at www.scootootonlineboutique.com for the full selection and range or call us 0423 686 711.

We are also now stocking gorgeous fusion style ladies wear.


Beautiful clothing which blends eastern style with western taste and can be worn for most occasions.


FUSION FASHION FOR ALL WOMEN!


Go online at www.rumanas-boutique.com for the full selection and range or call us 0423 686 711.


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Bubbalooz

Bubbalooz
Bubbalooz brings you a unique mix of fun, style and design for your mini-fashionistas. We offer a great range of fabulous clothing for little ones, funky toys, beautiful furniture, & much more. There is something for everyone, including lingerie for Mums. Our labels include Oobi, Ugly Dolls, HOTmilk, Alimrose, Cocoon Couture, Boon, Bubbalino, Noah & Bells, and Baby Star USA. We also have a great range of the ever popular Mini Nesting Suitcases. Make sure you check out our Mini Suitcase Sets for a Gift to impress!

We are always on the look out for fabulous things from around the world to bring to you! http://www.bubbalooz.co.nz/

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Swish Lily

Swish Lily

Swish Lily is an online boutique for mums, bubs and tots. At Swish Lily, we are proud of our reputation as an online retailer who offers exceptional customer service with fast dispatch of all orders and quick response to all enquiries. Not only will you receive your order quickly but it will also be gorgeously wrapped.

We offer many popular brands for maternity, babies and children’ items ensuring quality products at affordable prices. You will find nursery furniture, baby wraps, baby and maternity skincare, girls jewellery and hair accessories, leg huggers, maternity wear, babies and children’s clothing and sleepwear, swimwear, children's bedroom accessories, nappy bags plus much more.

Please come on over and enjoy your shopping experience at Swish Lily. http://www.swishlily.com.au/

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La Toriana

La Toriana

La Toriana is an online baby and children’s boutique like no other. Synonymous with quality, stylish and affordable designer clothing, toys and accessories catering for premmie babies to kids 8 yrs. Showcasing and supporting Australian and New Zealand designers kids fashion they aim to surpass all your expectations in online shopping. Amazing designer labels as Tea Princess, Lambykins, Nanny Pickle, Earlybirds, Teeny Weeny, Princess Ratbag, Princess allure and many more.

To see La Toriana's gorgeous range visit http://www.latoriana.com.au/
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