Entrepreneurial Ambition on Maternity Leave: One Woman's Journey to Success

A pregnant woman in Cardiff has turned her passion for pottery into a thriving business, proving that it is possible to successfully launch a venture during maternity leave.

Mollie Warrington, 30, had always dreamed of creating something of her own. After studying interior design and settling into an insurance job, she found herself with the time and freedom to pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions when the pandemic hit. During eight weeks of isolation at home, Mollie discovered a gap in the market for unique mugs that would generate buzz on social media.

"I used those nine months of pregnancy to plan what I was going to do with my maternity leave, and then saved every month so that I could be OK in maternity leave," Mollie recalled. The decision to launch her business during maternity leave turned out to be a smart one, as Naetive Studio took off quickly.

Mollie's baby, Rio, became her constant companion, providing inspiration for the mother of one as she worked on her pottery. When the business launched in July 2022, Mollie would make about 15 mugs per week, but soon expanded her team to meet growing demand. Today, her company has a team of 12 makers producing over 400 custom orders weekly and is stocked in upscale stores such as Anthropologie.

However, success came with its challenges. Mollie admitted to feeling "mum guilt" - the pressure to have it all, both as a business owner and as a mother. She also faced obstacles related to childcare support. As Dr Lauren Josie Thomas from the University of South Wales noted, women entrepreneurs often struggle with the same pressures and barriers, except when they are trying to grow their businesses without workplace support.

"The challenge is almost impossible - being someone's partner, someone's mother, and present in a business all at once," Dr Thomas said. The academic highlighted how female-led businesses struggle for funding compared to their male counterparts.

To those considering starting a business during maternity leave, Mollie advises checking the terms of your contract and seeking support when needed. "I didn't actually plan what was going to happen if she shared [her product on social media], and I learned to be more proactive about expanding my manufacturing," she said of her experience with influencer feedback.

As Naomi's journey shows, entrepreneurial ambition requires grit but also acknowledges the need for balance in life. With Naetive Studio spreading its wings nationwide, Mollie is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, support, and perseverance.