I caught up with Lindsay Muir, founder of the Apron Shoppe, to discuss her company, time management and of course, her favorite aprons!
sproutstyle: What prompted you to start the Apron Shoppe?
Lindsay: My husband is an entrepreneur to his very core and I think I caught his bug. I wanted to do something with him that would be a way to help us work together from home, while also benefiting charities that are close to our hearts. When trying to think of what I wanted to sell, I kept coming back to aprons. I am always on the hunt for a cute and different apron (and I always seem to need a new one) But, they are hard to find, so I thought this would be a fun way to help everyone enjoy being in the kitchen more.
sproutstyle: How long have you been in business?
Lindsay: We launched the Apron Shoppe in May 2009.
sproutstyle: What sort of designs do you carry?
Lindsay: The majority of our aprons are handmade from local designers. We carry unique vintage and modern apron designs that are fun to wear in the kitchen. We also have aprons for children who like to help in the kitchen; and for the man who likes to grill in the backyard.
sproutstyle: If you had to choose, which of the designs is your favorite?
Lindsay: I would have to say, I am a sassy lady so I like the aprons with a little frill on the bottom: like the Rochelle Sweetheart and the Josephine Red and Pink Polka Dot Vintage Apron. They are both very spunky!
sproutstyle: You must own thousands of aprons…
Lindsay: I own about six ☺ and I have two for my husband also. Most of mine were gifts from my wedding or where my grandmother’s, who was also a very spunky, party loving, fashion forward lady!
sproutstyle: What tips do you have for moms who want to start their own businesses?
Lindsay: It is definitely a challenge trying to juggle nap times, feedings, play, and work. But, it is rewarding to have something to call your own. I would say you need a good support system of friends and family to cheer you on and to help with the kids when things get a little crazy. I wanted to start this business to have more time together as a family. No matter how busy I get, I always make sure that my kids know they are my first priority. If you are a stay at home mom, like me, and have an idea… try it! I believe everything we try in life can only make us better and stronger in the end.
sproutstyle: What has been the most difficult part of running the Apron Shoppe? The most rewarding?
Lindsay: The most difficult part is the time it takes and getting the word out that we are even around. But, on the flip side, the most rewarding is the time it gives us to be working at home together as a family. I love to work with my husband and see our creativity flowing. It is a good feeling to create something fun and beneficial to not only our family, but hopefully others through the charities we are donating to.
sproutstyle: What is the Apron Shoppe Exclusive List?
Lindsay: The Exclusive List is a free member sign up. It’s way to get exclusive discounts, heads up on new products, important updates, and be a part of our Apron Shoppe family.
sproutstyle: Tell us about the Aprons Change the World Campaign.
Lindsay: Our Change the World Campaign is our way of helping those around us. We like to be actively helping out in our community and we want to teach our children the value of being kind and charitable people. So, we are trying to show them by our example; that no matter what you do or who you are you can always find a way to help those around you. With our Apron Shoppe we are donating 5 percent of the net proceeds from each sale to charities that fund breast cancer research as well as charities that help stop child hunger.
sproutstyle: What’s next on the horizon for you?
Lindsay: Well, I am expecting another baby due in September, a little boy! I am not thinking too far ahead of that at the moment ☺ But I am sure that with my husband’s amazing business-building skills and my love of making the world a more fun and happier place, we will think of something great!
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