The Balancing Act Of Business Ownership and Motherhood.

Balancing Business Ownership and Motherhood

In the demanding world of business ownership, striking a harmonious balance with personal life can seem like an overwhelming challenge, especially when motherhood enters the picture. Yet, our Managing Director,Marie Towner, not only navigates this intricate path but thrives on it. In this candid Q&A, Marie shares her personal journey, offering an inspiring glimpse into how she successfully manages the dual roles of a dedicated business leader and a loving mother. Her insights reveal the strategies, challenges, and profound rewards of building a thriving company while nurturing a family.

I. Introduction & Early Journey

Could you tell us a little about your journey into becoming a business owner? What initially inspired you to take this path?

Part-on wasn’t actually my journey as such initially, I had the opportunity to work alongside my partner in the same industry at another company, fell in love with it, once I gained knowledge it felt natural, which then made me and Chris want to pursue our own path, which was sort of forced when we I was made redundant. So, my inspiration was after thinking things were happening for a reason was…

• seeing how my business was helping others — solving problems, saving time, or improving other businesses .
• Creating something from the ground up that reflects my values and vision keeps me going, even when things get tough
• I’m inspired by being able to create opportunities for others — whether it's my team, my family, or my community

Can you share some of the initial challenges or hesitations you faced when embarking on business ownership, especially as you had 2 young children around that time?

Main challenges for me at the early stages were

• juggling my time! Running sales and accounts not to mention contending with School runs and a household duties.
• Funds were an issue at the start, due to being a new company we had to gather trade history with suppliers meaning upfront payments, however due to Chris and I being known by most leading manufacturers this was short lived thankfully and was soon offered credit accounts

II. The Intersect of Business and Motherhood

How has becoming a mother influenced your approach to business ownership and leadership? Have you noticed any shifts in your priorities or strategies since becoming a parent?

Becoming a mother has influenced my approach to business ownership and leadership. It’s given me a deeper sense of purpose and reshaped how I define success—not just in terms of growth or profit, but in how my business supports a balanced, fulfilling life for myself and those around me. Since becoming a parent, I’ve become more intentional with my time and far more efficient. I’ve learned to prioritise what truly matters, delegate more effectively, My leadership style has also evolved—I’m more understanding, particularly when it comes to supporting my team’s work-life balance. I’m focused on long-term value and creating something that aligns with my personal values and the legacy I want to leave for my children.

What does a typical "balancing act" look like for you on a daily or weekly basis? Could you walk us through how you manage your time and energy between your responsibilities as a business owner and a mother?

A typical day often starts early, before the household wakes up! I get ready, then if working from home I check emails, check / prep bank accounts and delegate any instructions to the staff in the office. Once the family routine kicks in, this consists of getting the kids washed, changed and fed ready for nursery / school drop off etc..

Whilst I was working part time hours, during working hours, I carefully plan my time. I focus on high-priority tasks first, delegate what I can, and try to avoid distractions. I’ve learned that being fully present—whether I’m in a meeting or spending time with my child—is more effective than trying to multitask everything.

What are some of the unique strengths or perspectives you believe being a mother brings to your role as a managing director and business owner?

An important perspective is long-term thinking and planning. As a parent (three times now), you’re constantly planning for the future, and that naturally carries over into how I build and lead my business. I think more practically now—not just about growth, but about creating a sustainable, well driven company that I’d be proud for my child to see, working in and one day take over.

What are some of thee biggest challenges you've encountered in trying to balance these two significant aspects of your life? How do you typically address them?

My biggest challenge to date was experiencing a near-death health crisis. It was a profound wake-up call that made me realise I simply couldn’t do everything on my own. Until that point, I had been carrying so much of the business on my shoulders—driven, like many entrepreneurs, by the belief that I had to be involved in every detail.

That experience forced me to step back and re-evaluate how I was working. I had to learn to delegate, trust others, and build a team and systems that could function without me if necessary. It was humbling—but also empowering. I’m incredibly grateful to still be here to tell the story, and even more grateful for the lesson it taught me: I don’t have to be superwoman to be a strong and effective leader.

III. Strategies for Success & Well-being

How do you prioritise your own well-being amidst such demanding roles? Are there any self-care practices you swear by?

Prioritising my own well-being hasn’t always come naturally—especially while juggling the demands of being a business owner and a mother I strive of my ‘’morning quiet time’’, a cup of tea whilst watching ‘’my TV programs’’ whilst getting ready for the day normally clears my head before the day starts. I’ve also learned to listen to my body. Whether that means stepping away when I feel overwhelmed, going for a walk, and making sure I get enough sleep—I treat those things as part of my job, not outside of it.

Another big shift wasletting go of guilt. I no longer see self-care as selfish. It’s part of being a present mum.

What kind of support system do you have in place, both professionally and personally, that has been instrumental in your journey?

Unfortunately, from a personal point my only support is Chris and my Children, we don’t get much help other than this from a personal point ☹. Professionally, building a strong, reliable team has been a game-changer. Learning to trust others, delegate, and surround myself with people who are just as passionate and capable has allowed the business to grow beyond what I could ever manage alone.

In hindsight, what's one piece of advice you would give your younger self when you were first starting out as a business owner and also undergoing motherhood?

You don’t have to do it all, and you certainly don’t have to do it all at once. I’d remind myself that building a business and raising a child are both long games,

IV. Leadership & Company Culture

As a managing director, how do you foster a supportive environment within your company for other parents or employees who are also balancing personal and professional commitments?

I try to lead by example—being open about my own challenges with balance and encouraging a culture where it’s okay to speak up when support is needed. It’s important to me that team members feel they don’t have to choose between their career and their personal life

Have your experiences as a mother informed how you approach leadership, empathy, and flexibility within your organisation? If so, how?

Being a mother I have, and hope to be seen as a more compassionate leader, I focused on creating a supportive, inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive both personally and professionally.

V. Reflections & Future Outlook

What's been the most rewarding aspect of being a business owner and a mother simultaneously?

The most rewarding aspect of being a business owner and a mother simultaneously is the sense of fulfilment that comes from building something meaningful both at work and at home. It’s empowering to know that I’m shaping not only my own future but also setting an example of resilience, passion, and determination for my children. Balancing both roles isn’t always easy, but the joy of celebrating milestones—whether it’s a business success or a personal moment with my child—makes every challenge worthwhile. It’s a unique privilege to wear both hats and find ways they enrich and inspire each other.

What message would you like to share with other aspiring female entrepreneurs or mothers who are considering or currently navigating similar paths?

Balancing business and motherhood I won’t lie it’s challenging!!, However it’s also deeply rewarding. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, set boundaries, You don’t have to be perfect, and you certainly don’t have to do it alone.

Trust your instincts, lean into your strengths…. being a business owner and a mother are powerful assets ????

Looking ahead, what are your hopes or goals for both your business and your family life?

I hope to create a life where both my business and my family not only exist but enrich each other—fuelling growth, happiness, and fulfilment in all areas. my goal is to maintain a healthy balance, showing that it’s possible to pursue your dreams without sacrificing what matters most your loved ones and family

Marie's journey powerfully illustrates that balancing business ownership and motherhood is not just possible, but incredibly enriching. Her insights offer clear takeaways for every ambitious woman. Marie's message is a beacon of encouragement:Trust your instincts, set boundaries, and never underestimate the unique strengths that being both a business owner and a mother bring.Embrace the journey, for it's one of immense growth, purpose, and unparalleled reward.✨