Alma is the creative brainchild of sisters Alison & Emma (Alma) – it's all about being creative and sharing the love!

Emma has two gorgeous little boys 16 months apart – gorgeous Noah and cheeky Finn. She's a primary school teacher, living in Geelong, Australia. Alison had her first little bub on New Years Eve – cute baby Gus. She is a graphic designer who lives in Melbourne. We love creating items for the home – one of a kind gorgeous prints (large and small) for young and old. Need a wedding or anniversary gift, updating your nursery, or simply want something for yourself? We've got you covered. We're so glad you're on this journey with us and hope you like our store!

Tell us about the first steps you took in starting your business? 

Like many small businesses that start we were after a product that we couldn’t find locally, suited us financially or that we liked the quality of. Therefore we had discovered a gap in the market. Once we had an idea it was about sourcing correct products locally and a bit of trial and error until we were very happy with the end result. We would never produce something we would not be totally happy with displaying in our own homes. You must also be open to allowing your products to evolve with the customer’s needs and wants. They will help it become a product that will be successful.

What is a personal habit that you believe contributes to your success?

Organisation and communication. This is between each other, our suppliers and customers.

Give us 3 tips on how to use Instagram to boost business

1. Keep it real.
2. Promote and support others even if they are in a similar genre to you.
3. Keep your images clean and classic.

How do you balance #mumlife and business life?

Probably the most important question because most of us Mums start our own online businesses so we can stay at home with our little ones and spend more time with them. First and foremost we are Mums and our families will always come first. This then comes back to communication. Keeping customers informed so they know turn around times of products is key. This helps you to not be stressed and allows time for the most important thing – family. Organisation is also key. Timetable in ‘work’ time and if it needs to wait it can. Remember this your business and you make the terms. As long as customers know what to expect you and them will be happy campers.

What one piece of actionable advice would you give someone just starting out?

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and always be true to your product. Remember that is your business and you set the expectations. If it too stressful, take a step back and look at how you can change things to make your life easier.

A Mum with Hustle you admire and why

This is super hard decision as we really do admire so many lovely Mums on Instagram who all have massive hustle but we really do admire @blessedeleven. She has been a massive supporter of ours from the start. She has her own challenges but continues to support all those around her, including us. Not to mention she also sells prints, which is super amazing of her to then support a fellow print maker.

Whats new!

CANVAS HEIGHT CHART (white or grunge): They grow up so fast! We try to document all the milestones; first smile, first clap, first word. This classic height chart will help keep tabs on those growth spurts and be a keepsake for years to come. This gorgeous Canvas Height Chart is a step up in quality. Printed on strong thick canvas, it comes with its own wooden hanger for the top and bottom and is hung by a piece of soft white leather cord. Handmade with love, designed and printed in Australia.A unique and beautiful gift or just for yourself.CANVAS & WOODEN HANGERS ONLY – No other accessories included. Size approx. 20cm wide x 2m high, assembly required (instruction included).

PAPER HEIGHT CHART (custom or standard): They grow up so fast! We try to document all the milestones; first smile, first clap, first word. This classic height chart will help keep tabs on those growth spurts! It is clean, simple, easy to hang (just some blutack will do it) suits every room and will be a keepsake for years to come.> Custom Family: This Custom Family Name Height Chart is even more special as you can personalise it with your family name. Height charts aren't just for the kids!> Custom Birth Date: This Custom Birth Date Height Chart is even more special as you can personalise it with your child's name/s, date of birth and birth length.

Works well as a unique and special gift for that friend or loved one that just had a little squirt of their own!

EXCLUSIVE DEAL

Alma Custom Designs are offering 10% off their beautiful height charts from the 8/10/2015 to 10/10/2015.

The code you will need is “ALMAHUSTLE”

http://www.almacustomdesigns.com