Entrepreneur Interview: Michelle Hamman, Mother Tongues

Business Name:
MotherTongues

Website URL:
www.MotherTongues.com

Year Founded:
2005

What does your company do?
What we wear says a lot about who we are.
We print meaningful words that don’t translate directly into English, on fabulous people-friendly and earth-friendly products. All t-shirts, bags and aprons are 100% organic cotton, made with fair labor.

Was there a specific turning point when you realized your business was moving to the next level?

I had a “words and wine” party for friends at my home, and sold out in one evening! I knew I had the right idea.

What is most rewarding about running your business?
I love it when I get feedback from a customer who thank me for the t-shirts, their meaning, and how they deeply connected to the meaning.

What challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?
I always feel like I’m a little “ahead of the curve”. When I started 6 years ago, I had a hard time finding Fair Trade, organic cotton t-shirts, recycled shipping products, water based screen printers, recycled business cards, etc. In 6 years this became “mainstream”. Now I’m looking for Fair Trade fabric and beads…

If you were starting over today, what would you do differently?
I would spend more time and money on marketing, directly to customers and to stores.

What advice do you have for other business owners?
If you have a dream, a niche, and lots of guts, go for it!

Please list any favorite books, tools or resources (software, website, etc.) you would recommend for others:
Some of my favorite websites:
www.savorthesuccess.com
www.themogulmom.com
www.t-shirtforums.com
And books:
The Mommy Millionaire – Kim Lavine
The Brand Within – Daymond John

What is something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
I love traveling and have been to 5 of the 7 continents. Our girls have been traveling with us since they were babies, and regularly make the almost-40-hour trip with us to South Africa.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
If you want to start a business, pick something that you are passionate about. It shows!