Hi Lemonettes,
I wanted to introduce a BC designer @proteas_and_co that makes amazing handmade scrunchies which are cute, fun and great quality. Their mix of nostalgia and novelty has kept them as a hair accessory essential in my closet. Here is a little bit about the brand and Amanda Galileos, the beauty behind the brand.
What began with a small idea to sew a scrunchie for myself, I would never have imagined I would have my very own business today! When I held in my hand something that I had made from fabric, thread and an elastic, I knew I wanted make more of them, and lots!!! it started with making a scrunchie for my neighbour who had just had a baby, then for a couple of my friends and then one night just I decided to open an Instagram account and just see what happens (still not thinking it could be a business yet). That first week I received so much love and support that before I knew it I was creating a logo, buying labels, then bags, and heaps and heaps of fabric!
I was three months postpartum with our darling little baby girl, our second baby, and in the thick of baby blues and diapers! Yes, I was already VERY busy with my sweet little 3 year old boy and darling little newborn, so you may ask, why? Why would I need to add another load on to my day? I know being on maternity was the perfect opportunity for me to start my own business, something I always wanted to do. I have always had an eye for creativity and wanted to have something to call my own. I wanted to create something that brought my vision to life. Fast forward 7 months and here we are, Protea and Co.
I chose Protea and Co as my business name because the Protea flower represents where I am from and is a big part of who I am. The Protea is the national flower of South Africa and grows wild which also resonates with me that such beauty can grow on its own and weather any ups and downs, and having a business, you really do face those challenges every day.
I have learned so much of myself through mistakes and risks I have taken. There are constant ups and downs in this “business journey” and this teaches me to be more patient and to really be much kinder to myself, because well, I am a perfectionist. Someone I admire so much said this quote and I repeat it to myself daily: an imperfect action is better than a perfect inaction.
I believe in supporting each other and connecting with people to build long term trustful relationships.
I am so proud of what I have been able to achieve so far ands grateful for all the wonderful friends and connection I have made on this journey.
Amanda Galileos @proteas_and_co