Interview with: Sweet Mady's Paper

The Mom Behind Sweet Mady's Paper

Who is Sweet Mady's Paper and what makes you stand out from other custom stationery designers? Where are you located?
I'm Michelle, the owner and designer of Sweet Mady's Paper, located in Waterford, Virginia. Sweet Mady's Paper is a custom stationery studio creating fun classic cards. Our collections include flat stationery, notecards, invitations and announcements for all occasions. All of our products are featured online at our website, www.sweetmadys.com. What I love about Sweet Mady's is not only do we classic stationery, but we are truly a custom studio. If you have an idea, call or email me and I will work with you to create it. It's that easy!

How did you come up with your business name?
Sweet Mady's is named after my daughter, Madelyn. I had thought of the name after she was born in 2003 and knew that if I ever took the plunge to start my own business, that is what I would use. She loves to create her own projects next to me while I am creating new designs for my collections. I guess you could say we make a great team!


When and why did you decide to start your own business?
This was an idea I had for a long time! After the birth of my twin boys in 2007, I decided it was time to start doing something creative for myself. I definitely needed something for me. I have always loved stationery, with all the different colors and patterns. Plus, there is still something special about sending a handwritten note to a friend to say hello or thanks and that's why I started Sweet Mady's Paper.


How did you get started?
A computer, printer and paper was all I needed to get started! After taking a look into some different design programs, I sat down one evening and started creating. Once I felt a had a few great collections, I decided to get a website up and running. When that was done, I sent an email out to my family and friends inviting them to go online and check it out. I also asked them to send the website on to everyone they thought would be interested in my products.


What motivates you to keep your business going?
I have an awesome husband who has been supportive of this crazy idea every step of the way!! I also love what I am doing. It's just fun for me and I get excited when someone really loves their stationery.


Do you have a particular product that's unique, a best seller, or that you are promoting on your site?
My Boutique Box is the best! It's perfect for those times when you need a card last minute and just don’t have time to run to the store. Both the Signature Collection and Classic Collection each come with 12 cards for various occasions. You will be ready to send a note of congratulations for a new home, engagement, baby or a note of thanks, birthday wishes and more! Each collection is sent to you in a classic aqua boutique box finished off with an ivory bow. This is perfect for keeping all your cards together so you can grab one fast. When you run out of notes, just go on our website and you can order a refill pack!! How great is that!


How do you juggle family and work at home?
As a mother of a 4 year old daughter and 9 month old twin sons, running a business from home can be challenging! I am fortunate that all three of my children take a nap at the same time, so that is when I get most of my work done. I also do some work at night when the kids go to bed. Sometimes I feel torn over wanting to get my designs on the website and wanting to play games with the children. But the kids are my number one priority and they come first!


What advice would you give to moms seeking to become a WAHM?
Go for it! If you have an idea that you really love, try it. Once you decide to take the plunge, surround yourself with a great group of friends who will give you their honest opinion about your product. Also, try to contact a few local moms who have started their own businesses to talk to them about their experiences.


Visit Sweet Mady's Paper: www.sweetmadys.com


Current promotions/specials at Sweet Mady's Paper:
Free Shipping for The WAHM Spot readers through April 16th. Please enter promo code: WAHMFREE