From Dream to Reality: The Farming Mother's Journey to Creating an Inclusive Retreat Haven
After years of dreaming and planning, Keeley, known affectionately as "The Farming Mother," finally found her perfect piece of paradise in Cornwall.
Moving her family and business to this idyllic location was no small feat, especially as a solo entrepreneur with children who have additional needs. The journey has been filled with challenges, from navigating the complexities of health and safety regulations to securing grants, all while managing a bustling family life.
But Keeley's determination and passion for creating a welcoming space for neurodiverse families have driven her to build a unique retreat and glamping experience that she hadn't looked back on since. As Keeley reflects on her journey, she's eager to share some of the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.
Here are her top three tips for supporting small businesses, especially those looking to create inclusive and welcoming environments:
Embrace Flexibility and Creativity in Problem-Solving Running a small business, especially in a niche market, requires a lot of creativity and adaptability. Keeley often faced unexpected challenges, from adjusting facilities to be more accessible to finding unique ways to market her retreats to neurodiverse families. Her advice? Embrace flexibility. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and be willing to pivot your plans as needed. This approach not only helps in overcoming obstacles but also opens up new opportunities for growth and improvement.
Build a Supportive Network No one can do it all alone, and Keeley knows this firsthand. From seeking advice on health and safety compliance to navigating the application processes for grants, she found that having a strong network of supportive friends, family, and fellow business owners was invaluable. She encourages other small business owners to connect with local business groups, join online forums, or even attend workshops and networking events. Building these connections can provide crucial support, inspiration, and sometimes even collaboration opportunities.
Prioritise Self-Care and Family Time Balancing the demands of a growing business with the needs of a family, especially one with neurodiverse children, can be overwhelming. Keeley emphasises the importance of self-care and making time for family. Running a business can be all-consuming, but it's essential to set boundaries and prioritise well-being. By taking care of yourself and ensuring quality family time, you’ll not only maintain your energy and enthusiasm for your work but also create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Keeley's journey with The Farming Mother has been a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of a supportive community.
Her retreats in Cornwall offer a sanctuary for Neurodiverse families, providing them with a unique opportunity to connect with nature and each other.
By sharing her story and tips, Keeley hopes to inspire and support other small business owners on their own paths to success.
