Tampa moms produce eco-friendly (and pretty darn cute!) children's clothing line

Danielle O’Connor and Shari Feldman met at the University of South Florida while pursuing their doctorates in Anthropology.  In 2003, the friends traveled to Guatemala where they became fascinated with the textiles worn by the local indigenous people.  Soon, they both became mothers and although their focus shifted to their families, their appreciation of cultures and their memories of Guatemala never faded.

The young mothers became inspired by the love for their children and their reminiscence of the beautiful Mayan textiles.  This is where the idea for Chi Chi Amor  was born.  In 2006, Shari and Danielle took a few trips to Panajachel, Guatemala where they met with several textile producers. Together they developed a line of unique children's clothing that integrated Mayan textiles with contemporary western fashion.  Their products are handmade by small family groups who work in collaboration with Chi Chi Amor to design and produce their garments.  Danielle and Shari take great care to assure that all of the Guatemalan collaborators will be paid for their work according to the prices they set for themselves and are recognized for their artistry.

So, how do these cultural anthropologists juggle their lives as both mothers and entrepreneurs? 

"Being moms of children under the age of 5 and also owning our own business is certainly no easy task.  Both of us have agreed that our families' needs must always come first, and we will slowly expand and do more for our business as the children grow and become more independent." (Danielle has two daughters ages 4 and 2, Shari has 3-year-old twin boys!)

What advice do they have for moms looking to start their own business?

"Number one rule, ALWAYS put your children and family first.  Your success as a business owner should not be considered independent from your dedication and success as a mom. Do not choose to start a business that cannot be integrated into your life as a mom.

Be sure that you have the moral support of your spouse (or closest family member).  Without their support, you will find it very challenging to muster up the strength it takes to overcome the many obstacles involved in establishing a viable business. 

Be as GREEN as you possibly can!  This is the new world we live in, and it is so much more rewarding to do something you feel good about!
  
Be sure to have a great web-designer who is flexible, creative, fair, and honest!

This is a challenging time to start up your own business.  But that should not discourage any woman from actualizing her dreams!  It just requires patience, dedication, commitment, positive thinking, and flexibility in your business plan."

Chi Chi Amor is currently based out of Old Seminole heights in Tampa where Shari and Danielle have homes.  You can find them at the  St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market, as well as in several stores around the Tampa Bay area.  Check www.chichiamor.com for more details.

For the green-minded mom, you'll be pleased to know that shopping at Chi Chi Amor helps support an ecologically conscientious small business, as well as the indigenous Guatemalan Mayan artisans who help design and produce beautifully hand-crafted garments and accessories.