Sarah Van Bentum, VANCHI
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Name: Sarah Van Bentum
Hometown: Rouse Hill
Current Residence (City, State): Sydney, NSW Australia
Education: B. Education English/History
Professional Background (brief, please):Secondary English/ History/ Drama Teacher. Head of Senior School.
What you wanted to be when you grew up: A Super-star (of course)
What you are: Ex –teacher, Fulltime Mum and Owner of VANCHI SYDNEY
Brief Summary of your Start Up: VANCHI is an Australian owned business, which I started in 2006 after giving birth to identical twin boys (my 3rd attempt at having a little princess of my own!). With four boys under my belt, I left a lucrative teaching career, to pursue a stay at home career as a fulltime mother. While at home I became aware of the over-priced and often uninspiring options available to new mums and decided to do something about it! ….And VANCHI is the result! VANCHI designs, produces and markets a range of glamorous, practical and affordable solutions for Mums and Babies including Nappy (Diaper) Bags, Cosmetic Bags, Wallets, Bibs and Baby swaddling.
Company Website? www.vanchi.com.au
What inspired you? The challenge of the unknown and the desire to stay mentally stimulated while supporting my family.
How long have you been in business? Since April 2006
How did you fund it? Savings, bank and family loans.
Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? Not at the moment, but have met some very inspiring people along the way.
Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups? No
Current Business Challenge? Money & time ☺
What are you doing about it? Trying to maintain a delicate balance.
Favorite motivational quote:
“Aim at nothing and you are sure to hit it†Unknown
Family? Yes. Married to John – an incredibly supportive and faithful man. We are a blended family with 8 children in total. Simon (21). Rodney (19). Lisa (18) Ben (16). Jordan (15) Dylan (7) Identical twin boys Jack & Darcy (2). The four youngest live with us fulltime.
If so, how do you balance family and business?
The internet and computers have had such a positive impact on enabling home based businesses. The computer can my best friend and can also be my arch enemy. The balance is always difficult for me, as work can filter its way into every facet of my life. I try to set boundaries and to be disciplined about time away from the computer.
Favorite book? Any of the Boundaries books by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend and The Notebook Nicholas Sparks
What do you do to relax? Hot bath, Television!!
What do you want to change most about your world? The people in it!
What are you most proud of? My family.
What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses?
A good idea is static and one dimensional. For the idea to evolve into a successful concept, it will need to transform and mature. You need a willingness to adapt, the patience to research and a passion to fuel your journey. Set attainable goals and achieve them. Stay focused and expects pitfalls along the way. If you expect a perfect ride…you are in for some surprises.
Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)? Computer
If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use? Garnet as it is my birthstone and also it is known as the stone for a successful business.
Would you be interested in being a Fairy Godmother to another woman entrepreneur? (I am working on a secure system to do this, any ideas?) Sure. I think chats like MSN work very well for quick and efficient communication…
What business subjects would you feel comfortable mentoring in?
Jack of all trades…Master of none. I have a little expertise in most areas of business, but I would not call myself an expert on anything in particular ☺ I have dabbled in: design, sales and marketing, production, small business accounts, web design, import, export, stock control/warehousing etc.
Would you be interested in going to lunch with other women entrepreneurs for a “networking tea party� Sure
