Working mums in Chester are sharing how they balance career ambition with family life.
Ahead of Mother’s Day, Chester BID spoke to mothers running businesses in the city centre, each at different life stages but united in their experience of juggling work and raising children.
Among those was Emily Strong, 32, co-owner of About You Boutique on Eastgate Square and Papena on Northgate Street, who became a mum just 30 days before Mother’s Day.
Ms Strong said: "Being a mum is all I’ve ever wanted, and whilst I have always been very head strong, nothing is bigger than this job of being a mum I’m realising – it makes running two businesses feel easy, honestly.
"If you’re kind to yourself and the people around you, you can do anything."
She runs both businesses with her sister Chloe, who, with Emily, first began selling online during lockdown before expanding into the city centre five years ago.
Stephanie Matthews, manager of The White Company on Northgate Street, also spoke about the balance of work and motherhood.
She has worked in retail since she was 16, and at 25, welcomed her son Arthur.
Ms Matthews said: "You have to be organised – the appointments, the schoolwork and everything else that comes with being a mum.
Luka Morrell, Business Engagement Manager for Chester BID said: “Behind many of Chester’s businesses are women who are also mums, balancing family life with leadership and entrepreneurship.
"Their stories show incredible strength and remind us how important it is to be kind to ourselves while juggling so many responsibilities.
"We are so proud to support them and to see them thrive.”
For the full story, see Chester Standard