Jan 2011- Lightbulb Moment

5 months pregnant and very happy about it, not much to complain about. Everything was going ok (famous last words).  I was out walking with my partner in the Lake District, we loved it up there, and pre Harry (my son) we went there as much as possible. Walking all year, and lots of camping in the summer.  This particular day was one of those beautifully cold crisp days. Also with plenty of snow on the ground and a clear blue sky and the sun shining.  I don’t think it gets much better than that in the Lake District, it was simply stunning.

I really shouldn’t complain, but the only niggle, was the fact my jacket just ­­wouldn’t zip up. Also my walking trousers were really starting to dig-in and get quite uncomfortable.

The Search For Outdoor Maternity Wear

I got home from our walk and starting searching for outdoor maternity wear. Specifically a maternity waterproof jacket and maternity walking trousers.  If it was time to invest in a maternity jacket, it had to be a waterproof. There was just no point getting anything else.  Not just for the Lake District, but for popping into town, smaller local walks, or just going out at lunchtime from work.

Anyone who has been to the Lake District, or even anywhere north of Birmingham will know that it rains fairly frequently.  Even in the summer, so a decent waterproof maternity jacket is essential, and if getting out walking, so are the waterproof walking trousers!

Researching Outdoor Maternity Wear

I couldn’t believe it, almost an hour sat in front of the computer, and not a single waterproof maternity jacket available.  There were however a lot of other women in the same position asking similar questions. Where can I find a waterproof maternity jacket? I’m going on a walking holiday and where can I find some maternity walking trousers.  Then the helpful tips and advice… like the one below with the cleverly devised hair bobble. You have to wear a  long top though to cover the fact you can’t fasten your trousers!  Plus a few other DIY tips for customising your own clothes!

Was this really true?  There was nothing available?  Had I found a gap in the market?

Running a Business In Maternity Wear

I had always wanted to run my own business, but I didn’t ever think I would have that idea that was completely unique that no one else was doing, but now I had…

I researched, researched and researched, and found that there was only one other company in the world. So it seemed, based in California, that designed and manufactured outdoor maternity wear for pregnant women who still wanted to stay active throughout pregnancy.  Why should women stop doing what they enjoy, its not an illness, and we’re not in the 1900’s anymore.  Having an active pregnancy is actively encouraged, and has many benefits for mummy-to-be and baby bump too!

It was then I knew that this was it, I had to do my homework, but I was going to start the next outdoor  maternity wear company in the UK. But maybe at 5 months pregnant, this might not be the ideal time…..