Launching Your Business While Preparing for a Baby? Discover These 5 Must-Know Tips

Launching Your Business While Preparing for a Baby? Discover These 5 Must-Know Tips…

Separately, starting a business and having a baby are massive life events. Combined, these undertakings are a massive achievement that few can handle at the same time. If you are one of the rare individuals who will be welcoming your new addition shortly after starting a business, planning and preparation are an absolute must. Having a plan for everything from childcare, to your baby’s sleep schedule, to your postpartum work hours is crucial for success.   

Taryn Melgoza shares five valuable tips for any soon-to-be parent who is about to launch their new small business.

Handle all important business tasks prior to baby’s arrival

As you prepare for baby with a maternity photo session, baby shower, and nursery decor, you should also start focusing on critical tasks that need to be completed before opening your company. It will be far more challenging to do things such as file for a business license, obtain your sales tax permit, set up a website, and create your product/service menu once your newborn arrives.

Among these core business tasks is applying for an EIN (Employer Identification Number). An EIN is also known as a Tax ID Number. If you’re wondering “what is an EIN number?”, you are not alone. Many new business owners are unaware that — even if they do not employ anyone yet — having an Employer Identification Number is important. The primary reason for obtaining an EIN is to more easily identify your business in various situations. This number also makes it easier to file state and federal taxes. 

Establish dates for maternity leave and for your return

Business owners have the benefit of making their own schedules. Although this is a perk most of the time, it can prove to be difficult when going on maternity leave. Since all time off is unpaid, deciding how much time to allot for maternity leave is not as easy as when you are employed by a company. Complicating this even further is the fact that your business is brand new. 

 Right now, establish dates for your maternity leave, and a set schedule for when you return. What works best for you will depend largely on your individual circumstances. Factor in everything from your budget to your physical needs (and the needs of your baby). There is no right or wrong answer when setting a timeline and schedule that works for you.

 Decide childcare arrangements in advance

Childcare is another area that will look different for every business owner. Depending on what type of business you run, you may be able to care for your baby while running your company from home. Alternatively, you might need to find daycare services (either outside of the home or with a friend//family member) so that you can show up in person.

After setting your maternity leave schedule and your plan to return to work, research childcare options that suit your needs.

Consider outsourcing tasks while away from your business

Don’t want your business to come to a halt for the duration of your maternity leave? Outsource daily duties to a variety of professionals. Find freelancers to take care of customer service, order fulfillment, IT support, and every other need you have. You can also ask friends or family members to step in and run the organization while you are on leave. Keeping the momentum going for a new business is crucial, so outsourcing is vital.

Be kind and gentle with yourself

Remember how few individuals are brave enough to take on parenting a newborn and starting a business at the same time? That’s because juggling both duties is tough. There will be periods that are more challenging than others, and that is ok. At all stages, be kind and gentle with yourself. Praise your efforts and acknowledge how much work you’ve put into being an amazing entrepreneur and parent.

On top of these suggestions, allow time for self-care. Taking care of yourself helps you be the best business owner and parent that you can be.

Taryn Melgoza captures stunning images of pregnancy, newborns, children, and families in the Houston area. Preserve memories that will last a lifetime by scheduling your photo session today.