Semi-finalist Q&A: Bellybuttonboutique.com

Bellybuttonboutique.com is the parent company that runs the website www.bellybuttonboutique.com. It is an online store that provides advice and products of comfort for pre and postnatal women.

Information from their grant application is available here. Read below for more, and if you have questions for our semi-finalists don't hesitate to ask them in the comments section.

Also, don't forget to cast your vote! YOUR vote will determine which entrepreneurs most deserve to be amongst the finalists.

How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Unlike many women, I didn't really enjoy pregnancy. I was uncomfortable, hot, on bed rest in the hospital for two weeks, and various unknown parts of my body ached. I sought advice and expertise from doctors, doulas, specialists, homeopaths and other pregnant women, did tons of research on my own and spent thousands of dollars. Eventually, I became the "go-to" expert for family, friends and friends of friends. I knew that other women could benefit from my findings, so bellybuttonboutique.com was the next step.

What makes your business unique? Why do you think it will be a success?

Pregnancy is supposed to be this magical/special time for a woman. So if you happen to be uncomfortable, in pain, or suffering during this time you automatically assume that there is something wrong with you. When you explain how you are feeling to your doctor they tell you that it is normal which makes you assume that you are to just suck it up and push through. My business shows women that you do not have to suffer.

As a society we are tend to support those who are empathetic to our pain. Many of my customers are just so thankful that they were able to find relief. They go to the web and do a search for products to help them through this time. They aren't sure what they are looking for, they are just hoping that they find something. When they get to my page and read that I am a mom of two who went through the same thing as they are going through, it is appreciated. I spend a lot of time working on SEO to ensure that my store can be found for those who are looking for what I offer.

What are some of your top business-related accomplishments, or business lessons learned?

Starting a business is an accomplishment on its own. We sometimes get regimented and accept status quo. A support system doesn't always exist amongst friends and family. When you can just push through the doubt and succeed to the point of getting your first sale its gives you a sense of pride that is indescribable.

Why should the Idea Cafe regulars vote for you?

My business is about helping mommies to be. The grant will allow for me to expand my offering and promote my store to women who are truly suffering through (and after) pregnancy. If this is something that you feel that you would like to support, I invite you to vote for me. I appreciate your consideration