I really enjoyed last week’s interview with Piece by Jackson! Did you have read? It was all about a business idea which came to her during the late night feeds with baby. Very inspiring.

Today I’m speaking to the lovely Tasha from The Holistic Hideout, a mobile spa service in the Gloucestershire area. Tasha’s story is one born out of a passion for her craft, but also to keep herself busy during maternity leave. It can get very baby-centred (naturally) in those first few months of having a child… it’s all you think about. Tasha wanted something to focus on that wasn’t just baby to keep her from going crazy! We’ve all been there.

I first met Tasha, founder of Holistic Hideout, the week I gave birth. I asked her to come and help induce labour with some Indian head massage. She very kindly threw in a bit of reflexology too, to get things moving! Low and behold, at the end of the week, I gave birth! Thanks Tasha! I can vouch and say that it truly is a 5 star experience in your own home. The set-up was simple but effective. Think tiny little Buddha’s; a cosy space to sit and lit candles. At the end of the heavenly treatment, Tasha even popped into my kitchen to grab me a glass of water! I honestly cannot recommend enough.

First things first – how did your business begin?

I was on maternity leave with Clarins as a spa manager. I wanted to still be able to earn money whilst on mat leave as the pay is so little! I started doing treatments for friends as many of them struggled to juggle working long hours and family life, often having minimal time to look after themselves.

I created the Hideout to make treatments more convenient and personal to them, still giving the same 5 star experience. They loved it and told their friends! The word spread and I was getting new clients coming in, to which I decided this could work – people were loving it! I designed a logo, picked some brand colours and went for it!

It sounds like it was perfect timing! How long has Holistic Hideout been running?

My business will be three in September – I started a few weeks after my son was born. I know that sounds crazy but I had to do it for me. It kept me sane and gave me cash flow.

I totally get that. This blog keeps me sane! Have you ever found the business to affect family life?

I started going out to do treatments in the evenings, after I had put my son Max to sleep (in the early days!) Now he goes to sleep a bit later, so I go after dinner and bath. I try to work 2/3 evenings a week so it still gives us time together as a family in the evenings.

I guess you’ve already answered this but is there a specific time of day that you dedicate to work?

I can work anytime of day: day, evening or weekend. I am very flexible. I love doing ‘nap treatments’ – getting the baby off to sleep, then sneaking in so Mama can get a bit of ‘me time’.

I need that! Desperate for some time to myself. What’s the best and worst thing about working for yourself?

Not having an office… can be good and bad. The good is that you can work anytime/anywhere. The bad is that you can’t get away! The best thing for me though is the flexibility working from home brings, being able to do what I want and spend as much time with Max as possible.

Sounds like you need someone to come and do a spa experience for you in your home! We all need a break sometimes.. how do you like to spend yours?

My drink of choice whilst taking a break would be a latte in the morning, peppermint tea in the evening and gin in the evening! During my breaks I usually do housework if I’m at home, as well as appointment checking and confirming.. eating and then driving to next appointment!

I’m sensing that you’re pretty organised – how do you do it?

I try to stay organised by using a diary daily as well as always making lists. I try to write lists out the night before so I don’t have to think about it first thing in the morning.

Yes! I find that doing lists in the evening or pre-empting for the next day, really helps. Amongst all this success, are there any particular moments that stand out for you?

Being nominated in the Muddy Stiletto Awards and being asked to support local businesses – really shows how far we’ve come.

That’s amazing! Got any big projects coming up that you can/can’t talk about?

Yes!! I have recruited a team of therapists! They have been working with me since late March/early April. I’m so excited to introduce them to the social world. Keep your eyes peeled!

That’s so exciting Tasha – I will be keeping my eye out! Do you have any tips for other working at home Mamas?

ASK FOR HELP! It’s something I need to improve on. Also, don’t let the imposter syndrome in…stay in your own lane. Stay positive and keep going!

Thanks Tasha! 

Are you a tired Mama, like me? Well, I’ve got something you might like…

Exclusive discount!

The Holistic Hideout is offering £5 off all treatments! Use code THH19 to redeem.

T&C’s

The offer will run throughout the whole of July to book in before end of October. One offer per person. Must live in a 10 mile radius of Cheltenham.