Lily Maed: A Family’s Entrepreneurial Journey
In 2022, the Ohler family relocated from Indianapolis to pursue their dream of owning a small farm. Amanda, the mother, has always envisioned raising her children in a rural environment.
Lily’s Creative Spark
Amanda purchased beaded items on Facebook Marketplace, sparking an interest in her middle daughter, Lily. Lily’s desire to start a business prompted her to explore beading.
Family Support
Lily’s older sister, Abigail (11), and younger sister, Iris (7), joined Lily in her creative endeavor. Together, they began making and selling beaded items.
Business Formation
Amanda established a tax vendor license and collaborated with Lily’s father, Aaron, to create social media accounts for Lily’s business, “Lily Maed.”
Product Line
Lily’s business offers a range of beaded products, including key chains, wristlets, lanyards, bookmarks, pens, pencils, and baby items. She incorporates silicone beads for their ease of stringing.
Market Expansion
Launched in February 2023, Lily’s Facebook page has gained followers from both local and distant states, such as Texas and Florida.
Financial Management
Lily earns a portion of the sales, while the rest is reinvested into the business to ensure profitability.
Entrepreneurial Skills Development
Through her business, Lily is developing entrepreneurial skills, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and social media marketing.
Social Media Presence
Lily’s social media presence is crucial for marketing her products. She actively posts videos and engages with followers to build brand awareness.
Family Values
The Ohler family believes in the importance of hard work and dedication. They want their daughters to pursue their dreams and become self-sufficient.
Future Aspirations
Lily understands the significance of social media in business growth. She plans to expand her reach and connect with a wider audience.## Challenges and Obstacles
Like any business, Lily Maed has faced its share of challenges. One obstacle was the rising cost of materials, as the price of silicone beads increased significantly in 2023. To overcome this, Lily implemented a pricing strategy that balanced profitability with affordability for customers.
Another challenge was the competitive nature of the market. To differentiate her business, Lily focused on creating unique and personalized products. She also emphasized the handmade and small-batch nature of her items, appealing to customers seeking handcrafted goods.
## Social Responsibility
Lily Maed is committed to giving back to the community. A portion of the proceeds from each sale is donated to organizations that support children and families. Lily believes that businesses have a responsibility to make a positive impact in the world.
## Conclusion
Lily Maed is a testament to the power of family, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Lily’s journey as a young business owner is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. As her business continues to grow, Lily plans to expand her product line, collaborate with other small businesses, and make a lasting impact in her community.