Redsbaby prams founders share secrets of couples in business

BRETT and Meagan Redelman, who have two young twins, left their corporate jobs to establish their own company Redsbaby Prams in 2013. They give their advice about staying happy in business together.

Entrepreneurial couple Brett and Meagan Redelman set up their own business in 2013 and said working with your partner adds to the challenges of running a successful business.

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IF YOU and your romantic partner have a great idea and share an entrepreneurial drive, you might think launching a start-up together is the perfect way to merge your personal and professional lives.

But lovebirds, be warned, going into business with a significant other may not be exactly what you’re expecting, say entrepreneurial couple Brett and Meagan Redelman.

The couple, who have young twins, left their corporate jobs to establish their own company Redsbaby Prams in 2013.

They say just as couples need to sit and discuss issues­ in their personal life, certain ground rules need to be established before going into business together.

“You really have to be in the right mindset,” Meagan said.

“Unless you’ve worked for a start-up business before­, you have no idea what you’re getting into and it’s almost impossible to know until you’ve lived it.

“Entrepreneurship isn’t a 9 to 5 job. A couple going into business needs to realise the work and time it entails.”

Brett and Meagan Redelman who set up their own business say each person in the partnership need their own area of responsibility.

THE REDELMAN SURVIVAL TIPS

Talk openly: Talk candidly about your expectations so if something goes wrong, both sides can get involved or walk away (from the business) without damaging your personal relationship.
Divide and conquer: Brett said they both had very independent areas of the business that they look after, however they work as a team to ensure all the cogs turn.

Keep personal and business issues separate: There will be times when a business dilemma makes its way to the dinner table. Megan said it is about balance. So they have work, home and me modes. She said you need to ensure work is not the topic of all conversations.

MAKING TIME FOR YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Any entrepreneur knows how time consuming running a business can be. When you’re working with your significant other, it can be even more challenging to find time for personal activities, such as hobbies, other family members and friends.

But doing so is important to the health of your personal relationship. Allocate weekly time to “switch off”.

For more details on the couple’s business, visit the Reds Babywebsite.

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