We are so excited to introduce you to Elle Rowley, founder of Solly Baby, and mother to four children, Lucy, Solomon, Frances and Hazel. Elle created her baby wrap out of her love for wearing her kids when they were young, and it’s touching to learn how a business grew out of this passion, right from her home. It was such an honor to chat with her about building a business, raising littles, and doing it all while staying grounded and true to self. This heartfelt mama shares her inspiration for the brand, talks about building boundaries for her family, and lends us a powerful perspective in motherhood. With no further ado, here is Elle:
Solly has played such a big part of baby wearing with my three babies. What lead you to create the first wrap?
That’s so wonderful to hear. I made the first wrap for my second baby, Solomon. I’d worn my first baby but the carrier I used gave me headaches so I wanted something more comfortable for both of us. The first time I put Sol in the wrap I fell in love with the whole experience and wanted to share it with other families.
What have been the most challenging parts of founding such a successful company, and how do you address obstacles and overwhelm?
Mostly not knowing what I’m doing, lol. Like mothering, even with all of the advice out there, there’s no handbook for raising my specific children or this business. It’s all nuanced and I’ve had to learn and make it up as I’ve gone. Surrendering to that process and vulnerability and not needing to know it all ahead of time has been the best way to roll with the punches and avoid the overwhelm.
We love the heart and soul behind Solly as the brand not only provides us with amazing wraps but supportive motherhood resources. What is your favorite part of your job?
Being able to watch lifelong bonds and connection develop from the first wrapping is incredibly fulfilling. Our wraps don’t create that connection but they definitely help facilitate it.
What would you tell a mama with a few ideas she wants to bring to life, but feels fearful because she doesnt have the knowledge, expertise, or is hesitant because of one of the many other reasons we feel often “stuck“ as women?
This is your one and only life, just go for it!
We admire the way you continue to support your community online, while also create separation between work and personal life. Do you create boundaries when it comes to social media, and life in general?
This is always a work in progress, but I’ve had to create some pretty clear boundaries for myself this past year. Many of us are boundary-less online and it can be very harmful for our emotional health. Everyone has to decide those boundaries for themselves but being intentional about them really matters.
How do you “balance” work and mom life?
I don’t really think much about balance but I do think a lot about priorities. I review my top 5 priorities every Monday morning on my way to work and I think that just continually informs my choices and helps establish real harmony in my life rather than keeping score of how many hours are spent where.
Best lesson in motherhood or piece of advice you’ve held on to?
Make it all your own. Design your life. Create a family culture. Be intentional about it. Listen and observe other families and take what serves you but this is your family and these are your babies. You know what’s best for them.
