I was a homemaker in Bihar, and a mother of three lovely kids. Being independent by nature, I always had a drive to do something of my own. Cooking was a passion and I was always complemented on my cooking skills. Although I had no experience running a business I think I had an innate entrepreneurial skill and drive. Once we decided to move to Bombay after my husband’s retirement, I thought it was an ideal time to put my skills to test and hence Guilt Trip was born.
Tell us about Guilt Trip
Guilt Trip is a result of months of hard work and a belief that we will succeed even in this highly competitive food market. It was me and my daughter’s brain child from November 2012. Each of our products are made with a lot of love and with the highest quality ingredients – and a homemade touch. We believe in customising any product to suit the needs of our customers. We offer a variety of desserts from cupcakes, cakes, macaroons, pastries, cheesecakes, cake pops, cookies, brownies, breads, pies and tarts. We are also experimenting and planning to introduce some new products very soon.
Why did you set up the company?
Cooking was always a passion and being an independent person I always dreamt of having my own business one day. Once my husband retired and my daughter completed her MBA degree, I thought this is the ideal time to combine our skills and give it a go. I had some savings of my own and I decided to invest all of it in setting up Guilt Trip.
What has been your biggest challenge in achieving your success?
I think being a woman in a highly competitive industry can be tough at times. There are at times when we need to be at the store as late as 1am and although Bombay is a comparatively safer city, we need to take precautions. Also making your own mark in a highly competitive market such as Mumbai, and to ensure that this is not just a fad, has been the biggest challenge but an extremely fulfilling experience nonetheless. I personally make a point to have first-hand interactions with my customers to keep incorporating their feedback.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
The appreciation and love that we have received from our customers is my greatest achievement.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My husband and my kids.
How do you balance your work life and home life?
I know a lot of people say that women can’t have it all, but I think you can if your family is supportive. We just need to prioritise and learn to multi-task. My work is of utmost importance but not at the cost of my family. My husband is my pillar of strength and all of my kids contribute in smalls ways to keep me going.
What advice do you have for women starting out on their own?
It’s never too late to follow your dreams. I am a perfect example. I started my business much later in life but had the passion to follow my dreams. Also don’t let perceived risks stop you from taking the plunge. Have faith and commitment and success will follow suit.
If you could ask for one thing to help propel your business what would it be?
Streamlining our operations.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, a pan India presence
For further information:
Phone: 022 6999 6096
