Butterflies R Us

1. Tell us about your business

We breed and raise butterflies to sell to the public for releases at weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, funerals and corporate events. We also sell chrysalises kits usually as gifts for friends and loved ones. During the school holidays we are also having live butterfly exhibits in shopping centres around the state.

2. When and why did you start your business?

Our first year of trading as a business was in 2007. I was a stay-at-home Mum who needed to go back into the workforce and yet I didn't want to go into an office/shop situation where I would be away from the home all day. Even though my son was in high school I still wanted to be there for him when possible.

3. On a personal level, what have you achieved with of your business?

I have gained a great deal of self confidence and I certainly enjoy the education I'm receiving. I love the variety of challenges with this relatively new industry in our country. I also very much enjoy the interaction with the public and have received many heartfelt thanks for making their occasion just a little more special. The butterflies are so wonderful to work with, very uplifting.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business?

Challenges, well they never stop coming. There are about 1 dozen businesses that I know of in this country. So we do most of our learning from the internet which is not nearly as good as having someone to show you what the problem is face to face. Also there is a lot of trial and error getting everything right from shipping the butterflies interstate to finding the right host plants for the caterpillars.

5. What activities have been successful in promoting your business?

The internet seems to be the way most people are looking at these days. Also Bridal Expo's and any butterfly exhibits where you are out there showing the public what they can have. So many people still have never heard of this industry.

6. What activities were less successful for marketing your business?

Printed advertising!

7. Name your favourite thing about your business

Definitely the public's reaction to the release, our clients as well as their guests. The look on their faces of wonderment and awe is just so rewarding and I also love the fact that the butterfly is a pollinator, on a lower scale than the bee but still does a "green" job for us all and they are definitely loosing their habitats everywhere.

8. Who or what other businesses or business people inspire you?

The people who started the IBBA (International Butterfly Breeders Association) are an inspiration to us all. Their creativity and ingenuity have built this industry up from scratch.

9. What are your plans for the future of your business?

To expand the business as it is and to add a Butterfly House open to the public to appreciate.

10. Share your best business tip with our readers.

In my business - get all the lava plant food that you can, you can never have enough. Don't underestimate the start up costs of your new business, ask many questions and find as many people to support you as you can. Also share your knowledge with others as you learn.