Working mamas unite

By Katie Wilson

The Times, Aug 16, 2007, Updated Oct 30, 2009

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Sick of a corporate world that often seems to deny the existence of a life outside of the office, working moms have decided to forge ahead on their own.

On Mother’s Day of 2006, Marlynn Schotland established Portland Mamas Inc., an organization that has since brought together over a hundred businesses owned by women who are mothers as well as entrepreneurs.

Portland Mamas Inc. showcases members’ businesses, provides resources and support, and also helps women who are thinking of starting a business. The organization grew out of Schotland’s own need for information and a support group when she struck out on her own with her online business, Event Bliss – selling stationary, gifts and graphic design – in September 2005.

Event Bliss is located in Tigard, and a number of PMI members call the city home, including Kate Rosenthal (who owns Stubby Pencil Studio) and Rachel Heyer (owner of Stroller Strides). Bella Bellies Maternity, owned by Amy Radich, is also located in Bridgeport Village.

“I wanted it to be more than just the typical business organization,” said Schotland about Portland Mamas Inc. “It’s more like a relationship to support each other. Nursing infants are welcome, families are welcome.”

She says that the organization is primarily about figuring out how to balance the two worlds that working mothers find themselves inhabiting. She says that nobody should have to “choose one life over the other.”

“[The women] can be openly passionate about their business as well as their families, and I think that helps a lot of members feel more secure and more charged about their work,” said Schotland.

“It’s a juggling act to be sure,” she added. “But it’s very rewarding to do what we love and on our own terms.” Schotland herself is married and has two young children.

‘What’s my priority today?’

“Everyday is a different challenge,” said Ann Shultz, who works as a marketing consultant and project manager for a variety of companies. She has three children between the ages of four and nine years old. Every morning she said she asks herself, “What’s my priority today?”

“Balance and guilt,” said Lesley Barnes, who owns Apple Eye Photography, about the challenges of raising kids and running her own business. “They go hand-in-hand, and try as you might to find balance, when you do you find more guilt. The two are almost like a seesaw.”

Schotland says the key is knowing how to prioritize. Shultz says it’s time management. The bottom line: It’s about keeping all the balls in the air as best you can and it doesn’t hurt to have a supportive network behind you.

With approximately 150 members, Portland Mamas Inc. provides a way for moms to share resources, both for business and family. One woman may want to learn more about advertising while another may need a babysitter for Friday night. They have monthly meetings featuring guest speakers, business topics, special events, and play dates.

The organization spans many different types of industries and holds industry group meetings to address different businesses and different women’s needs.

“It’s so we can learn to do what we love even better,” Schotland said.

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