Celebrating the Mompreneuer: Sarah Grafton

mom·pre·neur

/mämprəˈnər/ a woman who sets up and runs her own business in addition to caring for her young child or children.

I love this term as you understand what it represents in one concise word. There are many different types of mompreneurs out there and so many of which are trying to master the art of balancing “it all” (not possible.) What makes the mompreneuer so unique is that each one of them shares a passion for turning something they believe in into a business where they can achieve a level of success that could potentially go beyond their wildest dreams.

Let’s face it, this pandemic has left ALL us mothers (working or not) in this world feeling a great deal of distress with emotions ranging from overwhelm, stress, and guilt, to anger, hopelessness, and delirium. This Mother’s Day, I decided to do a feature all about the Mompreneuer, as this role in particular, resonates with yours truly. I’m excited to share 3 amazing women whom I’ve had the privilege to work closely with on their brands and who I thought would be perfect to showcase as they’re all stellar mothers and entrepreneurs.

I’d like to introduce my first mompreneuer Sarah Grafton. She is a financial advisor for Grafton Wealth Management, an entrepreneur, incredible mother, loving wife, community leader, philanthropist, and blogger. It’s safe to say you could put a cape on her and add super hero to the list! I met Sarah a little over a year ago when photographing her for her brand. She is one of the kindest, most caring, and outgoing women I’ve met in this town. She is a doer, a true genuine entrepreneurial spirit, and an amazing role model to her 3 adorable sons. She’s a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the ins and outs of what makes a successful female entrepreneur and she sure is someone to celebrate in this world. Without further ado, I’m excited to share my interview with Sarah below!

Abby (A): What is the name of your company and how long have you been in business?

Sarah (S): Grafton Wealth Managment and we’ve been in business 48 years.

A: How would you describe your company / brand’s aesthetic?

S: Professinal, Classic, Strength, High-Performing, Trustworthy, Security, philanthropy and compassion.

A: What made you go into business for yourself?

S: My brothers and I wanted to continue our family businesses legacy!

A: Were you already a mom at the time? And how old are your children?

S: I was not a mom when I started working as a Wealth Manager but I was already a mom of two boys when my brothers and I bought the business.

A: What’s something most people don’t know (or don’t think about) that’s unique to being a mom and your own boss? 

S: Your schedule is never Set. I love the saying, “When you make plans God Laughs”, because it is so true. My plans are always changing! Someone forgot their homework, school is cancelled that day, a client needs me to pick up paperwork, a last minute meeting comes up; you have to learn to be flexible and multitask.

A: What has been a motivation for you throughout this recent pandemic crisis?

S: I decided at the beginning of this Pandemic Journey to look for the blessings and stay positive. I have never been a stay at home mom. It has been a blessing to have so much time with my children, to do virtual school with them, do creative activities with them to keep them active! Spending all day with my two year old on my heels saying mommy can be challenging but it is also time with him I never would have had. I got to be the teacher to teach him his letters!

A: What or where do you draw inspiration from in your business?

S: My family! The most successful part of my wealth management practice is being able to provide families with financial security, strength and confidence. My family inspires me everyday because that comfort is what I always want for all my clients and my own family.

A: In your business, do you desire to leave a legacy to your children? If so, what does that look like?

S: My father started this business and now myself and my two brothers run it with him. I would love for the next generation to be a part of this business, if that is where God leads them! If not, I’ll be their biggest cheerleader in whatever path they take.

A: What would you tell other mothers wanting to start their own company that you wish you would have known?

S: Ask for help! You don’t need to prove to anyone that you can do it on your own. There are people out there that have done what you are doing and are happy to share their advice with you. You need a community to support you!

A: What advice would you give to mompreneuers who feel overwhelmed?

S: Prioritize! Thirteen years ago I would say yes to every opportunity that came my way. I quickly learned that the thinner I spread myself the less I was contributing to everything I was doing. Make a list of your priorities and dont just look at them. Allocate the appropriate amount of time to each priority in order of how important it is to you.

A: We all know achieving “balance” doesn’t really exist. What are some practical tips that help you get through your day, week, month?

S: Have a good support system! My husband and I make a good team, sharing responsibilities at home and with the kids. I have also found if I dont set aside time for my mental and physical health than I dont perform as well in other aspects of my life. Make sure you are taking care of yourself too!

A: What’s one thing that you’re able to teach your children that is a direct correlation from being a mompreneur?

S: My boys have no idea that there was a time when women didn’t work or even that it’s normal to be a stay at home mom. I love that they are being raised in a world where women can be everything and anything they want to be. All they know is that if you want something you work for it, no matter your gender, age, race, religion, etc.

A: What’s your idea of the best Mother’s Day?

S: I would love a Beach Day with my family! No technology allowed.

A: Lastly, what are you currently reading / listening to?

S: I just finished UnTamed by Glennon Doyle Melton. It was incredibly inspiring!

I hope you all enjoyed my interview with Sarah! I’ll be back tomorrow to feature another mompreneur phenom with more words of wisdom. Until then!