Reflections on running a business in the margins of nap time and new perspective
The Shift I Didn’t See Coming
When I became a mom, I thought I would need to balance my business with my baby.
I didn’t realize how deeply the experience of motherhood would reshape me- not just personally, but as a founder, a leader, and a creative. I used to define success in productivity and outcomes. But becoming a parent shifted everything.
Motherhood taught me to value presence over perfection, to slow down and pay attention, and to lead from a place of empathy rather than urgency.
Business, Baby, and New Priorities
Running Box+Wood with my daughter at my side has meant shorter work hours and longer to-do lists– but also clearer priorities. It’s made me more creative with my time, more focused in my decisions, and more intentional in how I serve clients. It’s taught me that showing up fully matters more than showing up flawlessly. And in many ways, motherhood has brought me even closer to my mission: helping businesses nurture relationships with meaning.
The way I care for my daughter- thinking ahead, celebrating little milestones, showing love in the everyday- has impacted the way I think about gifting.
It’s Made Me More Human in Business
There’s something about becoming a parent that strips away the illusion of control.
Schedules fall apart. Plans shift. You learn to adapt quickly and let go gracefully.
That same flexibility has reshaped how I lead Box+Wood.
I’m no longer afraid of imperfect progress. I trust the process more. I embrace collaboration more. I’ve realized that business, like motherhood, is deeply relational- and the most powerful results come from staying grounded and real.
It’s Reflected in Every Gift We Curate
At Box+Wood, we talk a lot about intentionality- about helping our clients build real connection through thoughtful gifting.
But motherhood added another layer to that vision. It’s no longer just about helping companies stand out; it’s about helping people feel seen, celebrated, and cared for in the moments that matter most.
To Every Mom Building Something
If you’re a mother navigating nap schedules and Zoom calls, diapers and deadlines-I see you.
You don’t have to choose between being a present parent and a passionate entrepreneur.
You are allowed to grow both: slowly, imperfectly, beautifully.
The most meaningful moments- whether in motherhood or business- are the ones where we show up with intention.
Katie- Founder, Box+Wood Gift Company
