Introduction

Have you ever wondered how some businesses seem to thrive despite challenging circumstances or unexpected economic shifts? One remarkable story comes from Totally Dazzled, a company led by stay-at-home mom Natalie Mounter, which sells sparkly craft supplies, primarily for weddings and creative projects. This success story hinges on an exceptional team of stay-at-home moms, leveraging their skills and flexibility to propel the business forward.

In this blog post, we'll delve into the origins of Totally Dazzled, explore how stay-at-home moms contributed to its growth, and examine the company's innovative marketing strategies. By the end, you'll understand how Totally Dazzled has achieved remarkable success and why the synergy between stay-at-home moms and entrepreneurial ventures is a winning formula.

The Genesis of Totally Dazzled

Totally Dazzled's journey began in 2012 with a simple Etsy store. Natalie, anticipating the birth of her first child, sought a business model compatible with motherhood. Inspired by Tim Ferriss's "The 4-Hour Workweek," she envisioned a flexible, lifestyle-oriented enterprise. This led her to establish Totally Dazzled, initially catering to a niche market of wedding supplies.

The Pandemic Boost

The COVID-19 pandemic, while disruptive for many, provided an unexpected boost for Totally Dazzled. As people sought home-based activities, the crafting market surged. This increased demand resulted in rapid growth, forcing Natalie to expand inventory significantly. Although navigating the post-pandemic oversupply required strategic discounting, the company emerged stronger and more resilient.

Empowering Stay-at-Home Moms: The Key to Success

Natalie's innovative approach to staffing stands out as a pivotal factor in Totally Dazzled's success. By exclusively hiring stay-at-home moms, she tapped into a pool of talented, motivated, and highly efficient individuals.

Why Stay-at-Home Moms?

Stay-at-home moms bring a unique set of skills to the table. They are accustomed to multitasking, managing time efficiently, and working under pressure—all essential traits for a fast-paced business environment. Furthermore, offering flexible work options allows these moms to balance professional and personal responsibilities effectively.

Hiring Strategy

Natalie's first hire was her cousin, who had recently welcomed a baby and was seeking a stay-at-home job. This marked the beginning of a trend that would become a cornerstone of her business. Through platforms like HireMyMom.com and local networking, Natalie assembled a formidable team. Key roles, including customer service, social media management, marketing, and ad campaigns, are managed by stay-at-home moms who prove to be invaluable assets.

The Power of Affiliate Marketing

Another pillar of Totally Dazzled's success is its robust affiliate marketing strategy. Affiliates have become the company's top traffic source, thanks to their ability to reach specific target audiences effectively.

How It Works

Totally Dazzled recruits affiliates by sending free products and incentivizing sales commissions. This method ensures that the company only incurs costs when a sale is made, reducing financial risk while maximizing outreach.

Recruitment Techniques

Initially, Natalie reached out to content creators within the crafting community. A simple Google search for DIY projects led her to potential affiliates, whom she contacted via email. This strategy not only expanded Totally Dazzled's network but also garnered trust and credibility within the crafting community.

Affiliate Management

Effective tracking and management software allow Totally Dazzled to monitor affiliate performance. High-performing affiliates receive rewards in the form of free products and special attention, fostering strong, long-term partnerships rather than a purely transactional relationship. This approach significantly amplifies brand loyalty and sales impact.

Success Stories

One affiliate, with 1.7 million followers on Facebook, generated $30,000 in a single day, showcasing the immense potential of well-aligned partnerships. Even affiliates with smaller followings can drive substantial sales if their audiences resonate strongly with Totally Dazzled's offerings.

Maintaining Motivation and Passion

After more than a decade, staying engaged in the business can be challenging. Natalie attributes her sustained motivation to a clear sense of purpose and gratitude. Totally Dazzled enables her to prioritize her family, be present for her children's milestones, and enjoy the flexibility of taking time off as needed.

Conclusion

The story of Totally Dazzled is a testament to the power of innovative business models and the incredible potential of stay-at-home moms in the entrepreneurial landscape. By leveraging a flexible workforce and savvy marketing strategies, Natalie Mounter has built a thriving business that continues to grow and inspire.

Stay-at-home moms, equipped with unique skills and the ability to manage complex tasks efficiently, are integral to Totally Dazzled's success. The company's emphasis on long-term partnerships with affiliates rather than short-term metrics further distinguishes it from competitors.

As you reflect on this story, consider the untapped potential within non-traditional workforces and the innovative strategies that can drive business success, even in challenging times. The synergy between flexible staffing models and effective marketing is not just a strategy for survival but a blueprint for thriving in today's dynamic economic landscape.

FAQ

Q: What is the primary product offered by Totally Dazzled?

A: Totally Dazzled specializes in sparkly craft supplies, primarily for weddings and other creative projects.

Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect Totally Dazzled?

A: The pandemic caused a significant increase in demand for crafting supplies, leading to rapid growth for Totally Dazzled as people sought home-based activities.

Q: Why does Totally Dazzled employ stay-at-home moms?

A: Stay-at-home moms bring multitasking abilities, high efficiency, and strong work ethics, making them ideal employees for a flexible, fast-paced business.

Q: How does Totally Dazzled manage its affiliate marketing program?

A: The company recruits affiliates by offering free products and commissions on sales, uses tracking software to monitor performance, and maintains strong, long-term partnerships with high-performing affiliates.

Q: What keeps Natalie Mounter motivated after 12 years in business?

A: Natalie remains motivated by remembering her "why" and practicing gratitude, focusing on the flexibility and benefits that running Totally Dazzled provides for her family life.

Q: Where can I purchase products from Totally Dazzled?

A: You can purchase Totally Dazzled's products on their official website, TotallyDazzled.com, and follow them on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.

How Stay-at-Home Moms Drive Totally Dazzled to Success

Table of Contents

Introduction