Today we’d like to introduce you to Roberta Cortat.
Hi Roberta, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been fascinated with the fashion industry, but the idea of making a career out of it never quite crossed my mind. I came from a family of entrepreneurs, and I knew I always wanted to be a business owner too. Since I moved to San Diego ten years ago, I’ve tried several things but nothing was really making sense for me.
It was the birth of my son that marked a pivotal moment in my life. It was then that I uncovered a gap in the market that couldn’t be ignored. There was a lack of stylish, unique clothing for babies that broke free from the monotony of mass-produced department store items or the budget-busting high-end labels.
So, I decided to look for cool children’s clothes that represented our lifestyle in San Diego in different stores around the world that deviated from this standard. It didn’t take long for several friends to like it and ask where the clothes were from. I saw an opportunity there: I created my own curation, and in a short period of time I founded my own label – The Milk Crew.
We’ve been in business for a little over a year, and it’s clear that this is only the opening chapter of our story. Our journey is only beginning, and I know I have much to learn and accomplish – and I can’t wait for that!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the path of a mom entrepreneur is far from smooth. As a multitasking mom, wife, daughter, and business owner, I’ve learned to effortlessly wear several hats all the time.
For me, the most challenging thing about this moment is being able to manage my time. It’s not an easy task at all. Often I can only work while my son sleeps, which leaves my routine completely random because my son still demands a lot from me – and he is my biggest priority. But I’m adapting as I go.
My husband is a great partner, and we help each other a lot. My mother also helps me a lot, in addition to being my partner in the business. It’s a challenge, mainly because I still have another part-time job, but I’m lucky to have a support system that helps me a lot.
I always had a lot of support from my family. Whenever I thought about giving up, my mother pushed me forward and motivated me. Because having a business is not simple, it requires dedication. I’ve learned that, during the most daunting moments, the key is to keep moving forward. It’s not about how fast you progress; it’s about the determination to keep progressing no matter what.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At The Milk Crew, our story is all about redefining baby and kids’ fashion, making it uniquely cool, comfortable, and accessible. We specialize in offering a carefully curated selection of clothing that breaks free from the ordinary. We’re known for our commitment to style without sacrificing comfort – a blend of “neutral vibes” with a fun and creative twist.
What sets us apart is our focus on providing trendy, neutral kids’ clothing that resonates with modern parents who appreciate both style and practicality. Our pieces effortlessly stand out in a market dominated by generic, mass-produced baby clothing. We pride ourselves on designing and sourcing clothing that mirrors our vibrant lifestyle in San Diego, and we’ve managed to create a brand that captures this spirit.
Our passion shines through in our unique private label, The Milk Crew, which encapsulates the essence of our brand. We’re most proud of the fact that we’re a mom-owned business. We understand the real-life challenges that parents face, and this deep connection to our audience fuels our commitment to delivering exceptional products and experiences.
We’re not just selling clothing; we’re sharing a lifestyle, an attitude, and a commitment to quality. Our brand is all about fostering creativity and individuality from a very young age. So, whether you’re a trendy mom looking for creative kids’ clothing or simply a parent who values comfort without compromising on style, The Milk Crew has you covered.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Having a mentor is incredible for you to learn from and look up to. I have a great friend who has been my mentor, and I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for her. My tip is: don’t be afraid to look for people, talk, and network. You never know what can happen when you open up to meeting new people.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.themilkcrew.com
- Instagram: @themilkcrewshop
- Facebook: facebook.com/themilkcrew
