We asked Cari Frink, owner of Spenga Loveland, a few questions to help her reflect on the process of running a business with children and share with us some wisdom she has learned. For mothers, mothers-to-be, seasoned mothers, and skeptical ladies, it's essential to know that we are not alone in the journey that is motherhood—and anything is possible with a little support and unconditional love for ourselves.
What does your day-to-day look like while running a business and being a mother?
My day-to-day schedule is pretty packed! Most mornings start with a couple hours of work at the studio while the kids hang out at home with my husband while he works from home, getting chores done, practicing baseball, and doing lunch. Once I finish up things in the studio, I head home and spend a few hours with the kids either at the pool, or whatever other summer activities are on the schedule. After that, they all do quiet time, naps, and backyard play while I get in a few more hours of admin work for SPENGA. We typically wrap up our days with family dinner and a walk, bike ride, or baseball practice. Family is always high on our priority list, so we squeeze time in together wherever we can.
How have your children enriched your work life or business?
Our kids LOVE Spenga. They love the health aspect of it and moving your body, they love learning about business (which Jason and I really enjoy teaching about every time the opportunity presents itself), and it gives us a chance to teach them about taking pride in their work and working hard for something you want and believe in. They always want to hear how work went and if we have any new members. Our girls want to be instructors one day.
What do you love the most about being a mother and business owner at the same time?
I've learned a lot about time management and prioritizing things as a mom and a business owner. No matter what is piled on the plate, there are still only 24 hours in a day. Children don't keep, so I don't want to miss out on these young years, but also a business doesn't build itself, so it is essential that I put a lot of time in with both of those roles. I love that our kids get to see that they can build a family and a business at the same time. I get to teach them life lessons daily about family, business, hard work, and never giving up on their dreams as I live out two of my dreams - being a great mom and business owner.
