In the last #MCM episode of 2023, I had the opportunity to welcome inspirational guest and owner of Small Packages, an online gift box company, Riham Larussa, for an intimate and empowering discussion that resonated with many in our community.
As I do with all of my MCM guests, I love to tell the story of how I found them. For this guest, I actually was the recipient of one of their boxes. My sister-in-law sent me a curated gift box for my birthday and not only did I love all the goodies inside, but I loved their mission. Within each box is a card that shows the owners (2 moms!) and tells about their mission. You can read all about both owners and their amazing mission here. When I read the card, I KNEW I had to reach out to them to see if I could get one or both of the owners on the show. I HAD to share their story.
I was so grateful when I received the message from Riham, that she was interested in being on the show! In addition to her title as small business owner, Riham is a wife and devoted mom to two daughters, who courageously left a 17-year career working in the stone and tile world to evolve this business. In our live show, she opened up about her transformative journey towards forging a path that truly aligns with her values and desire to uplift women's voices.
Riham's story is particularly relatable because it touches on the universal struggle to find happiness and fulfillment in work. She acknowledged her feelings of success, yet feeling like something was missing at her previous company, a sentiment familiar to many of us who have either left or feel a pull to leave careers we just don't feel passionate about anymore.
Joining the women's community and co-work space, Pallete, proved to be a turning point for Riham, offering not only inspiration for exploring new career avenues but also the much-needed courage to take a bold step into entrepreneurship. Her partnership with her business partner and fellow mom, Catherine, carved out a path for Riham to lead a business that symbolizes her mission while complementing her skills.
During the conversation, Riham didn't shy away from discussing the anxieties and pressures faced by modern-day moms, amplified by the pursuit of perfection in the age of social media. With an approach that's both realistic and reassuring, she advised mothers who relate to her story to actively seek joy in their work, lean on their communities for support, and make the life-altering leap even when the timing for such a change seems imperfect.
Because the reality is, there never is a "perfect" time!
Riham's emphasis on community-building among moms resonated deeply, highlighting the necessity of such networks to combat isolation and the complexities of making adult friendships —finding our "tribe" as she referred to it, the same way I talk about creating our village.
Riham revealed the daily challenges she confronts in balancing family life and a growing business. Time management, setting boundaries, and overcoming the innate desire to please everyone are obstacles she continues to navigate. Her candid discussion on the importance of learning to say no and the value of asking for help was an honest take on the reality and pressures of being a working mother, an entrepreneur, and a role model.
Small Packages Co. is a thoughtfully curated gift box company that highlights small business representation in brand partners, highlights women-owned businesses and highlights BIPOC, LGBTQ+, & AAPI-owned brands.
As much as Riham has embraced her entrepreneurial role, she hasn't lost sight of the personal aspects that keep her grounded. Yoga and meditation are her cherished forms of self-care amidst her busy lifestyle.
We concluded our conversation with my infamous "fast five" segment, revealing little fun facts about Riham's preferences - from her favorite snack to her favorite book.
Riham's insights and experience serve as an affirmation for all the moms juggling their households, careers, and aspirations — an affirmation that it is possible to feel successful and fulfilled while leaning on community and lifting others up.
If you are not already doing so, give her business account @smallpackages a follow and share!
Overall, the energy of this IG Live replay with Riham Larussa was truly captivating, serving both inspiration and practical advice for women navigating the crossroads of career and family. Her dedication to Small Packages — a business that cherishes personalized gifting and celebrates women's entrepreneurial spirit — vividly demonstrates that with passion, resiliency, and support, a new and rewarding chapter is always within reach.
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