Folks We Love with Naomi Rogers | Founder, Bobo and Boo
Naomi Rogers, is a mama bear and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Bobo&Boo... a brand that we are obsessed with! Like many of us modern mamas, Naomi was sick of ugly, toxic, plastic plates that still have last month’s spaghetti sauce stains embedded in the surface and she knew there must be a better, more sustainable, non-toxic and chic option. After going on the hunt to find something that ticked all the boxes, she came up short - which is when the lightbulb went off and Naomi decided to take matters into her own hands and create the brand she longed for; enter: Bobo&Boo. Ever since it's humble beginnings in Naomi's kitchen, Bobo&Boo has grown in leaps and bounds as they conquer the world, one dinner table at a time!
We were so grateful to pinch a few moments with Naomi and talk all things motherhood, business and family. We hope you enjoy this interview and we can already hear you asking 'where can I get my hands on Bobo&Boo?' well look no further, head to boboandboo.com.au or boboandboo.com to stock up, and follow along on their Instagram too @boboandboo
Where are you from?
Australia - I traveled in a caravan around Australia for 2 years with the family when Bobby was 4 (now 7) & Sunny was 1 (now 4). I worked mostly in my car on the side of the road where I could find reception. I now have an office - so exciting !!!
Who is in your family and how old are your kiddos?
My husband Sam, Bobby 7 & Sunny 4 (all boys :) and my dog, Daschee the Daschound.
Occupation?
Chief boo
Can you tell us how Bobo&Boo came to life?
After the birth of my first son, Bobby, I went into protective mama bear mode. Passionate about minimising the chemicals and toxins he came in contact with, I searched for eco-friendly alternatives for dummies, wipes, nappies, creams, clothing…you name it. I thought I had it all covered and was nailing parenthood like a boss. Then he started on solids, all I wanted was some colourful, affordable, easy to clean, non-toxic dinnerware for him. But everything I found was either made of cheap plastic, had a tacky kiddie print all over it, or was so expensive that I couldn’t afford to buy multiple sets. Then one day, the idea hit me: What if I could create quality, eco-friendly children’s dishes that were also stylish, functional and affordable? From that bobo&boo was created.
Tell us more about bamboo and why it is a sustainable and safe alternative to toxic plastics?
We just launched a new plant-based range which is completely melamine free, free from BPA, PVC, Phthalates, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury *yippee!* Need I say more :)
What has surprised you most as the business has grown?
That so many beautiful families love bobo&boo & their support has have helped me grow the business
Your favourite part of being an entrepreneur?
Being able to work anywhere anytime (which has its cons too haha but very grateful!).
What kind of challenges has Covid-19 presented your business?
Being unsure at the start of how this would affect my business and not being able to visit my supplier overseas.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Kids wake me up, feed them, grab a coffee, my husband goes for a surf, then when he gets back I work. If I am not working I am making healthy snacks in bulk for my kids as they do not stop eating! Ps. I am normally constantly interrupted by my kids haha
In what other ways do you live a non-toxic life?
- I use bobo&boo dinnerware in my house for the adults & kids, they are so much lighter than ceramic & easy to clean.
- Take my own shopping bags grocery shopping inc the produce bags
- Non-toxic sunscreens, deodorants all personal care
I am not perfect but do my best :)
What is your favorite thing to do as a family?
Go surfing down the beach
What are you reading?
Magazines :) I love reading but haven’t had time to read much at the moment
What are you binge-watching?
The Office, my favourite!
What are you listening to?
Business podcasts - so many inspiring people out there!
What is your favourite part of being a mama?
Seeing my boys happy
Your favourite way to spend mama self-care time?
Going for a walk on the beach
Where do you feel most inspired?
In my office
How do you manage stress?
Going for walks
The best advice you have ever received?
Just Do it :)
What are 4 things you can't live without?
1. My family
2. The beach
3. Nature
4. Bobo&boo dinnerware :)