A Look Inside BsBowzart
When I first saw the cute handcrafted products that BsBowzart offers, I knew I had to find out more about the business. What makes it even better, is that it is locally run by a fellow Montrealer, Bijal Shah. I was able to get a look inside BsBowzart by speaking to the owner, and it was a pleasure meeting her.
The Products
If you haven’t heard of BsBowzart yet, you may be wondering what type of products they offer. Their collection includes a large variety of beautifully handcrafted hair clips, headbands, hats, bookmarks, magnets, key-chains, decorations, and much more.
New unique items are constantly being published on her page, and I love seeing her creativity shine through. For example, I especially love the idea of this back to school gift seen below. It’s the perfect way to remind your child that you are thinking of them while they are at school. If your child is a bit anxious about returning to school, it is sure to calm any of their nerves (and your nerves too), throughout the day.
There are over 1000 photos on their Official Facebook Page, which includes both products, and photos of happy customers with their purchases. One quick glance at the page, and you are sure to find products for the whole family. If you had something specific in mind, Bijal would be more than happy to hear your custom request. She loves to take on new challenges. One of her favorite things, is to see her creations put smiles on children’s faces.
My nieces chose a few hair pieces to try and they love them! Bijal was very kind and paid attention to even the smallest of details. She even asked which side my niece usually wears her hair accessories- something I had never even thought of. The clips and hairband were obviously made with care. Whether my nieces wear them during dress-up time, or to celebrate a special occasion or holiday, they enjoy how unique the pieces are.
BsBowzart is able to customize their products for any theme or holiday. They can even match a dress or outfit to create the perfect pieces for any occasion. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Christmas, Graduation, a Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings party, Bijal will gladly work with you. She won’t be happy until she provides you with pieces that you will love.
The Story and Woman Behind BsBowzart
The history of BsBowzart begins back in 2012 when Bijal created a piece for her niece. A friend was visiting from the UK at the time and she also ordered some items for her daughter. Bijal hasn’t slowed down since.
The name of the company was inspired by Bijal’s nephew. He started calling her “B” when he was about 18 months old or so. The name simply stuck. Soon, family and friends alike began to refer to her as “B” and BsBowzart was born!
Bijal’s background is a clear indication that she has the knowledge and passion to make this business unique. In India, she had her own fitness studio. She had managed the day to day activities, teaching, marketing, advertising and much more. After completing her Bachelor’s degree, she received her Business Management certification. She also has a Master’s in Sport Psychology, so she has worked with several children in tennis academies.
Events
On the business page, I saw photos of her booth at the Montreal Comiccon. I was ecstatic to see her share her business at such a large venue. I was also interested in the other events she attends. Bijal was upfront about the ups and downs of business. “To be honest, Comiccon did not work out great for me, and it was my first year there. Every year I do less and less of craft shows as sometimes during the holiday season, there are just so many happening at the same time, that the crowd gets distributed.”
This is not to say that all events are the same. I was happy to hear she does have a favorite event, which is Boite de Noel– a four day event in October. There is also a West Island Mommies event in September that she also enjoys being a part of.
Family and Work Balance
From the sounds of it, she is kept extremely busy. Bijal currently devotes all of her time to BsBowzart, and she is also part of an organizing committee for a big holiday event every October. This keeps her extra busy from Sept through to October. As a Mom, I am always inspired by parents who work so hard and/or are entrepreneurs while raising their families. When I asked her what the hardest part is about running her own business while also taking care of her family, she replied, “I would not say ‘hard’ as we just have one Son, so the business became the daughter of our family. It provides me with enough flexibility to create a perfect balance with family time and work except for a few really busy months every year.”
For More Informaiton…
You can shop the BsBowzart collection on their Etsy page, or contact them on Facebook. They have over 1400 followers, and have received an average 5/5 Star rating on Etsy. It’s clear to see that many people love this brand, and I can completely see why.
I always ask entrepreneurs, the same two questions. What do they hope to see in the future for their business, and what they would tell others launching their own careers. Bijal says she hopes the future of BsBowzart involves many more collaborations and creations to make her little clients have a smile on their face. As for her advice to others, “Be passionate and love what you do, and hang on, you never know what lies ahead.”