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If you’re a mom in Madison, Alabama trying to juggle family life and entrepreneurship, you’re not alone. Many of us are building businesses in the small window of quiet between school drop-off and pick-up. The good news? With the right strategies, those school hours can be more than enough to grow a thriving business without sacrificing your role as a mom.
1. Protect School Hours Like Office Hours
When the kids head to James Clemens HS, Rainbow Elementary, Liberty Middle, or any one of our amazing Madison City Schools, it’s tempting to throw in a load of laundry or run errands around town. But your school hours are your prime business hours. Treat them like an official workday whether you’re at a coffee shop in downtown Madison, coworking with us at Madison Mompreneur, or working from your kitchen table.
2. Focus on What Really Grows Your Business
As busy mom entrepreneurs, we don’t have the luxury of endless time. Instead of tinkering with a logo or overthinking social media graphics, focus on the tasks that actually move your business forward: serving clients, reaching new customers, and building relationships in the Madison community. A simple filter to ask yourself: If I only accomplish one thing today, what will matter most for my business?
3. Use Tools and Systems to Save Time
Automation and batching can be game-changers. Schedule your Instagram posts ahead of time, set up online invoicing, and create templates for emails you send often. This frees up your limited work hours for creativity, connection, and client work. At Madison Mompreneur, we often share our favorite apps and systems during our pre- and post-coworking conversations to help each other work smarter.
4. Set Boundaries You Can Stick To
Once school is out and after-school activities begin, give yourself permission to step away from work. Communicate your availability clearly to clients so they know when you’re reachable and when you’re fully in “mom mode.” These boundaries keep you from feeling pulled in two directions.
5. Define Success Your Way
Success for a Madison, AL mom business owner doesn’t have to mean scaling at lightning speed. Maybe it’s creating part-time income that helps with private school tuition or family vacations, or maybe it’s building something steady you can grow once your kids are older. The beauty of being a mompreneur is that you get to set the rules.
Running a business during school hours takes intentionality, but it’s absolutely possible. With focus, systems, and community support (hello, Madison Mompreneur!), you can thrive as both a business owner and a mom here in Madison, Alabama.
August 20, 2025
Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Lyssa Barrow, Owner of Lyssa Barrow Photography!
1. What’s your Name? Lyssa Barrow
2. What’s your Business Name? Lyssa Barrow Photography
3. How does your business help people? Capturing my clients’ memories of their loved ones and their life moments or showing them how to explore photography on their own thru my workshops
4. How long have you lived in Madison? 8 years
5. What inspired you to start your business? I love love love photography and friends and family wanted me to keep taking their photos so I felt it was time to do it professionally.
6. What sets your business apart from others in the industry? Light Vibes, Fun Sessions and photo packages for everyone.
7. What do you consider to be your biggest success so far? My Happy Clients
8. How does your business contribute to the local community? I use my time and talent for volunteer work with a local non-profit as their photographer
9. How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years? I would like to double my bookings in 2025
10. Who are your typical customers and how do they find you? Parents of Seniors and Families (Moms and Grandmas) and they find me on social media or client referrals or thru my non-profit work
11. What do you enjoy most about running your business? The creativity
12. How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes? First with continuing education thru workshops and then when implementing new trends I do so very selectively, the trends and changes in photography can be fleeting and don’t usually fit with my target clients but am flexible and willing to accommodate requests for the newest trends in photography.
13. What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business in your industry? Build your portfolio and have fun practicing with it. Make the investment in software and equipment which will help you achieve the look you want. Learn to balance your time especially when it comes to editing.
15. What product/service would you like for us to highlight at this time? My Portrait Photography Packages (Families, Seniors, Proms and Headshots)
16. Do you involve your kids in your business? If yes, how so? No except to have them take my photo! My son is a pretty good photographer!
17. What do you find is the most difficult part of balancing mommyhood and business life? Trying not to see yourself thru your kids eyes…I’m mostly done with hands on mommyhood as my youngest is close to Flown and Grown. But as I was slowly building my skills as they grew, it was easy to feel like an imposter as my children just saw me as mommy, not a professional in any way. You have to not let that feed into your imposter syndrome. They love you but you will always be mom to them and that’s okay.
18. What business in the Madison Area is your favorite? Willow boutique in Vintage 72
19. Anything else you would like for us to highlight? I also have private photography workshops where I teach others to use their DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras without relying on the Auto setting.
Where can people find you? www.lyssabarrowphotography.com
If Lyssa’s experience as a mom and business owner resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
Want to read more mompreneur-focused content? Check out these previous Member Highlight blog posts:
To support more mom-owned businesses serving Madison, Alabama, check out our Member Directory!
August 13, 2025
FAMILY RESOURCE & MEDIA COMPANY · HUNTSVILLE, AL
A Little More About Rocket City Mom
Rocket City Mom is North Alabama’s go-to resource for family life, connecting Huntsville-area parents to local events, businesses, and everything happening around town. Owner Rebecca Hitt and her team have been the trusted voice for North Alabama families since 2011, doing the hard work of finding the information you need so you can spend more time enjoying your family.
Through their website, newsletters, and social media, they help thousands of families discover things to do while giving local businesses a direct line to an engaged, local audience, all with a personal, collaborative approach rather than a typical ad placement.
- Based in: Huntsville, AL
- Specialties: Event calendar, local directories (youth sports, classes & lessons, etc.), seasonal guides, newsletters, curated lists (summer camps, trunk-or-treats, egg hunts)
- Best known for: Their event calendar
- Fun fact: Rebecca is a total history and museum nerd, she has exhibit signage in two museums in town
Featured Testimonial
“As a working mom, your site has made life easier and I truly appreciate all the background research and long hours you must put in to provide us all such a great one-stop-shop of things to do, places to go, and upcoming events!”
Kristi N.
Frequently Asked Question
Q: What’s happening this weekend/next month/tomorrow?
A: Check our Weekend Roundup newsletter, out every Thursday morning, or head to our event calendar anytime for the full list of what’s going on around North Alabama.
Q: Any good summer/fall/etc. camps?
A: Tons! We put together roundups each season, including our summer camp guide, so you can browse options without doing all the digging yourself.
Q: Any recommendations for a pediatrician, dentist, tutor, music lessons, etc.? outside Huntsville?
A: Check out our directories! We keep our directories updated so you have all the information you need right at your fingertips.
Q: How can my business partner/advertise with you?
A: Reach out to info@rocketcitymom.com — we would love to talk about advertising and sponsorship opportunities across our directories, guides, articles, newsletters, and social media.
Featured Work by Rocket City Mom
Contact Rocket City Mom
If you’re ready to connect with Rocket City Mom, the best way to reach them is by email or social DM. Tell them Madison Mompreneur sent you, you belong here, and so does she.
Looking for more Madison-area moms who mean business? Explore the full directory →
May 29, 2025
Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Victoria O’Connor, Owner of Willow Events!
Introduce yourself!
I’m Victoria O’Connor, and I own Willow Events, a full service wedding and event decorator based in Hazel Green, AL.
How does your business help people?
We help clients design one of a kind floral pieces & event decorating for their weddings, birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers & more.
How long have you lived in the Madison area?
I live in Hazel Green, but I have been in the Huntsville area since 1994.
What inspired you to start your business?
I have always dreamed of having my own business since I was in high school. I always thought it would be a coffee shop never knew my path would be flower.
What sets your business apart from others in the industry?
I put God at the center of my business. Its more than a business, but a ministry and advancement to his kingdom.
What do you consider to be your biggest success so far?
Building my business from a $500 dollar start up. My husband and I lived pay check to credit card for a long time with him being a mechanic. It’s not easily supporting a family with the way they are paid. He said take $500 out of our income tax return and start your business. Its been a very long slow building process.
How does your business contribute to the local community?
I try to give where God tells me my business is about God it’s not always about the money.
How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years?
Our long term goal is a wedding venue that is full service.
Who are your typical customers and how do they find you?
Social media (Facebook)
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
I love making my business very personal getting to know my clients and having fun seeing what we can create for their day. It’s also very beautiful that I become close with a lot of my clients. We are friends on Facebook, and I get to watch them all starting their own families now.
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes?
We are subscribed to the top floral design magazines, Pinterest, and any classes we can take.
What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a business in your industry?
Enjoy the process, take your time build slow and steady, and don’t sell out to get big over night.
What product/service would you like for us to highlight at this time?
Weddings, birthdays, and bridal showers!
How do you involve your kids in your business?
I’m a home school mom so my boys go with me for the majority of the process. To the wholesaler, prepping flowers, filling vases/buckets, soaking oasis whatever is needed my boys are their to help.
What do you find is the most difficult part of balancing motherhood and business life?
Just finding the balance between homeschooling, baseball, keeping up the home life, and running my business.
What business in the Madison area is your favorite?
Lemon & Lavender
Do you have a business bestie?
My business partner, Virginia.
Where can people find you?
Facebook & Instagram
If Victoria’s experience as a mom and business owner resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com. to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
February 26, 2025
BRAND & PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO · MADISON, AL
A Little More About Kia & Co.
Kia & Co. is a strategic brand and product photography studio for established entrepreneurs whose visuals haven’t kept pace with their growth, think real estate agents, coaches, and product- and service-based business owners stepping into higher-level offers who need imagery that actually reflects it. Owner Gari-Ann Kia and her team start every session with a planning call and custom shot list, so there’s no guesswork about what to wear, where to shoot, or what images a client actually needs.
On session day, clients get calm, decisive direction, even the ones who dread being photographed end up relaxed and enjoying it. The result is a versatile image library, not just a stack of photos, built to be used confidently across website, social, and marketing, so the visuals finally match where the business actually is.
- Based in: Madison, AL
- Specialties: Brand photography, headshots, product photography, event coverage
- Best known for: Brand photography that captures a business’s processes, client experience, and people
- Fun fact: Gari-Ann is from Hawaii, an Army wife, and has 2 kids. She’s been a mompreneur for over 13 years
Featured Testimonial
“I hadn’t taken pictures in years and Gari Ann and her team made me so comfortable, so much so she had me smiling in front of the camera feeling like I made the best decision ever. If you’re thinking or even considering updating your brand photos, book them + DO IT! You won’t regret it.”
Kenny J.
Frequently Asked Question
Q: I hate having my photo taken, is that a problem?
A: Not at all. Most clients feel this way before starting. Gari-Ann gives clear, calm direction so you’re never left wondering what to do, and by the end of the session, people who dread cameras usually say they had fun.
Q: How do I know what to wear or where to shoot?
A: That’s covered before you ever meet in person. Every session starts with a planning call and a custom shot list, so wardrobe, location, and props are already figured out, you just show up.
Q: What if I don’t know what images I actually need?
A: That’s exactly what the planning process is for. Gari-Ann talks through your business, your goals, and how you’ll use the images, so what’s captured is intentional, not guesswork.
Contact Kia & Co.
If you’re ready to connect with Kia & Co., the best way to reach them is through their website contact form. Tell them Madison Mompreneur sent you – you belong here, and so do they.
Looking for more Madison-area moms who mean business? Explore the full directory →
February 5, 2025
Attention Madison Mompreneurs: Business License Renewal Deadline Approaching!
As a fellow Madison business owners and a mom, there’s just too much on my plate somedays, so I wanted to share more information about Business Licenses in AL!
Key Deadlines You Need to Know
If you operate a business in Madison city, here are the crucial dates to remember:
- Business licenses expired on December 31st, 2024
- You have until January 31st, 2025 to renew without penalties
- Renewals are still possible after January 31st, but penalties will apply
What You Need to Know About Madison City Business License Renewal
The City of Madison sent renewal notices in November 2024. These notices include a list of required documents specific to your business. If your notice doesn’t list any special requirements, you can simply call the licensing department, and they’ll help guide you through the renewal process.
You can renew your business online, or visit the Revenue Office located at 100 Hughes Rd. Madison AL. The office is just to the left of the building, here’s a video I made when I renewed mine, just in case you need a visual of where to find the Revenue Office as it is tucked away on the side:
Important Notes for Different Jurisdictions
Since Madison spans across both Madison and Limestone counties, some businesses may need multiple licenses:
- Madison County (expires December 31st)
- Limestone County (expires September 31st)
For detailed information about business licenses and renewals, visit their website . You can also contact them directly at (256) 772-5651.
Madison City Business License: What Every Mom Business Owner Should Know
When you’re juggling family responsibilities and business operations, keeping track of administrative requirements like business license renewals can be challenging. Here’s what you need to know about the business license in AL, specifically for Madison city business owners:
- The business application process is straightforward and simple
- Different types of businesses may have varying requirements for their Madison city business license
- Home-based businesses still need proper licensing
Tips for Managing Your Business License Responsibilities
As busy moms running businesses in Madison County, AL, here are some practical tips to help you stay on top of your licensing requirements:
- Set calendar reminders for renewal deadlines
- Keep all business license documentation in a dedicated folder
- Consider setting aside quarterly time to review all business compliance matters
- Join local business groups to stay informed about licensing changes
Resources for Madison County Business Owners
To make the business license process easier, make sure to visit The Madison City Revenue Department as they offer guidance for your business license in AL. They have been super helpful and quick everytime I was at their office.
Remember, staying compliant with your business license requirements isn’t just about following rules – it’s about protecting the business you’ve worked so hard to build.
January 22, 2025
Welcome to another edition of our Member Spotlight Series on the Madison Mompreneur blog! This series will help you get to know the members of Madison Mompreneur as we ask them questions about their personal and professional life as moms who own businesses in the Madison, Alabama area.
We are continuing this series with the spotlight on Brandy Booth & Shannon Fisher, Owners of Lemon & Lavender!
Introduce yourself!
We are Brandy Booth and Shannon Fisher, Owners of Lemon & Lavender, a brick & mortar store located in the Shoppes of Historical Downtown Madison (Alabama).
How does your business help people?
We are two moms on a mission to give shoppers the opportunity to shop eco-friendly and confident that all products have clean ingredients with sustainable packaging. We help people move from being convenience consumers to conscious consumers.
How long have you lived in Madison?
Both of us have lived here for over 20 years!
What inspired you to start your business?
There were no options in the area at the time to shop, knowing that everything in the store was eco-friendly and sustainable.
What sets your business apart from others in the industry?
We focus not only on our products but sustainable practices in manufacturing and dealing with packaging and waste.
What do you consider to be your biggest success so far?
Opening the first Refillery in North Alabama where customers can bring their own containers to refill cleaning and bath supplies by the ounce. Just like a bulk bin at a natural grocery store where you might bring a reusable bag to purchase rice, beans, or coffee, you can do the same with cleaning solutions like laundry detergent and personal care products like shampoo or bath salts.
How does your business contribute to the local community?
We give the residents in our local community the opportunity to shop in a more eco-friendly manner. We are also conscientious in our manufacturing and waste from the store to repurpose it rather than recycle or trash it.
How do you see your business evolving in the next 5-10 years?
We are in the process of expanding our Refillery to include more cleaning and bath products. We also hope to lead inspiration to other businesses to adopt more eco-conscious practices.
Who are your typical customers and how do they find you?
Our customers are a wide variety of ages, but mostly those who already live an eco-friendly lifestyle or desire to make those changes. Many find us online as they search out for eco-conscious businesses.
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
We most enjoy educating those who visit about both our products as well as how to incorporate them into a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes?
We stay up to date by constantly researching more products and lifestyle practices.
Anything else you would like for us to highlight?
We partner with other local businesses for sustainable purposes. Phoenix Glass Recycling gives us glass containers each month to give away to customers for Refillery. We also give some other local businesses our packing material we receive in shipments to reuse for their shipping of products to help eliminate waste.
Where can people find you?
108 Main Street in Madison, Alabama and online at lemonandlavendermadison.com. On Facebook and Instagram we are @lemonandlavendermadison.
If Brandy and Shannon’s experiences as moms and business owners resonates with you, we want to hear from you in the comments! And if you are a mom and business owner in Madison, Alabama email us at madisonmompreneur@gmail.com. to be featured in a future Member Highlight post!
January 15, 2025
As a mompreneur in Madison, Alabama, building a thriving business requires clarity and purpose. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years, taking time to align your vision and goals with your values ensures your business reflects what truly matters to you.
Start with Your Values
Begin by figuring out or revisiting your core values. What drives you as a business owner and as a mom? Maybe you value community, sustainability, financial independence, or work-life balance. These values should guide not only how you run your business but also how it fits into your life.
Write Your Life Vision
Based on your values, create a vision for your life. Picture what you want your life to look like in 5 or 10 years. Does it include financial freedom, flexible hours, or a business that supports other moms in Madison? Writing this vision helps clarify what success means to you.
Set Meaningful Goals
Now, translate your vision into business goals that reflect your values. For example, if community involvement is a priority, a goal could be to host quarterly networking events for Madison moms in business.
Create SMART Action Steps
To achieve your goals, break them into action steps using the SMART framework:
- Specific: Define the task clearly, e.g., “Plan a networking event for 20 local moms.”
- Measurable: Track your progress, like securing a venue or sending invitations.
- Attainable: Keep goals realistic, given your resources and schedule.
- Relevant: Ensure the action aligns with your values and vision.
- Time-Bound: Set a deadline, like completing the event plan by the end of the month.
With clear values, a strong vision, and actionable goals, you can build a business that supports your dreams and serves the Madison community effectively.
Want to read more mompreneur-focused content? Check out these previous blog posts and workshops:
Blog Post: The Value of Co-Working
Blog Post: Task Batching: What It Is and How To Incorporate It Into Your Mom-Owned Business
Video Workshop: Stress Reset for Mompreneurs
January 8, 2025
Building and supporting local community is always front of mind for us at Madison Mompreneur. Which is why we are excited to announce another way for the whole Huntsville/Madison/Decatur/Athens area of Alabama to keep their local economy strong this holiday season – by utilizing the 2024 Madison Mompreneur Shopping Guide!
As we reflect on another incredible year, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement for the growth and connections we’ve fostered within our community.
This year has been transformative for Madison Mompreneur. We’re thrilled to share that our community has blossomed to nearly 100 members, a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of moms in our area. Our friend and co-founder, Lauren, has recommitted to the vision of Madison Mompreneur, bringing renewed energy and dedication to our mission.
Throughout the year, we’ve hosted over 40 coworking sessions, creating spaces where women in business could come together to accomplish tasks, network, and support each other’s growth. These gatherings have been a powerful reminder of the strength we find in collaboration and mutual support.
We’re thrilled to announce the expansion of our community through the Mompreneurs of Huntsville Facebook group, which now connects over 1,100 local entrepreneurs. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Stephenie Walker for her unwavering commitment to women in business in the Madison area and her continued support of our group. This expansion allows us to connect with and support even more mom entrepreneurs in our region.
As we present this year’s Shopping Guide, we’re reminded of the incredible value that mom-owned businesses bring to our community. From passion projects that have blossomed into thriving enterprises to established businesses that continue to innovate, the moms of the Madison area are truly making a difference.
We encourage you to use this guide as your go-to resource for supporting local, mom-owned businesses. By choosing to shop with these entrepreneurs, you’re not just making a purchase – you’re investing in dreams, supporting families, and strengthening our community.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Here’s to another year of growth, support, and success for the mompreneurs of Madison!
Happy Shopping and Supporting Local!
November 20, 2024
