From a Small Town to Entrepreneurial Success: Samreen’s Inspiring Story

Born and raised in Jalandhar, a small town in Punjab, Samreen’s story is one of resilience, self-belief, and transformation. Growing up in a close-knit family, Samreen imbibed values of hard work and independence early on. Her father served as a senior officer at United India Insurance Company, while her mother, a dedicated designer with a thriving studio, exemplified entrepreneurial spirit. Samreen’s elder sister also carved a successful path as an image consultant in Mumbai.

Roots of Inspiration

Having completed her schooling at a reputed convent school in Jalandhar, Samreen moved to Delhi for higher studies. She graduated with a degree in Commerce from Delhi University and pursued an MBA from a prestigious institution. Her educational journey set a strong foundation for her future endeavours.

Samreen credits her mother’s creativity and tenacity as crucial influences on her own entrepreneurial journey. “I saw a go-getter in my mother, and that energy has stayed with me,” she reflects. These early lessons instilled in her the belief that women can forge their own paths and lead with conviction.

Facing Gender Bias in the Corporate World

Samreen began her career in marketing and research and excelled in her corporate role. However, things took a challenging turn after the birth of her first child. With limited maternity leave and a lack of support for working mothers at the time, she had to make a difficult choice. “Work-from-home options were frowned upon back then,” she recalls. After taking a break to focus on her child, Samreen struggled to re-enter the workforce, facing questions about her commitment and receiving offers at entry-level salaries despite her experience.

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The setbacks did not deter her. Instead, they became the catalyst for change. “When I couldn’t find a place back in the corporate world, I decided to create my own,” she says.

The Birth of Blooming Buds

Samreen’s entrepreneurial journey began serendipitously. As a new mother, she realised there was a gap in the market for affordable, high-quality, and aesthetically pleasing baby bedding. With her mother’s expertise in design, she created bespoke nursery items for her daughter. Friends soon took notice and began requesting customised pieces for their children. What began as a passion project evolved into Blooming Buds, a thriving business that offers premium bedding solutions for children.

“Ironically, the same baby for whom I left the corporate world led me to start my business,” Samreen shares with a smile.

Challenges and Growth

Initially, Blooming Buds operated as a home-based business with limited external interaction. However, after expanding operations post-COVID-19, Samreen encountered new challenges. “When I started scaling up, I noticed that suppliers didn’t always take me seriously,” she recalls. Yet, she persisted, proving her credibility through consistent quality and professionalism. Her dedication paid off, and Blooming Buds grew into a trusted brand with a dedicated customer base.

Balancing Act: Family, Work, and Self-Care

Juggling multiple roles, Samreen emphasises the importance of prioritisation. “Knowing what needs your attention first is key,” she advises. She ensures she takes time for herself through vacations, girls’ trips, and family getaways, which help her recharge and maintain a work-life balance.

“After intense work periods, I make sure to take breaks,” she explains. “It keeps me energised and ready to take on new challenges.”

Defining Success

For Samreen, success is both personal and professional. “My biggest personal success is my children,” she says proudly. Professionally, a milestone moment was launching Blooming Buds’ official website after years of relying on marketplaces like Amazon and FirstCry. “Our brand website was a game-changer. It represented a leap forward and a new phase of growth for us.”

Lessons Learned Along the Way

Reflecting on her journey, Samin shares valuable lessons:

1. Build a Strong Support System: “Surround yourself with people who uplift you. Family, staff, and well-meaning friends make a significant difference.”
2. Act Instead of Procrastinating: “Trust your instincts and make decisions. Don’t get stuck in indecision.”
3. Learn to Accept and Move On: “If something isn’t working despite your best efforts, it’s okay to let go and move forward.”

Breaking Stereotypes

Samreen believes that the perception of women entrepreneurs has evolved over the years. “Today, women leaders are respected and admired for their intelligence and capabilities,” she observes. However, she also acknowledges that biases still exist in some spaces. “The key is to be professional, committed, and consistent in your work. When your work speaks for itself, perceptions change.”

Encouraging the Next Generation

To young girls embarking on their journeys, Samreen offers this advice: “Be a thorough professional. Let your work ethic speak for you.” She stresses the importance of financial independence and education as vital tools for self-reliance. “Even if you choose to stay home, having a solid educational background gives you something to fall back on.”

Women Supporting Women

On the topic of women supporting each other, Samreen has a balanced view. “While it’s true that some women can be competitive, I’ve experienced immense support and encouragement from the women around me,” she says. Small gestures, like messages of appreciation from old friends, often brighten her day and reinforce the power of solidarity.

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No Regrets, Only Growth

Samreen’s journey is marked by gratitude and self-awareness. “Every challenge has been a stepping stone,” she reflects. “I wouldn’t change a thing.”

The Future Ahead

Looking ahead, Samin envisions Blooming Buds growing into a multi-crore conglomerate that expands beyond baby bedding into home linens and furnishings. “This is not just a business; it’s my legacy and my retirement plan,” she says.

Can Women Have It All?

Samin believes that women can indeed have it all, though not necessarily all at once. “Life is about phases. When you look at the bigger picture, you realise that you can achieve everything over time,” she explains.

Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and the courage to reinvent oneself. Samreen’s journey is a beacon of inspiration for anyone striving to create a life that’s both fulfilling and impactful.

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