Founder Spotlight: Julie Mathers (Flora & Fauna)

Meet Julie Mathers

We're a platform for purpose. We are focused on having a positive impact on the planet by helping people make better choices.

Startup Stage:
Bootstrapped - totally self-funded

Locations:
Sydney, Australia

What led you to where you are today?

I've worked in retail for 28 years and I wanted to use my experience and passion for animals and the planet to do good. In 2014 I founded Flora & Fauna, a store dedicated to selling vegan products.

What do you wish you knew before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey?

Oddly nothing. The reason I say that is that if I knew certain things I may have made a different decision and perhaps not done the hard yards needed to get to the position we're in. If I had known the website build was going to come in at three times the budget and take twice as long we might not have moved website but it was absolutely the right thing to do despite the challenges.

What is the most difficult decision you've had to make regarding your business so far?

Actually making the leap into running F&F full time knowing I wouldn't have a salary for a couple of years - it's uncomfortable and to move forward you have to get uncomfortable.

What can you help the VEGPRENEUR community with?

We're a great platform to work with other vegan brands and connect with other entrepreneurs.

How can the VEGPRENEUR community help you?

Help spread the word about Flora & Fauna.

Fun fact about you:

I've run 8 marathons (they weren't all fun!)

Anything else you would like to share?

Be kind in everything you do. That includes who you employ ie diversity, how you treat your team, your customers and the decisions you make. Be a good human!

Connect With Julie

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