Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa LaHann.
Melissa, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As a new mom, I was in awe of the women who’d transitioned to motherhood so flawlessly. My newborn and I were just coming off an all-nighter; I was exhausted, stained with breast milk, smelled like spit-up, and had a full day ahead.
As luck would have it, I was also struggling with the logistics of breastfeeding. How on earth is a mom supposed to hold her shirt, her infant, position her breast, and sit comfortably? What was I doing wrong? Why hadn’t anyone mentioned this?
After months of neck strain, self-doubt, and assistance from my husband, I knew there had to be a better way to eliminate the nuisance of a falling shirt, so I could breastfeed in comfort, but after checking in stores and online, I found nothing.
So, I took matters into my own hands. I bought a used sewing machine, learned to sew, and made prototypes as my newborn slept. That’s how the concept of the LatchPal® Breastfeeding Clip was born.
Not only did this labor of love improve my nursing experience, but it’s helped thousands of moms since.
Today, LatchPal® is an award-winning nursing clip that’s embraced by lactation consultants, pediatricians, and customers worldwide. Our LatchPal® Nursing Clip can be fastened with one hand to hold up a mother’s shirt while breastfeeding (and pumping)… It’s a simple reminder that no amount of help is ever too small.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve always enjoyed overcoming challenges with creative solutions. Whenever you embark upon something new, there will be a learning curve and unexpected obstacles; however, it’s overcoming those obstacles that makes the journey so rewarding. And the truth is…there’s no such thing as an “overnight success”; the majority of successful ventures are “years in the making”.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Happy Fig is a Chicago company that’s woman-owned, trusted by parents, the maker of LatchPal® and innovative parenting accessories!
LatchPal®, our patented shirt holder, eliminates the disruption of a falling shirt while nursing (and pumping); so moms can nurse in comfort, bond with their babies, and achieve their breastfeeding goals!
I love empowering new parents by focusing on their achievements, resilience, and strength. This includes being honest and open about the “realities of parenting and breastfeeding”, while offering the support parents need (to do their best). I’m particularly proud to advocate for breastfeeding awareness, while helping pregnant and postpartum mothers adjust to their changing bodies, life with a newborn, and learning to breastfeed. When I hear our products have helped new families, I’m filled with happiness.
What were you like growing up?
I’ve always been curious, competitive, and wanted to make a difference. It’s my nature to give 110% to any activity, whether it’s friendship, family, athletics, academics, or my career. As a child, every day before leaving the house, my parents told me ” to be a leader, not a follower” and to me that meant doing the right thing, my best, and acting with integrity. These pillars are core to my business and a large part of who I am today.
Pricing:
- LatchPal Breastfeeding Clip- $13.95 (available LatchPal.com, Amazo
n.com, Walmart.com and local retailers)
Contact Info:
- Address: 4044 N Lincoln Ave #239, Chicago, IL 60618
- Website: http://www.latchpal.com
- Email: contact@latchpal.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latchpal/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LatchPal/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/latchpal?lang=en
- Yelp: Happy Fig, LLC
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/Latchpal/
Image Credit:
@latchpal @ashleyhammphotography
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
