Emma Pritchard

Jodie Stephenson is an astute Clarence Valley businesswoman who possesses a unique eye for detail, and a deep seeded passion for flair, style and creativity.

Four years ago, she utilised her sewing skills and ambition to provide a range of different prints and intricate patterns in a limited Australian market by establishing Inklings and the Kraken Fabrics, a custom fabric design business which she manages from her home in Yamba.

But along with being a successful business owner, Mrs Stephenson is also a wife and a loving mother to three teenage sons.

And she has triumphantly sewn together a fashionable career without compromising her devotion to her family.

Mrs Stephenson has recently been announced as a finalist in the Regional Excellence category at the upcoming AusMumpreneur Awards, which recognises Aussie mums across the country who are making extraordinary contributions in customer service, product development, digital innovation and business excellence.

She has also received a nomination for the People’s Choice Award.

Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent last week, Mrs Stephenson said she is extremely proud of her achievements and is delighted to be a finalist.

Describing herself as immensely passionate about her business, Mrs Stephenson loves the dynamics of her vocation which enable her to work from home and spend time with her family.

“Finding that balance between being a wife, a mum, and a business owner, that’s the secret,” she said.

“You have to remind yourself that they (family) are the reason you do what you do, and you have to make sure you take time off work to be with your family.

“My family are very supportive of me and the work I do.

“My husband Luke works with me in the evenings organising postal runs, and the boys also help weighing parcels and folding fabrics.

“The business is going really well, I don’t have to juggle working outside of home, which is fantastic, and the feedback I’m receiving is amazing.”

Mrs Stephenson loves connecting with like-minded people and supporting other local businesses to produce quality products.

She is also interested in working with Northern Rivers artists to create bright and beautiful fabric designs.

“I love developing ideas, talking to artists and watching the creative process unfold,” she explained.

“I especially love Australian flora and fauna, and they feature in a lot of prints we sell.

“The work I do is very rewarding, and it’s very exciting to be recognised at the awards.”

The winners of the AusMumpreneur Awards will be announced at the AusMumpreneur Awards Gala Dinner in September.