Building the Village I Once Needed

Some women build businesses. Some women build community. And some quietly, powerfully, do both. Hayley is one of those women.

What started as navigating new motherhood has grown into something that’s now supporting mums all over the Isle of Man. From bubbles and sensory play to honest conversations and real connection, she’s creating spaces where women feel seen, supported and less alone.

We’ll let her tell you the story in her own words…

“Becoming a mum changed everything.”

In all honesty, owning my own business was never in my life plan. In 2023 I gave birth to my daughter Darcie and life hasn’t been the same since. Becoming a mum completely shifted my priorities. My mental health took a hit and I struggled massively with anxiety around returning to work.

I found myself attending baby classes, which at first I really didn’t enjoy. It felt like being back at school, trying to make a whole new set of friends whilst also figuring out how to care for this tiny new human I’d suddenly been given responsibility for.

But then I started to see how powerful those spaces are. Not just for babies’ development, but for mums.

When the opportunity to buy The Sensory Hub Isle of Man arose out of the blue, it felt like the perfect fit for family life.

Launching The Mama Hub alongside Vanessa felt like a natural next step. I realised that my passion isn’t just rooted in the incredible developmental benefits that Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense provide. It’s about the connection those spaces create. The conversations before and after class. The friendships forming. Mums feeling seen and supported.

I wanted to build something that nurtures women through motherhood, not just children in their early years.

“There isn’t really a normal day.”

And that’s the beauty of it.

Some days I’m on the floor leading sensory sessions, bubbles everywhere, music playing, watching babies light up. I’m very lucky to have two fantastic ladies, Gemma and Michelle, who run the majority of our classes, but I always love getting the chance to lead them myself.

Other days I’m prepping and cleaning equipment, answering messages, managing bookings, or working behind the scenes on The Mama Hub. It’s a real mix of hands-on chaos and behind-the-scenes graft.

What I’m most passionate about right now

Right now, I’m incredibly passionate about building real community for mums on the Isle of Man. It’s an area that is really lacking on the Island. There just isn’t anywhere that offers regular opportunities for mothers to come together, educate themselves and develop friendships with other mums in a similar season of life.

Through Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense, I see friendships forming every week. Through The Mama Hub, I’m creating space for honest conversations, support, and growth.

I care deeply about maternal wellbeing. About mums not feeling alone. About women realising they can build something meaningful alongside motherhood.

Motherhood doesn’t have to shrink your world.

A challenge that shaped me

Taking on not one but multiple businesses as a new mum was, without a doubt, the biggest risk I’ve ever taken. Lots of wondering if I could manage the responsibility, the financial pressure, and still be present for Darcie.

What I learned is that growth comes from discomfort. I learned to trust my instincts. To ask for help. And to stop waiting until I felt “ready”. Sometimes you just have to wing it.

A proud moment

Launching The Mama Hub from an idea between two sleep-deprived mums into something real. That felt big. It was proof that I’m capable of creating spaces that truly matter.

I actually find it really hard to let myself feel proud. It makes me uncomfortable. But I am genuinely proud of the little community I’m creating, with so many incredible women helping me along the way.

It’s so important to me that I show my daughter, and other little girls, that you truly can achieve amazing things with the right mindset and a strong support system.

Something people might not see

People see the classes, the branding, the social media. They don’t always see the late-night planning, the risk, or the self-doubt I’ve had to push through.

I’m naturally someone who overthinks, but running these businesses has forced me to become more confident and decisive.

It’s been as much a personal development journey as a business one.

My advice to other women

Focus on yourself.

Don’t worry about what other people are doing. You have no control over that, but you can control your own personal growth and development.

Do what you’re passionate about and, if you’re very lucky, success will follow.

Motherhood doesn’t have to shrink your world. Sometimes it’s the very thing that expands it.

Hayley’s story is such a beautiful reminder that growth doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it is creating the spaces you once needed yourself. And that’s real power. If you’re a mum, an entrepreneur, or somewhere in the messy middle of figuring it out, we hope her words make you feel a little less alone.

Here’s to women building businesses, community and confidence, all at the same time. 💛