In a candid conversation, Sarah Dooley shares her incredible journey from a living room startup to a thriving business leader in the sustainable products industry. As Marley’s Monsters celebrates its 12th anniversary, here are ten questions that capture her insights and experiences.
1. What inspired you to start Marley’s Monsters?
“It all began when I was pregnant and learning about cloth diapering. As I researched, I was struck by the sheer amount of waste generated by disposable products and the limited eco-friendly options available in the market. This realization fueled my desire to create sustainable alternatives. I started making Cloth Wipes and Nursing Pads to reduce waste and promote a healthier lifestyle for both my family and the planet. My goal was not only to provide practical solutions but also to make the transition to reusable products enjoyable through fun designs and colors. I wanted parents to feel empowered to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing style or convenience.”
2. How has your work-life balance changed since you started?
“At the beginning, my work and personal life were completely intertwined. Working from home meant I was constantly surrounded by my business, which made it challenging to find a balance. I was working around the clock—late nights spent sewing at the dining room table blurred the lines between my personal and professional life. However, as Marley’s Monsters has grown over these 12 years, we’ve built a strong team that allows us to be more intentional about separating work from personal time. Now, I prioritize setting boundaries and creating a work culture that values time away from work. This shift has not only improved my mental well-being but has also enhanced our team’s productivity and creativity. It’s essential to recharge so we can continue to innovate sustainably.”
3. What has been your biggest challenge as a business owner?
“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is trusting others to take over tasks that I once managed myself. As a founder, it’s natural to feel a sense of ownership over every aspect of the business, especially when you’ve poured your heart into building it. However, I’ve learned that a strong team can achieve far more than one individual ever could. Delegating responsibilities and training team members has been a journey of growth for me. It’s amazing to see how the diverse strengths and knowledge of my team can elevate our mission to reduce waste and promote sustainability. By entrusting others, we’ve been able to expand our product line and explore new eco-friendly innovations that I couldn’t have tackled alone.”
4. How do you handle setbacks and challenges?
“Setbacks are an inevitable part of any entrepreneurial journey, and I view them as opportunities for growth. When challenges arise, whether they are supply chain disruptions or unexpected market shifts, I remind myself that adaptability is key. The pandemic, for instance, forced us to rethink our product offerings and operational strategies. It taught us to be flexible and creative. We pivoted quickly, launching new products like Toilet UNpaper® in response to the growing demand for sustainable alternatives during the toilet paper shortage. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of resilience and creativity in business. Every challenge has ultimately strengthened our commitment to sustainability and innovation.”
5. What role does sustainability play in your business philosophy?
“Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it’s the core of our mission. From the very beginning, I aimed to create products that minimize waste and promote eco-friendly practices. Every item we produce is designed with a focus on reducing environmental impact. We prioritize using sustainable materials and processes, such as organic fabrics and ethical manufacturing practices. By offering reusable alternatives, we aim to educate our customers about the benefits of reducing single-use products. I want to inspire a shift in consumer behavior, showing that making eco-conscious choices can be both practical and stylish. Our commitment to sustainability informs every decision we make, from product design to packaging and distribution.”
6. How do you incorporate family into your business?
“Marley’s Monsters is truly a family venture, and I believe that integrating family values into our business enhances our mission. My kids are involved in various aspects, and we talk openly about sustainability and the importance of reducing waste, which helps instill these values in them from a young age. I find it rewarding to teach them about eco-friendly practices and see their enthusiasm for our reusable products. They often remind me to use our Cloth Wipes or UNpaper® Towels, making sustainability a family affair. This involvement not only strengthens our family bonds but also reinforces our commitment to building a more sustainable future.”
7. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
“My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to prioritize community and collaboration. Surround yourself with supportive people who share your vision and values. Building relationships with like-minded individuals can provide invaluable resources and insights. Additionally, don’t shy away from seeking mentorship or guidance. The journey of entrepreneurship can be daunting, but having a network of support makes all the difference. Embrace the challenges, and be open to learning from both successes and setbacks. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, and every step you take towards promoting sustainability contributes to a brighter future for our planet.”
8. How has your team culture evolved as the company has grown?
“As Marley’s Monsters has expanded over these 12 years, we’ve worked hard to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive team culture. We prioritize kindness, respect, and collaboration in everything we do. Celebrating our team’s achievements—big and small—is essential to maintaining morale and fostering a sense of community. We regularly engage in open discussions about our mission and how each team member contributes to our sustainability goals. This approach not only enhances teamwork but also drives innovation as we brainstorm new ideas for eco-friendly products together. A positive work environment is crucial for creativity and productivity, and I believe it’s reflected in the quality of our products.”
9. What excites you about the future of Marley’s Monsters?
“I’m incredibly excited about the endless possibilities for new products and solutions that further our mission to reduce waste. The future of Marley’s Monsters is bright as we continue to innovate in the sustainable space. I envision a world where reusable products are the norm in every household, and I’m eager to lead the charge in making that happen. We’re constantly exploring new materials and designs, and I can’t wait to share our upcoming collections with our customers. I truly believe that we can make a significant impact on consumer behavior and inspire others to embrace eco-friendly alternatives in their everyday lives.”
10. If you could give your past self one piece of advice, what would it be?
“It will all be worth it. If I could go back twelve years, I would reassure myself that the hard work and perseverance will lead to something meaningful and impactful. I’d encourage myself to trust the process and stay committed to my vision of creating sustainable products. The journey will have its ups and downs, but each experience will contribute to my growth as a person and a leader. Embracing the learning opportunities along the way makes it all the more enjoyable. Ultimately, I would remind myself that every effort towards promoting sustainability is a step towards a healthier planet.
As we celebrate our 12th anniversary, I look forward to continuing this journey and making a positive impact for years to come!”
Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of determination, creativity, and collaboration. As Marley’s Monsters continues to grow and evolve, Sarah remains committed to her vision of sustainability and community. Follow along as she explores new avenues for making a positive impact on the planet!
