The HandyMom 868 journey

The HandyMom 868 was started as an outlet to fight postpartum depression.

After having my 3rd daughter, Zoie, at the age of 42, life as an active interior design consultant and entrepreneur, came to a screeching halt as I had to become a stay-at-home mom for the first time in my life.

Bring on the Pandemic-

A year into this new experience the world was literally turned outside down or rather outside in, as our movements were now confined to our home by this once in a lifetime occurrence…the pandemic.

Confined to my home, as if motherhood hadn’t already imposed its own version of house arrest and having to spend more time indoors meant having to face some of the issues that would keep the spaces comfortable, interesting and even more functional than it was.

Applying some of the techniques and methods that were used for my interior design clients, I decided to tackle these home projects head on, while sharing the information on Youtube.

The HandyMom868 was born-

Of course, if I were going to do this online, I needed a name that would summarize my persona, and so the HandyMom 868 was born. This new adventure came with its own set of challenges, as they always do. Though some had little to do with lacking requisite skill as oppose to lacking the requisite confidence to place myself in front of the screen.

I was at all times concerned with how I looked, how I sounded and how my general person would be received by the wider world. I hated hearing my own voice and I get extremely nervous, to the point of forgetting what I needed to say, in front of a camera. I also knew nothing about Youtube except for the videos I binged watch from time to time, on different topics from natural hair care to creating a green wall, then certifying myself a proud graduate of Youtube University.

I began my research and then got started.

Dedicating the time to build a Youtube channel, with a soon to be toddler, required juggling my role as a mom and homemaker with that of a student, videographer, editor, content creator and project manager.

I ambitiously uploaded my first video, which was my introduction to the world, on December 5th 2020, with the aim to upload 52 videos in one year. All I can say, it’s not what it is right now and it’s not for lack of trying.

Editing took way more time than I naively thought it would, especially with a toddler who is boob-obsessed and has more energy than that fabled energizer bunny. So, I’m embracing the process, taking the opportunities, and waking up at least two hours earlier each day to record, edit and upload, most times, before my day really begins.

It’s difficult, exhausting and sometimes frustrating but I love sharing what I know and seeing others learn, create and grow because of my content.

So, join me, Zoie and be part of The HandyMom 868 Tribe, as we learn, build, create and grow together