Speakers

Charmaine Papallo Babybuds

Profile:

Charmaine Papallo developed the novel idea for babybuds when she gave birth to her daughter Olivia in 2001 and decided to create a gift with a 'wow factor', which combined the romance of flowers with the practicality of essential baby clothing, such as singlets, socks, bodysuits and jumpsuits.

Buoyed by strong early sales, in its second year babybuds experienced a 977% increase in sales and positive feedback from clients, Charmaine knew that she had launched the right product at the right time. "Our beautifully presented baby bouquets combine the romance of flowers with the practicality of essential baby clothing including singlets, bodysuits, jumpsuits and socks. Since day one they have been a big hit and we keep growing the range in response to customer feedback."

In its infancy, babybuds sparked interest in the corporate market and today boasts an enviable list of clients including major banks, advertising agencies, law firms and accounting firms who regularly buy babybuds unique baby gift boxes.

Prior to establishing babybuds Charmaine was a corporate lawyer working for one of Australia's leading law firms. Her legal and corporate background providing a great knowledge base and launch pad into business.

Just four years on and babybuds, the original baby clothing bouquet company, has grown from its modest start in Charmaine's sunroom to an internet-based company with offices and warehouses in Sydney and Auckland and more than 20 employees. Babybuds posts annual turnover of more than $1 million a year and enjoys 30% year-on-year growth. Charmaine continues to work with her team to stay one step ahead of the market and to keep the innovative ideas and products flowing.

Visit Babybuds