Meet Natella Khaleel: NYC Mama and New York Bebe Founder

“It's not easy to start your own business and you will have a lot of fear and uncertainty before starting it, but always believe in your project no matter what people say — keep moving forward and one day you will look back in amazement to what you built.”

WHAT DO YOU DO AND WHAT LED YOU TO THIS CAREER?

I'm the founder of a kids’ clothing brand called New York Bebe. I've always been passionate about fashion and after having my first child I got into kids’ fashion. I wanted to create something basic, comfortable, and classic for New York kids — but also have it be personalized to stand out from all the other children's clothing you find in stores.

WHAT ARE THE NAMES AND AGES OF YOUR CHILDREN?

Kenzo is 2 years old and Senna is 3 months.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CAREER ACHIEVEMENT THUS FAR?

My biggest career achievement thus far has been growing New York Bebe and having our products placed in more than a dozen kids’ stores across New York City as well as the Hamptons.

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING ASPECT OF BEING A MOTHER?

To see Kenzo learning and growing every day.

AND WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING?

To ensure I always do the right thing for my kid.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR SOMEONE NEW TO YOUR INDUSTRY?

Never give up! It's not easy to start your own business and you will have a lot of fear and uncertainty before starting it, but always believe in your project no matter what people say — keep moving forward and one day you will look back in amazement to what you built.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR A NEW MOTHER?

Be patient and it's okay to ask for help.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU? DO YOU HAVE ANY EXCITING PROJECTS COMING UP?

I'm in the process of expanding New York Bebe to California and others states.

Follow Natella at @newyork.bebe