We had the good fortune of connecting with Elif Akbaba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elif, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a parent to my son, I believe the most impactful thing I’ve done is creating a loving and secure environment where he feels valued and supported. This has been helping build his confidence and resilience.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is all about creating personalized baby designs that celebrate the joy every child brings to the world. Inspired by my son, I focus on making items that families will cherish, with careful attention to detail and heart in every piece.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. I’ve faced challenges like balancing parenthood with running a business and learning the ins and outs of e-commerce. Staying flexible, listening to feedback, and remembering my ‘why’—bringing joy to families—helped me overcome them.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that passion and perseverance are key. My brand is built on love, creativity, and a commitment to making every customer feel special. Every design has a story, just like every child, and I’m honored to be part of those precious moments

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, we’d kick things off in LA. I’d take them to Bacari on 3rd Street for some delicious small plates and a laid-back vibe. Then, we’d head to Mozza Melrose for incredible pizza, followed by a visit to Gjelina on Abbot Kinney for an iconic dining experience. We’d also have to explore the vibrant streets of Venice and enjoy some shopping and murals along the way.

After a few days in LA, we’d head down to Orange County. We’d start in Laguna Beach, soaking in the ocean views and enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere. Dana Point would be our next stop for a stroll around the harbor and perhaps some whale-watching if we’re lucky. We’d end the trip with a fun night at Costa Mesa’s Observatory, where we could catch a live concert, and maybe grab a drink at Darkroom.

A perfect mix of great food, unique vibes, and coastal beauty!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! My shoutout goes to my son, who is my biggest inspiration and the heart of my small business focused on personalized baby products. He motivates me every day to create with love and purpose. I also want to recognize my family and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement, as well as the amazing community of small business owners who inspire and uplift me along the way.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/theminivalley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theminivalley

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