BUSINESS MENTOR: From Service Crews to Baby Fashion Icons

By Armando “BUTZ” Bartolome

Every successful entrepreneur has a story worth telling—a journey often marked by trials, triumphs, and the unrelenting pursuit of dreams. Junmil and Vivien Avellana’s tale is no exception. Their odyssey from humble beginnings as service crews to running a flourishing baby clothing business is nothing short of inspiring. Their story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and shared purpose.

Love, Labor, and Beginnings

Junmil and Vivien met during their college years, both working as service crews in fast-food chains like Dunkin’ Donuts and Jollibee. As working students, their days were a mix of academics and demanding shifts. It was through these experiences that they honed the discipline and determination that would later become the foundation of their entrepreneurial journey.

Their first business was born out of necessity—a small yema candy venture where Vivien cooked, and Junmil sold. This business, though short-lived, planted the seed of entrepreneurship in their hearts. Over time, they explored other ventures, including a brownie shop and restaurant. However, each endeavor was met with challenges that eventually led to setbacks.

Rising from Adversity

The turning point came after the birth of their youngest child, Baby Nel. Inspired by their son, they launched Baby Nel’s Corner, a baby clothing business. Starting with simple pajama designs, they initially resold garments from suppliers in Taytay, Rizal—the garment capital of the Philippines. However, they quickly realized the importance of differentiation.

Vivien’s passion for design came to the forefront as she began creating unique and intricate baby clothes that resonated with modern parents. The couple took a bold step, setting up their own tailoring shop to ensure quality control and reduce costs. It was a steep learning curve, but their willingness to adapt and learn from mistakes paid off.

A Vision Beyond Borders

Junmil and Vivien’s business philosophy centers on providing high-quality, fashionable, yet affordable clothing. Their designs, often inspired by Disney and other global trends, quickly gained a loyal following. Monthly milestone-themed outfits for babies became a signature offering, creating excitement among parents eager for Instagram-worthy moments.

The business thrived as demand outpaced production. Customers flocked to their stall in Taytay’s bustling changi (market), with some designs selling out before production even ended. This overwhelming response validated their hard work and sparked dreams of scaling up to serve international markets.

The Power of Partnership

The Avellanas’ success is deeply rooted in their partnership. They complement each other—Vivien’s creativity and design sensibilities perfectly align with Junmil’s strategic and operational expertise. Together, they have created a team-oriented work culture where feedback is valued, and everyone contributes to the brand’s growth.

They are also keen on innovation, exploring ideas like personalized baby clothing, embroidery options, and subscription services. By listening to customer feedback and embracing technology, they stay ahead of trends and continuously improve their offerings.

A Beacon of Hope for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Junmil and Vivien’s journey exemplifies the essence of entrepreneurship—transforming challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality. From their early struggles to the flourishing success of Baby Nel’s Corner, their story is a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs who dare to dream big.

Their message is clear: success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from both failures and successes. For those embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys, the Avellanas’ story is a beacon of hope, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Follow the Business Mentor Column

To read more inspiring stories and gain insights into the world of business and franchising, follow The Business Mentor Column every Monday. Like and engage with The Philippine Business and News on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest trends and entrepreneurial tips. Together, let’s continue to celebrate and support the journey of Filipino entrepreneurs!