I often get asked “How is it to work with your husband?”
I’m not surprised. People are intrigued because my relationship with my husband is far from the norm.
My honest reply is that it presents many challenges but at the same time, it brings rewards far greater than a conventional marriage.
Whilst in the beginning, each of us wanted to be the ‘smartest person in the room’, we had to acknowledge that this approach would not serve the business or support the vision for the bathroom showroom.
We had to acknowledge our strengths yet more importantly, admit to weaknesses to be able to lead forward according to our talent in a joint vision for the future.
It was an eye opening process for Steven and I, as we were setting up the Company Quarrybank Boutique Bathrooms and refurbishing the showroom at 19 Grove Street, Wilmslow. We learned how to compromise, which is not easy, when you have two strong willed people.
We learned to listen, also not easy when the two of us have a lot to say.
We also learned how to support each other during demanding and unpredictable periods of time, how to share the load equally so that one doesn’t feel burnt out.
We also had to set healthy boundaries as we could talk ‘business’ most of the evenings yet we recognised that apart from being business partners, we are also romantic ones. Now, we ensure to carve out family time and consciously leave “bathrooms” behind yet we both admit that our best ideas come when we go on family walks.
We’ve grown to trust one another, more than anything and our bond has been tested in ways which conventional marriage would not test us.
Yet we are still here, together, continuously learning appreciation and respect for the hard work, dedication and commitment each of us puts into this unique relationship and business.
With love and appreciation to all couples working together.
Kora