When it comes to work/life balance, Mary Bauer has it down. For more than a decade, she's been running Bratt Decor, a specialty line of nursery furniture, together with her husband, Stephen.
A classically trained artist, Stephen designs all of the company's products. "His careful attention to nuance and detail make each of our pieces a work of art," Mary says. The couple caters to parents looking for unique artisan cribs.
During the summer, the pair's two teenage boys also help out with the business, doing everything from accounting to advertising. Mary believes involving her sons has been a blessing for everyone: "They have a real appreciation for the work that we do."
So, how do the Bauers peacefully intertwine business and family? The key, Mary says, "was figuring out what our greatest strengths were and separating responsibilities." Still, she admits their best work comes when their individual viewpoints are combined. "I don't think we could do it without each other!"
