The evening Shubhangini Prakash entered labor with her second child also marked the moment she received news that would change her life: her acceptance into the exceptionally competitive Target Accelerator program. And it began right away. From her hospital bed, cradling her newborn, Prakash was already immersed in work for her skincare line, Feather & Bone — a nontoxic, waterless collection that she personally designs and formulates.

At 39, Prakash’s path into skincare started at 12 when she experienced a severe reaction to a face wash she had previously used without incident. The aftermath left her skin burning, red, and itchy, and conventional treatments only exacerbated the issue. It was her mother, a staunch supporter of clean skincare, who introduced her to Indian sandalwood — a natural remedy that provided instant relief. That experience ignited a lifelong curiosity about the skin and the potential of natural ingredients, deeply influenced by her Indian heritage and commitment to sustainability.

“Our products draw from Indian traditions but are grounded in science,” Prakash shares. Although the idea had been simmering for years, it was her transition into motherhood that truly catapulted her business.

We connected with Prakash through email to discuss the challenges of juggling business and motherhood, the inspiration that fueled Feather & Bone, and the insights she’s gained throughout her journey.

Meet Shubhangini Prakash

“I’m known as Shubs,” she says. “I have two little boys and we reside in Jersey City.” Born in India, grown in Dubai, and educated in England, Prakash offers a unique global outlook in her work. With a Polish husband, their home resonates with a vibrant mix of cultures—often alive with Bollywood and Polish tunes.

The Birth of Feather & Bone

Feather & Bone originated from both necessity and curiosity. After her initial skincare scare, Prakash developed a fascination for natural remedies and started crafting homemade masks and treatments. Years later, while pursuing her business studies, she had a breakthrough: reconfiguring her formula into tablet form.

“During a product development class, I experienced this a-ha moment,” she reminisces. “I pressed a batch of tablets in the chemistry lab and brought them, along with a packaging mockup, to a Whole Foods trade show.” The risk was worth it — she secured an order for 30 stores, and Feather & Bone was officially launched.

Balancing Business and Motherhood

So, what’s the key to expanding a business while caring for two young children?

“Being patient and kind to myself,” Prakash reveals. “There are days when your child is unwell and you’re worn out. And that’s perfectly fine. Or during a work event when the mom guilt hits — that’s okay too.”

She’s discovered ways to merge her roles, including her kids in the business by taking them to the post office or allowing them to assist with packaging orders. “I’ve established environments where both can thrive,” she explains.

How Motherhood Has Shaped Her Career

Motherhood has enhanced her time management abilities and instilled in her the importance of grace. “I’ve grown much more efficient,” she comments. “I’ve also recognized that if I want my children to be kind and confident, I must exemplify that behavior myself.”

She dedicates 20 minutes daily for meditation and self-reflection, regardless of the chaos surrounding her. “If things don’t unfold as I envisioned, that’s alright too.”

Creating Content with Purpose

On the Feather & Bone Instagram page, Prakash strives for authenticity. “I want individuals to celebrate their unique quirks,” she expresses. “Social media can create a false sense of inadequacy. I want everyone to understand they are enough.”

Her content embodies her principles — authenticity, positivity, and self-acceptance.

Mom Must-Haves

When it comes to motherhood, Prakash relies on:

– Support from family and friends: “Whether it’s venting, sharing laughter, or seeking help, my community means everything.”
– Disney+: “A lifesaver when you need a moment of tranquility or need to accomplish tasks.”
– Jersey City Recreation Desk: “Affordable or complimentary classes in music, sports, and art have been fantastic for my kids.”

Business Essentials

In her professional endeavors, she counts on:

– Her support network: “From advisors to my husband, they keep me grounded.”
– A to-do notebook: “I thrive on making lists — they help me stay organized.”
– Cultivating resilience: “Reading about it and reflecting keeps my creativity flowing and enhances my problem-solving abilities.”

What She Wishes People Knew About Working Moms

“That we are tackling two full-time roles,” she asserts. “Yes, I adore my children, but nurturing them is a job in its own right.”

Advice for Aspiring Mompreneurs

“The balancing act is real and far from perfect,” Prakash admits. Following the birth of her second child, it took over a year to establish a rhythm. Her advice?

– Set clear objectives and attainable timelines.
– Recognize