TARYN HOFFMAN
Business Owner - Nava Atelier
Teen-Inspired Innovation:
Has your teen son ever given you a business idea or insight that was so brilliant it made you think, "Why didn't I think of that?" What was it, and how did it influence your business?
Shai is always full of amazing ideas. He will often come to me and say “Hey mum, why don’t you sell this jewelry product all the girls at school are wearing and they would definitely come get it from your store!” or “Hey mum, have you seen how big jorts are in this summer…you should get them!” And guess what? He talks and I listen…and 10/10 times it's a hit.
Time-Travel Tips: If you could step into a time machine and visit your teenage self, what cheeky piece of advice would you give yourself about navigating the future, especially knowing what you do now about business and life?
My teenage self is pretty much like my adult self. I have never really cared what other people think, and I have always danced to the beat of my own drum and been authentic to who I am. I try teaching this to my kids - ‘Be the lion and lead… not the sheep that follows’.
Admirable Traits: Teenagers often teach us more about life than we realise. What's one thing you admire most about your teen son, or what have you learned from him that's been surprisingly profound?
Shai immigrated to Australia when he was 9 years old and is currently growing into his teenage years in a country filled with independence and newness, new friends, new experiences and new challenges both on the home front, on the sporting field and in school the play ground. I feel like many times he is the one teaching me to navigate this newness. He is calm, respectful and open to everything and everyone with his never say no attitude and inclusive demeanor. When he gets knocked down, he simply dusts himself off and gets up again learning valuable lessons along the way...and as a result he keeps moving forward both stronger and wiser.
Navigating the Teen Terrain: Teens are known for their mood swings and monosyllabic responses. What's your secret to getting your teen son to open up and engage in meaningful conversations, especially about life and your business?
Navigating some teen discussions can be pretty awkward at times. I have had to put on my big girl panties and have some crazy, open chats with him - from what happens to our bodies when we hit puberty?, to first kisses, how to talk to and treat girls, alcohol, drugs etc. We are very open in our home and I would rather feed my teen all the info he needs to assure he doesn’t get into too much trouble and when he does step a little out of line - to know that we are always there to listen, guide and support. Never ever judging!!
Shared Passions: What's an activity or hobby you love doing together with your teen son that brings out the 'cool' in both of you, Neon Goat style?
Shai is the most talented, beautiful soccer player and watching him with the ball is like watching a ballerina dancing Swan Lake… it’s a real treat! Shai needs to stay fit at all times and so we run! We run together all the time! He is my perfect running partner and the perfect combination of both consistent and strong. On all fronts, we run far, we run wide but most importantly we run together pushing each other along the way.
The Ultimate Collaboration: Imagine you're launching a special Neon Goat product inspired by your journey as a parent to a teen son. What would it be, and what story would it tell?
If Shai were to take over Neon Goat for a day he would 100 percent invent an odour free hair texture product… Hahah - maybe even to give your under-arm hair pits the perfect amount of movement and texture!!
Taryn is the owner of Nava atelier in Bondi, Sydney. Taryn is totally passionate about making women feel beautiful, seen and heard and believes the key to her business is people - her customers. “By dressing their outsides, I feel like it is my job to make their inner goddess shine through, building confidence and a new found purpose in their lives…we all just want to be seen and heard.” Taryn is also Mum to her beautiful 13 year old son Shai and two other children.
Nava Shop by Starshowroom | Clothing Boutique
Instagram: @nava_atelier_sydney
