First started on Dragon's Den, Mum2Mum establishes in Cumbria

Mum of three and founder of Mum2mum Market Cath Harrop appeared in front of the Dragons to ask for investment to improve her company’s website in order to cope with the rapid growth the company had seen.

What is a Mum2Mum market event? Quite simply, it is a baby and children’s nearly new sales, where mums sell to mums.

Now, Aislinn Hodson has brought the market to Cumbria, making it the first of its kind.

Whilst each franchise of the market is different, Aislinn wanted to ensure hers were community driven with mothers, babies and children of the area being the main focus.

Aislinn said: “I was a buyer to start with and the cost of having kids is relentless. The event I attended was perfect, all of the branded clothes in good condition."

"When I moved, the franchise I own was for sale and I wondered if I would enjoy doing it. I went for it and now it has become more of passion.”

Happy customers leaving the last event (Image: Newsquest)

There are a line-up of markets to be hosted in Cumrbia. Each one features stalls and tables with the emphasis on the preloved clothing, but Aislinn also provides goodie bags at each event for the first customers with discounts, and company sponsored samples. There are charity and business stalls, but also many support agencies for maternity and post-patrum mothers.

With the cost-of-living crisis straining pockets of many, Aislinn discussed why markets like this can be so important, she said: "I think with family budgets being stretched so much and no wiggle room when it comes to buying kids items, its become so scary to have birthdays and Christmas coming up. There is an expectation to provide still in such a hard time."

Stall at the latest event (Image: Newsquest)

"With Mum2mum, you are not just saving loads of money but it is also a really sustainable option. You can also make money by selling items as well, it is two folds by helping both."

The next market will be at St Joseph's school in Workington on April 29.