My husband and sons are particular about their hair. For seven years, they stayed loyal to the same barber. His work was flawless. His timekeeping was not, and his character was questionable. Week after week, they wasted time rescheduling, waiting, and justifying it because at least the haircut was good.
Last month, they had enough. They switched to a new mobile barber. He is punctual, inspiring, and courteous. The boys actually look forward to their haircuts now.
Stay with me. I am going somewhere.
Recently, I reached out to a contractor I had worked with before. Incredible craftsmanship. But he had an outstanding commitment to me, one he kept promising to fulfil. When the Harrods opportunity came up, I saw it as a chance for him to make good on it. He came to assess the work, agreed on a start date, and then disappeared. No explanation. No returned calls. Just silence.
I have moved on, with no bitterness. Just clarity.
Because I recognise the season I am in, and elevation requires pruning.
At The Baby Cot Shop, we have always held ourselves to a high standard. But as we step into a new space, physically and symbolically, our partnership with Lux Afrique Boutique and our upcoming Harrods concession make us even more intentional about who we work with. The people behind the scenes matter as much as the pieces we create.
I am far from perfect. But I have learned that surrounding yourself with excellence fills in the gaps.
There will always be a temptation to settle. Sometimes the wrong people are the most available. Sometimes they will do it faster. But do not. Fear makes you settle, especially when someone is almost right. Almost right is not right.
Do not be afraid to wait for better.