You can connect with Nila and her business via her website, and via Instagram at @didosplace

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Tell us about you

Hi There! My name is Nila and I'm a Mum who has created the perfect staycation holiday home for families. I love to travel and even more, I love to host. Being a Mum, I'm very familiar with the stress involved in planning a trip away with the family, so I decided to create my own dream holiday home, Dido's Place, catering to families, just 90 minutes from Sydney. Our modern home sleeps up to 11, making it perfect for a large family, 2 families or an extended family. Time with our loved ones is so precious and I wanted to create a space where people could come together and create those lasting memories. There was no better place than the Hawkesbury with its serene bushlands, fruit picking orchards, bushwalks, horse riding and so much more, to build our dream home away from home. Featuring a campfire during the cooler months, a 10 seater outdoor hot tub, a private dam for fishing, a theatre room, a children's playroom full of toys and activities as well as vegetable patches to forage in, we've got something for all ages so that not only are the kids going to have an incredible time, but so too are the parents because I'm sure you will agree, we deserve a holiday too! I also offer itinerary planning and the home is well equipped for families with a cot, baby bath, baby monitor, bedrails, high chairs, sensory toys, weighted blankets and much more. I've thought of everything so all you need to do, is sit back, relax and start making those precious family memories.

Describe your biz in a sentence

The Ultimate Hawkesbury Holiday Home for Families

Tell us how your business came to be

After losing a number of closer relatives in a space of a few years and trying to find a job where I could be flexible as a Mum of 2, I realised the importance of having a space where family could reconnect with one another. This was before Covid and now more than ever, I think people are starting the realise the importance of time spent with family. I love that I have created a space where families can come together, relax, recharge and reconnect. It is more than just a business to me and I am very grateful to play a role in hosting these wonderful families.

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What has been one of your best business calls/decisions to date?

Installing a large outdoor hot tub. Adding the extra amenity has proven to be quite a desirable feature for our property. Now, we are regularly making new additions to the property to stay ahead of local competitors and keeping up to date with what families seek on holidays.

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If you do change something about your business - what would it be?

I am navigating away from groups and becoming more family focused.

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What does your typical day look like?

Everyday is different. One day I might be networking in the Hawkesbury with local businesses, the next day I'm at home working on marketing and social media, other days I'm writing blogs for my website, preparing the house for guests, curating itineraries and welcome baskets from local producers, chatting to tourism organisations and MP's, getting out and about with my own family testing local activities and venues. There is always something new to explore and I love it!

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How do you maintain your motivation?

Surround yourself with likeminded people

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Favourite business tools and why?

Canva and ChatGPT. It makes me so much more productive by cutting out time spent on procrastinating

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What is one facet of your field that you would like to see changed?

Night caps on short term holiday rentals in Greater Sydney.

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What projects are coming up next?

I am working on Nature Tourism at Dido's Place. Looking at connecting families to the great outdoors.

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Has there been a significant business mentor in your career?

Yes, many specialising in their own fields.

What's your approach on the juggle?

Prioritise.‍

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What would you like to see more of when it comes to helping women in small businesses succeed?

‍‍Women supporting other women.

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How would you describe your family life??

Ha, spicy! It's hectic, energetic but wouldn't change it for the world!

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What is one of the most important piece of advice you would give to someone beginning their business? A couple of years into their business?

Do your research, get a great accountant, lawyer and insurance. Business planning and your why, needs to be revisited every year. Not just at the start.

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What do you think is your most transferable skill between motherhood and business?

Strength, persistence and confidence

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How would we find you spending your weekends?

Researching and exploring the Hawkesbury

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What’s your approach to dealing with the pressures of running your business?

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Break the components down. Ask for assistance. Delegate or outsource.
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What's the best part of being part of the Mums & Co community?

Meeting likeminded, inspirational and successful women.

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How has Mums & Co helped you?

Expanded my horizons.

Are there any areas you're seeking help for in your business?

Marketing to Mums.

What are three things you could help other members with?

Social media marketing, networking/introductions, share my experience

Who are the Mumbitious business owners you would like to shout out to here?

Nandeeta Maharaj, Fabiana Coll and Katrina McCarter.

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