A BELFAST-born mother of two who set up her set up her own specialist breastfeeding clothing business has scooped a major accolade for entrepreneurship at the Digital Women Awards in London.
Lauren Hampshire (36) established The Milky Tee Company two years ago after struggling to find stylish clothes she could easily breastfeed in.
Her designs, which have hidden zips at each side, have sold all over the world and have been endorsed by Sir Richard Branson, who she met at the Virgin Voom awards after winning the Paypal International Award.
The former Methodist College student sells through her website www.themilkyteecompany.com and uses digital marketing, especially social media, to promote her brand.
She admits she was "really shocked" at her success in DigitalWomen Awards, held in association with NatWest Business and the Federation of Small Businesses.
“The other women nominated were all amazing, so I was surprised to win," said Laura, originally from the Four Winds but who is now based in Kent.
“Running a business while juggling being a mum can sometimes seem overwhelming, so it's lovely to get recognition for the hard work.
“Since launching my online business I've learnt a huge amount about the digital world and have loved learning about social media marketing and also using digital means such as live videos, Instagram and YouTube to connect with customers.
“Although I sell breastfeeding tops, the business is about more than just sales, but about helping mums feel more confident breastfeeding.
“I really struggled with breastfeeding at the beginning, especially in public, so it means so much to receive messages from mums who say our Milky Tees have helped them feel more confident feeding in public.”
Lauren, who previously worked as a broadcast journalist at ITN, is currently developing more breastfeeding products to add to her range of nursing T-shirts, sweatshirts and long-sleeved tops.
And she is also planning to grow the brand further internationally and has just secured the trademark for Milky Tee in the US.