Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Lawn Mowing
An Inspiring Interview with Donna Ferrari of Crewcut, Hutt Valley
The lawn mowing industry in New Zealand is witnessing a wave of change as women embrace entrepreneurial opportunities in traditionally male-dominated fields. This shift is particularly evident in businesses like Crewcut, where women are taking the lead in franchise ownership. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the inspiring journey of Donna Ferrari, a Regional Master Franchise in Hutt Valley. Donna shares how she turned a Crewcut franchise into a flexible and profitable business, all while making a difference in her community — including Crewcut’s impressive participation in the Movember challenge this year.
The Inspiration Behind Choosing a Crewcut Franchise
What initially inspired you to take on a Crewcut franchise, and what was it about this role that appealed to you as a woman?
Donna Ferrari reveals, "As a solo parent, balancing a traditional job with supporting my daughter's activities was tough. I often took unpaid leave to attend her sporting events, and school holidays were a struggle since she had to attend holiday programs. Crewcut offered the flexibility I needed to manage my work around my daughter’s schedule. I was drawn to the opportunity of being my own boss, directly benefiting from my efforts. The support and structure of Crewcut's franchise system made it easier for me to succeed."
Transitioning from Hospitality to Lawn Mowing: Donna's Background
Could you share a bit about your background and how you transitioned into this field?
"My background is in hospitality management," Donna says. "After completing my diploma, I worked in various roles in the industry. When my daughter was born, I started a side hustle in baking and cake decorating. One night, while browsing Facebook, I stumbled upon a Crewcut franchise for sale. Frustrated with my job at the time, I decided to take a leap of faith. I loved the idea of running a business that would let me prioritize my daughter’s needs."
The Inspiration Behind Choosing a Crewcut Franchise
What initially inspired you to take on a Crewcut franchise, and what was it about this role that appealed to you as a woman?
"As a solo parent, balancing a traditional job with supporting my daughter's activities was tough. I often took unpaid leave to attend her sporting events, and school holidays were a struggle since she had to attend holiday programs. Crewcut offered the flexibility I needed to manage my work around my daughter’s schedule. I was drawn to the opportunity of being my own boss, directly benefiting from my efforts. The support and structure of Crewcut's franchise system made it easier for me to succeed. The most empowering part is knowing that my hard work directly benefits my daughter," Donna shares. "Every lawn I mow and every client I serve is contributing to her future. Being a regional franchise master also means I get to mentor new franchisees, especially women, helping them navigate the challenges of the industry”.
Transitioning from Hospitality to Lawn Mowing: Donna's Background
What has been the most empowering part of running your own franchise, especially as a female business owner?
"For me, the most empowering part is knowing that my hard work directly benefits my daughter," Donna shares. "Every lawn I mow and every client I serve is contributing to her future. Being a regional franchise master also means I get to mentor new franchisees, especially women, helping them navigate the challenges of the industry."
Crewcut's #Movember Challenge: Leading the Scoreboard! 🏆
Crewcut is actively supporting Movember this year. How does participating in initiatives like this impact your business?
Donna proudly highlights, "This year, Crewcut is making waves in the Movember challenge, and it’s great to see I am leading the scoreboard representing Hutt Valley! Supporting Movember is more than just raising funds for men’s health — it’s about fostering a spirit of community and teamwork. Being part of such a meaningful cause aligns with Crewcut’s values and gives our team something to rally around. Plus, it shows our clients that we’re committed to more than just business; we’re here to make a positive impact. "
Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Work-Life Balance
How do you manage your work-life balance, and what advice would you give to other women considering a franchise?
"I structure my work hours around my daughter’s school schedule, which gives me the flexibility I need. I also intentionally keep some gaps in my schedule to accommodate New Zealand’s unpredictable weather. My advice to other women? Believe in yourself and take that first step. Confidence can open doors to incredible opportunities," Donna advises.
The Hutt Valley Advantage: Building a Local Business
How has your connection to the Hutt Valley area impacted your business journey?
"Having lived in Hutt Valley most of my life has been a game-changer. I know the streets, the neighbourhoods, and most importantly, the people. This familiarity has helped me build trust and a loyal client base quickly. The support from the local community has been amazing, especially during our Movember campaign."
The Rise of Women in Lawn Mowing Services
Women like Donna are leading the way in transforming the lawn mowing industry in New Zealand. Franchises like Crewcut provide the flexibility and support women need to balance their business aspirations with family commitments. Crewcut’s active involvement in charitable causes, like Movember, also highlights the brand’s commitment to giving back to the community.
The Role of Support and Friendship from Men & Women in the Crewcut System
How important has support from other women been throughout your journey with Crewcut?
“The support and friendship from women within Crewcut have been incredible. From the COO to regional master franchises, women have been incredibly supportive and inclusive, recognizing the valuable contributions each person brings to the success of the Crewcut system. Whether it’s sharing advice, offering encouragement, or simply being there to lend a listening ear, this diverse network has been invaluable to my journey. Their collective experience and willingness to help made the setup process much smoother, and it’s comforting to know I’m part of a team that genuinely wants everyone to succeed. Each person’s contributions create an environment where we can all thrive together.
What makes Crewcut truly special, however, is how inclusive the environment is. The men within the team have been equally supportive, recognizing the value women bring and actively fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued. Their openness and willingness to collaborate create a space where all voices are heard, allowing us to learn from one another and thrive together. It's empowering to be part of a team that genuinely wants every member to succeed, regardless of gender.”
Donna's Advice to Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs
"Don’t let fear hold you back," Donna emphasizes. "Joining a franchise like Crewcut gives you the support you need to succeed, even if you're new to the industry. Leverage the network, seek advice, and always remember — the only way to achieve your dreams is to start."
Donna Ferrari’s journey as a Regional Master Franchise for Crewcut in Hutt Valley is an inspiring story of perseverance and passion. By taking control of her career, she has managed to create a successful business, empower other women, and actively support community initiatives like Movember. Donna’s story is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and the positive impact of community involvement.
Ready to Take Charge of Your Future?
If Donna’s story has inspired you, it's time to make your move. With Crewcut, you can enjoy the freedom of being your own boss, create your ideal work-life balance, and make a positive impact in your community—all with the support of a trusted franchise system.
Start your journey today—enquire about owning your own Crewcut franchise!