Inside the Life of Alexandra Fine: The Sex-Toy Entrepreneur Balancing Family and Business

Meet Alexandra Fine

Alexandra Fine is the co-founder of Dame Products, a company that revolutionizes the sex-toy industry by offering sleek and high-quality products that could easily be mistaken for high-end gadgets. After a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2014, she has navigated the complexities of securing investors and developing new products, all while combating the stigma associated with her industry.

The Challenges of a Sex-Tech Entrepreneur

Fine's journey has not been without challenges. The sexual nature of her products often leads to censorship and advertising restrictions. In 2018, she even filed a lawsuit against the MTA for banning her ads, a case that was settled in 2021. Fine argues that vibrators serve a medical purpose and have a positive impact on people's lives, contrasting the way they are often categorized alongside firearms in advertising policies.

Balancing Family Life and Career

As a mother of two toddlers, Fine has learned to balance her responsibilities as a CEO and a parent. With the help of her husband, nannies, and a supportive family, she manages to meet her work commitments while being present for her children. Surprisingly, she describes her personal life as quite ordinary despite her profession, stating, "I’m pretty boring in my day-to-day."

Her Morning Routine

Fine shares that her mornings revolve around her children, but she strives to incorporate mindfulness into her day. Meditation and setting intentions have become part of her routine, though it has evolved since having kids.

A Day at Work

Her typical workday begins around 9 a.m. with a focus on prioritizing tasks and preparing for meetings. Fine emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals for her team, ensuring everyone understands their roles and expectations.

The Differences Between Being a Manager and a Mom

Fine reflects on the emotional differences between managing employees and raising children. While she sets objectives for her team, her parenting approach is more about unconditional support and love, recognizing that not all goals will be met.

The Importance of Childcare

Fine openly discusses the financial investment in childcare, spending around $100,000 annually. She emphasizes that to manage effectively, one must be willing to seek help and support.

Dividing Household Responsibilities

She candidly shares her experiences with her husband, who takes on more active roles in parenting than many traditional expectations suggest. Their division of labor supports her ability to balance work and family life.

Maternity Leave Experiences

Fine's experiences with maternity leave have taught her the importance of planning and self-care. Her second maternity leave was more structured, allowing her to reintegrate into work smoothly.

Recognizing Professional Success

Fine describes a pivotal moment early in her business when a $70,000 day in their crowdfunding campaign made her realize the potential of Dame Products. Despite facing doubts and challenges, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing her successes, even amidst external pressures.

Advice for the Future

Reflecting on her career, Fine wishes she had understood the weight of her role earlier. She stresses that understanding one’s power as a leader is crucial in navigating the responsibilities that come with the position.

Recognizing the Business's Success

Looking back, Fine acknowledges the successes of her business that she previously overlooked, urging others to appreciate their achievements as they happen, rather than focusing solely on external validation.