Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Houston?
I was born and raised in the middle of America, Wichita, Kansas but have been in Houston since 2004.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
My son is 11 and my daughter is 10.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Growing up I was obsessed with Gone with the Wind. I read the book multiple times and forced my family to endure watching the film many times. I even had little porcelain figurines of all of Scarlet O’Hara’s looks from the film.
Favorite local activities to do in Houston?
If it’s free, it’s for me! My kids and I love exploring green spaces and trails. There are so many great little hidden spots if you spend enough time outside.
Do you have a favorite family-friendly restaurant in the area?
I love any place that has great outdoor seating and activities to entertain kids. Cottonwood on Shepherd has a playground next door and Pitch 25 in Eado has tons of games to play- bring a couple rolls of quarters!
What local places do you go to for pampering and/or mom’s night out?
I’m a huge fan of Hiatus Spa in Tanglewood. Their service and technicians are top notch and they have a membership program that is very affordable. For a night out my go-to is Etro downtown. They play 80s music and you literally dance the night away!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Yes! I am the co-founder of Social Graces Social Club, a local social club with foundational pillars of friendship, fun, and philanthropy. We produce two events each month for our members and guests with the mission of facilitating friendship. It can be difficult to meet like-minded, fun people as an adult and we pride ourselves in helping others find authentic connections. We
aren’t a networking group, but it certainly happens within the group, but it’s organic because they have become friends and want to support one another.
I also just recently started working for Post Oak Title as a Business Delopment Officer. What drew me to this company was their philanthropic spirit. They donate to their clients chosen charities at closings. I tend to be drawn to people who use their platform for the betterment of others.
How has the Houston community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Houstonians are so supportive and giving! I have made some really great friends and connections through my business work and charitable efforts. I’ve found if you need help with something, there is always an abundance of volunteers if you ask.
What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering, working, etc)?
Ask for help! It’s doesn’t serve you or your family to be a martyr. I also love the app, SocialMama. It connects moms with other moms based on location, demographic, stage of motherhood, etc. it’s been a great tool for connecting with other moms.
What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?
I wouldn’t change a single part of my life! Everything has led me to where I am today and I’m really happy! If I had to choose one thing I would probably tell myself to save more money and don’t accumulate so much stuff. I’ve been on a major purging streak this last year and have had so many face palm moments with some of the stuff I’ve kept around for so many years.
Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?
Kids are very capable of doing things for themselves if they have to. Some of the best advice I ever heeded was to have my kids participate in chores and doing things for themselves. They are in 5th and 6th grade and can do any chore I ask them (and they do it well!), get their own food, get ready for the day on their own, and make the coffee pot.
