Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Houston?
I am from Spring, so not far! I moved to Austin to attend The University of Texas, and back to Houston after, so I’m born and raised here.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Two girls and a boy: Sloane and Avery, ages 10 and 17, and Spencer, age eight.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I love to tap dance!
Favorite local activities to do in Houston?
As a mom, I love being close to all the museums and the zoo for fun outings with the kids and to expose them to the many things our city has to offer. Personally, my husband and I love trying new restaurants and getting out to see live music at one of the great music venues we have around.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I started out in public accounting and worked at Ernst and Young out of college. After deciding to take some time to focus on family, I decided to join The Junior League of Houston (www.jlh.org) and am currently the Financial Vice President. It is an incredible organization committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The women in this organization are amazing. They tackle every aspect of life, careers, motherhood, and more, all while giving their time and energy to give back to the community. It really is a place to not only give back but learn and make connections with inspiring women in Houston.
How has the Houston community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
My experience at EY and the diverse clients we served in Houston gave me exposure to multiple industries. It helped prepare me for my current role now and journey as a Junior League member. The League allows me to take on various volunteer roles year after year that bring light to so many opportunities and needs in our community. Meeting and working with women with such diverse experiences and knowledge is an incredible opportunity.
What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering, working, etc)?
Make time for yourself. Finding meaning and purpose outside of being a mom also helps me to be a better mom and live in the moments we spend together.
What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?
It goes fast! Be purposeful about being present and spending time together for fun. The day-to-day gets very busy and makes the time fly by way too fast.
Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?
Accepting and embracing a level of chaos in the playroom… I’ve learned to let them be creative and play without stressing about the mess at times. We focus on cleaning up at the end of the day, or when necessary, and I’ve accepted the house won’t be perfect at all times.