Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in the area?
I’m originally from Fort Washington, PA – a suburb of Philadelphia. After living in NYC/Brooklyn for 10 years, my husband, daughter and I moved to Florham Park a little less than two years ago.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have one daughter, Evie (aka my Chief Creative Officer) who is turning 4 in late August
Are you involved in a business venture or corporate world? Please Share!
Business venture! I’m the Founder of the stuffed animal company, Luckables. Although Luckables are incredibly adorable and snuggly, they’re not your typical plush. They’re plush with a purpose of giving comfort, encouragement and good luck wishes. Each Luckable represents a popular symbol of luck from different cultures such as the four-leaf clover, horseshoe, ladybug, etc. We currently have 6 different stuffed animals (soon to be 7) and recently introduced our first children’s book, Lucky’s Clover, to bundle with one of our plushies, Lucky the Dog.
When did you decide you wanted to create your own stuffed animals?
In May of 2020, a few months into the pandemic, I was furloughed from my job in digital advertising sales. I loved my job, and had been with my company for nearly 10 years so it was initially a hard reality to face. But after coming to terms with my new reality, I looked at this as an opportunity to be home with my then 7 month old daughter, and to finally try something for myself, on my own schedule.
Where does the name “Luckables” come from?
Credit for both the name and the concept of Luckables goes to my dad. About 20 years ago, he shared with me an idea he had come up with. It was centered around the notion that “everyone needs a little bit of luck”. Saying “good luck” is a phrase people say so often – regardless of age, milestone or situation. This concept really resonated with me back then, and carried with me all these years later. When I was essentially forced to change things up in my career, I was more than excited to bring this concept to life.
Has the plush toy world always been a part of your life?
YES! My dad has worked in the plush industry since I was a very little girl. Before starting his own business creating custom stuffed animals for retailers, he worked as a sales rep for a major plush company. I was lucky enough to visit his showroom countless times as a child, and I briefly worked with him after graduating college. Thanks to him, my room was always filled with the cutest and cuddliest stuffed animals.
If you could give one tip to fellow Mom Entrepreneurs what would it be?
Just go for it! Try not to overthink every angle. Don’t be afraid if you don’t have all of the answers, or you’re not exactly sure what the 5 year plan is. Trust your gut and let yourself be excited about new possibilities. Welcome new challenges, and see them as a learning experience. Also, try not to worry too much about what other people think. Ultimately, you’re the decision maker, so try not to let all of the outside noise dictate your decisions.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Although I may not be the best dancer, I absolutely LOVE a good Zumba class. Its one of my happy places! I’m still in search of a good place to go around here, so open to suggestions!
Ok 10 Fun LOCAL favorites – ready, go!
1 – Favorite thing to do with your kids? Madison Farmers Market. Since moving here, it became a tradition for me and my daughter to spend our Thursday afternoons at the Madison Farmers market, enjoying a treat, most likely from my daughters favorite Sugarlips Donuts.
2 – Favorite coffee spot? Sunday Motor Co in Madison
3 – Favorite lunch place? Sorriso Kitchen in Chatham
4 – Favorite farm to go fruit picking? Wightman’s Farm
5 – Favorite date night restaurant? Date nights are mostly spent at home, so I’d say my favorite at-home date is a glass of wine, dessert and doing paint by number! And when we do get a chance to venture out, I’d love to try 1776 by David Burke
6 – Favorite boutique? Stitch in Madison
7 – Favorite spot to grab a drink? Anywhere where I can sit outside on a beautiful night
8 – Who has the best bagels in town? Florham Park Bagel & Deli – no frills grab and go place, but the softest bagels by far!
9 – Best slice of pizza in town? Nonna’s Pizza in Florham Park
10 – Favorite spot for ice cream? McCools in Madison
This interview was done in partnership with Luckables. Be sure to follow them on social media below and pick one up for your child today – they also make the perfect birthday present, or new baby gift!
