Mother's Day Edition: 10 Mom Boss Babes You Need To Know
Vanessa Fermani- Owner of Nigh Road Farmhouse
Mama of 4!Best part about being a Mom?The best part about being a mom is experiencing life through my children’s eyes. The pure excitement and enthusiasm they have for life and learning is so fun to be a part of. How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother?I get asked this question a lot and I don’t know that I have a helpful or profound answer to give. I just try to do my best each day. Some days I’m able to give the right attention and time to all the things in my life and other days I fail miserably. I am very lucky to have an incredibly supportive husband who really is my partner in life and works with me to try and achieve some kind of balance in our crazy lives. Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself:Bravo TVFav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you?Personally, I think it is important to lean on your support system in times of need. It’s impossible to do it all on your own so having a close group of family/friends who you can turn to is so essential. What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles?One thing my mom taught me that I hope to teach to my children is the power of positivity. It’s amazing what happens when you program your mind to be positive and optimistic. Hardest part about being a Mom?The hardest part about being a mom is trying to limit the amount of guilt I feel about every decision I make. It’s hard to allow yourself NOT to feel guilty about meeting your girlfriends out for dinner or booking that hair appointment Saturday afternoon or advancing your career or chasing that dream but these things are so important to your own personal growth and well-being. “Mom guilt” can be overwhelming at times but being a healthy and happy individual means that I can be a happy and healthy mom.What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out!There are so many moms that inspire me on a daily basis that it’s really too hard to pick out just a few to mention here.
Molly Sowinski- Molly + Kate and Main + Downing
Mama to: Ryan 10, Lucas 8, Ella 7
Best part about being a Mom?
Is it too cliche to say the unconditional love? But for real, I always have a sidekick. And that’s kind of fun.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother?
Um, it’s survival mode really. It takes a village and without the full support of my husband I would be no where fast.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself?
Scrolling the gram - fo sho. Preferably during a pedicure.
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you?
Learn to laugh. Time flies by so try to live in the moment. Accept that you will for sure fail at times - but that unconditional love will always be there. I mean we all forget classroom snacks, right? Hopefully I’m not alone.
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles?
A strong work ethic. I can’t remember a time growing up that either of my parents weren’t working two jobs. They didn’t need to really, they just wanted to give us a better life than they had and I’m right here doing the same thing. You can have anything you want in this world, as long as you work for it.
Hardest part about being a Mom?
Remembering to pack the classroom snacks. But for real, disappointing my kids. The mom guilt is so real and half the time it’s self inflicted. I’m always thinking worst case scenario when half the time my kids don’t even realize my mistakes.
What Moms inspire you?
Give them a shout out! Oh gosh, every mom inspires me in so many ways. I was a stay at home mom for 10 years and that was no joke. My friend Sarah @dreamingofhomemaking never ceases to amaze me with her 4 kiddos and all her DIY projects. And another mom of 4, Jill from @loaded.lumber.buffalo seems to just be crushing it with the mom boss babe vibe! But really, any mom who packs the classrooms snacks is my hero. Xo
Carrie Rinehart- Owner, Rusterior and Founder of Buffalo Boss Babes
Mama to: I have 3 awesome kiddos ( Cameron is 9, Grace is 7 and Noah is 4 )
Best part about being a Mom? The best part about being a mom is the love you feel for your kids and how excited they get to see you and talk to you. You are their person, their friend, their everything.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother? Balance is always a tricky topic for me because I think balance is almost a buzz word. Balance isn't something I am good at because when I am working i'm not with my kiddos and that is hard but I think using time wisely to make more time in the day so that way when work is done its family time and I can be focused on the moment.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself: I love to do Yoga and Kayaking - I also love naps and if i can stay home in a silent clean house and take a nap that is the ultimate guilty pleasure.
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you? I think the most important thing is being in the moment - When your at work be at work but when you are spending family time be present in the moment, leave your phone away, emails can wait and be there for your kiddos.
What did your Mom/parent teach you that you now teach your little's? My mom always said I could be truly anything I wanted to be. She was so supportive and always taught me that everything would work out and I could figure it out. I tell my kids that if your not happy change it and that they are totally in control of their choices which is something my mom always taught me that stuck out.
Hardest part about being a Mom? I think patience is the hardest part, this is something that takes so much practice because these little people are learning every single day and that takes patience from everyone around them. I also think pressure - the constant pressure from society can be so much for today's moms. Society is always telling you to be the perfect mom, perfect employee, making the perfect snacks etc...
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out! My bestie Christy from Wild Blossom Hollow is inspiring to me and a great mom!
Gabe Drake- Owner, Master Lash Artist at iLashNY
Mama to: 2 Kids! Giavanna (4.5) Marco (11 months)
Best part about being a Mom?
I absolutely love watching my children grow ... from helpless little adorable babies, through every stage of development. Experiencing the evolution of their personalities is endlessly thrilling.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother?
I don’t. In fact. I’m not sure “balance” exists as culture perceives it. I’ve noticed that there are times when the scale is tipped in the direction of “work”, and at other times “mom” life wins the battle. BUT, the way that I get through those ebbs and flows is with the help of my unbelievable support system. Our parents, family members, and framily are an amazing pillar of strength that allow me the ability to split time between being away at/for work and being home with my family as a wife and mother.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself:
TV; I am 100% a TV head. If I could veg for hours uninterrupted, I probably would.
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you?
Find your tribe. Align yourself with a group of like-minded people that will love and support and HELP you. We were created to be communal beings, we work well in community, so why try to go it alone?
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles?
My mom is amazing. She instilled in me a passion for creativity and helped me hone the ability to express myself with confidence. I pray that I provide a safe space for my kids to confidently live out their passions.
Hardest part about being a Mom?
Sacrificing me. But I think it’s ok that I don’t get everything I want. I have what I need. It’s always worth the momentary sacrifice ... as long as every once in a while I throw myself a bone.
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out!
Ummmm YOU! Lindsay- your zeal for life is contagious.
My mom! Mom, thank you. I make a lot of jokes about how becoming you is scary - but I am truly honored to have your footsteps to walk in.
All moms who are doing their best. Whether we’ve met or not, I am so proud to align myself in a category of women who are impacting a younger generation to be amazing people.
Lexie Furlong- Co-Owner Blush Boutique
Mama to: Daughter Arya Sky Furlong
Best part about being a Mom? For me its seeing her smile, laugh and dance. She gives kisses now and it makes my heart melt. I love that I get to be apart of her life journey.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother? It’s definitely not easy. I am blessed to have a supportive husband. Together we juggle the day to day. We are very fortunate to have family so close. I’ve learned it doesn’t hurt to ask for help.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself? Reality TV Bachelor, Real Housewives and all Music & Dance shows . Rewatching series over & over again like parenthood, Gossip Girl & Sex & the city. This may sound silly but I find rolling coins to be therapeutic. Bubbles baths & facials when I’m really needing to wind down.
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you? If you get the chance in your day to relax take it. We all need rest to keep working hard. It’s important to take care of yourself. I need to take my own advice. Lol
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles? Manners - my parents did a excellent job teaching me the proper ways to respect others & address my elders. I think it’s so important to teach Arya the same.
My mom has always been my cheerleader the one pushing me to reach for my dreams & to never give up. For as long as I can remember all cards from my mom say Reach for the stars. I want to be a motivator for my daughter in whatever path she choses.
Hardest part about being a Mom? Not enough time and energy to give it 100%. It’s the hardest job being a Mom.
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out! I look to these women for advice, encouragement and strive to be more like them.
Gloria , My mom is my #1. She still takes care of me and I’m 36.
Vicky my Mother in Law - she’s so good at staying connected with her children. That inspires me.
Grandma Furlong is the grandma I’ve always wished for. Her cooking and hospitality is classic
My Besties Feyza Brieanne & Kelly- they have more kids than me I don’t know how they do it. These girls make being a mom look so easy & fun.
Anna Mullett- Buyer, Research and Design
Megan Gulino- Owner, Moonshine Studio
Mama to: Gabe 8 + Leo 6 :)
Best part about being a Mom? Watching my husband play and teach our kiddos I find so much joy in these times.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother? I have a very streamline schedule where both my business and family get 100% of my attention during designated times. Doing this has seemed to help make sure I'm dedicating time to each important area in my life.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself: Shopping and eating lol
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you? Forgive yourself for not being perfect. No one is if they look like they have it all together they are faking it!
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles? Be kind, respect and love everyone.
Hardest part about being a Mom? Feeling worried and guilty about EVERYTHING all the time.
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out! Tiffany Bastian owner of Bastian Accounting she is killin the accounting game.
Lauren (Ren) Gibson- Owner of Rise Fitness Studio
Try not to get overwhelmed, which is very easy to do. Maybe make a list of 3 important things to get done per day and knock them off the list. Also don’t be so hard on yourself everyone is just trying to make it, some people just make it look easier, its important to stop comparing yourself to others - You need to do YOU and thats all that matters. It will all come together in the end anyways.
Ashley Draper- Owner of Balanced Body Foods and Co-Owner of Jada Blitz Fitness
Mama to: 1 Son 2 1/2 years old - Jace
Best part about being a Mom? The best part of being a mom is the unconditional love we have for one another. Also, getting to see him discover the world for the first time and sharing his excitement for things that I usually take for granted.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother? Having an amazing support system and being surrounded by understanding friends and family. "Balance" is a challenge with motherhood and being a boss babe - It is not always pretty - it is certainly not always perfect - but I am learning everyday that that is okay. There is beauty in the chaos.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself? Catnaps and Housewives on Bravo. Does it get any better?!
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you? Accepting it won't always be perfect. There will be moments of pure joy and feeling like you are a rockstar, but there will also be many moments when everything feels like it is falling apart and you are a failure. For me, it has been a journey of self discovery and learning how to utilize my time efficiently for what matters the most.
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles? To have empathy, to treat people kindly, and to work hard - nothing in this world comes easy.
Hardest part about being a Mom? Sleepless nights!
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out! My #1 Mother Inspiration is my own mother - @bethabend - she was just 17 when she had me and sacrificed and dedicated everything to raise respectful, kind, and compassionate children. I also cannot leave out close friends and fellow bossbabes who have given me sound advice along the way - @carri_p_rich @suegam12 @dehlia_jane @lmpilarski
Jessica Dittly- Executive Director, Lockport Main Street Inc.
Mama to: We have 4 littles. Our first we’re surprise twins when we were married for a year! I had just turned 25 when they were born, Trenton is our son, Jaiden our daughter are nine now. Aylinn is newly 6 and probably the most self assured out of all of us. Jerren turned 1 in February and has all the perfect youngest brother traits- class clown, charming, sweet, and Loves to get in trouble.
Best part about being a Mom? There are so many... selfishly motherhood has taught me I’m not as important as I once thought I was in a really good way. My opinion is one one person’s point of view, having older kids reminds me that they are their own people. They teach me constantly that working together to problem solve creates a home that’s sum is much greater than its parts. Outwardly, the best part of motherhood is helping them grow into their own people. I love babyhood, there is exhausted, innocent magic there, but having them grow alongside you is really special.
How do you balance being a boss babe and a Mother? Is this interview frank? Haha, some days I don’t! I work 40 hour work weeks, my husband is building his own business and works from home, so that is amazing and I am very thankful for that. I balance work and motherhood by being gentle on myself. The house is rarely clean enough for guests, sometimes I don’t want to play. I find the things that really bring me joy in life and look to do those on a regular basis, I don’t treat them as a reward. I love to go on walks for ice cream or bubble tea, I cook breakfast every morning for the family; on the opposite side of that the laundry is always behind and sometimes work from home at night. It’s a balancing act, I am embracing when people offer to help now as well. I wanted to prove I could do it all but there is no need. Embrace any loving gesture that builds your family.
Guilty pleasure when you get time to yourself: eating good food by myself. Watching shows with swear words, going to art galleries where you aren’t allowed to talk.
Fav advice for other Mom’s out there who are trying to balance it all like you? 1. Be kind to yourself, we are quick to give grace to others, it’s healthy to do it for yourself. 2. Accept help and ask for help, we all have people who love us by helping, allow them to share that gift. 3. Find yourself a circle of women who “get it” build your tribe, check in, encourage each other, love each other’s children like family.
What did your Mom or parent teach you that you now teach your littles? There is no substitute for hard work. If you want a good life it is your responsibility to build a good life. Oh, and never avoid saying sorry. We were never grounded as kids, our “punishment” was always to make the situation right. It took me a long time to find the value and strength in that but it has mended many burning bridges.
Hardest part about being a Mom? Mom burnout- I’m still working towards balance. To be honest I’m going through one right now- after 3 pregnancies and 4 kids I don’t connect with my physical body, it still feels foreign, squishy, bigger, and deflated in spots. I mentally think of myself in my super fit 21 year old form. Anyone up for a mommy walking club? 🤚🏻
What Moms inspire you? Give them a shout out! The women who are wading through motherhood alongside me. My “Lockport Girl Gang” sees me through just by showing up every day to this job of motherhood and doing their best. We all parent differently but we all love each other, each other’s children, and each other’s marriages with a ferocious hunger to help each other grow. Laura, Denyel, Parrish and Ashley are my support system. Then there is my mama and my mother in laws (Jay’s dad has been married a few times and I am SO thankful for the bonus moms) who swoop in and save us time after time with babysitting, financial support and lots of shoulders to cry on! Kathleen, Katherine, Sylvia and Debbie.