Hi Marisa! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I grew up in Rockland County, NY…New City to be exact. But I have lived in Bergen County since 2002 raising my children in both Englewood Cliffs and Demarest.
How old are your kids?
I have two children, Zachary (almost) 19 and Harlow 16.
What is your favorite thing to do with them?
See them -lol! Seriously though, with my son now in college, my family is feeling that void and shift in family dynamics. My daughter is a competitive dancer and spends a great deal of time training all week. So when we do manage to find time together, we really try to make it count. A quality meal, a fun game.
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
Yes!! I just recently opened sugaringLA in Closter, NJ. We offer all-natural organic hair removal and elevated skin care.
Why is this so important?
sugaringLA is an alternative to traditional hair removal methods that are often painful, cause irritations and ingrown hairs, and harsh on the skin. The sugar paste is customized to each client, never used hot and can only attach to dead skin cells….so there is an ancillary benefit of exfoliation that leaves you incredibly soft!
What sets you apart?
At sugaringLA Closter, we’re redefining the hair removal experience. Our all-natural, eco-conscious approach delivers smooth, lasting results without compromising your skin’s health. More than just a studio, sugaringLA is a movement—rooted in clean, sustainable self-care and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity.
From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the difference. Our serene, thoughtfully designed space invites you to relax, while our expert team provides personalized care that’s both luxurious and empowering. We focus on skincare education, gentle techniques, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere—for every body.
Come see why sugaringLA is changing the game. We can’t wait to welcome you!
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
Try to enjoy each stage you are in…don’t wish it away…even the tough ones! Looking back now, I realize that every phase and stage was just that and we moved through it. Sometimes more graceful than others! We had “growth seasons” and learning curves for sure…but they made the wins that much sweeter. It sounds so trite…but it goes so fast!! I can’t believe I just moved my first baby to college!!
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A random deep cut fact is that I can do quite a cartwheel off of a diving board! It takes a really hot day to get me into a pool now a days, and even more rare to get my hair wet…but once I’m in, I can’t resist a good cartwheel off the board!
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community has really been instrumental in my journey. The support I’ve received here—from encouragement to showing up for local businesses—has given me the foundation and confidence to grow as both a leader and a business owner. Having run businesses before, I know how critical that kind of backing is, and it’s shaped the way I approach leadership today. It’s also why I feel strongly about serving and giving back. For me, it’s about creating a cycle of support—when a community invests in you, you have the responsibility and privilege to invest right back into it.
To learn more about sugarlingLA visit their website and follow them on Instagram.
Plus, enjoy this exclusive offer for Bergen Moms – text Meet a Mom to 201-775-0006 to enjoy your first for FREE.