Hi Samantha! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I was born and raised in Bergen County, and it’s been my home for over 30 years!
Wow! Do you have any kids?
I have a 4-year-old, Jake, my little best friend!
What’s your favorite thing to do with Jake?
We love being out and about everyday… parks and coffee shops are our favorite! You can often find us in a toy or bookstore, just plopped on the floor reading 100 books! We love singing and having dance parties, getting together with our friends & trying out fun play spaces and activities together. We love exploring new towns & checking out all the cute shops. When we’re home, we love making projects and playing with magnatiles!
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
Yes! I started Baby J. (kids’ personalized gifts & party favors) back in 2021 with the intention of focusing on memory boxes for parents to store their children’s artwork, school photos, report cards, etc. and over the past few years it has evolved into so much more! From baby gifts to personalized clothing & trucker hats to doll accessories and SO many different party favors, it’s been really fun to add so much variety to the brand.
Why is this so important?
As moms, we focus on every. single. detail. (am I right?) and our kids’ birthdays are so so special. We want everything to be just right to make lasting core memories. I love helping moms bring their vision to life when we design the perfect party favors to compliment the party theme and their child’s interests. Same goes for baby gifts & birthday gifts- I take so much pride in personalizing and wrapping gifts because I know how exciting it is as a mom to receive something special and personalized for your child.
Love that! What sets you apart?
I am a kindergarten teacher! I love adding teacher and mommy ideas on this platform. I’ve really been enjoying sharing toy & book recommendations with the Baby J community & Toy Rotation Tuesday has become my favorite! I have lots of big ideas for more teacher & mommy content and I’m excited to share it with all of you!
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
BE KIND
Be kind to other moms and be kind to yourself- you are doing amazing, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! You know your baby better than anyone. Trust your gut & everything will be ok. The baby years go by so so fast- we all get so caught up in all the overthinking and all the worries and allll the “rules” … just enjoy it, soak it all in and be kind to yourself & other mamas along the way. You got this!
Great advice! What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’ve never rode a bike, but I love spinning!
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community is everything! From old friends to new friends to friends of friends, it’s because of this community that we keep growing and evolving. I am so grateful for all the mamas I have met & the friendships I’ve made from Baby J.!
To learn more about Samantha and Baby J. follow along on Instagram!