Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate all of the amazing moms, grandmas, and other parent figures who make a difference in their kids’ (and others’) lives every day. With the holiday right around the corner, The Hoboken Girl team wanted to highlight local moms who do just that this Mother’s Day 2024 — from SAHMs to store owners and bakers to nurses, non-profit CEOs,  and therapists — and also juggle being full-time mamas. We asked moms in our Facebook Group to share about themselves, their best local ‘mom hacks’ — and, of course, who they admire in the local community. Read on for more about these local moms in their own words, describing their connections to Hoboken, Jersey City, and Hudson County.

Brittany Graziosi | Owner of Twilight Thrift Shop in Jersey City + Founder of Jersey City Oddities Market

Tell us about yourself.

I own Twilight Thrift Shop in Jersey City and I am also the founder of the Jersey City Oddities Market. I grew up in Jersey City and I have an almost eleven-year-old son named Lucian.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Catch Air on Garfield Avenue is a godsend for when you want to just sit down and let them run amuck. There’s parking, wifi, and coffee.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I’m a big fan of Carla, the owner of Balance Salon. I’ve been going there since high school and she always has the best advice. Stuart of Pacific Flea is also great. Pacific Flea got me started in vendor coordination which led to starting the oddities market.

Michelle Miley | Cleaner + Organizer

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Jersey City Heights, I’m a local cleaner and organizer. I have two boys (ages 4 + 1) I went from full-time stay-at-home mom to full-time cleaner for local SAH + WFH moms. I started my business when I realized I was one of the many ones who couldn’t manage juggling home duties, being a new + toddler mom at the time, and everything else that comes with maintaining a healthy mind space. Being a mom can be overwhelming and I want to create an environment where mom is her healthiest self for her littles, a clear space is a clear mind! Apart from being a cleaner and organizer, I make cakes for the same little ones I help clean up for. I started that business when my toddler was born during Covid and I was struggling with PPD, and have since been making all kinds of desserts for moms and kids in our neighborhood.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Newport Green Sand Park. With the sprinklers and park right across from it. From the carousel horses to the beautiful view, it’s honestly the best of both worlds and it’s my favorite thing about Jersey City.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Any small business owners who are moms are truly all my heroes because this path is not easy but boy is it worth it.

Heran Haile | Nurse + Pilates Instructor

Tell us about yourself.

I wear many hats — nurse, Pilates instructor, 10+ year Hoboken resident, and most recently, a mom of two little girls. Over the span of a decade, I’ve committed myself to studying the complexities of movement and injury recovery. From guiding pre and postnatal mothers to working with renowned supermodels and various professional athletes (including my husband!), I’ve been privileged to serve a diverse clientele. Watching the resilience of the human body firsthand has been an extraordinary experience. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to pursue my passion and feel so lucky to empower others to realize their potential and feel truly unstoppable. Recently, I stopped by my daughter’s pre-K3 class to teach them a lesson, I try not to play favorites but they take the cake.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Find your tribe and take your kids everywhere. Happy Hour at Antique Bakery? Pull up! Getting a blowout at BOND? The toddler is getting one too. Paying a parking ticket at City Hall? My daughter is best friends with the cops with the there. City life is so fun with littles.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Emily Jabbour.

Amy Frank Goldman | Founder + President of AFG Wealth Management in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

Founder and president of AFG Wealth Management, mom, fur mom, wife, and philanthropic wanderer.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

We may not have backyards but everything we need is in our own backyard. This city offers so much culture, so many unique and valuable experiences and so much variety that there is no shortage of ways to enrich our children’s lives, and keep them busy.

Who are some local business owners, local leaders, etc you look up to?

Tiziana from Wise Rescue, her phone has never gone to voicemail. No matter what time of day. Rev from Street Life Ministry/Hoboken Shelter, he’s always willing to help. John Avoletta, over the years I’ve called him about different fundraisers I’m working on and he’s never said no to me. He’s as kind and he is funny.

Read More: 10 Hoboken + Jersey City Locals to Watch in May 2024

Karla De Epstein | Certified Nutrition Coach

Tell us about yourself.

My clients call me Coach Karli, I’m a certified nutrition coach, and I help clients look and feel their best by teaching them how to eat a balanced diet based on tracking their macronutrients. I am 45 years old and also a mom of four — they are aged 4, 11, 23, and 28. I love my kids. I wear many hats as all moms do, but something most people don’t know is that I have a master’s degree in Computer science and I still work as a software engineer for a Big 4 company, been doing it for over 15 years. But my passion is fitness. I have lived in Hoboken for the past 17 years but my nutrition services are virtual so I cater to clients all over the world and I love it.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

The big ramp outside the W Hotel becomes a fun place to sled down in the cold months when it’s covered in snow. And for the summer months, the fountain at Pier A is a great place to bring your kids in their bathing suits to have tons of water fun. (Adults too!)

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Elvi, the owner of the 5k runs and obstacle races in Hoboken, Jen, the owner of the HG of course, Irina, the owner of Rumble, Chris, the owner of Project Sculpt, Felipe, the Owner of SouzaFit, Erica, the owner of Skin by EC Beauty, and Mina, the owner of Zen Om. As a local business owner, I love supporting local businesses.

Tee Hundly | Owner of Suite Tee Beauty Studio in Jersey City

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Downtown Jersey City where I also own a salon. Although I’m a manicurist, I only perform nail services as a freelancer. (We have an amazing manicurist on staff). Besides running the business I also perform wax and spray tan services there.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

We live in a nice area. Suggest exploring your (old enough) children. Send them to get stuff from the bakery. Coming from NYC I was really surprised how many kids I don’t see outside.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Our Councilwoman Joyce Watterman is amazing, and Tina Nalls is like an angel to so many in the city.

Elena Gergis  | Owner of Made with Sazon + Writer for The Local Girl

Tell us about yourself.

I am a full-time food content creator and I share Latin + Caribbean recipes on my blog, Made with Sazon. I live in Hoboken with my husband David and our two children, Ella and Cameron. Ella is five years old and Cameron is three years old. They are full of energy and keep us busy, in the best way.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Hudson Table has fun cooking classes for kids of all ages and it’s also a great venue to host a birthday party.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Shakera Rosa, @milesquaremommies, my daughter is obsessed with her adorable line of customized sunglasses. Tal Winter, @shishi_weekends, my family loves the monkey bread and tahini.

Amber Veltri | Art Director for Broadway Dance Center in NYC + Social Media Coordinator for The Local Girl

Tell us about yourself.

I’ve been living in Hoboken for almost a decade. I fell in love with the city when I first I visited and I knew this was the place I’d one day call home. I’m an Art Director for Broadway Dance Center in NYC, and the Social Media Coordinator for The Local Girl as well as a graphic designer, social media guru, photographer, influencer (@Hoboken_Love), and a mom to my favorite muse, Brooks. When I’m not working you can find me at concerts, visiting restaurants and galleries, drinking coffee, and supporting local businesses in Hoboken’s vibrant community.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Hoboken is so kid-friendly — from kids brunches at The Hoboken Biergarten and community events, there’s so much to do to keep them busy.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

The Hive for making a great space for kids and delicious coffee.

Jody Smith | Owner of Clarity Counseling Network in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I am a local business owner of Clarity Counseling Network in Hoboken and a full-time mom to two great little boys. I have been a therapist in Hoboken for nearly a decade and expanded to open up services to work with more of the population here. We have a high focus on female health, mothers, work-life balance, anxiety, depression, OCD, etc. My goal is to teach my kids to be a part of the community as well as promote mental health and community involvement. My family and I live in the Heights and love being a part of our Hoboken/JC family.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

The best mom hack in our community is developing a community of moms. The other hack is to get outside every day. It’s great for your mental health and your kids’ mental health (also doesn’t hurt to burn off some energy). Nature has a way of healing and the parks in Hoboken and JC are the best.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Emily Jabbour. She is a great inspiration as a mom and public figure.

Leigh Cole | Founder of Kaias Kind Hearts Foundation

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a mama to Kaia and Rylen. We live in SW Hoboken and absolutely love it. Before kids, I worked as an account manager in the healthcare industry and owned a local fresh organic baby food delivery business. I was just planning on throwing my daughter into the mix when she was born, but she had other plans. Due to some serious health issues, we made the hard decision to close our business, and I quit my job and became a full-time mom. Being a full-time mom was never something I planned on doing and was by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done. My kids are in school now, and I run a small local non-profit to help kids and adults with CHD.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

The ferry. It’s an instant kid hit. Take the ferry to Brookfield Place — they can play at the playground — bathrooms + food are nearby at Brookfield Place. It’s the perfect outing.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Emily Jabbour, Katie Tucker (Rooted Rags), + Cariana Fasciano (Merry Hot Cocoa)

Meghan Lukin  | Owner of Washington General Store in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I’m the owner of Washington General Store uptown in Hoboken.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Bounce Market.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

The ladies from The Hive, Melissa Ben-Ishay, and Jenn Giattino. I could go on! But there is no coincidence they are also moms.

Melissa Ben-Ishay | CEO + Co-Founder of Baked by Melissa

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Hoboken and love it. I’m a mom, content creator, and CEO + Co-Founder of the bite-size cupcake brand Baked by Melissa.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

There’s a park on every corner, go to all of them. Teach your kids how to ride bikes and scooters as young as possible because it’s a great way to get around. Our favorite weekend days are spent scooting or biking around town, going to the park, getting gelato from Kikilu, and just enjoying this awesome town.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I’ve been loving The Hive in Hoboken, founded by Kristin Karotkin and Catherine Willhoit.

Tamiah N. Brevard-Rodriguez | Higher Education Administrator at Rutgers University + Co-Owner of SW3AT Wellness in Jersey City

Photo Credit: Nick Romanenko/Rutgers University

Tell us about yourself.

I am a Hudson County girl and a proud product of the Hoboken Public School System. I am a 2x mom of two beautiful children ages four and six weeks old. I’m a full-time higher education administrator at Rutgers University and I also co-own SW3AT Wellness (located in Jersey City) with my wife Dr. Alyza Brevard-Rodriguez. Most recently, I completed my doctorate in education and delivered my son Enzo on the same day.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

A mom hack would be to follow all of the amazing social media resources in the area. Between The Hoboken Girl, JC Families, and Mile Square Moms; we always learn about events and kid-friendly activities.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I guess I’m biased on this one, but I have to say my wife, Alyza. The co-owner of SW3AT with me, she has grown into such a business-minded yet socially conscious serial entrepreneur and a pillar of the community. Her work in cannabis has emphasized the importance of her voice as a momtrepreneur, veteran, and so many other roles; I’m just in awe of her daily.

Carri Degenhardt Burke | Owner of City Swipes + Carri Louise Boutique in Jersey City

Photo: Instagram @cityswipes

Tell us about yourself.

I have lived in Jersey City for the past 23 years. After leaving Wall Street where I started Degenhardt Consulting I took some time to raise my two children, Parker (13) and Maybelle (10). I have a fluid art studio named City Swipes in downtown Jersey City. City Swipes is designed for both adults and children. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and relax from a stressful day or week. Moms in the area are starting to take note as well. You don’t need any art experience to make to make something beautiful and people really love the low-key nature and the outcome.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Liberty State Park, the Jersey Shore, and NYC are all great places.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Anyone who’s trying to do something good with the kids is on my list. You don’t have to be a parent either. You can volunteer at places like Big Brother Big sister or the youth foundation. Pencil.org as well.

Heidi Conlin | Owner of Sage Map in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I am a mother of four children, I live in Hoboken, and I own my own energy and wellness practice in Hoboken called Sage Map. I facilitate private energy balancing, guide private, group, and corporate sound bath meditation, and lead wellness workshops and retreats.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

The “mom hack” is that you really don’t need a lot of square footage in your home to raise a family in this town, as there are plenty of outdoor parks and recreational outlets to supplement.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

The volunteers at the shelter, St. Matthew’s lunchtime ministry, and the Community Church. They are tireless and give much of their time and of themselves.

Ashley Manzi | Founding Partner of Manzi Epstein Lomurro + DeCataldo Divorce + Family Law

Tell us about yourself.

I work full-time as a family/divorce lawyer. I am a founding partner of a law firm with offices in Hoboken + Montclair. I’m also — and more importantly — the mom to two kids, ages eight and five, and we live in Hoboken. I learned a long time ago that it was impossible to do it all at the same time, and I wrote a book about life as a “working mom,” called Balance is Bullsh*t! I’ve done some fun podcasts and speaking engagements, and I am always looking for my next creative outlet.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

I love the ability to capitalize on play dates — anywhere. We have so many parks and great play spaces, all of which make it so easy to socialize and parent at the same time.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Tamara Soru, The Little Play Co: she built the town’s first real play space and did it during a time of struggle in her personal life. Her creativity knows no end. She continues to throw the absolute best birthday parties in town, and she supports this community endlessly. The owners of The Hive: they have truly mastered the art of making coffee bring people together. Their play space makes it comfortable for new moms. Their mantra makes it comfortable for all people. They have truly done something amazing, while being mothers themselves.

Jalpa Mehta | Esthetician

Tell us about yourself.

I am a licensed Esthetician based in Jersey City. After 14 years of hard work, working as a freelancer esthetician, and starting from zero every time we moved from one place to another, finally, my dream came true and I have my own salon suite based in Bayonne. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without my family and friends’ support and without my client’s support.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Newport Green, RPM Raceway, + Liberty Science Center.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Equipoise Physical Therapy + Wellness.

Lorena Loayza | Business Consultant

Tell us about yourself.

I live in JC with my three children, Isabella, Sophie, and Lucas (plus our two turtles, Coco + Biscuit). Juggling work and parenthood is my daily routine. As a single mom, I wear many hats. During the week, I’m a business consultant, working with companies, BIDs, and chambers of commerce in Hudson and Essex counties to help them thrive. My days are filled with meetings, strategy sessions, and problem-solving for my clients. But when school is out, I switch gears completely. I become a homework helper, chef, and cheerleader, all rolled into one, for my amazing kids. It’s a challenging but rewarding balance, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Jersey City is unique in the beautiful waterfront parks we have, such as Liberty State Park or Exchange Place. We’ve also done staycations at the Hyatt Regency. The kids love the pool. We order takeout and sit in the restaurant with the Manhattan skyline as our view. We love our cafes that come with kiddie corners. It allows me the time needed to enjoy that perfect cup of Joe us moms are always on the hunt for.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I love my local mom’s group, Jersey City Moms. This group offers a unique blend of social support, practical advice, and fun activities. It’s a valuable resource for moms to feel empowered, connected, and less alone in their parenting journey. The one business owner I have always looked up to is Roger Hegazy, owner of Chicken Delight, who passed three years ago. When I came into business consultancy, he deposited 100% trust in my ideas, fostered my creativity, and encouraged me to balance my motherhood and career. He was a community leader who encouraged his fellow merchants to strive for work-life balance while being positive community members. He understood that together they were stronger and happier.

 

Zoe Perrone | Owner of KnitNames

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a proud Hoboken native and a new mom. In January 2023, I launched my business, KnitNames. Just three weeks later, I got the news that we were expecting. Balancing the responsibilities of being a new mom and running a small business has been challenging, filled with late nights and long hours. However, every moment is worth it for the sake of my little guy and I am loving every minute of this little life we’ve built in Hoboken. Since starting KnitNames, every Moms Night Out Sip + Embroider event I’ve planned has sold out and it has been such so much fun to meet so many amazing moms in the community.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

If you’re looking for things to do with your baby, it doesn’t just have to be a class specifically for babies. We go to baby + bar trivia at the Shepard + Knucklehead every Friday and the babies get to see each other and interact + the moms get to have a beer and interact. It’s a win-win.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Jess of Mojo Coffee, Tamara of Little Play Co, + Aly of TakeAMOMent.

Dr. Cassandra Lenza | Founder of Healing on Hudson in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I’m the founder of Healing on Hudson and a mom to a six-month-old. Healing on Hudson is a boutique therapy practice specializing in eating disorders, body image, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I started the practice when living in Hoboken, and you can find us at 129 Washington Street on the lower level. Now I live down the shore (aka mom life in the burbs) and we have an office in Manasquan too.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

We’re thrilled to say that our favorite things to do pre-baby (weekend brunch at the bar at Elysian, Finnegan’s hangs with friends over chicken nachos, and Moran’s for their infamous burger) can all be done with our baby in tow.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Vanessa Ristretto — founder of Culina Health and badass mom. Belinda Brown — amazing acupuncturist/facialist and most importantly healer and mom of two.

Diane Branco | Owner of World of Wonder Childcare Center in Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I am a proud owner of World of Wonder Childcare Center in Hoboken. Following a decade in corporate America, I tried my luck at entrepreneurship, launching my childcare business after departing from Merrill Lynch in late 2006. Finally, in January of 2008, I paved the way for the grand opening of Word of Wonder. My journey into motherhood began in June 2003, sparking an internal struggle as a working mother. Juggling my career ambitions, feelings of guilt about not being a full-time caregiver, and the quest for a joyful, nurturing environment for my daughter left me feeling conflicted. Despite this, I firmly believed that embracing a working mother’s role would make me a better parent, spouse, and friend. Recognizing that a supportive group of friends for my family helped me the most, I strive to create a warm and nurturing community at WOW, offering a home away from home where lifelong relationships can flourish. Emphasizing the importance of easing families into new chapters of life, I aim to provide a memorable and enriching experience filled with growth and joy for parents and children alike. Outside work, I enjoy traveling and bonding with the locals, grooving to Latin music in Zumba class, and meeting friends for dinner.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Simplify and enjoy experiences versus clutter in your home. Connect with a tax strategist, not just a financial advisor, to maximize your money and plan for college. Commit to a no-technology night and play board games. Simple and fun.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I absolutely love the bond Olivia (Hugs + Bugs), Lisa (The Inner Athlete), and I have created over the years and how supportive of each other we are. I can always rely on them for any advice and any help I need.

Annie DiStefano | Owner of Garden Street School of the Performing Arts

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Annie DiStefano. I’m a single mom of two teenage boys who are professional actors in the Broadway/TV/Film Industry. I home-school my children as well. I’m the owner of Garden Street School of the Performing Arts in Hoboken — located at 1018 Washington Street. My background is in the performing arts as well as business.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

I’m a mom of a gluten-free kid. Trader Joe’s has the best GF bread but it’s so small. It costs so much less than all other GF bread brands, but you have to make two sandwiches for kids at lunch because the bread is tiny. So although it’s a great and a deal — you need to buy twice as much. Grimaldi’s has the best GF pizza in town.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I look up to every small business owner who has taken the risk to do what they do. So much respect for those who put everything on the line to do what they think is a great idea and they are living the dream.

Ariella Mendez | Owner of The Salon At Hoboken

Tell us about yourself.

I lived in Hoboken for the last 14 years. I’m a local mom of three + I own The Salon At Hoboken, a boutique luxury salon. I’ve always desired to be amongst a great community + feel truly grateful to live, work, + raise my family in such a wonderful place.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Our city is the most kid-friendly place I’ve ever been to aside from Disney World. There are parks every few blocks + everyone has kids. You can literally walk Washington Street or the river just to entertain your child. There’s always kid-friendly activities throughout town + so many great brunch + coffee shops to stop in. Hoboken was built for kids.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Emily Jabbour because she does so much for this city.

Dusty Lynn Weideman | Owner of Massage by Dusty

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a bonus mom, but I’ve raised him with his dad for almost 14 years and I love him like my own. I’m an entrepreneur, massage therapist + owner of Massage By Dusty, singer, nature lover, lover of life, and I dig travel.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Make sure your kid tries everything from sports to classes to meeting people. Do things out of their comfort zone, put them in situations where they have to figure things out and meet new people and challenges through the years. We went to Pier C a lot. Mario’s Pizza (it’s our neighbor), 16 Handles he always loved, Court Street, we put him in UFC gym for a few years to teach him discipline structure strength, etc (We weren’t looking for the fighting aspect of it, but the discipline) He was in lego building classes. We volunteered at the homeless shelter once a month for eight years. We wanted to teach him to give back, and every couple months, we would donate clothes to the thrift store and any fundraising we could.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I love the Shaka Sisters they do a wonderful job with their businesses and with the community, great people. I love Mario’s. It’s so family-oriented.

Anna Novosyolok | Owner of Alpha Minds Academy

Tell us about yourself.

Since 2009, I’ve proudly called Hoboken home. As a mother of two boys, ages 14 and 18, I’m witnessing one son graduate high school and head to college, while the other prepares for Hoboken High this September. Alongside motherhood, I’m the founder and director of AlphaMinds Academy, a hub for academic enrichment in chess, coding, mathematics, reading, essay writing, and Russian language. In 2011, inspired by my children, aged 1.5 and five at the time, I established AlphaMinds. With a background in Ukraine and a husband from Latvia, Russian is our first language. Seeing a gap in Russian language programs, I organized classes for local Russian-speaking families during my maternity leave. Quickly, we expanded to offer math, chess, coding, and ELA classes, meeting the demands of our growing community. Today, AlphaMinds directly serves nearly 500 children, ages 1 to 15, through our in-person and online classes. 

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

The hack I swear by: create a network of other moms around you. Share drop-off and pick-up responsibilities, host playdates, offer each other support, and organize group outings. Not only does this help lighten the load, but it also builds a sense of community and provides a support system for both you and your children. One of my other ‘mom hacks’ for living in the Hoboken and Jersey City area is to take advantage of the many parks and playgrounds available. These places are not only great for kids to play and burn off energy, but they also often host community events, which can be a fun way to meet other parents and socialize. Plus, many parks offer stunning views of the city skyline or the waterfront, making them a pleasant spot for the whole family to enjoy.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

So many hardworking moms around me who are hard-working entrepreneurs and community leaders! To mention just a few: I look up to all the women serving on Hoboken City Council but especially to Tiffanie Fisher. Natalia Loffe who serves on Jersey City Board of Education. Jen Sargent — the founder of Hola Dual Language Charter School in Hoboken. Shehnaaz Jagasia — founder of the Shenaaz Dance Academy. Diane Branco ‚ founder of World of Wonder Daycare.

Naomie Wah | Marketing Strategist

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a Marketing Strategist with over eight years of experience in developing, implementing, communicating, and executing strategic marketing plans and business development in the tourism and hospitality industry. I recently joined JFK International Air Terminal from Hotel Fouquet’s New York, the newest outpost of French Hotels + Casinos Groupe Barrière and previously held marketing roles with Atout France, France Tourism Development Agency where my team won Gold for Best Destination Marketing Campaign for our innovative Explore France Live Series. Born a New Yorker and raised in Haiti, I am trilingual — fluent in English, French, and Haitian Creole. I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Baruch College Zicklin School of Business and have completed marketing certification in Digital Marketing Campaign Planning + Optimization at New York University. In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my family, crafting pottery, and going to museums.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

A mom hack is to have fun and take your little one outside to burn some energy as much as possible. I love taking my daughter out to the park, walk on the boardwalk, look at the boats, describe and count them. Best spot Liberty Science museum, or one of the many beautiful local parks.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

One of the best things about Jersey City is the local businesses available all around. I am partial to Betty’s Ceramics Club as I recently completed a pottery workshop there.

Christa Conte Alenier | Tech Communications EVP

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a full-time tech communications EVP and full-time mom of two little Hobokenites (Ben and Chloe). I’ve been a Hoboken resident for 13 years. My family and I currently live in Downtown Hoboken. I’ve worked in communications in NYC for nearly 20 years helping companies of all sizes to tell their stories. As a mom, I find storytelling to be equally important as I’m tucking my kids to bed or discussing how their days were. I love living in Hoboken and being in and near so many unique artistic, culinary, and cultural experiences. I’m also a huge foodie and love to support our local Italian mom-and-pop shops. As moms we try so hard to stay “behind the scenes” of our families but I think it’s so important to get out and do things that are unexpected and for us — I’ve been doing the Polar Bear Plunge for over 15 years to raise money for Special Olympics, I’ve cycled 100 miles in support of Bike MS, and have traveled to more than a dozen different countries for my job.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Living in a city can feel so isolating — everybody is so focused on getting to their next thing or location — but it also can be so beautifully collaborative if you get out in the world and show up. You can find so many commonalities by joining the local meet-ups or participating in community events. I’ve met so many friends through various clubs or organized sports when I was first in Hoboken and I want the same experience for my children.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

The Schmitts are doing so many awesome things (Otok Bakery, Schmitty’s) and are so committed to family in Hoboken. And of course the moms behind The Hive. This is a broad answer but really all the amazing parents on the PTO at local Hoboken schools — it’s truly phenomenal what they are building.

Jennifer Delgad | Partner at Lowenstein Sandler LLP

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a lawyer working full-time as a partner at an AmLaw 200 law firm. I am a business litigator and counselor, and a major contributor to my firm’s pro bono practice. I made partner a few months after I had my first child seven years ago, and I am now a proud mom of two great kiddos living their best Hoboken life. It’s not always easy to balance my personal and professional lives, but it gives me great satisfaction to be as present as possible in my children’s lives. I also have a passion for service to my community. I serve as one of the co-leaders of my daughter’s Girl Scout troop. I have also been involved in several community projects, including helping seniors and other at-risk neighbors find vaccine appointments during the pandemic, and more recently, helping to plan and execute Southwest Fest.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Hands down, the best playground for small children is Jackson Park. It is small, safe, easy to supervise children based on design, has a water feature, and is an amazing gathering place for families in Southwest Hoboken. Come join us on a Friday evening for some pizza and playground time!

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Diane Branco of World of Wonder, the ladies of The Hive, and our City Council. It’s easy to focus on the negative aspects of politics, but our public servants work very hard (despite all working full-time as well) to meet the needs of our vibrant city.

Isabel Schultz | Director of Development at Frederator Studios

Tell us about yourself.

I’m the Director of Development at Frederator Studios (The Fairly Oddparents, Adventure Time, Castlevania), and live in Hoboken.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Urban Coalhouse mom lunch every Tuesday.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

The Hive.

Sarah Richards | Podiatrist + Co-Owner of Little Gearbales

Tell us about yourself.

I am a podiatrist and a business owner. My best friend and I started a baby gear rental business where we rent out strollers and other much-needed baby items to local moms. We found that living in an apartment life, there isn’t room for everything, and instead of buying everything new, we love the idea of renting things when you need them. I live in Hoboken and have been here for the past eight years and even did my residency training at HUMC. I have two amazing children ages five and three that keep me busy.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

My favorite activity to do with my children on the weekends is fruit picking. Strawberries, blueberries, snap peas, apples, tomatoes, pumpkins, really anything that grows outside. We are lucky to live in a thriving agricultural state and I love for my children to see where food comes from. Some of my favorite orchards are Demarest Farms and Von Thun Farms.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

I look up to Roopali Vorkunov of Momcrated. She is a mom, a business owner, a dancer, an occupational therapist, competes in pageants, and a great friend. She is an example of a mom who makes time to do what she loves and show her kids by example and that’s what I aspire to be.

Andrea Yates | Postpartum Doula

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Hoboken, and I’m a postpartum doula. As a doula, I work with new and growing families to provide practical, informational, and emotional care so the parents feel supported, cared for, and confident during the postpartum time. I also have a husband named Adam, a 3-year-old son named Graham, and a rescue lab/shepherd named Canyon. Personally, I love exploring new playgrounds, restaurants, and cities with my family.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Going on a date with your partner during daytime hours while the kids are still in daycare or with the nanny — you’re well-rested and don’t need to coordinate a sitter.

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Emily Jabbour — she is constantly being tagged in social media posts and always responds promptly with a great attitude. Margarita Garcia — owner of Little Linguists, Hoboken-ite for life, and the most amazing business owner and community connector.

See More: A List of Women-Owned Restaurants in Montclair + Bloomfield

Meagan Celeste | Owner of MDC PRODUCTIONS

Tell us about yourself.

I’m in Union City but lived in Hoboken for over 10 years. Now I’m one block west. I run my own boutique production company and do video production, event management, nonprofit consulting, + celebrity engagement. The thing I’m most proud of this Mother’s Day is the podcast my daughter and I wrote and produced together. We just launched on Spotify, Amazon, and everywhere podcasts are found. The Search for the Silver Lining is a fun adventure series that reminds kids to look for the good within the bad and we’re joined by stars like Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Bell, Emily Blunt, Liam Neeson, Robert De Niro, Sebastian Stan, and many more throughout our first season.

What’s a ‘mom hack’ you think every parent deserves to know about living in our area?

Join Hoboken Mommies on Facebook. The only mom hack you need!

Who is someone you admire in the community?

Amy Goldman ran FLAG during the pandemic (Hoboken Front Line Appreciation Group) and we did a lot of work together delivering thousands of meals for many weeks to healthcare workers and first responders in NY and NJ that were paid for and donated by actress Jessica Chastain. Caroline at ForCupSakes is amazing. Anthony David’s and Elysian are great places to eat because they are so mindful of my daughter’s food allergy.