Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Whitefish Bay?
Originally from the Denver area. We have been in WFB since 2015.
How many children do you have and how old are they?
2 Boys. 4yrs and 18M
Tell us about what you do for a living and how you got started in this profession?
I am a hairstylist at Scottfree salon in downtown Milwaukee. It’s my second career; I decided to go to beauty school in 2008 and it was the best decision! I love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. My grandmother was a hairstylist as well. Although I never saw her in this profession I do believe career choices can sometimes be passed down genetically
Both you and your husband have jobs that have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. What advice can you give to other moms out there in similar situations?
Always find a positive in the day, know you’re not the only one impacted, this too shall pass (hopefully soon!) and it’s ok to have rough days! Solidarity.
Juggling careers and raising kids is hard. Tell us about how you manage the work/life balance.
I am so fortunate to be able to write my own hours. So for right now, I am working part-time. It allows me to have the balance I need. Working helps my mental health as well. Adult conversations are needed after a few days of talking with little ones all day. Also, find a sitter who you love and trust and have them for date nights at least once a month or even to take time for yourself. I am fortunate that my favorite sitter is a client of mine so we trade hair for babysitting.
What’s your favorite thing about raising your family in Milwaukee’s North Shore area?
It truly feels like a community in Whitefish Bay. People want to know their neighbors, have block parties, schools are walkable. It really feels like Whitefish bay is a movie set sometimes. I’m not going to lie, I wish I grew up in a village similar to WFB.
What are your favorite local things to do in Whitefish Bay (with kiddos or just for moms)? During the pandemic, parks have been a lifesaver. Throughout the year we enjoy block parties, Fourth of July on Silver Spring along with the fireworks at Klode Park, and trick or treating during Halloween.
Best mom hack that makes life easier?
If you have to do your own house cleaning (🙋🏻♀️) make a schedule on your phone for duties that alert you each week, 2 weeks, every few months, etc. depending on what needs to be done often (like cleaning toilets) or things that can be done scattered throughout the year (like wiping down baseboards) also make sure to do a load of laundry every day and you’ll never get behind. I try and have one of my kids “help” me with laundry in the afternoon so it’s not being done at the end of the day when I need some ME time. Also, Instacart is a lifesaver. Grocery delivery all the way!
One thing people would be surprised to know about you..
I have my bachelor of science in music from Colorado University and used to work in the music industry. I play Bob Marley in our home so much in the winter (trying to keep my happy vitamin D beach vibes up- ha!) that my oldest now says, “is this Bob Marley?” when reggae music comes on.
Who has most influenced you to be the mom you are today?
Probably my grandmother who had a baby that passed away as an infant, a child born with Down Syndrome, and was widowed by the time she was 55. She’s a warrior and never lost her faith. She lived minimally and was content.
You spend your day making women look and feel great about themselves. What do you do just for yourself to feel the same?
I try and do a facial mask at home once a week, whiten my teeth here and there… I would love to work out more but sometimes I lack the energy. I keep reminding myself this is a season of life you’re in and you’ll have more time for self-pamper when the kids are in school full time.
In your line of work, you have to be a great listener and conversationalist. Sometimes, hairstylists know more about a person than even his/her own family. What is one of the most shocking revelations (if you feel comfortable sharing) someone has ever divulged?
I have heard many things over the years. Many clients have truly become close friends. I’ve heard everything from divorce, deaths, lots of IVF (failures and successes), drug addictions within families, moves, cancer, and many weddings. I loved psychology in college and I consider therapy my second job 🙂