How did you come up with the idea for Little Nomad?
I started Little Nomad when my daughter was just 5 months old but the idea came long before that. I had my “AH-HA moment” when my super stylish BFF invited me over to check out her new home — she had just moved from a small apartment in the City to a beautiful home in Livingston, NJ. She’s got great taste and is one of the most stylish Mamas I know — which is why I was shocked to see circus colored foam mats all over the floor in her otherwise gorgeous living room! My struggle to get pregnant left me feeling (mistakenly) that I had no place creating a baby product. Having my little girl gave me the courage to turn my idea into a reality and my daughter has been my motivation every day since.
We love the name Little Nomad, how did you think of it?
When my daughter was learning to sit up and crawl she looked like the most adorable little yogi. Once she was on the move she would wander all over the place and just wouldn’t stay still! She reminded me of a little nomad wandering thru the desert.
How amazing that you were featured on the Shark Tank for Little Nomad — what was that experience like?
Pitching to the Shark’s on ABC’s Shark Tank was an absolute dream come true. Having my baby with me, who was 14 months old at the time, added a special layer of unpredictability. She started fussing during my pitch so I ran over and picked her up. Honestly, once she was in my arms, I was able to relax a little bit! Nothing could have prepared us for the shark tank effect. We sold out of merchandise shortly after first airing and have been trying to keep up with the demand since! The outpour of love and support from other Moms has been incredible. We love hearing about how our product has transformed their child’s play space and improved their sanity.
You clearly have a great eye for design, where do you get inspiration for your playmats and online aesthetic?
Thank you! I just try to follow my instincts and what I would be interested in buying for my home. I work with an incredible Designer & Illustrator, Sophia Vincent Guy, so that helps a lot!
How many kids do you have and what town do you reside in?
I have a 2.5 year old daughter and I’m expecting a baby boy in three weeks – I can’t wait to meet him! We live in West Hartford.
What are your favorite spots to visit in your hometown?
Our best local coffee shop is Hartford Baking Company. For dinner, I love Artisan at the Delamar, Savoy, Bar Taco – there are so many great restaurants in this town and we love to eat out! I also love our local vintage shop, Blaze and Bloom, as well as the brewery at 485 New Park Avenue.
Our motto at The Local Moms Network, is “giving moms the gift of time”? Do you have any time saving tips or tricks that you’d be willing to share?
I recently discovered Instacart – Whole Foods delivery in just under an hour. It has been a lifesaver during heavy snow during this pregnancy!
Favorite things to do with your daughter?
Dance parties on our play mat! Watching movies in bed, going to our local park.
Favorite things to do for yourself?
Enjoy a meal out with friends, mani / pedis!
What is a recent book that you read and loved?
Throw Out 50 Things by Gail Blanke. I’m all about decluttering and home organization and this book helped me with a recent purge as we were moving to a new house. Less is more!
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
My favorite TV show is The Bachelor. I’ve been watching since season one and I can’t stop 
Be sure to check out www.little-nomad.com to see the great selection of play mats!