Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you support the Charlottesville community?
I'm a mom to 3 year old boy/girl twins. I teach a class to parents expecting multiples! We cover everything from gear to sleep to feeding and more. We also aim to build a community of parents raising multiples since it's a special kind of crazy. I'm also a freelance Executive Assistant and work with a variety of clients both locally and across the country.
If we want to support you and learn more about your business, how can we find you?
You can find out more about Twin Love Concierge and our resources on our website. All the Charlottesville classes are listed here.
If you'd like to schedule a private twin consult or talk about EA support, you can check out alessandramarie.com
What inspired you to start your own business?
I've always had some kind of side-hustle going on even when I was working traditional office jobs. My husband and I have moved a lot so I needed to be flexible. As we were preparing for our 6th move in 8 years (while pregnant with twins!), I knew it was time to think about what was next. I love being my own boss and being in control of my schedule, especially during this pandemic!
What advice would you give to another mom looking to start her own business?
Use the people you know! When I started telling friends and family about teaching twin classes or starting my EA business, I thought they would caution me against all the risks. But instead, they often had lots of ideas and connections. You'd be surprised how talking to your network can really make things take off.
Keep the door open! The setting/circumstance doesn't have to be PERFECT in order to start a business. In fact, it will likely never be perfect. Keep your mind open to opportunities and ways you can use your talents/business to support others. It might not look like what you initially envisioned but it could lead to something great!
How do you manage home life and work life?
We're very lucky that our twins attend a local preschool so I have some dedicated work time. I try to be responsive to any families that I'm working with especially after they've taken my class and are nearing the arrival of their babies. In my EA work, I happily use the Do Not Disturb function on my phone or computer to make sure that I'm not distracted by information when I'm trying to be offline.
Keeping a structured daily routine in partnership with my husband has really been the key. We make sure to sync up on what's happening that week and where we need each other to step in.
What are your top 3 must dos in the Charlottesville/surrounding area?
I miss SO many of the "must-dos" that we can't do right now!
1. Hiking! I'm a part of the Hike It Baby Charlottesville group on Facebook and members are always posting great kid-friendly hikes. It's been so fun to discover more of Charlottesville this way.
2. Eastwood Winery - They have lots of fun kid-friendly events along with hiking trails. Lots of open space for kids to run around while the parents relax with a glass of wine.
3. Order pizza from LAMPO! It used to be SO hard to get in here back in the good 'ole days. Now you can order online for pickup and have the LAMPO experience at home! Such a treat.
What is your favorite Green Bean product and why?
Little Sleepies pajamas, hands down. The ONLY pajamas I buy for my kids and they last forever. The silky soft bamboo is perfect all season long and the stretchy fabric means years of wear.
Tell us one of your favorite “mom hacks”!
I keep a bottle of stain spray in my kid's closet by their hamper. That way when they get undressed, I can treat the stains as I see them instead of going through each item before it goes in the wash.
Share one of your family’s favorite recipes!
Coconut Curry Pork Meatballs - SO much flavor and such a quick recipe. Great for picky eaters too as you can serve the rice and meatballs plain.
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