Can you tell us a little about Mod + Jo?
Mod + Jo was founded on the principles of making women feel confident and feminine with approachable accessories that are designed for your everyday wardrobe. Seven years later and this is still our focus. Mod + Jo started as a passion project while my husband and I were living abroad for a 2-year ex-pat assignment in China. Without a work visa, I didn't have many options to fill my time with a proper job so I rebranded a small wholesale jewelry business I had started in College. From the beginning, I have been open to opportunities that have presented themselves to me and let my business grow organically. The fact that Mod + Jo continues to grow year over year, is a testament to the hard work and dedication put in by myself and our incredible team. I am grateful for every step of this journey and excited to see what the future holds for Mod + Jo.
What are some things you cherish most about being a mother?
My son has allowed me to slow down and appreciate our simple moments together. This is something I have grown to cherish. Before becoming a mother, I was always full steam ahead. Working a full day and taking work home with me at night. I was always researching and planning the next steps for the company even when I was away from the office. Now I am able and want to unplug when I am away from the studio. I am trying to soak up all of his firsts and lasts and be present enough to realize them and be in the moment. My goal this year is to begin a journal to him. I want to be able to share my thoughts and emotions with him during these milestones, in the moment, so we're both able to reflect on them in the future. I understand he will not be able to appreciate it until (or if) he decides to become a father himself, but it will be something he will also be able to cherish once I'm gone.
What has motherhood taught you?
Motherhood has taught me the invaluable lesson of the importance of self-care and the value of asking for help when needed. It can be easy to get caught up in the demands of parenthood, but taking time for myself has become crucial for my well-being, and ultimately, for my ability to show up as my best self for my son. I want to model self-care as a positive behavior for my child to emulate, recognizing that our children are our greatest teachers. By prioritizing my physical, mental, and emotional health, I am not only taking care of myself but also setting an example of self-respect and self-love for my child. Motherhood has shown me that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a demonstration of strength and self-awareness. It takes a village to raise a child, and I am grateful for the support of my community as I navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood.
How do the responsibilities of motherhood translate to being a leader of a business?
Being a mother can prepare someone to be a compassionate leader in a business. Those who are both a leader and a mother understand the significance of balancing work and personal life. They can create a supportive work environment that prioritizes the well-being of their employees, while also using their nurturing instincts to mentor and develop their team. This leads to a culture of growth and learning and infuses the business with a sense of caring and emotional intelligence. As a result, the workforce becomes more engaged and productive.
What advice can you give to other mothers who are pursuing their passions?
For other women and mothers out there who are pursuing their passions, my advice is to stay committed and persistent in your pursuit. It is important to carve out time for your passion, so finding a balance where you're able to prioritize working towards those goals after bedtime or at your day job during your lunch break can begin to show real progress. I always remind myself that shavings make a pile - if you take these moments of free time to work towards your passion projects, you can look back in three to six months and begin to see these small moments really begin to pay off. Consistency and dedication can make all the difference in achieving your goals. Additionally, don't let feelings of guilt or self-doubt hold you back. Remember that taking time for yourself and pursuing your passions can ultimately make you a happier and more fulfilled parent. It's also important to find a supportive community that can encourage and motivate you along the way. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and take pride in the progress you've made. By pursuing your passion, you are setting a powerful example for your children and showing them that it's possible to follow their dreams, no matter what obstacles may arise.
