February is #blackhistorymonth and we want to celebrate local black woman owned businesses!​​​​​​​​
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Did you know that Black History Month has a theme every year? The 2024 National Theme is “African Americans and the Arts.”​​​​​​​​
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We asked our audience to tag their favorite black health and wellness mom bosses or their FAVE black woman owned businesses….and we will be featuring them right here in February! Stay tuned each week for a NEW mom boss!

Meet Mom Boss:: Gena

woman with glasses in a chair

Gena Gray founder and owner of  Hotel Kid Care

Hotel Kid Care, We care 24/7, around the clock in multicolors with blue square and white airplane outline
11954 Narcoosee Rd.
Orlando, FL

321-344-0627

Hotel Kid Care was opened in July 2017

What was the inspiration for starting Hotel Kid Care?

    • As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the unpredictability of life and the challenges it can bring. Losing my daughter was a deeply painful experience that left me feeling shattered and lost. However, in the midst of my grief, I discovered a new sense of purpose – to help other families in need by providing loving care for their children. Starting a nanny business was not an easy path, but it has allowed me to channel my energy and emotions into something positive and meaningful. Every day, I am reminded of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Through my work as a nanny, I have the opportunity to create a safe and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive. It is a privilege to be able to offer support to families in need and to make a difference in the lives of others. While the road has not been without its challenges, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way. I have discovered a strength within myself that I never knew existed, and I have found a new sense of purpose that gives me hope for the future. I believe that we all have the power to turn our pain into something positive, and that by embracing our challenges and persevering through adversity, we can find new meaning and purpose in our lives.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Hotel Kid Care?

    • Starting a nanny agency in Orlando has been a journey filled with both triumphs and challenges. As a black entrepreneur, I have had to navigate through the complexities of a market that is not always welcoming to people of color. Despite these obstacles, I have remained committed to building a business that provides quality care for families in need. The journey has not been without its struggles. Losing my child was a devastating experience that left me feeling lost and alone. But through my grief, I found the strength to push forward and pursue my dreams. Building a nanny agency has been a way for me to honor the memory of my child and make a positive impact in the lives of others. Navigating the Orlando market has also presented its own set of challenges. But I have learned to be persistent and to stay focused on my goals. I have built a team of dedicated caregivers who share my passion for providing quality care to families in need. Together, we have overcome many obstacles and built a reputation for excellence in our community. As a black entrepreneur, I am proud to have built a business that serves families of all backgrounds. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality care, regardless of their race or socioeconomic status. Through my work, I hope to inspire other entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities.

How did COVID impact your business?

  • The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant challenges to the nanny industry in Orlando. As the owner of a nanny agency, I have had to navigate through the uncertainty and adapt to the changing landscape to ensure the safety and well-being of both my staff and the families we serve. We have implemented new protocols and procedures to ensure that we are meeting the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation. Our caregivers are required to wear masks and use hand sanitizer before entering a client’s home, and we have also provided them with additional training on how to minimize the risk of transmission.To help families find the right caregiver for their needs, we have implemented virtual consultations and interviews. This has allowed us to continue providing essential care while minimizing the risk of exposure. We have also provided ongoing support and resources to help families navigate the challenges of the pandemic, including tips on how to talk to children about COVID-19 and how to create a safe and healthy home environment.The pandemic has presented unique challenges for families in need of childcare, particularly with the closure of schools and daycare facilities. Our agency has adapted to these new realities by offering flexible scheduling and remote work options for our caregivers. We have also implemented strict screening procedures to ensure that our caregivers are healthy and symptom-free before they enter a client’s home. Despite the obstacles, our caregivers have stepped up to provide essential care for families in need while taking all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. We are proud to have built a reputation for excellence in our community, and remain committed to our mission of providing quality care to families in need. 

What do you wish people knew about Hotel Kid Care?

    • At our nanny agency, Hotel Kid Care, we want you to know that you don’t have to be staying at a hotel to use our services! We are a mobile agency that comes to you, wherever you are. Our team of experienced and professional nannies is available to provide exceptional care for your children, whether you’re at home, on vacation, or attending an event. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs and ensure that your children are always in safe hands. With our mobile service, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your children are receiving the highest quality of care, no matter where you are. Let us take the stress out of parenting and give you the freedom to enjoy your time with your family. 

Meet Mom Boss:: Jessica

Jessica Lewis co-owner of  Simply See

1573 S. Wickham Rd.
Melbourne, FL  32904

321-220-0394

Simply See was opened on November 1, 2020

What was the inspiration for starting Simply See?

    • Simply See is a joint venture with my husband and myself. My husband is an optometrist, and I am a Human Capital Specialist. We have 2 businesses that stem from our specific trade and skill set. Simply See was manifested and created through my husband. He was given a vision and I am grateful to be able to come alongside him to see that vision through.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Simply See?

    • I am going to be completely transparent here; one of the biggest challenges we faced was being able to come together as business partners and honor each others giftings and skill set and create something magnificent. Choosing to navigate each-others differences has been a blessing in and out of the workplace. Other trials we’ve faced have been insurance quarrels; we took a certain insurance our opening year and got paid pennies on the back end; giving away “free” eyewear for an entire year. We’ve learned some lessons and are still learning and growing.

How did COVID impact your business?

  • Our opening year was the end of 2020. We were able to navigate through those intricacies with a bit of grace; we booked patients 1 hr a part and stayed on top of all cleaning protocols. All of our cleaning protocols are still implemented today!

What do you wish people knew about Simply See?

    • I would like people to know that we are truly passionate about what we get to do. We have the opportunity to truly cater to our community, our way. We also enjoy the opportunity that we get to be able to do that from the inside, out. Starting with our team members and pouring out to our patients.

Meet Mom Boss:: Kristy

Kristy Whyte founder and owner of  Kalm Laser Spa

7586 W Sand Lake Rd.
Suite 115
Orlando, FL 32819

407-205-2275

Kalm Laser Spa was opened in September 2023

What was the inspiration for starting Kalm Laser Spa?

  • I started Kalm Laser Spa to support my family in a way that takes a traditional service and applies it in service to the community. My Goddaughter, Leilani, wanted a career that included beauty and healthcare. Her mom and my lifelong friend, Mariana, and I always dreamt of a way to use our skills for good. At Kalm Laser Spa, we treat all people and care for all skin types. We’ve been intentional about offering extended appointment times for individuals with disabilities and made special offers to them and their caregivers. We acknowledge that for some, laser hair removal is a luxury, and for others, it makes a real difference in saving time when life is really busy with other needs.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Kalm Laser Spa?

  • Life always has obstacles and though there are some I wouldn’t recommend to anyone, they made me who I am. I had to get through medical school to become a physician which was no easy feat. I was raised by an incredibly strong and determined single mother who served and continues to serve as a source of strength for anything I aim to accomplish. Supporting Leilani in opening Kalm came with its own set of challenges as she connected with the State of Florida Office of Vocational Services for skills-training support and learned the ropes of an industry dominated by franchise med spas.

What do you wish people knew about Kalm Laser Spa?

  • I wish people knew we’re the real deal. We care for each client and don’t have franchise goals to meet. Service with us will feel personalized for you because we’ll take our time. We’ll treat you like family. Family-owned, family-operated.

Meet Mom Boss:: Lastree (Las)

Lastree (Las) Lemene founder and owner of Ready Set Declutter

Serving Central Florida!

352-359-3955

Ready Set Declutter was started in 2021

What was the inspiration for starting Ready Set Declutter?

  • Ready Set Declutter was born out of the desire to help people find peace and clarity in their space. As someone who has struggled with depression and anxiety, I wanted others to experience the relief and peace I experienced from having a decluttered and organized space.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Ready Set Declutter?

  • I’d say the hardest part has really just been the learning curve of being an entrepreneur. I have learned to find resources and coaches along the way to provide the support needed so I can continue improving my clients’ experience, but it’s been worth it. I also moved to Central Florida in the summer of 2022, so I had to essentially start over and build a name for myself here so that was tough. But the same grace I ask my clients to show themselves when we work together, is the grace I continue to learn to give myself.

How has COVID affect Ready Set Declutter?

  • Since I launched in 2021, I can’t say I was necessarily affected, but it did allow me to offer virtual organizing/coaching services. Going into people’s homes was still tough, but I had safety guidelines in place which kept me and my clients safe and healthy.

What do you wish people knew about Ready Set Declutter?

  • I wish people knew that beyond creating tidy places and helping clients declutter, my mission as a professional organizer is to help improve your well-being and overall quality of life. By creating systems throughout your home, we reduce your stress, improve your productivity, save you time and money, strengthen your relationship with your family and more. Hiring a professional organizer can be an investment, but clients find that the benefits gained are priceless and worthwhile.

Meet Mom Boss:: Jennifer

Jennifer Mables founder and owner of BUSY BABE, LLC!

Serving Central Florida!

(321) 415-2319

I’ve been an entrepreneur for 7 years!

What was the inspiration for starting BUSY BABE, LLC?

  • The inspiration behind starting my business was originally because of my event planning/project managing & branding skillsets. After acquiring my Bachelor’s degree at University of Central, Florida, in Interpersonal Organizational Communications, I knew I was destined to do work with people from all walks of life and the communications field. I’ve always been highly organized and have been great with managing people as well as their imaging. So it just made sense to take my skills a step further and monetize them! Since then, on my business journey, I have evolved into being a Brand Coach and Project Manager that specializes in Organizational Management. I help my clients with specific techniques that I’ve curated to help them see that their brand is directly correlated not just to their image and marketing tools, but more so it is directly linked to how organized and prepared they are, and that their quality of life is also directly correlated to their level of organization.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at BUSY BABE, LLC?

  • Being an entrepreneur the past 7 years hasn’t been easy. There have been lots of ebbs and flows. Sometimes the contracts are coming in left and right, and other times, the clients can be few and far between. At times, the economy has directly affected my business. At other times, a health crisis, such as COVID-19 in the year 2020 has affected my business. Being a busy wife and mother of two, has also proven to make being an entrepreneur challenging. It’s quite a balancing act! Operating in excellence, and raising a family, is a lot of work. Hence the birth of BUSY BABE! I practice the same method that I coach, “Find Your Time. Find Your Peace. Find Your Tribe.” Focusing on these specific items, will completely alter and elevate a business brand.

How has COVID affected BUSY BABE, LLC?

  • Covid definitely affected my business in 2020. That’s when I had to make a strong pivot. The event planning business was experiencing quite a bit of crisis because we could not have in-person events. I had lost three major contracts, and in addition to that, two of my weddings had to be canceled, and then, 2 more of them had to be put on hold until the crisis was alleviated. That was a very difficult year for my business. We were growing and scaling quite a bit, and because of that, we lost tremendous profit. And while doing virtual events was an option, it wasn’t the move for me. I chose to focus on, the other aspect of my business, more, which was branding. And then everything began to takeoff. I used my skills that I learned about branding over the years, and instead of doing it part-time, it came to the forefront of my business. A lot of small businesses were birthed during the pandemic,  so I saw that as my opportunity to help those small businesses get their brand off of the ground. Because of that, I was able to make that pivot and expand and continue to rebrand myself effectively. To this day, I am actively coaching, small businesses into elevating their brand in various ways.

What do you wish people knew about BUSY BABE, LLC?

  • What I wish people knew about my business is that I help men also! They take a look at the name of my business, that I have rebranded it to, and think that I only work with women. Although, in many ways, women are predominantly my target client, I also have a small percentage of male clients that I help brand all the time! Branding does not discriminate!

Meet Mom Boss:: Mila

Jamila Muhammed founder and owner of Mila’s Front Porch

Serving Central Florida, based in the Oviedo Mall

Mila’s Front Porch was started in 2013

What was the inspiration for starting Mila’s Front Porch?

  • I have daughters who have differing special diets, my oldest is vegetarian, my middle is sensitive to dairy (like mom) and my third daughter is an adventurous omnivore. I found when we would go out places sometimes it would be challenging to find things that were “safe” and clean to eat. So, I started experimenting with my own baking and developing my own recipes like the vegan/plant-based carrot cake and black bean brownies. I started my business in 2013 when I learned East End Market was holding a workshop for foodaprenuers. At the end of the workshop was a feedback fair to show off our business. I debuted Three Girls Bakery (now known as Mila’s Front Porch).

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Mila’s Front Porch?

  • I am a single mom who parents alone without financial support so my initial investment was finding opportunities (some unpaid) to get my name out there. That led to farmers’ markets and pop-ups and eventually to full-time entrepreneurship (commercial kitchen Jan. 2020 and retail location May 2021). When I started my daughters were 4,6 and 8. Most times they were at events with me so it took creativity to keep them happy.

How has COVID affect Mila’s Front Porch?

  • Covid created a need for specialty baking that I could provide. there were limitations I had to learn to overcome, like shortages of supplies but I found that orders came in and people really wanted to see me succeed.

What do you wish people knew about Mila’s Front Porch?

  • It’s only me! Most times when you visit I’m working alone, producing alone, marketing alone, and invoicing alone (big smile). I enjoy customer service and the challenge each day brings to learn new things​!

Meet Mom Boss:: Gina

Gina Alemán, M.Ed. is the founder and owner of New Blossom Maternity Services.

Gina and her husband have been married since 2011. He’s the creative eye and art editor behind just about everything she creates for her business and clients. Their two kiddos are funny, creative, big thinkers who keep them on their toes! Gina is a certified doula (birth and postpartum), certified newborn sleep educator, certified lactation counselor, and birth educator

Serving Central Florida

407.706.5575

New Blossom Maternity Services was started in 2020 but she had been serving in the role of doula (without realizing it!) since 2018

What was the inspiration for starting New Blossom Maternity Services?

  • My inspiration came from seeking to open up conversations about birth and parenting and coaching families on how to prepare for that stage of life

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced since opening New Blossom Maternity Services?

  • Learning to juggle the business side with the hands on side. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes in running a successful business! I’ve found a good balance in my time and rhythm for growing my clientele while staying true to my values as a doula

How Covid has affected your business?

  • There was a long while at the height of COVID that doulas were not permitted to join their families in the hospital. Many families moved to birth centers or home births so that they could have their doulas accompany them. This also meant mothers giving birth in hospital would not have their support people and doula support was provided virtually. Virtual doula support was a good band aid at the time but it’s great to be back supporting mothers side by side when they give birth in the hospital space!

What do you wish people knew about New Blossom Maternity Services?

  • I have digital courses available! I was an instructional designer (course and curriculum writing) prior to becoming a doula. Having digital courses provides families with ways to access my services from wherever they are located or if my availability is full for their due date.

Meet Mom Boss:: Kerri Ann

Kerri-Anne Brown is the founder and owner of Healing with Wisdom
Reproductive and Maternal Mental Health
Serving Central Florida

Healing With Wisdom was founded in October 2012

What was the inspiration for starting Healing With Wisdom?

  • My inspiration for starting my business was born out of my desire to serve others. I had experienced a stillbirth and in my search for a therapist at the time, I couldn’t find a provider that looked like me. It was important to me that there was more representation in the community for others seeking support. I’ve always had a passion for helping others and I consider it a privilege that people share their sacred stories with me every day.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Healing With Wisdom?

  • Being a mother and a business owner is no easy task. It takes a lot of effort and intention to ensure that I’m keeping my cup filled as I’m caring for my clients and my family. It’s a challenge and I’m committed to the daily practices that help me to show up fully for myself and others.

How has COVID affect Healing With Wisdom?

  • Covid helped shape my practice in the most beautiful way that I didn’t know was possible. I transitioned to providing therapy online at the onset of the pandemic and realized that I could keep it that way and be just as effective. It also helped me create better harmony between work and home life. It’s the change I didn’t know I needed until it happened.

What do you wish people knew about Healing With Wisdom?

  • I want people to know that therapy isn’t just for those with mental illness. It’s for everyone. My practice focuses on pregnancy, postpartum, infertility and loss. No one is defined by their reproductive experiences. If your path to parenthood has gone awry, I’m here to support you.

Meet Mom Boss:: Danielle

Danielle Bjork is the founder and owner of Birchwood Coffee

2107 East semoran blvd, Unit D

Apopka, Florida 32703

Birchwood Coffee Co was founded in May 2021

What was the inspiration for starting Birchwood Coffee Co?

  • My family is my inspiration. My grandmother introduced me to coffee when I was about 8 years old. My love for it grew with age and I knew that if I was ever gonna have a shop of my own I had to go back to my roots. At Birchwood Coffee Co you will find amazing southern desserts which are all family recipes paired with delicious locally roasted coffee.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Birchwood Coffee Co?

  • Opening our doors in the midst of Covid definitely presented its fair share of trials. However, we didn’t want that to stop us. These days we are focused on bringing awareness to our brand, and reaching our community.

How has COVID affect Birchwood Coffee Co?

  • There was no way to prepare for covid and the effects it had on small businesses. We want to make sure our community and the surrounding areas know we’re here and that we take every precaution to ensure your safety.

What do you wish people knew about Birchwood Coffee Co?

  • I wish people knew that we are here to meet and exceed your expectations on a coffee house experience. Bringing a southern flair and charm with undeniable hospitality and kindness.

Meet Mom Boss:: Jinelle

Jinelle Ward is the founder and owner of Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC 

Serving Central FL

Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC was founded in January 2020

What was the inspiration for starting Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC?

  • A lot of people ask…..Why “Eleven Twelve”? Great question! The name was birthed, first of all, to honor my brother, who was born on November 12, 1980. David Keith Nisbett II was a big personality with a contagious smile and an infectious laugh. Unfortunately, his life was cut short at the age of 19, which continues to leave a huge void for all that knew him. Eleven Twelve was named to honor his legacy and keep his memory alive. Eleven Twelve was also named to honor my faith. Jeremiah 29:11-12 is one of my favorite scriptures and has become my mantra especially in times of uncertainty. Bonus…..it’s also my pastor’s birthday! There are many more reasons for the name, which you can read about on the website, but just know that the name has meaning, purpose, and passion behind it, just like the items we create.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC?

  • The usual pitfalls of business, like the ebs and flows of the market, global pandemic, social media algorithms, navigating motherhood and business ownership.

How has COVID affect Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC?

  • Shipping times for supplies increased at the peak of the foundation of the business, making it difficult to get orders out as quickly as I wanted. However, COVID also made people more leery of shopping in the stores, so my product offerings were a good alternative since we offer shipping and no contact pickup.

What do you wish people knew about Eleven Twelve Customs, LLC?

  • We create more than shirts! We have a wide range of product offerings aside from shirts and we can customize! In addition to creating statement tees and other items, I have also been blessed to be a part of so many special moments, like birthdays, graduations, baby showers, pregnancy announcements, sports games, girls’ trips, family photos, and so much more.  I love to have a hand in making those memories extra special with a custom touch. My hope is that you can see my heart in everything that I create.

Meet Mom Bosses:: Jamelah and Dorielle

Dr. Jamelah Tucker and Dr. Dorielle Price are the founders and owners of EasyPeasie Veggie Blends

Serving Central Florida

EasyPeasie Veggie Blends  was started in 2013

What was the inspiration for starting EasyPeasie Veggie Blends?

  • In 2013, we Peas started drying and grinding vegetables and adding them to the kids’ favorite foods as an easy way to get the kids in our family warmed up to veggie flavors, from as early as infancy.  Though we didn’t know it at the time, this was also the infancy of EasyPeasie Veggie Blends.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced at EasyPeasie Veggie Blends?

  • Our very first farmer’s market was in Sanford FL in January of 2016.  Although the physical look and packaging of our Blends was familiar to our families (EasyPeasie is essentially like a seasoning), the application of our product (for veggie flavor teaching) was completely new.  We did and still do spend a lot of time and resources teaching families about how EasyPeasie works!

What do you wish people knew about EasyPeasie Veggie Blends?

  • When crafting our products, we like to work with tried-and-true ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil. Occasionally we will incorporate ingredients currently trending in our industry.  The scent combinations we use are subtle, sexy, and often a blend of essential and fragrance oils. We use our friends and family as our guinea pigs to try our sample batches of products. Of course, they love it! They give us honest feedback on scents, textures, and product effectiveness. Either we go back and revamp our recipes or we get the greenlight to get the ball rolling on production. When it comes to soap I love to use vibrant colors to create unique designs. Each soap is a small work of fragrant art. Our soaps and bath and body products are created in small batches to ensure the absolute best in quality.

How has COVID impacted EasyPeasie Veggie Blends?

  • When COVID hit, we essentially had to quickly pivot from being a 100% face-to-face farmer’s market business to a 100% online business.  Our sales in 2020 suffered dramatically; by 2021 we had started to pick up steam

What do you wish people knew about EasyPeasie Veggie Blends?

  • As a pediatrician and a mom of two, we “Peas” of EasyPeasie are right here in the veggie struggle with you!

Meet Mom Bosses:: Natasha and Jennifer

Natasha Byrd-Gaylon and Jennifer Peets are the founders and owners of Naked Bar Soap Co

Serving Central Florida

Naked Bar Soap Co was started in 2013

What was the inspiration for starting Naked Bar Soap Co?

  • Natasha’s family’s skin conditions were the catalyst for her to begin creating handmade soaps and crafting her own bath and body recipes. In the beginning she was only crafting soap for family and friends as well as selling at a few farmers markets.  Her best friend Jennifer was a huge fan of her soaps and helped her envision taking what she started to the next level. Through their Afro Latina roots they shared a cultural bond as well as a love for all thing’s natural beauty and skincare. It was the goal to create a brand of natural beauty products reflecting a bit of Natasha’s subtle sexiness as well as Jennifer’s bold tongue in cheek personality. The Yin and the Yang is how they view their friendship and our partnership.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced during COVID at Naked Bar Soap Co?

  • We have certainly had to adapt during this time of the pandemic. In 2015 we opened our brick-and-mortar store located in the downtown Orlando neighborhood of College Park. Early in the pandemic we made the decision to not re-open our shop due to its small size and limitations for social distancing. Over the course of the last 2 years, we have focused our energy on servicing and growing our customer base through social media and email marketing. While we do miss the direct connection to our local customers, we have been receiving nothing but positive support and love for our business growth.

What do you wish people knew about Naked Bar Soap Co?

  • When crafting our products, we like to work with tried-and-true ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil. Occasionally we will incorporate ingredients currently trending in our industry.  The scent combinations we use are subtle, sexy, and often a blend of essential and fragrance oils. We use our friends and family as our guinea pigs to try our sample batches of products. Of course, they love it! They give us honest feedback on scents, textures, and product effectiveness. Either we go back and revamp our recipes or we get the greenlight to get the ball rolling on production. When it comes to soap I love to use vibrant colors to create unique designs. Each soap is a small work of fragrant art. Our soaps and bath and body products are created in small batches to ensure the absolute best in quality.

Meet Mom Boss:: Vanetta

Vanetta Anderson is the founder and owner of Hydrolux Wellness Lounge

405 Lake Howell Road Suite 1001
Maitland, FL 32751

Hydrolux Wellness Lounge was started in March 2020

What was the inspiration for starting Hydrolux Wellness Lounge?

  • Working in healthcare over the years, I was getting tired of seeing patients who dealt with preventable diseases (sometimes multiple preventative diseases).  I witnessed children develop conditions that were commonly seen in older adults.  I knew that I wanted to focus more on preventative healthcare. I took a leap of faith and developed Hydrolux Wellness Lounge.  During the pandemic I started a business without any entrepreneur experience.   My inspiration has been helping others live healthier lives and promote self-care.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced since opening Hydrolux Wellness Lounge?

  • In March 2021, Hydrolux officially opened located in Maitland, FL.  Some of the services include:  IV vitamin therapy, vitamin injections, weight loss services, facials, and massage therapy.  Over the last year there have been some “uh oh” moments.  I called this a journey, because there have been many ups and downs.  I had to step out of my comfort zone, make mistakes, deal with naysayers and rejection.  During this journey I have learned that there is always a solution to a problem and to trust the process.  I no longer get upset when things don’t go as planned, I look for an alternative and know that everything happens for a reason.

How Covid has affected your business?

  • Covid-19 has affected my business because it made people more health conscious.  I have clients who say they want to lose weight or boost their immune system because of Covid.  On the downside, it’s hard to get supplies and dealing with price increases for supplies.

What do you wish people knew about Hydrolux Wellness Lounge?

  • Although it is becoming more popular, there are a lot of people who have never heard of receiving an elective IV.  I wish people knew the wonderful benefits about IV therapy.  Such as, you get 100% absorption of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.  Nutrients go directly to the bloodstream and start to work on a cellular level.  Also, I wish more people in Orlando knew about Hydrolux.

Meet Mom Boss:: Sharday

Sharday A. Joseph BS, RDMS, RDCS is the founder of Advanced Ultrasound

Advanced Ultrasound FL was started on 3/02/2020

What was the inspiration for starting Advanced Ultrasound?

  • Due to the lack of black Sonographers (Ultrasound Techs) throughout Central Florida, my husband and I opened Advanced Ultrasound to improve equality and diversity in the workforce.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced since opening Advanced Ultrasound?

  • Not having a mentor or consultant to seek help from. There are lots of mobile ultrasound consultants however there were none readily available to help Advanced Ultrasound in becoming an (IDTF) Independent Diagnostic Testing Facility. We had to learn as we went along.

How Covid has affected your business?

  • Unlike the most medical offices or hospitals we still allow our expecting moms to bring more than one guest to their ultrasound appointment; however, we now recommend everyone to wear a mask.

What do you wish people knew about Advanced Ultrasound?

  • We provide all types of ultrasounds such as adults, pediatrics, and maternal fetal medicine- with same day ultrasound appointments and a same day medical report. We service Kissimmee, Davenport, Poinciana, St. Cloud, And Orlando FL.

Meet Mom Boss:: Tamiqua

Tamiqua Torres, IBCLC is the founder and owner of Latching in Love Lactation Services

Serving Central Florida

407-734-1021

Latching in Love was started in April 2019

What was the inspiration for starting Latching in Love Lactation Services?

  • The idea started while I was breastfeeding my son. Instagram and hashtags where still new and I would post pictures of us with the hashtag #latchinginlove.I didn’t know that it would become a business or that I would become a Lactation Consultant. It all started with me going back to work and not having a safe, clean place for me to pump while at work. I started my work in lactation by advocating for myself and other moms working who wanted to provide breastmilk for their babies. I became the person to talk to about breastfeeding, making more milk and how to manage pumping while at work. Any person I came across while at work who was expecting I made sure that they had a right to pump while at work and what that should look like.  I started doing more mom to mom encouragement, sharing of safe evidence based resources. I quickly became the person people would tell “you know, you should talk to Tamiqua” and before I knew it I was happier helping others meet their breastfeeding goals than I was at my day job. I started researching how to do this full time. The plan was to start by becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor, but sometimes plans are halted. I was diagnosed with a rare Desmoid Tumor and needed to start radiation treatment immediately putting my training on hold. I completed 28 rounds of radiation and then had to go back to work almost immediately, only I wasn’t ready physically or emotionally. I went back because I had to. I’d used all of my family and medical leave time getting treatment. In the mean time I signed up once again to take my course and exam to become a Certified Lactation Counselor. A few weeks later my employer announced that they where downsizing and we could volunteer to take a package. Without hesitation I did and started working on Latching in Love in April 2019 Full-Time. Since then we relocated to Orlando where I now reside with my husband and two children.

What are some trials and tribulations you have faced since opening Latching in Love Lactation Services?

  • I’ve faced a few trials along the way of growing Latching in Love, what I wished more knew about my business as a Lactation Consultant is that 1:Seeing a Lactation Consultant while you’re pregnant for a Prenatal Class and a Breast assessment is important. Learning what to expect with breastfeeding and early newborn behavior the first few weeks is important in establishing a good milk supply. 2:Getting help from a professional lactation consultant should happen within the first week or two home. 3: I meet each and every parent and baby where they are physically, mentally and emotionally. My goal is to help you meet your goals and whatever that looks like.

How Covid has affected your business?

  • Like other businesses COVID has made it harder. Parents are concerned about people being around their new babies and sometimes that may prevent them from getting help sooner than later. Which is why I always offer parents the option to do a virtual appointment before doing an in-home appointment. I wear PPE when in the visit and do my best to keep myself and family protected. I saw the impact first hand of how COVID impacted new families. For some I was the only provider besides a pediatrician that a family was seeing. I saw how impacted some families and I knew I wanted to do more. It led be to become a Postpartum Doula. I can now to do more to help families. Families are now able to get Postpartum Doula Services from an IBCLC. I am doing more to help moms recover and families get to know their new person.

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