This week on our “Feature Friday” we’re highlighting fellow mom and small business owner, Trish Carnevale. Trish owns Pixie & The Boy located in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago. Pixie & The Boy has great local art, jewelry, and other home goods and gifts, and we recently attended one of the fun events that Trish hosts at the shop! Come find out more about Trish, her awesome shop, and “the boy!”

Tell us a bit about yourself before you became a mom, and also how you changed when you had kids.

Before I was a mom I was definitely a lot more uptight lol. I mean, I was fun too but I took things a lot more seriously! I was also just a very self conscious person. After adopting Max my life was turned upside down. We’ve been through a lot as a family. There have been a lot of ups and downs for sure. Parenting is a lot harder than I ever imagined. It’s challenged me in so many ways! It’s helped me become who I am today though and I like that person! I’m more understanding. I’m more willing to let things go. And I’m more willing to take risks. Max has helped make me a better human.

How would you describe what you do and what inspired you?

I would describe myself as a crafter turned entrepreneur! I started Pixie & The Boy when my son started school full-time. While I was at home with him I really got into crafting. I made him burp cloths, bibs, pacifier clips and bow ties. When he started school full-time I wanted a job where I could work from home. I decided to just go for it and give this small business thang a try! I started with kids accessories (bows, bow ties, headbands & hats). Now I make everything thing from hair accessories to planters! I just love creating something from start to finish. The name was a nod to my former career as a hairstylist (Pixie) and my new life as a working mom to Max (The Boy).

What has been a highlight of your business/project? What’s been a highlight of being a mom?

The highlight has definitely been opening up my brick and mortar! I was online only for about 4 years prior. It’s so great meeting my customers face to face. I also love being able to host fun events and stock all my friends’ handmade items!

The highlight of being a mom was being able to stay at home with my son until he started school. I know how much of a luxury that is for a lot of people. I feel very fortunate.

How do you take time to focus on yourself while balancing parenting?

My husband and I are big on date night! We go out at least once per month. It’s so important to keep that connection there after kids. I also leave time for my friends. We try to get together at least once a week without our kiddos. And finally; therapy lol! But seriously. I have a weekly session with my therapist whether or not I feel I ‘need’ it. You’ve gotta take care of yourself!

What tips would you give to other moms to feel successful or empowered?

Nothing makes me feel more empowered than supporting other women; especially other moms that are small business owners. Sharing knowledge, being supportive, showing up for them. Having a network is very important to success! You can’t do it all yourself- nor should you have to!

How can people learn more about you & what you do?

Visit my website: https://www.pixieandtheboy.com/. It’s dedicated to selling just my handmade work. If they come into the shop they’ll figure out who I am right away! Everything is hand picked by me. It’s 100% my personality and aesthetic. You’ll definitely see that I don’t take myself very seriously lol. And finally; come to an event! I host all of them as well as teach some. They’re super fun and a great way to learn more about me and what I do.