MARIAH DE LA CRUZ

YELITZA LIRANZO of Glitter & Glam

Ridgefield Park
Owner and Founder, Glitter & Glam, Paramus, glitterandglamspa.com
Husband Enrique; mom to Emerie, 10 and Brielle, 4; stepmom to Melanie, 14

Tell us about your business. Glitter & Glam is a 3,000-square-foot kids’ salon, spa and party destination located inside Paramus Park Mall. We focus on delivering a fairytale experience to young girls by providing an exclusive spa-like treatment while promoting self-confidence.

What inspired the idea? I was inspired by my love for both children and retail. I was a retail manager for well over 10 years and knew the mall was a perfect place for both kids and moms. Of course, being a mother of three girls, I knew we simply didn’t have enough places for girls here in New Jersey. With the support of my husband, who always believed in entrepreneurship, it all began. I put my three favorite components together: children, princesses and the mall!

How do you differentiate your business? Glitter & Glam is a unique concept geared directly towards moms and kids. It was built to give both mommy and daughter the chance to be treated like the royalty they are.

What’s the hardest part of juggling the kids and being your own boss? Dealing with the guilt of entertaining other children while my own are with grandma or dad. I balance it by ensuring that on my day off, we plan some family time to look forward to.

What’s your best advice for parents looking to start their own businesses? Do your research first. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Give yourself enough time, then go full force!