JUDY FLOWERS of MADE at the Park
Ridgewood
Founder, MADE at the Park, madeatthepark.com
Husband, Steven; kids Thelma, 9 and Boris, 6
Tell us about your business. MADE at the Park in Midland Park is a boutique DIY studio that offers hands-on classes for creating custom home decor. We make custom signs, wreath trays, pillows, clocks, lazy Susans and much more. We also offer classes using Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan as well as general finish products.
What inspired the idea? I always want to get together with friends. I wanted to create a place where you can meet new friends or get together with old ones and learn new crafts while having a glass of wine. Yes, our events are BYOB.
How do you differentiate yourself and your business? You don’t feel like you’re in a studio. You feel like you’re in your living room having fun with friends. We want you to make something that you can use at home.
What’s the hardest part of juggling the kids with being your own boss? It’s never easy. My store is open from 10 to 2.30pm and during this time I teach people how to transform their furniture with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. Then at night are my ladies’ nights. The kids help me create new workshops. We have a new personalized rug and a 36″ clock coming up this spring.
What’s your best piece of advice for other parents looking to start their own business? If you enjoy what you’re doing, go for it! You’ll find the balance. Your kids will see how you can work and be happy doing it!