Meet this weeks’ Meet-A-Mom, Madeline Barbeito! Born in Puerto Rico, now living in Rumson, Madeline is one creative wife and mama of two! She’s the owner to several Etsy shops, including her newest venture, Little Magic, an event and styling business. When she’s not busy working, you’ll find Madeline at the beach, reading to her children, or kicking back and playing some video games. Truly a laid back and down to earth mama! Read more about Madeline and her beautiful family below!
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I was born in PR and now live in Rumson. We have been here since April 2018
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
Max 6
Amelia 4
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
As much as I nag Max about playing video games, I actually love playing video games myself!
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
I am thankful for my husband’s patience and relaxed ways, I have a long way to go but it has definitely rubbed off on me. We all have different views on how to raise children, we all have different perspectives and life experiences that make us unique and it is a special gift to have a circle of friends where you can ask for advice and give yours without feeling judged. So my husband, coupled with my close friends and a number of half read books would be who/what I would have to thank.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
Play video games – shhhhh ☺
Going for walks when they indulge me
I love reading to them
Going to the beach
When it comes to playing, Legos, Magna Tiles and Arts & Crafts are my top three
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I have two Etsy shops:
Simply Mad Weddings – Charming Wedding Tress with Crystal Ornaments/Favors
www.facebook.com/SimplyMadWeddings
Instagram – simplymadweddings
Etsy – www.etsy.com/shop/SimplyMadWeddings
Simply Mad Jewelry – Sparkly Swarovski Jewelry
www.facebook.com/SimplyMadJewelry
Instagram – simplymadjewelry
Etsy – www.etsy.com/shop/SimplyMadJewelry
And just before we went into quarantine, I launched Little Magic – an event planning and styling business. While I am happy to report people are still holding small gatherings, I am focusing on handmade decorations and party favors which I deliver to clients and then set it up – a more DIY approach to what I was originally intending. The idea of “decorating kits” has become really popular. I am trying to build an Etsy shop, but for me the fun is in making decorations 100% customized and personalized, you know? Just creating something special for each client.
www.facebook.com/littlemagicnj
Instagram – #littlemagicnj
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
The Rumson community and all the moms I have been lucky to meet and get close to, have been extremely supportive of Little Magic. Many lend their kids birthday parties last years as opportunities for me to practice and gain confidence and I am very grateful to have that support behind me.
What is your favorite restaurant in Monmouth County?
We are home-buddies and are happiest having dinner sitting on the floor watching a show. When we go out, we really don’t have a go-to place, but we do like Lupo in Fair Haven, Eventide Grille in Monmouth Beach (or Sea Bright – not sure) and Brother’s Pizza in Red Bank, all very casual.
What is your favorite activity to do with your child(ren) in Monmouth County?
During non-pandemic times, I love taking them to shows at Count Basie and Happy Day Farm is great for blueberry and sunflower picking. Occasionally, we would go to the Oceanic Library in Rumson. And of course, the beach.
What are your Mom Goals?
My mom goals are two-fold: I want my kids to grow up to be happy, well rounded people with a kind heart and strong sense of self and individuality. Also, as a mom I want to continue to explore new projects and work on my businesses to show them a mom can be many things and accomplish anything she works hard for. I feel blessed to be able to have my business AND be home with them – for me is the best balance and it is what works best for our family.