This year’s Mamas Making It Summit was an absolute hit. But don’t take our word for it — read on to meet some of our VIP attendees and the best advice they received from our big day.

NAME:

Olena Galyuk

IG:

@helen_marlen, @g.bar.la

CAREER:

Owner of beauty bar G.Bar

KIDS

Eva (8 y.o) and May (5 y.o)

CAREER JOURNEY:

Originally from Ukraine, I grew up always wanting to do something that can benefit other people, not necessarily in financial terms, but to make other people happy with what I do. This desire led me to become an owner of a beauty bar called G.Bar that is a part of a growing franchise born in Ukraine. Today there are more than 40 locations worldwide and one in US.

PRODUCTIVITY HACK:

I like making a list of things I need to do and write in down, so I can track my progress. Keeping everything written down is my hack. Otherwise, things slip into a black hole of procrastination :)

UPCOMING PROJECTS:

We are thinking about expanding and opening more new G.Bar locations in Los Angeles and vicinity.

BEST MMIS ADVICE:

Prioritize and delegate! Because at times it feels like you CAN handle it all, but you probably shouldn’t. I feel like it’s very important to keep that work-life balance and still be emotionally available for your family and loved ones after a long week.

NAME:

Nicole Berru

IG:

@thetreehouse.toys @thatfamilyfromla

CAREER:

Owner of The Treehouse Toys

KIDS:

Camilo Age 6, Cruz Age 1

CAREER JOURNEY:

I had a vision of creating my own children's toy store for years. I mean, what better way to live my life, then to bring joy and happiness to little's? After 10 years, I finally left my corporate finance job and followed my dream. I've never felt lighter and more free to follow my creative passions.

PRODUCTIVITY HACK:

Every night I review and update my checklist based on priority. With kids, it's impossible to get everything done, but if I can take care of 2-3 priority items, I feel like I had a successful day.

UPCOMING PROJECTS:

I'm going to be set up as a vendor at two major Los Angeles family events. On April 30th, I will be at Bob Baker Day at Los Angeles State Historic Park. On May 6th and 7th, I'll be at the Autry at Griffith Park for the Great Big Family Play Day. I hope to see you there!

BEST MMIS ADVICE:

I connected with two major messages. First, everyone's journey is different and our path is not linear. So we need to be patient, and keep moving forward. Eventually, we will all look back at how far we've come. Second, self care is everything. It seemed to be the foundation of all of these amazing, successful, and beautiful group of women. It's also the easiest thing for me to overlook with a 1 year old and 6 year old. But the message really resonated. Thank you ladies!

NAME:

Lisa Audia

IG:

@belezaswimwear, @lisaaudia

CAREER:

Founder, Beleza Swimwear

BABES:

Mischa 3 years old

CAREER JOURNEY:

During a girls' trip to California, I realized the challenges of finding well-fitting bikinis that truly flatter my gfs and mine bodies from top and bottom (from Canada). As a result, I realized a lot of women would mix and match different brands to find the optimal fit. That's where my career as a founder and designer started and where Beleza Swimwear was born; a brand that focuses on providing versatile, timeless pieces that are also fashion-forward. As I have grown as a person and mom (hence the re-brand), my designs are also changing and am super excited to launch the mama and me collection, 1 size fits all cover ups and some beautiful new sexy and classy 1 pieces! I also should add that our brand has always been ethically made in LA in small batches as we have always been hyper aware of the waste & overstock in brands and on the environment.

PRODUCTIVITY HACK:

The High Performance Planner (notebook can be ordered off Amazon)

UPCOMING PROJECTS:

Yes! Re-branding (including a new name) and launching mama and me swim soon!!!! Also have super cute 1 size fits all cover ups we are launching!

BEST MMIS MOMENT:

I thoroughly enjoyed the summit's overall vibe and how intimate it felt. Being new to this city and not knowing many people, it made me feel right at home and less alone. I had some incredible conversations and met some amazing people, and for that, I am truly grateful.Furthermore, I appreciated that the speakers were open and honest about their experiences, both good and bad, including their struggles and setbacks. As someone who has faced many setbacks with my swim company, their stories reignited my passion and motivated me to keep pushing forward. Thank you so much for organizing such an inspiring event.

Takeaways From Our 2023 Mamas Making It Summit, According to VIPs