BCM - How did your life change when you became a mom?

Melody -I realized I could no longer just walk out of my house to an appointment.  I had to do something with my infant! 

BCM - What has been your most memorable moment (s) as a mom?

Melody - My mom and sister came from Houston to help 2 weeks after my son was born.  My mom recalls that one morning I opened the front door, put my crying son in her arms and said "Thanks Mom, I'm going for a massage".

BCM - What has been the biggest challenge for you in motherhood?

Melody - Changing myself.  I learned that no matter how many parenting classes you take, one still has echoes of their own upbringing.  My most difficult moments have been when I've said or done something that I realize was not the best choice.  I counter these moments by resolving to evolve and grow from these experiences. 

BCM - How do you manage your career while being a mother and a wife? Any advice for moms? ?

Melody - Before I started my business, I performed at night on Broadway. Most of my days were free to enjoy my son.  Now that I have Smart Start Sitters, it's much more challenging.  I struggle with making set times when I must not work on the business.  I was told by a very successful Mompreneur to make a clear delineation between business hours and family hours.  It's a continual challenge. 

BCM - Tell us more about Smart Start Sitters.  How can Big City Moms benefit from your company? 

Melody - Smart Start Sitters was created out of my need to have a care giver for my son who understood  his level of development. Once I mastered how to find these wonderful people, I had such peace of mind.  I wanted to share this with other moms.

BCM - Do you have any tips for moms who want to become entrepreneurs?

Melody - The most important question before you start your business:  "Where's the money?" 

BCM - What types of activities do you like to do w/ your kids?

Melody - Play board games, swim together, making meals together, reading and just spend time talking and laughing. 

BCM- If you could give another mom or expectant mom one piece of advice, what would it be?

Melody - You will get a lot of advice from friends and family about what to do with your baby. The truth of the matter is, you, or you and your partner, are the people who really know what your child needs.  All you have to do is give yourself a little time, take a moment to reflect, look at your child and you'll know.  You are truly the expert. 

BCM - What is the best parenting advice that you have received?

Melody - Let your child explore and try things.   Doing things for themselves, even when they are very small, builds strong self-esteem and confidence within your child.