“Along the way, I have discovered that I can overcome new challenges and forge unexpected paths.”
Lisa Newsome, creator of North Carolina based MomtessoriDesign, shares her entrepreneurial journey.
What is your professional background? My Montessori journey began early in my teaching career. After graduating college in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, I secured my first teaching role in a public Montessori school. This opportunity opened the doors for my Montessori AMS 6-9 training. I taught my first five years as a Lower Elementary lead teacher. I later found myself in pursuit of an environment that wholeheartedly embraced Montessori principles and in 2012 I transitioned to an independent Montessori school. I welcomed the chance to grow and learn within a vibrant new community. During the next few years, I was blessed with two boys, and my journey as both a Montessori mom and teacher unfolded. I taught through the Covid pandemic, grew my skills in creating digital content and lessons, and served on several leadership committees in addition to my role as Lower Elementary Team Lead. Growing within the Montessori community has been both fulfilling and rewarding!
Describe your Etsy store. My Etsy shop, MOMtessori Design, offers a wide range of Montessori inspired products, from unique gifts and apparel, to classroom decor and educational materials. I strive to offer a variety of products for the Montessori homeschool parent, classroom teacher, or the Montessori gift-giver. I’m excited to offer materials that support student learning and enhance the classroom environment. I hope that the products in my shop also provide a small way to celebrate the dedicated work of Montessorians as well as spread curiosity and interest about Montessori education!
What led you to begin the store? Following a remarkable 15 year tenure as a Lower Elementary directress, I recognized the need to pause, reflect and rebalance. This has allowed me to focus on a new and exciting adventure of becoming an entrepreneur and small family business owner! My MOMtessori Design Etsy shop began with my desire to stay connected with and continue to serve the Montessori community. I’ve always loved the hands-on and creative aspect of teaching within a Montessori classroom and I love that I get to pursue those talents in a new and exciting way!
What have you learned along the way? Along the way, I have discovered that I can overcome new challenges and forge unexpected paths. I constantly remind myself that I must take on the same valuable lessons I impart to my students- to embrace the challenge of learning something new, and persevere through it!
Furthermore, my interactions as a shop owner reaffirm that Montessorians are a treasure. I enjoy hearing from homeschool parents, gift-givers, Montessori teachers or administrators, as they share who they are and their unique journeys. Each encouraging word and small personal note from a customer serves as a reminder of the heartwarming, kind and inspiring community I’ve grown to love.
Where do you hope that your store goes? As my shop grows I am continually adding new listings to bring fun and engaging Montessori products my customers will love! I hope to offer an even wider array of Montessori inspired items that will help enhance everyone’s Montessori experience at home or in the classroom.
I also aim to offer educational lessons for the 6-9 child through my newly started YouTube channel– including some of my favorite Montessori lessons that may not typically be found in your elementary album.
What else would you like to add? If you are interested in exploring new materials and products tailored to the everyday Montessorian, visit my shop at www.MOMtessoriDesign.etsy.com
For more updates, upcoming holiday deals, and Montessori inspirations, connect with me on Instagram: @momtessoridesign
Lastly, feel free to check out my Youtube channel and be sure to subscribe if you would like notifications for newly published lessons! https://www.youtube.com/@momtessoridesign
Great job!