“I give myself a three year cycle to learn, practice, and succeed”
Lisa, the owner of the MOMtessori Design Shop uses her Montessori experience to create meaningful products for teachers and parents as she balances her role as a classroom Guide, a mother and a business owner.
Your store shows 2.5 years in business. In that time, what has been your best selling item/s? As my MOMtessori Design shop continues to grow, some of my best-selling items have included a Telling Time Wall Clock, a Montessori Themed T-Shirt, and my Montessori Place Value Mats. Many of the materials I offer, like the place value mats, were inspired by handmade versions, but not widely available. I always aim to make Montessori materials more accessible and functional for classroom and home use. I’ve also enjoyed designing Montessori-themed apparel, which can be surprisingly hard to find! It’s been exciting to offer fun, thoughtful items that highlight the beauty and purpose of Montessori.
In general, who is your customer? I serve a diverse range of customers who are passionate about Montessori education, including Montessori parents, educators, homeschool families, and thoughtful gift givers. Many of my customers are looking to create a Montessori inspired environment and seek educational materials that support their child’s or students’ developmental stages. They appreciate practical resources, and value gifts that are meaningful and aligned with the Montessori philosophy. As Montessori is deeply rooted in connection and community, I’m especially grateful to have a customer base that shares those values.
What advice do you have for others who want to start a business in the next few years? For those interested in pursuing a business, start with something you’re truly passionate about and take the time to discover who you want to connect with and serve. Do your research, prepare thoughtfully, and don’t be afraid to start small. One of the most helpful things you can do is learn from others who have walked a similar path by reaching out, asking questions, and staying open to learning. Success usually takes time and patience in building a strong foundation- similar to setting up a classroom and its routines at the start of a year. Even in business, I try to give myself the gift of a three year cycle to learn, practice, and succeed!
How has your Montessori background helped you in either business leadership, operations, customer relations, marketing or other aspects? My Montessori background has been a huge asset in so many areas of my business. It’s helped me stay creative, intentional, and learner-focused. I have a clear understanding of what’s actually useful in the classroom and at home, which guides every product I design. Many of the items in my shop are ones I personally use with my own two children or in my Montessori classroom so I know they’re practical and purposeful. This background also helps me connect with my customers as I always aim to approach things with the same thoughtfulness and respect that Montessori emphasizes.
Feel free to add anything else–new products/news, quotes, etc. I am continually adding new products to my shop, from printables and classroom materials to Montessori-inspired apparel, gifts, and tote bags. Everything I create is rooted in the goal of being both useful and meaningful for Montessorians.
I’m excited about upcoming products and continuing to build a shop that celebrates and supports the Montessori community in fresh, practical ways. You can explore more of what I offer at www.MOMtessoriDesign.etsy.com or follow along on Instagram @momtessoridesign to see new product launches, behind-the-scenes updates, and Montessori inspiration.
Are you still in the classroom? If so, how do you balance your business and all the hats you wear as a teacher? When I started my MOMtessori Design shop in 2023, I was taking a break from the classroom. That first year gave me the space to learn how to run a business, build routines, and connect with the Montessori community in a new way. As I found my rhythm, I also began keeping an eye out for the right teaching opportunity. The following year, I returned to the classroom at a wonderful Montessori school that was opening a new building. I began teaching Lower Elementary there last year, and it’s been such a rewarding experience to help grow a new program.
Balancing life as a mom, a teacher, and a small business owner is definitely a challenge, but it’s also deeply fulfilling. Being back in the classroom keeps me inspired and provides insight into what’s truly useful for Montessori educators and families. I’ve learned to manage my time carefully, and the positive feedback I receive from customers reminds me that even in the smallest ways, my shop makes a positive impact.
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