MBP: What surprised you most about becoming a mom?
Genie: How much I am capable of; becoming a mom gave me so much more confidence in myself. I am so afraid of failing. However, since having kids, I have learned to take risks and to trust myself. Most importantly, I didn’t know how much more having children would make my love for my husband grow. I for sure was not expecting that!
MBP: What’s something no one warned you about having two little ones?
Genie: How much better life gets! I felt like all people kept telling me was things like “You just wait, you think you’re tired now,” or “You’ll never have time to yourself,” and so on. Obviously, there is more stress, less sleep, and life is 100% louder, but it is so much sweeter!
MBP: What does a “good mom day” look like to you?
Genie: A day where there is no schedule, nowhere to be, and no fighting over outfits. I think my perfect “good mom day” is the four of us on the water together.
MBP: What’s in your current daily non-negotiable?
Genie : Quality time as a whole family, even if it’s only ten minutes. During the week, we will often go for a walk or even a bike ride together.
MBP: What’s one routine that keeps your sanity?
Genie: I am not much of a routine girl. One could say we thrive in chaos. Any tips and tricks are more than welcome.
MBP: What’s something you thought you’d never do as a mom—but now do?
Genie: Letting my kids eat junk food for breakfast. What’s that they say – fed is best! My kids really enjoy Zbars and Pirate Booty.
MBP: What’s your biggest mom struggle right now?
Genie: Juggling being a business owner and a mom. I really struggle with work-life balance, and feeling like I am not giving enough of myself to my kids and husband.
MBP: What’s one thing you’ve learned to let go of?
Genie: The idea that everything has to be perfect, and to embrace the imperfection.
MBP: What advice would you give yourself as a first-time mom?
Genie: As parents, we are in charge of our kids’ childhood memories. So don’t sweat the small stuff, make each day fun and full of love, because that’s what they will remember, and at the end of the day, that’s what matters most.
MBP: How has working with your mom side by side changed your relationship as mother and daughter?
Genie: We have always been really close, and I admire her so much! She probably doesn’t think it, but I value her opinions more than my own. We work really well together, but it’s a good thing we don’t have an HR department.
I honestly would not have been brave enough to take the leap of opening the shop without my mom. She believes in me so much more than I believe in myself.
MBP: What is one lesson your mom taught you growing up that you now see playing out in your work life?
Genie: She has always encouraged me to be my true self and focus on what I love to do. I think my mom is the most likable person ever, she makes everyone feel special and loved.
MBP: As a working mom, you have both the kids enrolled in daycare. What would you say to a mom preparing to leave her child at daycare for the first time?
Genie: For me, it’s all about the quality time we spend together. It’s so important to me that when I’m with my kids, I’m fully present with them! I have to work, and I love working, and that’s okay. No one should have to feel guilty about working.
Rapid Fire Questions:
Coffee or energy drink? Energy drink
Staying in or getting out of the house? Getting out
Early bedtime or slow mornings? Slow morning
Messy play or quiet play? Messy play
Laundry or dishes? Dishes
Genie Baker has been married to her husband Cory for eight years. Together they have two children — George (4) and Bea (1). They also have their dog, Rooster, who completes their pack. The Baker family loves to spend a lot of time on Fowl River, swimming, fishing, and boating. Genie also owns a fine stationery and gift shop with her mom called It’s Inviting. They specialize in custom wedding and party invites, gift registry, and more.
