We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Rios and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Natalie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Jessenia and I (Natalie) are first-generation, Dominican American sisters, raised in NYC and living in Brooklyn, NY. Five years ago, we decided to feed our entrepreneurial spirit and go into business – this is how we launched Lola & tots – a cultural education center that now offers co-working space with childcare in efforts to redefine work-life balance for parents.
Lola & tots was born out of a vision we both share of making the world a more accepting and tolerant place through early education and cultural exploration. The idea of honoring diversity within early childhood is top of mind when we design the enrichment programming, bilingual classes and workshops offered at our space. As a single mother, we know how important our community is when raising children which is why designing a space that benefits the entire family was very important to us. With flexibility surrounding our membership-based childcare with co-working benefits, enrichment programming, open play, or event space opportunities, the idea is to offer a space that nurtures a community of like-minded parents.
What should our readers know about your business?
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We love Brooklyn! It has such a great mix of people, cultural activities and a very rich foodie scene. Here are some must do’s for us:
Eats:
How can I pick just one?!
To indulge your sweet tooth, you must visit Fan Fan Doughnuts for some artisanal handmade sweets inspired from flavors all over the globe. Latina Women Owned and just a block away from little Lola and tots. Our familia’s Fan Fan favorite is the guava and cheese with crunchy brown butter cookie crumble. https://www.fan-fandoughnuts.com/
For some savory arepas, Guacuco is a must. Whether it’s arepas, cachapas or empanadas, you cannot go wrong. Just don’t forget to end the meal with a cold cocada, it’s definitely a must for us. https://www.guacuconyc.com/bed-stuy/
Whether dinner, brunch or drinks, you can’t go wrong with Sally’s. Owned by a fellow member of our little Lola & tots familia, the Caribbean-Asian menu at this laid-back, family friendly spot, is sure to satisfy and provide a total vacay vibe. https://www.sallysbk.com/
Drinks:
Wine with a touch of that special, Bed Stuy vibe, Bed Vyne Brew is a must!
For rum and reggae, Lovers Rock is the spot!
https://www.flowcode.com/page/loversrock
Cocktails, anyone? Dick and Janes is the place to go.
Visit & Hangout:
There’s always a cool exhibit happening at the Brooklyn Museum – https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/
Walking around the vibrant mural scene in Bushwick is a fave – http://thebushwickcollective.com/#
If you are looking for a cool hang on a nice day, Domino Park is the place to go – https://www.dominopark.com/
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes out to my sister, business partner, co-parent, Jessenia. Although we are on this entrepreneur adventure together, she is my biggest motivator. Jessenia and I have ventured and taken lots of risks but at the same time, life does not stop. As a single mother I am constantly juggling between mamahood and work. Jessenia is always there to support me on the good and not so good days – whether it’s having my back when one of my children are sick or nominating me for opportunities that will allow me to grow professionally, her belief in my capabilities is undying and without that, I don’t know if I would be able to accomplish all that I do. She is definitely my greatest supporter.
Website: https://www.littlelolatots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/little.lola.and.tots/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-lola-tots
Twitter: https://twitter.com/littlelolatots?lang=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littlelolatots/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/little-lola-and-tots-brooklyn
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq9uAM3V0T9tKbViZJfZ6qQ
Other: https://www.instagram.com/travel.con.lola/
Image Credits
https://www.pjrphotography.com/ https://www.stylishhipkids.com/