Marissa Weber, our NJ Mompreneur of the Week, got her first taste of entrepreneurship when she was just 4 years old. Her mom, Diane Weber, had just launched a children’s clothing, furniture, and gear consignment shop, Cottontails Consignment, in Tinton Falls. Wanting to be involved, Marissa did random tasks around the shop to earn some money—just enough to purchase a Beanie Baby or some other special trinket she had her eye on—and she’s been involved in it ever since. Soon after graduating college, she knew the family business was where she wanted to be. Now, with Diane taking a step back and Marissa taking a step forward, entrepreneurship is proving to be the right choice for Marissa and her family. We caught up with this busy mom of one to discover what about the business resonates with her core values, the unusual hobby she does that gives her a thrill (hint: it has to do with sharks!), and where you can find her family outside any time of year.
Please share a bit about your family and background. I’ve lived in Aberdeen for nearly 10 years with my husband, James, and our son, Aedan, 2 ½. Aberdeen is great because it’s easy enough to get to NYC and the shore, plus there’s lots of nature and concert venues nearby, but it’s ideal because it’s close to my mom and dad, who still live in Hazlett, in my childhood home. When my mom launched Cottontails Consignment in 1992 with her sister, Alice, who eventually moved back to California, I was only 4. I’d do little tasks to earn a dollar or so, to buy a beanie baby or something else I wanted, and throughout the years, I never stopped being involved in the business. I studied journalism and public relations at Monmouth University but decided to continue at Cottontails instead of pursuing that field after graduation. Then, when I became a mom, I realized this business was the best decision for our family. We get to spend so much quality time together and have the freedom and flexibility of a family-owned business. My mom is still involved, but she’s stepping back more and more and letting James and I take the reins as we combine navigating parenthood and the business.
What’s the best thing about owning this particular business? I’ve always been super passionate about the conscious consumer and the environmental aspect of this business—I firmly believe that almost everything we use can and should continue to have a life after it no longer serves a purpose to us. I also love being able to help families make things more affordable because raising kids is so expensive. We’ve also grown to include a little community pantry here. It started as a diaper exchange in our bathroom, but now we also have formula, baby food, and feeding and nursing supplies. It’s all about moms helping moms, and I feel so fortunate that we’re in a perfect space to give back.
What about the most challenging thing? Balancing work life and mom life can be challenging. Right now, Aedan is here about once a week, and though those days are the most fun, they’re also the most challenging ones for James and me because we’re definitely less effective on those days.
How do you split up the business’s responsibilities? We all work well together and share responsibilities like the intake and pricing of everything. It’s important to us to be well-rounded in every aspect of the business. Even so, my mom handles the bills and paperwork, though James and I are slowly learning that aspect.
Please share a story about a client who stands out for whatever reason. We have the best clients! It’s impossible to pick just one, but the ones that stand out must be our original shoppers, who still come in with their now-grown children and grandchildren too. Our business has grown so much, and they were customers at our first location, Shrewsbury Village. They stayed with us through our move to Tinton Falls and again to our current location in the same shopping center in Tinton Falls.
What might people be surprised to learn about you? I’m a scuba diver and love to see sharks out in the open—it’s such a rush! Typically, they’re not harmful, though seeing them up close and personal can be intimidating. My dad and I got certified when I was 16, and later, my mom and James did, too.
What are some of your favorite Garden State businesses and go-to spots? Right now, I’m digging Coffee Corral in Red Bank. They have this great outdoor area with seating and a space for kids to be comfy, and they also have events like live music, pet adoptions, meet-ups, baby yoga classes, and so much more. And their specialty drinks are so creative and delicious—it’s the perfect spot for my husband and I to have a quick date before picking up Aedan. Also, Sticks and Sprouts is terrific. It’s year-round outdoor play-based classes for kids because there are so many benefits for kids to be outdoors in all types of weather. Another favorite is Freneau Woods Park, a hidden gem near our home. It is so special to us that we got married there. There are a few trails, and we love bringing Aedan for wanders and walks.
What’s your best practical advice for a mompreneur just starting? From the beginning, know that it will be challenging, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it—psych yourself up for those hard times. Also, know that circumstances in life change, and you need to be okay with pivoting from your original plan if necessary.
For more information on Marissa Weber and Cottontails Consignment, please visit their websites, Facebook, and Instagram pages.
