Our NJMOMpreneur of the week, Erica Wasserman, gets to fulfill her creative passion every single day through her own personalized gifts and accessories business at The Monogram Corner. As much as Erica loves designing and creating, her favorite part about being an NJMOMpreneur is that her children get to witness her doing something she loves, while never sacrificing a single moment of watching them grow up. And as much as being a work-from-home mom has its daily struggles, this hard-working momma wouldn’t want to have it any other way.
featured image via Alicia Savoly of Peach Photography
Creator of The Monogram Corner & NJMOMpreneur, Erica Wasserman
NJMOM: What do you offer to your clients and how is it different than other professionals in your field?
Erica: A big part of my business is curating a collection of items that is unique to my brand. In the last four years, I’ve built an inventory that I believe represents a style that’s recognizable as The Monogram Corner. My products share a classic, yet updated style with lots of blue and white, with pops of bright color. I often use #monogrameverything on social media and I think TMC does just that! From straw totes and seersucker bathing suits in summer to personalized knit hats and holiday decor in winter, I work carefully to provide beautiful items for women, men, children and the home.
I try to savor all these little moments. The days are long but the years are so short and I try to be present. Enjoy the snuggles. Embrace the craziness. The laundry and dishes can wait until tomorrow.” – NJMOMpreneur Erica Wasserman
NJMOM: What inspired you to get into your line of work?
Erica: As a mom of three young children, I cherish the monogrammed blankets and sweaters they received as babies. Now as they get older, they also appreciate how fun and special it is to know that extra thought was put into the gifts they love. In 2015, I took my love of personalized gifts and created The Monogram Corner. I’ve always loved giving a personalized gift and there’s nothing better than knowing something was made just for you. What began as a creative outlet turned into a thriving business that has fulfilled my drive to make beautiful things.
NJMOM: What is your favorite part about your business?
Erica: Giving a personalized gift is special. It can make an important occasion even more memorable. That’s why I love being able to help my customers celebrate their most important milestones. Whether I’m making clutches for a bridal party or helping design a baby’s first bib, I’m always honored when my products are part of people’s celebrations. I truly enjoy interacting with my customers (many of whom have become friends) throughout the design process and knowing that I helped them to create the perfect gift for the most important people in their lives.
NJMOM: What are you most proud of in your career?
Erica: I love that my children, especially my daughter, get to witness me doing something I am so passionate about while not missing a single moment of their lives. In four short years, it’s been amazing to see how much The Monogram Corner has grown. From selling primarily locally, to now being known throughout the country and partnering with stores nationwide, it’s been a dream come true. Being a stay at home working mom has its daily struggles but I feel fortunate to be able to make my own schedule and show my kids that they can do anything they put their hearts and energy into.
NJMOM: What can we expect from you next year – personally and professionally?
Erica: I have a trunk show with Sail to Sable and Lisi Lerch in June—it’s so much fun to be working alongside other creative, inspiring moms. In the coming year, I hope to continue to network with other brands and stores for trunk shows and other special events. Personally, I look forward to making more memories with my family. My children are still so young and time is flying by. If I could freeze it, I would. This summer we’re taking our first trip to Disney World—tips for flying with three children are more than welcome, please!
NJMOM: What are your favorite things to do in New Jersey with your family?
Erica: As our family moves past the “baby stage”, it’s great to be able to hop in the car and go. We love spending beach days in Spring Lake, taking trips to Bernardsville Public Library (luckily our kids are bookworms like us!) and checking out new places we’ve never been to before. A recent kid-approved find was the Princeton University Art Museum. Our kids loved spending the day on campus and seeing cool pieces of art.
NJMOM: What is the best part about being a mom for you?
Erica: I’m sure we can all agree that being a mom is the most rewarding, yet exhausting, job. For me, the best part has been watching my three children become best friends. Their bond and friendship is beyond what I could have imagined and I feel so grateful to be a part of it. Watching them grow and experiencing the world through their eyes is inspiring and I love seeing the amazing little people they are growing up to be.
NJMOM: What are your favorite businesses in New Jersey?
Erica: We truly feel we live in a little gem within the state. Bernardsville is picturesque, family-friendly and a wonderful place to raise kids. We are big fans of Penguin Ice Cream and appreciate all they do for the kids in town. Our local movie theatre is adorable and a great place for birthday parties as well. There’s nothing better than autumn in central Jersey. We love apple and pumpkin picking at Middle Valley Farms in Mendham and Riamede Farms in Chester.
NJMOM: Anything else you’d like to tell moms in New Jersey?
Erica: Live in the moment. Definitely easier said than done, but in the daily grind of making lunches, getting everyone off to school, laundry, getting work done, etc. I try to remind myself of how special this hectic time is. I’ve always wanted to be a mom, it truly is the one thing I always said I wanted to be when I was younger, and I try to savor all these little moments. The days are long but the years are so short and I try to be present. Enjoy the snuggles. Embrace the craziness. The laundry and dishes can wait until tomorrow.
For more information about The Monogram Corner, follow along on the website, Facebook, and Instagram.
