BCM - How did your life change when you became a mom?

Marni - How did it not change is a better question :) I became more grounded, more focused. I reset priorities and discovered a new dimension of enjoyment and fulfillment.

BCM- What has been your most memorable moment as a mom?

Marni - The best moment of my life was when I held my daughter for the first time.

BCM- What has been the biggest challenge for you in motherhood?

Marni - My biggest challenge has basically been teaching Sammi to comprehend what life's all about (as seen through the eyes of a very inquisitive five year old).

BCM- What activities do you like to do with your daughter and why?

Marni - I love to play board games with Sammi, do art projects and read books together. We have fun going to the playground, watching movies, dancing and snuggling in bed. We like to try new things and always make it exciting. I love to ask her open-ended questions and to discuss what she dreams about. I enjoy listening to her conversations with her grandmother and I love to watch her make up songs and put on a show.

BCM- How do you manage your work/life balance?   Any advice for new moms?

Marni - Mucho caffeine :) I am fortunate that the very nature of my work allows me to spend time with my daughter in "the office" aka classroom (Sammi loves it!). I give 100% when I'm at work and Sammi is at school or camp and then I give 100% when I'm with Sammi.

BCM - What inspired you to start your own business - Little Maestros?

Marni - I was frustrated that I couldn't find any quality music classes for my infant. Music has always been my life and I spent a decade as a record executive at Atlantic Records so I decided to create my own music class!

BCM -Little Maestros is the #1 music class for children under 5. Did you ever imagine it would be such a success? How do you handle the success?

Marni - I have always been so focused on developing the program that sometimes it's hard to take a step back and smell the roses. It is extremely satisfying when I consider the statistics (number of classes/week, number of teachers who work at LM, etc) but my favorite measurement of success is when I visit a location I haven't been and watch a group of moms sing our original material - it is very emotional!

BCM- What are your favorite “Mom Essentials” and why?

Marni - Friends who are moms, too. It is nice to have a good support system and relate to other moms, network, compare notes... Also, having a pediatrician who is accessible, experienced and on the same page is vital.

BCM-If you could give another mom or expectant mom one piece of advice, what would it be?

Marni - Savor every moment. I'm not much of a picture taker or an avid journal writer, I am more of an in-the-moment appreciator. At least once in a while, try not to grab the camera or pen and just relish in the beauty of the moment.

BCM - Do you have a motto you would like to share with other moms?

Marni - Appreciate today but don't stop thinkin' about tomorrow.

BCM- Name your favorite Big City Moms event to date..

Marni - Mompreneur Dinner at Kidville NY