The best part of being an entrepreneur for Bernardsville mom Erica Wasserman is having her children see her work hard to achieve a dream without sacrificing a moment of their childhood. Wasserman is the owner of The Monogram Corner, a personalized gifts and accessories business. As much as being a work-from-home mom has its daily struggles, she wouldn’t want to have it any other way. We spoke to Wasserman about how to follow your passion without compromising family.
Tell us about The Monogram Corner.
I’ve always loved giving personalized gifts. There’s nothing better than knowing something was made just for you. As a mom of three children under 10—Emme, Reid and Grady—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. What started as a way to make special things for my family and friends has grown into a curated collection of custom gifts and accessories.
Why do you love the Somerset Hills?
My husband, Jeff, and I moved to Bernardsville ten years ago from Greenwich, Conn. I grew up in Bridgewater and after moving out of state for school and work, I never thought I would be back. After the birth of my daughter, I knew it was important to be closer to my family. As much as we miss living close to the water, I am so happy we found this community.
Is there someone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
As a stay-at-home mom/business owner, I have come to learn that balance is key. With the support of my amazing husband and parents, I’ve been able to pursue both of my dreams: motherhood and owning a business. 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.
How has starting your own business fulfilled a lifelong dream?
I have clear memories of making things like bookmarks and bracelets and selling them to other kids at the playground. I love that The Monogram Corner has given me the opportunity to connect and collaborate with other businesses and creators, like Sail to Sable, J. McLaughlin, J. Crew and small boutiques along the East Coast.
What tip would you give to fellow mom entrepreneurs?
Do what brings you joy and have fun with it. Running a business can be challenging, so you really have to do something that you’re passionate about. The long nights and unexpected bumps in the road will be worth it.
What are your favorite things to do with your kids?
As our family moves past the preschool stage, it’s so much easier to hop in the car and go. We love spending time at the beach, taking trips to the local library and spending time with family and friends. Twice a year, we go to Sag Harbor, New York. It’s family-friendly and truly one of our favorite spots.
Browse Wasserman’s creative offerings at themonogramcorner.com or follow her at @themonogramcorner.
Melissa DeSanti directs morrisbernardsmoms.com, a resource for local parents on caring for and entertaining their families.
Erica Wasserman's Go-To Places
Favorite coffee spot: Coco Luxe, Peapack
Favorite lunch place: Bernards Cafe, Bernardsville
Favorite farm for fruit picking: Riamede Farms in Chester
Favorite date night restaurant: Bistro Seven Three, Bernardsville
Favorite boutique: Windswept Boutique in Mendham and August Designs in Bernardsville
Best bagels: Lil’ Pickles, Bedminster
Best slice of pizza: The white broccoli pizza at Lenny’s, Bernardsville
Favorite spot for ice cream: Penguin Ice Cream, Bernardsville