Some say mothers possess secret superpowers. That's not surprising when you consider these five local entrepreneurs, women who seamlessly blend their passions for business and family. They are a testament to the strength and resilience of moms everywhere.
Amanda Carreon from Rose Wade Interior Design and A Divine Closet, Bex Wood from Bex Wood Photography, Beth Ferester and granddaughter Grace from Corcoran Ferester Realty, Meredith Boudousquié from Boudousquié Interiors, and Tina Kosh Goodson from Amerigo’s Grille all have something in common: an inspiring outlook on the work-life balance that is truly energizing to those who need a little push in the direction of their dreams!
We sat down first with Amanda Carreon, owner of both Rose Wade Interior and A Divine Closet, two businesses that offer luxury interior design with a deep focus on client advocacy and education through a collaborative design process.
Amanda, how do you juggle both Rose Wade Interior Design and A Divine Closet while having a family?
I have a great team. My husband is super involved and supportive at home, allowing me to really dive into both as needed.
How has your daughter inspired the way you view your business?
She has brought a playfulness to the business that is so refreshing. She loves to come and style jobs with me and has quite an eye herself.
Your mom left a legacy for you. How did seeing your mom create a business inspire you to run your own?
Watching my mother beautify a family home and seeing how that affects their everyday experiences was contagious and I wanted to continue the legacy.
Your mother received a cancer diagnosis in 2019. How did that challenge you as a business owner? What was your inspiration to keep pushing?
This was a major perspective shift to create boundaries that would allow me to spend more time with family and just how precious life really is. I was taught from a young age you work for what you want, and I want to have fun and also enjoy what I do. So creating the boundaries needed to do both has been life-changing. My mother’s death showed me the importance of being present and putting those you love first.
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to other moms wanting to start a business?
Creating boundaries to put you and your family first isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength that will attract the clients/customers you want. Starting a business is a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, but it shouldn’t come with the sacrifice of your family time. I wish I had known that at the beginning. Setting those boundaries has delivered the clientele that respect that time and it is a win-win.
The Woodlands City Lifestyle Contributing Photographer Bex Wood owns local photography business Bex Wood Luxe Portraits, where she empowers her clients — entrepreneurs, executives, and creatives — to feel their authentic selves and to help them step into the next level of their brand.
What does your work-life balance look like?
It’s a constant dance! Some seasons are busier than others, but I’ve learned to set boundaries and be intentional about my time. I build my schedule around my self-care and my family as much as possible while making space for the creative work that fuels me.
Has being a mom influenced the way you run your business? How so?
Absolutely. Motherhood has made me more intentional — with my time, my energy, and my boundaries. It’s taught me to prioritize what truly matters, both in my business and in life. It’s also deepened the way I connect with my clients. Many of them are balancing multiple roles just like me, and I love creating a space where they can step out of their daily responsibilities and into a version of themselves that feels powerful, confident, and fully seen.
Do you ever feel parental pressure to be fully present in both work and family life? If so, how do you handle it?
All the time. The key for me is recognizing that balance isn’t about being perfect at everything — it’s about being all in where I am, whether that’s with my kids or with a client. I give myself permission to be fully engaged in the moment, wherever that moment happens to be.
Do you have any advice for other moms wanting to start a business?
Start messy. Don’t wait for perfect timing or perfect circumstances — just start. Build a business that fits your life, not one that takes over it.
Beth Ferester and Grace Petty of Corcoran Ferester Realty are a grandmother-granddaughter duo who help clients sell their homes and find their forever home, all with superior service. Beth is mentoring Grace to eventually take over her business.
Beth, how did you feel when Grace expressed interest in the business for the first time?
I was thrilled that she was interested in joining me in real estate which meant I could finally mentor part of my own family since I had mentored so many other agents over my long career. It is not only a thrill to have her in business, but also to have her here, close to her grandfather and me.
Does working with your granddaughter/grandmother influence the way you run your business?
Beth: At this stage in my career I am trying to do more and more to have Grace help so that she will be ready someday to take over the business.
Grace: I think the best way to learn is through experience, so I find myself being Beth’s “sidekick” whenever I can. This way I get to meet more people, watch how things are done, and assist her where I can.
How do you think having a multi-generational team gives you an advantage?
Beth: We both have our strengths. Grace relates to the younger clients and is a genius at the technical components of the business, including social media, etc. My strengths come from 42 years in the business and having learned and experienced just about every situation that comes up.
Grace: I think the multigenerational team is a huge advantage. [Beth] knows just about everyone in The Woodlands, which is important in our business. I feel I bring a more modern approach to her marketing and day-to-day operations while also bringing in a whole new demographic of clients. We are both knowledgeable and are able to fill in the blanks of the other.
Meredith Boudousquié, owner of Boudousquié Interiors, is known for customizing unique living spaces with details that transform homes into personality-filled spaces.
What does your work-life balance look like? How do you separate your business from time with your son?
Our youngest son was born two years into owning my own business, and because he’s adopted, he came to live with us with very little notice. One of the first things I did was to get a second cell phone that is solely for business. That small change became one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Because my clients all have such different schedules, it gives them 24-hour access to message me whenever their schedules allow. But I control how and when I’m able to receive and respond to those messages. After six years, I can say, it’s been a win-win for all of us.
What are some challenges you’ve faced caring for an exceptional child with special needs while also running a business? How have your business decisions been based on your child’s schedule?
Although there were signs early on, our son wasn’t officially diagnosed with autism until he was three years old. The year between two and three was tough, to say the least. He was in and out of three different daycares while we tried to figure out what was going on, which meant my schedule was often changing. I worked morning, noon, and night to keep my head above water. But once we received a formal diagnosis, doors opened for specialized therapies and life became more “normal” for us. That year taught me so much about what I want for my life, my business, and motherhood. I now take on less projects at a time, so that my son’s therapy sessions can comfortably fit into my workdays. When my family is home in the evenings, it is family time until our son goes to sleep, and weekends are fully dedicated to enjoying every minute with each other.
Last, but certainly not least, is Tina Kosh Goodson, managing partner of Amerigo’s Grille, which is known d as the first upscale dining option established in The Woodlands.
What does your work-life balance look like?
Balancing work and life can be challenging, but I make it a priority to set clear boundaries. Morning and late evenings are reserved for family, while work hours are dedicated to the restaurant tasks I oversee. Having a reliable team helps me delegate responsibilities, allowing me to be present for both business and family moments.
Has being a mom influenced the way you run your business? How so?
I experience the best of both worlds: I can contribute to the family business while pursuing my passion every day. Additionally, I appreciate the flexibility in my schedule, which allows me to be home with my kids when necessary. I’m truly grateful for this balance.
How have your decisions about your business been based on your children’s schedules?
I schedule my workload around my children’s important milestones and events. Whether adjusting my availability for school functions or ensuring I’m home for dinner on certain nights, I structure my responsibilities to align with their needs.
What are some things you do to soak in time with the family?
I prioritize quality family time, whether it’s a weekly dinner, attending my children’s events, or planning short getaways. Small moments, like leisurely mornings or bedtime stories, foster meaningful connections.
Do you have any advice for other moms wanting to start a business?
Start small, build a strong support network, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Maintain a positive perspective and give yourself grace. It’s very challenging but also rewarding to know what you are capable of as a mother and successful business professional. Most importantly, embrace the journey and celebrate the wins along the way!
Amanda Carreon - Rose Wade Interior Design & A Divine Closet
Bex Wood - Bex Wood Luxe Portraits
Beth Ferester - Corcoran Ferester Realty
Grace Petty - Corcoran Ferester Realty
Meredith Boudousquié - Boudousquié Interiors
Tina Kosh Goodson - Amerigo's Grille