Lisa Bazinet, the mother behind Real Maine Mom, has become a trusted resource for families looking to make the most of life in Maine. What began as her personal passion project grew into a hyperlocal guide connecting parents with family-friendly activities, businesses, and experiences across the state. We caught up with Bazinet to talk about parenting, community, and why raising kids in Maine is something special.
Tell us about Real Maine Mom. How did it get started?
I started Real Maine Mom in 2019 after realizing I was going to be a stay-at-home mom and looking for an outlet outside of parenting. At first, it was more of a lifestyle blog, but what I discovered quickly was that I was passionate about supporting local businesses and helping families find things to do close to home.
By 2022, I decided to go all-in on being hyperlocal. I wanted Real Maine Mom to be a resource for busy parents, whether they're home with their kids every day or juggling work and family life. Parents have limited time, and I wanted to make it easier for them to find activities, events, and places that would help them make the most of that time together.
Since then, I've been fortunate to welcome a talented group of local moms into the fold. Their involvement ranges from helping execute events and initiatives to contributing content and assisting with projects like the Kid-Friendly Portland Guide.
You created the Kids’ Pick Awards in 2024. How did that come about?
Initially, the idea was simply to recognize businesses that support local families. Once I saw how successful the voting process had been, I decided to host an in-person awards reception. The entire thing was pulled together in about two months, and more than 100 members of the local business community attended. The response was incredible. At the end of the night, I casually said, "See you next year," and then realized I’d just committed to making it an annual event. Thankfully, it's become something people really look forward to.
This year, you launched Kid-Friendly Portland LIVE. What is it?
Designed for kids, it’s a showcase of local businesses, entertainers, musicians, camps, attractions, and organizations that serve families in and around Greater Portland. The event brings one of our resources, the Kid-Friendly Portland Guide, to life, giving kids the unique opportunity to discover, experience, and interact with many of the businesses and activities featured within it.
The response to the inaugural event was incredibly positive, and we've already scheduled our 2027 event for January 30th. We’ll be taking over the entire facility at The Point Community Center in South Portland, allowing us to welcome even more businesses, activities, entertainers, and families.
Can you share some businesses or organizations that stand out for their support of local families?
There are so many that it's difficult to narrow down.
What really stands out to me are the organizations that consistently give back to the community. Businesses like MEPowered Pastries in Scarborough are always finding ways to support local causes and help families in need, most recently by even creating a non-profit arm of their organization to help feed our community.
I also think organizations like the locally owned Little Gym and Goldfish Swim School deserve recognition. They're constantly showing up and donating time and resources to support local fundraisers and community events.
Another organization doing incredible work is Maine Needs. Their new location was intentionally designed to welcome volunteers with children, allowing families to serve together. I love that because it gives kids the opportunity to learn about helping others firsthand.
What do you love most about raising kids in Maine?
My family lived in Massachusetts for several years, and our oldest child was born there. Coming back to Maine really reinforced what makes this place special. One of the biggest things is accessibility. You can make plans and actually get there without worrying about spending hours in traffic. Everything feels manageable.
We also have access to so many incredible natural resources. On any given day, we can go to the beach, take a hike, ride bikes, explore a trail, or simply spend time outside. Beyond the outdoor opportunities, Maine has an incredibly strong local business community. There are so many people working hard to create welcoming, family-friendly experiences.
What's a parenting lesson you've learned that you wish you knew earlier?
Everyone says it, but it's true: it goes by so fast.
I think the biggest lesson I've learned is to be intentional about creating memories with your children. That doesn't mean spending lots of money or planning elaborate experiences. Some of the most meaningful moments happen at a playground, on a beach, or during a simple family outing. It's easy to get distracted by work, schedules, and everything else happening around us. I know I have to be intentional about setting those things aside and being present.
Summer is especially important to me. Every year, we create a family summer bucket list and work through it together. It's not about how much we accomplish—it's about making sure we're spending time together and creating experiences we'll remember. You only get so many summers with little kids, and those years go by quickly.
Finish this sentence: The best part about raising kids in Maine is...
Being in Maine! Everything is right here: nature, community, adventure, and opportunities to get outside. Maine makes it easy to create the kinds of childhood memories that last a lifetime.
Everything is right here: nature, community, adventure, and opportunities to get outside. Maine makes it easy to create the kinds of childhood memories that last a lifetime.