When I decided to grow Le Village through franchising, I thought about all of the characteristics needed to make a successful owner. Potential owners must have all the hard requirements like business acumen and leadership experience, of course. But what is possibly more important are the softer skills – the ability to connect with new moms on sensitive issues and coax busy working parents to take a break and connect. On top of that, you need to have the patience to provide loving care for every kid that comes through the door! Each owner will undoubtedly bring their own unique mix of attributes to the role, but they MUST have the ability to create a community-centered environment to support working parents, especially mothers.
The first time I met Kellie I knew we would be friends–she is contagious! She is also a wonderful mother and her husband Matt is the partner we all need when doing something new and uncertain. Their family embodies all of the qualities needed for Le Village and more. Families in our Irving Park space were drawn to Kellie’s magnetism, and I have no doubt that the members in Milwaukee will gravitate to the space because of her as well. She’s warm, welcoming, honest and vibrant. She’s also ambitious, tenacious, and smart. I am so excited to make her an official partner at Le Village and grow this concept for working parents!
Without further ado, I would like to introduce you to my friend Kellie Overton–-Owner of Le Village Brewers Hill opening July 2023!
Q + A with Kellie Overton
Tell us about yourself!
Hi! I’m Kellie! I’m a mom, wife, creative director and new business owner from the Milwaukee area. I’m passionate about sour beers, D&D, baking and lurking on TikTok. I care deeply about supporting women and women-identifying members of the community, and I’m extra passionate about supporting mothers. I can’t wait to bring parents and teachers together so we can all lift each other up and bonus, make new adult friends!
Tell us about your location!
We are nestled in Brewers Hill - truly the heart of Milwaukee. We are close to Third Ward, walkable to Brady St. and most importantly, right by Lakefront Brewery. Our location is spacious, welcoming and bright with a beautiful indoor/outdoor play area that looks out onto the city. We’re excited to have a separate private office annex with a mother’s room, fully equipped wellness room (with a Peloton!) and a teacher’s lounge.
What inspired you to open a Le Village?
At the risk of sounding dramatic, Le Village, Dani and the teachers saved me during my first year of motherhood. I felt so isolated and overwhelmed - the thought of going back to work and leaving my 12-week old son was crippling. I thank my lucky stars that I drove past and Googled Le Village. My husband and I decided to bring Le Village with us up to Milwaukee because this feeling of instant acceptance and accessibility needs to be shared with all parents.
What has been the best part of the journey?
The best part so far was finding our space. We had a few good options in the works and then decided to check one more space out, just in case. The moment we walked in, Dani looked at me and gave a little nod. We both knew we had stumbled upon a gem in an incredible neighborhood.
What has been the hardest part of the journey?
The hardest part has been the waiting. I thought I was someone with a lot of patience but that was tested while we waited for the stars to align with funding, a location and just life in general. Luckily, we have met truly incredible people along the way and that has made it all worth it.
How do you find work / life balance?
I honestly don’t know if I have it yet! Every week, and even day, feels different. My one rule that I always try to follow is no work when I’m with my son. I love my mornings with him, and I force myself not to Slack or send emails when he is around. In the evenings, I wait until he goes to bed to pick up any extra work. It’s not always easy, but I know it’s worth it.
What is the best piece of career or parenting advice you have received and why?
There isn’t only one correct way to do something. We feel so much pressure to do everything correctly and everyone has an opinion. The truth is, no one really knows what they are doing until they do it. Take a deep breath and trust yourself. Now, I just need to remember to take this same advice :)
Anything else you want to share with the Le Village community?
We’re so honored and excited to bring the Le Village community to Milwaukee. Please spread the word to parents and teachers you know in our area - we can’t wait to be their village!
Le Village Brewers Hill in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is opening in July 2023. Follow Kellie and her ownership journey on Instagram or snag a space by signing up for the Brewers Hill Waitlist.
Interested in opening a Le Village in your neighborhood? We are growing with franchise opportunities available throughout the Midwest.
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