November 20 2013

Modern Mom Virginia DesRoches

Meet Virginia.

What does a typical day in the life consist of? Wake up, crack open a V8 Energy Drink (It’s my morning coffee), get in a resistance training workout before my boys wake up then scramble to get them off to school. A few times a week I like to squeeze in a run to clear my head before I head off to work. Depending on which project I’m working on, which is usually about 5 at a time, I’ll attempt trying to juggle project managing, painting on-site at a commercial or residential location and visit showrooms for ordering materials and for design inspiration. Some days, I work from my home office/studio putting together sample and design boards and painting artwork for clients.

I share joint custody, so on the nights I am with the boys we eat dinners at my parent’s home where my mom usually cooks for us. It’s a good time to catch up on how everyone’s day went and spend a little “quality family time”. My sons are involved in sports year round so we run around making it to practices and games before heading back home for our nightly ritual of dreaded homework, baths and getting ready for bed, somehow more challenging than my overloaded work schedule.

On the nights my boys stay with their dad, if there are no games scheduled, I usually work late and schedule all my client meetings. I use these nights to catch up on all my paperwork, laundry and grocery shopping.

Tell us about Artful Interior Finishing and the inspiration behind it? It’s been a constant struggle trying to make a living doing what I’m passionate about. But art has always been my core. I began my business “Artful Interior Finishing” straight out of college and became recognized early on as the “go-to girl” for decorative painting and creative design. I was making a living but it was always a struggle.

It wasn’t until recently that my life took an unexpected turn. I was suddenly faced with the fact that I was a single mom with 2 boys to support. Because this business is so unpredictable, I knew if I wanted to continue doing what I loved that I needed to step it up and find a way to turn my business into a foundation of financial stability for us.

I have unique abilities with composition and design and an attention to detail to create things most others can’t. Using this to my advantage, I started thinking outside the box, finding ways to fuse my versatility as a painter and designer to be able to stand out. Through use of social media and word of mouth, I began marketing my skills and designs which led to new opportunities. I started a blog and continue to expand my range of services while constantly learning along the way. I am finally beginning to see my business flourish and this opportunity with MOPA just validates I’m on the right track….

Tell us about your work at the Town Wharf General Store? I have known Chris and Vincent for the past 10 years. They are my best repeat customers and always keep me busy. They asked me to come in and utilize my decorative painting skills inside of this quaint, rustic store. I did most of the interior painting and did a process called whitewashing on all of the barn board accent walls and built-ins which were custom made.

Outside of work and being a mom, what are some other things you’re passionate about? I’m passionate about living a healthy lifestyle. I function so much better when my mind and body are in good alignment. This means eating healthy and staying physically fit. It’s something I inherited from my mom. She raised 11 children but somehow still found the time to focus on nutrition and make time for exercise. Probably just to keep her sane, because she didn’t drink. I enjoy my hot yoga classes, my runs and playing in a women’s basketball league. It’s these things that keep me balanced and happy. It’s also a great way to connect with other active moms who are also trying to balance careers and motherhood.

What is your favorite mom moment so far? Watching my boys excel. Whether it’s through school or sports, when they excel, it makes me proud and lets me know I’m doing something right.

If you could describe your family in 3 words, what would they be? BIG! Extraordinary & Supportive.

How would you describe your personal style? Comfortable-Sporty with Pops of Color. My style varies depending on my mood. I’m known to live in my yoga pants and sneakers and you’ll usually find me in a stretchy, sporty top that has been screen printed with my business logo across the back….. constantly representing!

Although I do like trends, if it’s not flattering on me or if it’s not comfortable, I won’t wear it. I’m constantly moving around a lot, I climb ladders and staging and lug heavy equipment around all day so I have to be in clothes that are physically comfortable on my skin and move with me. When I’m not working, the same rules apply. I love boots but choose flats and wedges over heels. I love color. If I’m dressing in neutrals, I always add a pop of color either with a tank top, bright pair of sneakers, watch or ring.

Who is your favorite style icon?
Eva Longoria. Not only does she represent style for us shorter women but no matter what she’s wearing she always looks great. She’s neat, polished, classy and sexy all at the same time.

Favorite downtime with the boys? Pillow fights! When one of us initiates a pillow fight, it shows mom can let loose and have her not-so-serious moments. We’re able to connect with each other and just let-go,laugh and have fun!

What is one of your most popular go-to meals during the work week? Ha! I must be honest…. Cooking is not my strong suit. Thank God for my mom who has us over for dinners during the week. She is used to cooking for a family of 13 so there’s always enough food over there to feed an army. It’s also nice for my boys to sit and eat at the same table I grew up eating at. The only difference is instead of eating with 10 siblings, they’re eating with their aunts, uncles and cousins. There are always different family members stopping in to join the table. Our family favorite is her homemade spaghetti and meatballs which I still have yet to master. Trust me… you do not want to see me in the kitchen!

How do you manage your time? Any advice for other moms? Lots of help! I am fortunate enough to come from a huge family where we all live within a few miles radius of each other. My parents, 10 siblings and an incredible best girlfriend are there for support and to help out whenever I need it. It’s also a piece of mind that my son’s father is a great dad so it helps alleviate a lot of stress knowing they are well taken care of when they are away from me.

I also have a secret weapon, she happens to be my Life & Business Coach, Laurie McAnaugh from Access Your Power. She continues to give me the tools I need to help improve my personal and professional life. She helps me through all of the challenging situations that I’m constantly being faced with and presents solutions and strategies to keep me on the right track. She continues to be an incredible force behind my success. The advice I would give other moms would be to just do whatever you need to do to make it happen. Everyone’s situation is different but if you want something bad enough, there’s always a way through hard work and a lot of determination.

What you’re currently listening to? I’m a huge Country fan, Pandora Country is always blaring from my radio at work. Lately, I find myself replaying Katy Perry’s ROAR. The lyrics seem to sum up the last few years of my life. It’s a very empowering song.

Three things we’d find in your handbag right now? Burt’s Bees Pomegranate Oil Lip Balm, Peanut Butter CLIF bar & my iphone.

On date night, we’d find you where? It usually consists of a toss- up between Sky Zone, Chucky Cheese or Lazer Tag. I love spending quality time with the 2 most important little men in my life while they still think their mama is cool enough to hang out with. They’ll be plenty of time for those other special date nights later….

Beauty Must Haves:

My brother Eli DesRoches, owns Compulsive Salon in Acushnet and is always introducing me to the latest beauty products.

Favorite Holiday Tradition: Christmas Eve Party at my parent’s home. All our friends and family get together for this annual tradition. It’s so much fun having Santa visit with all our kids and millions of nieces and nephews. Our family seems to grow bigger and bigger every year……..

Hot Chocolate or Cider? Definitely Hot Chocolate with lots of Whipped Cream!

What do you look forward to most during this time of year?
It usually marks the end of another year that has passed by. It’s a good time to reflect on everything that has happened whether it was good or bad and take those lessons into the New Year. I love setting new goals for myself and just looking forward to a new beginning. But my intuition tells me 2014 is going to be my year…. SO BRING IT ON!