Barrett Prendergast, is the founder of the luxury gifting and floral design company Valleybrink Road and also the Mom-in-Chief behind the lifestyle blog, BarrettandtheBoys.com where she shares a glimpse into her life as a wife and mother of two. With an aesthetic that feels high-end yet inviting, Prendergast has made a career in showcasing all the things that inspire her -- whether it’s a “Hostess Board” to bring to a dinner party, a “Thinking of You” Bundle to send to a long-lost friend, or a homemade almond milk recipe straight from her kitchen, followers and fans of Prendergast enjoy her relatable vibe (and often-times genius life-hacks)!

We recently caught up with the mom-preneur to talk gifting, running a business through the pandemic, and the importance of self-care...

What is the one item that you give other women in your life the most?

Probably flowers. There is just something about having fresh flowers in the house that brings joy into a space and hopefully brightens someone’s day. I love a random bouquet drop, for no other reason than to just say ‘I love you.’

What have you learned from living and working with your husband?

I have learned that we will always be a work in progress. It’s important to hold space for your partner’s opinions, feelings, and ideas (both personal and work related) because there will probably be many times where they differ from your own. Our life is so intertwined and we are constantly together, so it’s important for us to remind ourselves when things get stressful or difficult to still approach one another with respect and kindness. If we can start from that place, we will always be able to overcome and find solutions that work for both of us.

How do you find moments of peace and self-care while owning a business?

It is important to make them a priority, not something you feel guilty about giving yourself. I like to take a walk by myself around the reservoir during the week because it helps my mental and emotional state. It makes it easier for me to focus during the day and manage stress and anxiety… so, for me, it is a priority. 

How has the art of gift giving evolved during the pandemic?

Being a luxury gifting company (and definitely not something that would qualify as an “essential purchase” -- especially when the pandemic first hit), there were many months last year that were extremely difficult for Valleybrink Road. But, as things moved on and this new normal set in, people started to become eager to connect again with the ones they were missing. We introduced a new line of lower priced gift bundles and smaller “Thinking of You” inspired gifts that people could send to simply brighten someone’s day. These have been doing really well the past few months and offer a way for customers to connect with the people they are missing.

What are the top three questions someone should ask themselves when choosing a gift for someone?

• What will they really love? (Stop buying people what YOU like!)
  
• What is something they would never buy themselves but will thoroughly enjoy?
  
• What is their top interest, hobby, or passion?