We had the good fortune of connecting with Mollie Yarsike and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mollie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
In 2015, I was at a networking event in Los Angeles, in which a couple hosted a ton of young professionals to mix and mingle for dinner. The couple had three kids (ages 7, 6 and 4). The two older kids were totally fine that night. They joked around with each other, ate their meal and kind of knew what to expect from a night like this. The four year old on the other hand was pretty sad. She needed attention and her parents were both busy hosting. Her siblings were old enough to keep themselves occupied, so she was essentially alone. I saw her upset and my nanny/babysitting instincts kicked in. We played games and talked. When I went home and took my nightly shower, I had a “shower thought”. There needs to be a service, so that kids can feel special during an adult focused event. It was then that the idea of Black Tie Kids came to be. In 2017, Black Tie Pups started as a way to help couples who want to include their furry friend as a part of their wedding day.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I truly learned as I went. I had never started a business before, but with the support of my LAWVC community I found my place. Childcare for weddings and events did not really exist before Black Tie Kids. This was a niche market but also a very necessary service. It isn’t easy managing a full time job along with Black Tie Kids and my new venture, Mollie Poppins but it is all worth it. I hope to be only working for myself within the next few years. If you have an idea that you believe will work, go for it. Take the chance, what do you have to lose?

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Whenever my friends visit we always go on a hike (most likely Los Liones or Temescal, Runyon is too crowded). I also make sure to take them to my favorite restaurant, Petty Cash. A Ceccioni’s happy hour is always fun, and then we of course visit Santa Monica and Venice. I have a few smaller sushi spots that I make sure to frequent as well. Can you tell I’m a foodie?

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The networking group, LA Wedding Vendors and Creatives (LAWVC) really helped me spread awareness of my business. When I moved to Los Angeles, I knew no one. I found LAWVC through a google search, and I instantly started attending events and networking. This group gave me the chance to prove myself by providing childcare for wedding planners and their couples.Everyone is so supportive and we truly are a connected community.

Website: www.blacktiekids.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/blacktiekids
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blacktiekids/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/black-tie-kids-los-angeles-2

Image Credits
Clair Chang Films Victoria Gold Photography Let’s Frolic Together Christine Skari Lauren Crew Photography

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