PJX 2026: Proof That Networking and Naptime Can Coexist

Since the inception of PJX, it has been an event I look forward to, but this year's experience was especially meaningful.

Not only did I have the privilege of attending and connecting with many incredible people, but I also had the opportunity to serve on the PJX committee. Being part of the team that helped bring this event to life gave me an even greater appreciation for the dedication and collaboration that makes PJX what it is.

There were countless meetings, conversations, ideas, and problem-solving sessions leading up to the event. Watching everything come together and seeing attendees engage, learn, and connect made every moment worthwhile. It was truly special to work alongside such a passionate group of people who all shared the same goal: making PJX the best it could be.

This year was also unique for another reason...I brought along my almost 5 month old baby!

If you're a parent, you know that networking and showing up professionally with an infant in tow isn't always easy. There were feedings between selling product, naps on the go, and plenty of moments where flexibility became the plan. But there was also something incredibly rewarding about being able to experience this season of motherhood while continuing to pursue the work and opportunities that matter to me.

More than ten years ago, I made the decision to work for myself. While entrepreneurship came with plenty of risks and challenges, one of the biggest reasons behind that choice was the life I hoped to build someday. I wanted the freedom and flexibility to create a career that could grow alongside my family, not compete with it.

Standing at PJX this year with my almost 5 month old daughter reminded me exactly why I made that decision. The ability to bring her with me is something I don't take for granted. It isn't always easy, but having the flexibility to include my children in this journey has always been part of the dream. Being able to serve on the PJX committee, represent Tesserae Supply, and experience this event with my daughter by my side felt like a full-circle moment and a reminder of what can happen when you build a life and career on your own terms.

As I walked through PJX carrying my daughter, I was reminded that our children don't always have to be the reason we pause our ambitions. They can also be the reason we pursue them with even greater purpose. I hope both my kids grow up seeing firsthand that it's possible to build a business, serve your community, and embrace parenthood all at the same time.

PJX was filled with meaningful conversations, new connections, and inspiring ideas, but what I'll remember most is the reminder that community makes all the difference. From fellow committee members to attendees, I felt surrounded by people who understood that life and work don't always fit into neat boxes and that's okay.

Here's to building meaningful careers, strong communities, and showing our children that dreams are worth pursuing. One step, one conversation, and sometimes one baby carrier at a time!