Motherhood + The Importance of Community
We were never meant to do motherhood alone. You’ll never regret trying. Even if it doesn’t work out, just putting yourself out there teaches you something.
-Rachel Queen
An Interview with Rachel Queen, Local Business Owner of The Pink Flamingo Cafe in Forest, Virginia.
Moving to a new town can feel overwhelming, especially for moms trying to build a new village from scratch. That’s why community spaces like The Pink Flamingo Cafe, founded by Rachel Queen, are so vital. Rachel’s play cafe is more than just a fun spot for kids. It’s a place where moms can connect, support each other, and find friendship in a new place.
In this heart-to-heart conversation, Rachel shares her story and wisdom on motherhood, the power of connection, and the beauty of creating welcoming spaces that help moms feel seen, heard, and supported- even when everything around them feels unfamiliar.
Whether you’re brand new in town or just craving deeper connection, Rachel’s words will inspire you to find your people and build your village.
What inspired you to open The Pink Flamingo Cafe, and how does it serve moms and families beyond being a play space for kids?
In 2022, I had a miscarriage, and none of my friends had babies yet. I didn’t really have anyone who could relate to what I was going through. I eventually found a sense of community online and started going to therapy. My therapist encouraged me to get out of the house and connect with people. At the time, I was bouncing between random play places, but I always left feeling more exhausted than when I arrived. Coffee shops didn’t feel like the right space either. One day, I had the idea to create a space I needed during that season- a place designed for kids but truly made for moms. I called my mom and said, “I want to create a space where moms can connect while their kids play.” And that’s how The Pink Flamingo Cafe was born.
How do you see community and connection impacting motherhood, especially for moms who may be feeling isolated or overwhelmed?
We were never meant to do motherhood alone. It can be incredibly isolating to feel stuck at home with no adult interaction. Having a kind, welcoming space where you can talk to other adults and feel seen can make a huge difference in your mental health. Just knowing that others are going through similar things can be so comforting.
How do you see community and connection impacting motherhood, especially for moms who may be feeling isolated or overwhelmed?
We were never meant to do motherhood alone. It can be incredibly isolating to feel stuck at home with no adult interaction. Having a kind, welcoming space where you can talk to other adults and feel seen can make a huge difference in your mental health. Just knowing that others are going through similar things can be so comforting.
For moms who are new to a town, what challenges do they face when trying to build a support network?
It’s hard. Building community takes effort and vulnerability. Even at The Pink Flamingo, it starts with simply saying hello. It’s uncomfortable at first, but that first step is the key.
How does your play cafe create opportunities for moms to meet, connect, and build friendships?
It might sound simple, but we have consistent hours and we’re always here. Nine times out of ten, you won’t be the only one. Just showing up opens the door for connection. And you don’t have to be “put together.” Come with messy hair, a screaming toddler, and a need for caffeine. We get it.
Can you share a story of a mom who found her “village” through your cafe, especially someone new to the area?
This happens all the time. One of the most beautiful parts of the cafe is our rainbow wall, filled with names of babies born after loss. I’ve watched moms strike up conversations there, share their stories, and realize they’re not alone. There’s so much healing in being able to say, “I’ve been there too.”
What role do shared experiences, like motherhood, play in helping women overcome the barriers of being new in a community?
Shared experience breaks the ice. Even small talk, when it happens in a space where you feel safe, can lead to something deeper. But it takes consistency and a willingness to move through the awkward. I met my best friend during the depths of postpartum depression. Everyone is going through something. You just have to give yourself a chance to find out what connects you.
What advice would you give to moms who have just moved and are struggling to find their tribe or community?
Join a Facebook group. There’s nothing wrong with finding friends online. Even something as simple as posting, “I’m going to the park today if anyone wants to meet,” or “I’ll be at The Pink Flamingo. Come grab a coffee!” can open a door. It might feel awkward, but it’s so worth it.
How can local businesses and community spaces better support moms who are relocating or feeling isolated?
Create a play space. It doesn’t have to be big. Just a little corner that says, “Kids are welcome. You’re welcome.” And make sure your staff truly embraces that spirit of hospitality.
Why is having a supportive mom community important for mental and emotional well-being?
There’s nothing like someone else saying, “Me too.” You don’t have to Google every struggle. Just seeing how other moms handle everyday moments like meltdowns, car seat battles, and snack negotiations helps you feel less alone in the chaos.
How do you personally balance running a business and being a mom, and how does community support help you in that journey?
I honestly couldn’t do it without my community. I have an amazing nanny who’s like family. Beyond that, other moms have stepped up to help—picking up my kids, supporting me when my nanny is sick, or just telling me, “I’m proud of you.” That encouragement changes everything. My husband is also super supportive and flexible, which helps so much.
What’s one thing you wish every mom knew about building community when moving to a new place?
You’ll never regret trying. Even if it doesn’t work out perfectly, just putting yourself out there teaches you something. It’s like exposure therapy. The more you try, the easier it gets.
How can moms get involved with or support local spaces like The Pink Flamingo Cafe to build stronger neighborhoods together?
Show up. Visit your local play cafes and community spots. Honestly, a lot of these spaces struggle to stay open. It’s not a booming business, but it is a vital one. Your presence makes a difference.I’m so grateful to Lisa for sharing her wisdom—she truly has a way of making organizing feel doable, even during the chaos of a move. I hope her tips inspire and empower you to create an organized, welcoming home that works for your whole family—even in the middle of all the moving boxes and big emotions.
Be sure to follow Rachel over on Instagram @thepinkflamingocafe or www.pinkflamingoplaycafe.com and check out her beautiful space if you're local- you'll feel right at home the second you walk in.
Oh! Were You Wondering Why "The Pink Flamingo?"
While we find flamingos captivating for their beauty, our name holds a deeper meaning beyond aesthetics. Have you ever seen a flamingo that isn't quite as pink as the others in its flock? Perhaps even a white flamingo? When flamingos become parents, they give so much of themselves to their children that both parents actually lose their beautiful pink color for a few years.
Similarly, parents and caregivers often experience this same level of exhaustion and depletion. We can lose our own vibrancy. Yet, sometimes all it takes to rediscover ourselves is getting of the house and enjoying a simple cup of coffee. This was the inspiration behind The Pink Flamingo.
Our vision for this cafe is to provide a haven where children can play and make friends, while caregivers can also unwind and rejuvenate. We want to lighten your load and help you feel refreshed, restored, and ready to embrace the joys of parenthood with renewed energy, or as we like to call it, to feel PINK again!
Now I’d love to hear from you: What’s helped you feel more connected in a new place—or what advice would you give another mom who’s starting over? Share in the comments below!