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VUE | Spring 2025

The Digest | New Jersey Magazine

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T H E B E G I N N I N G Q: How did the two of you meet, and what led to the creation of e Village? A: We met while we were both expecting our first children, living just a few doors apart in the same building in Edgewater, NJ. From the start, we shared an instant connection. As new moms, we found friendship, camaraderie, and a sense of community, a village, in each other. Experiencing firsthand how valuable that support was during an otherwise isolating time, we knew we wanted other parents to have the same opportunity to build meaningful connections. T H E V I S I O N Q: What gap did you see in the market that inspired you to start e Village? A: Dana was an educator in a public school district and Neha owned a real estate brokerage on the Gold Coast in NJ. When we had our first babies, we were constantly looking for places in the area to take them to where they could safely play and we could get coffee and have a conversation without being on edge that they would be disruptive. We were also looking for places that provided early development classes. With Dana's background in education and Neha's entrepreneurial experience, we saw a tremendous business opportunity. PA R T N E R S H I P DY N A M I C S Q: How do you complement each other as co- founders? Any memorable moments that define your teamwork? A: We have been through a whole lifetime together, between us we now have five children and three locations of e Village. We are both very different but complement each other in every way while running the business. Neha's the big-picture, let's-make-it-happen-yesterday type, while Dana's the detail queen who likes to overthink every scenario, just to be safe. Neha's all about taking bold risks, and Dana's the 'let's not die today' voice of reason. But when it comes to parenting? Total plot twist: Neha turns into a helicopter mom with a clipboard, and Dana's out here channeling her inner Zen master, trusting the universe (and maybe crossing her fingers). We are also best friends, more like family now, so let's just say there is never a dull moment. M O S T I N F L U E N T I A L W O M E N I N B U S I N E S S N E H A C H A W L A & D A N A A T O O T B Y J O R D A N F I S K In the heart of Edgewater, e Village is redefining what it means to raise a child in a connected, supportive community. Founded by Neha and Dana, two passionate mothers with a vision for a more enriching early childhood experience, e Village is more than just a play space—it's a haven where parents and caregivers can engage in their child's development while building meaningful connections. With thoughtfully curated academic programs, engaging mini & me classes, and imaginative play areas designed to inspire, e Village fosters an environment where little ones thrive and families grow together. VUE ON | NEHA & DANA 78 VUENJ.COM

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