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

Hi Christina, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I started character performing, I would take on 4-6 parties a weekend. I would change costumes in my car, and even drive to Galveston if necessary. I opened Christina’s Storybook after becoming a Mom and was no longer able to be away from my son for more than a couple hours due to feeding schedules. While my business is incredibly important to me, the most important thing in my life now is being a Mom. Website editing, wig styling, and shopping for costumes online all have to be done during nap time. The balance has definitely shifted towards life over work, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing. My goal for Christina’s Storybook isn’t to be the primary breadwinner for our house, it’s to bring joy to children and allow myself to have a creative outlet!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What I enjoy doing the most now that I own my own company is using my resources to do free events. I have the agency to agree to charity events, while also reaching out to organizations to ask if they would like to partner. I’ve definitely had to set boundaries on my time and stick to the set time that was originally agreed upon. I would love more organizations or charities to reach out to schedule free or paid events, the more smiles that I can bring the better!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite spots in Houston is the Menil Collection and the Menil Bistro. Not only is the collection free to look at, but the bistro has incredible food! Another hidden gem is the Houston Interactive Aquarium and Animal Preserve, it’s a wonderful activity for all ages. Since becoming a Mom, a lot of my current hang out spots include places like: Play Street Museum Cypress, Little Explorers Lab, The Children’s Museum, the carousel at Memorial City Mall, and local parks. Anywhere that is child friendly is a win for me! One of the things I’ve enjoyed lately is The Kickerillo-Mischer Nature Preserve, it’s got a beautiful walking trail that is very stroller friendly.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s hard to choose just one person, as so many have contributed to my success. Ultimately I have to recognize my family! Without the support of my husband and parents I wouldn’t have had the courage to start my own business. Each family member has contributed towards my business whether it’s watching my son so I can get some work done, helping me with website design, or casting votes on which costume piece looks the best. Their help and support is invaluable.

Website: https://www.christinasstorybook.com

Instagram: @christinas_storybook

Facebook: Christina’s Storybook

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