Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Roubitchek.
Jessica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
After completing my MBA I was looking to break away from the corporate world and start my own business. I was looking for an opportunity that was locally-focused and that was flexible enough that I could remain actively engaged in my family life. As a dog lover, I was originally trying to find my angle with animals but I ultimately landed on the drop-in play and party concept, which has been a great fit!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a smooth road but navigating the changing landscape of social media and how people receive communication keeps us on our toes. When we started, Facebook was free for businesses and people were more attuned to email communication. In five years that has changed significantly.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Purple Monkey Playroom – what should we know?
We are a full-service party venue and a drop-in play space. We are known for both drop-in play and birthday parties, but we also host baby showers, gender reveals, and even wedding showers.
Our celebrations set us apart from other children’s spaces in that they are fully customizable and cater to both adults and children. We recently took over event contracts for several other spaces in the area and now hold celebrations in their venues, as well, which allows us, even more, opportunity to meet our client’s needs.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have been a part of an incredible network, called “Moms in Business” since the business’ inception. The partnerships I was able to form through the network and the endless advice I received have been invaluable.
I also have incredibly dedicated managers, one of whom has been in the business for over 5 years (Lea Martinez – pictured in Purple Monkey shirt in one of the photos). We’ve been more recently joined by Sarah Nelson, our Manager of Business Development, who has been instrumental in spearheading our alternate venue relationships.
Pricing:
- Day Pass $15
- Day Pass with Sibling: $22
- Lap Babies (Under 8 Months): $6
- 10 Visit Pass: $100
- Birthday Celebrations: Starting at $450
Contact Info:
- Address: 2040 N. Western Avenue
- Website: purplemonkeyplayroom.com
- Phone: 773-772-8411
- Email: info@purplemonkeyplayroom.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purplemonkeyplayroom
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purplemonkeyplayroom/
- Twitter: @purplemonkeypr
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/purple-monkey-playroom-chicago
Image Credit:
TK Photography Chicago
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
