As a young reporter delving into the theme of "Women Who Inspire" for our May issue, I found myself drawn to write about someone close to home who inspires me every day: innovator and entrepreneur, my mother, Ana Meyer. Intrigued by her accomplishments, I sat down with her to uncover the story behind her inspiring journey.
Growing up, I always admired my mom's ability to balance her career, family, and personal passions. She often emphasized the importance of leading by example, teaching me valuable lessons even in the simplest moments of our everyday life. One of her fundamental principles was to embrace life's twists and turns, recognizing that unexpected changes could lead to new opportunities.
Her journey into product development began during her time as an Architect at a global franchise company. She received advice from her mentor: "If you want to grow in corporate America, you need to put your pencil down." Motivated by this, she pursued an MBA in Marketing, fueling her passion for innovation.
Inspired by Donny Deutsch’s show “The Big Idea”, she kept a sketchbook, and encouraged us to have one too. We wrote down ideas and sketched designs. The results are two exciting new products on the market, Garbage Pantz®, the instant makeover for your ugly trash can, and Huggy Pets® an infomercial children’s product sold across the country in major retailers including Rite Aid. Despite juggling a demanding corporate job, international travel, and raising a family, my mom's newfound passion drove her to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams.
After putting us to bed, she stayed up to 3 am researching patents, manufacturers, attorneys, and more. She used vacation days to attend tradeshows. Huggy Pets®, think of Build-A-Bear meets your kid’s favorite pillow, where the cover is a washable adorable plush pet that is sanitary, colorful, and fun. My brothers and our friends loved the prototypes. She knew we had a hit. https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xs90ap
In addition to Huggy Pets®, she brought to market a second product after an infomercial executive advised her to “solve a common problem”. The results, Garbage Pantz®. The instant makeover for your ugly trash cans! I vividly recall the moment my mom had her breakthrough idea for Garbage Pantz®. Driving home on "trash day," she questioned why we adorned our homes with decorations while neglecting the unsightly appearance of our trash cans.
Garbage Pantz® are attractive, stretchy, and washable. They simply slide on to fit snugly on most sizes and types of cans. You can decorate for the seasons and support your favorite NFL or collegiate team. Trash cans are used for more than just trash, they can be used to hold pool noodles, water toys, and more. Garbage Pantz® designs fit our lifestyle and help celebrate holidays with Santa Pantz® or Rudy Pantz® (kitchen cans too), seasonal, fun everyday designs like Froggy Pantz®, Hawaii Pantz®, Pineapple Pantz®, Party Pantz®, Rodeo Pantz® and more. Garbage Pantz® offers 16 designs plus NFL and collegiate teams. https://garbagecancovers.com/.
As Garbage Pantz® gained traction and garnered attention from media outlets like the DIY Network and CBS, we became actively involved in our parents' entrepreneurial journey. From assisting with prototypes, and filling orders, to Shark Tank, we were there every step of the way.
My mom's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. Transitioning into her role as Publisher and VP of Engagement for Chatham + Short Hills and Morris City Lifestyle, she found a new calling in storytelling and community building. She says, “There’s magic in the power of storytelling and engagement. I’m inspired by our communities and our advertising partners. As a forever student, I explore opportunities to make a positive difference and look for ways to tell your stories, both as community members and as clients, in a meaningful way.” Driven by a desire to make a positive impact, her mission is to share meaningful narratives through her various platforms; print, digital, social media and events. Samir Patel, Blue Code Networks, an advertising partner said, ”Ana, you’ve built a community.”
As I conclude my interview with my mom, I’m filled with pride and admiration. Her story serves as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the profound impact of leading by example. In reflecting on her journey, my mom emphasizes the importance of flexibility and resilience in navigating life's challenges. Her advice is, “In the sea of life, be ready to adjust your sail. You might be surprised by the adventure you experience along the way! If you have kids, take them along the journey with you.”
Have you had to adjust your sail? Share your story with her. ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
Pull Quote 1
“There’s magic in the power of storytelling and engagement. I’m inspired by our communities and our advertising partners.”
Pull Quote 2
“In the sea of life, be ready to adjust your sail. You might be surprised by the adventure you experience along the way! If you have kids, take them along the journey with you.”
