Social Mum of the Week – Marisa Levenson

May 27, 2019

This week it’s all about American born singer-songwriter Marisa who is a member of our Social Mums London Facebook Group. She talks about what inspired her to start her business as well as what she finds most challenging about using social media.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family

My name is Marisa Levenson and I’m a musician. I am American (and now also British) and have been living in London for the last 11 years, now with my husband and our 3-year-old daughter. During this time, I have been in a London-based folk rock band called “The Common Earth” as singer/songwriter/guitarist and then singer in an acoustic duo called “Acoustically Tuned,” which played cover songs at events.

What is your business?

I’m founder and owner of “Young Folkies,” live, musical entertainment for babies and toddlers. I perform folky renditions of nursery rhymes and original children’s songs on guitar and ukulele with puppets and instruments. I hold weekly sessions in North East London for babies and toddlers 0-5 years old, teach guitar to children 5-10 years old and perform at birthday parties. Shortly, I will be releasing my first album of original children’s songs and favourite nursery rhymes!

What inspired you to start your business?

I’ve worked at various charities over the years, but wanted to do something more flexible when I had my daughter. I thought about what I could do and figured that playing music for children would be a great way to do something I really enjoy and combine it with working with children (something I also enjoy!).

What social media platforms do you use and why?

I use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. I have the most followers on Instagram from all over and try to make fun, engaging posts. I use Facebook more for local customers who have been to my sessions. I’m not as good with Twitter, but send tweets through Instagram so I can have a presence on there for those who might not be on the other platforms.

What do you find most challenging about marketing your business on social media?

I think that part of the challenge is finding my audience. I follow a lot of mom bloggers, baby clothing and product brands, and other musicians doing children’s music on Instagram to let them know about my business. However, since my business is an in-person live product, my customers are mostly local. I’m hoping when I release my first album of original children’s songs and nursery rhymes I’ll have a product that I can share with a wider audience.

What is the best social media tip you have picked up for your business?

I think the best social media tip I’ve picked up for my business is to really engage socially and write genuine 4-word or more comments.

What have you found most useful about being part of a Social Mums Facebook Group?

I have enjoyed meeting other mums who are self-motivated and supportive of each other. I have gained more followers from the group and followed mums back. It’s interesting to see all the unique businesses related to children and also not related to children other mums have created. It’s inspirational!