Meet Jessica Besse, local mom of two and founder of Pampered Pant, a for-purpose children’s clothing company. Pampered Pant thoughtfully designs and develops athleisure – style clothes for kiddos aged 2-6, and every purchase provides a day’s worth of diapers for a family in need. Their products are crafted with your littles in mind – the softest and most durable fabrics, practical and stylish designs, no tags or scratchy seams. You can find their cozy pieces at pamperedpant.com, they ship and offer local pickup!
Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Fairfield?
I grew up in Stratford and moved to Fairfield after college. My husband went to Fairfield University, we met while both working in Fairfield, and lived there together until we moved to Easton 8 years ago.
Tell us about your Family!
My husband Dan and I will have been married ten years this June, and together 16 years – we actually got engaged on the peninsula at Penfield Beach! He owns Landing Point Advisors, a private wealth management company in downtown Fairfield. Our son Nolan is 6 and in kindergarten, our daughter Lila is 3 and our first-born is our 9 year old dog Hudson.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I taught special ed preschool for 8 years in Westport before having my kids.
One thing you wish someone would have told you about motherhood?
Don’t stress about the small things. Build strong relationships with your kids and your support groups, parent from the heart and all the rest will fall into place.
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield County?
There’s so much to do! Every weekend there are family-friendly events, outdoor activities most of the year, experiences and places that are magical for our littles. Living here to raise our family has been the best choice we could’ve made.
Best mom hack that makes your life easier?
Planning out my week on a Sunday evening – just helps me prioritize and keep organized for the week ahead.
Tell us about your business Pampered Pant, and when & why you decided to start up this business?
In December of 2016, Dan and I had our first child. We were overjoyed, overwhelmed and above all, grateful. It was in those early months as a new mom that I first learned how many parents were struggling to provide diapers for their own babies. The overwhelming and underrepresented problem of diaper need inspired us to figure out how we could help. It was then that Pampered Pant – a clothing company that could give back – was born. The idea has grown alongside our son and daughter, and we’re so proud to bring our clothing with a purpose into your homes.
Why did you decide to give a portion of the proceeds to the National Diaper Bank Network?
The National Diaper Bank Network is the most effective organization that provides families with access to the basic necessities they need to thrive and reach their full potential. Check out all they do and how to contribute at nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org.
Tell us about the clothes? What sizes do you offer and how can we order?
Pampered Pant is a brand that embodies thoughtfulness in every aspect of our company. Quality, consistency, and consideration are paramount to our mission, and these values shape the design and production of our products. Super-soft fabrics, pieces made deliberately with no tags or scratchy seams, and practical but stylish designs make up our first line. Sized 2-6 years, our athleisure-wear includes joggers, leggings, hoodies and oversized sweatshirts, and can be easily ordered on our website at pamperedpant.com.
Best advice for moms who experience the inevitable MOM GUILT handling a career and raising a family?
I have never felt more pride than when explaining to my kids what my work is and how we as a family have launched a business that also helps families in need. Block out the guilt and focus on the amazing example you’re setting for your kids by following your ambitions and contributing in whatever way you dream of.
Who has most influenced you to be the mom that you are today?
My mom, hands down. She’s my best friend and the most inspiring role model you could ask for. Through many obstacles and adversity in her life, she has remained positive, strong, caring, and such a support for me, always.
What advice would you share with a new mom or other moms?
Sleep! There was no bigger negative impact on my physical and mental well-being than not getting enough sleep, and it’s one of those things that sneaks up on you. Take every advantage you can to sleep, and if you’re not feeling yourself, make time for some full nights of rest and see if it helps!
We love supporting local businesses – favorite places in Fairfield to…
Have Dinner with Family: Colony Pizza
Grab a Drink with Friends: Barcelona, Molto
Have a Date Night: Bonda
Spend time together as a Family: Movies at the SHU Community Theater, sporting events at Fairfield University, festive gatherings at the center of town
Outside Activities: Penfield and Jennings beach, and we love walking our dog at Lake Mohegan – also working out with Fit4Mom!
Grab coffee: Candlewood Market – I’ve had many a virtual meeting there!