Two Sisters Leave Corporate Jobs to Open Unique Kid-Friendly Cafe
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Two sisters, Maria Rapp and Kiki Anderson, recently made a bold move by leaving their corporate jobs to pursue their dream of opening a kid-friendly cafe in Old Saybrook, Conn. The sisters had always envisioned starting a business together, but it wasn’t until they found themselves back in their hometown that their dream started to feel within reach.
Maria Rapp, aged 30, had a successful career as a labor and employment attorney in New York City, while her sister Kiki Anderson, aged 27, had studied Homeland Security and worked in federal law enforcement investigations. However, it was when both sisters returned to Old Saybrook during the pandemic, with Maria expecting her first child, that they felt compelled to take the leap towards their entrepreneurial dream.
The spark for their business, Peek-a-Brew Play Cafe, came from a realisation that there was a lack of places where parents could meet while their children could play. The sisters saw an opportunity to create a space where families could come together, relax, and connect while children enjoyed a safe and engaging play area.
With determination and a leap of faith, Maria and Kiki decided to turn their vision into reality. They left their corporate jobs, even though their parents initially thought they were “out of their minds” for making such a drastic career change. The sisters leased a space in town and got to work on transforming it into a welcoming and family-friendly cafe.
The cafe features five custom play structures named after influential women in their family, creating a village-like play area for children. Additionally, the space includes a café area designed to allow caregivers to relax while keeping an eye on their children as they play.
Despite facing challenges in conveying their unique concept to others and managing the cafe’s opening while expecting a baby, the sisters remained determined to see their dream come to life. They documented their journey on TikTok, where a video of their excitement over the cafe’s sign going up went viral, garnering immense support and encouragement from viewers.
After months of hard work, Peek-a-Brew Play Cafe officially opened its doors on May 9. The sisters have not only created a space for families to gather and have fun but have also partnered with local artisans to offer a variety of family-focused products. They aim for the cafe to be a hub for the community to come together, feel supported, and create lasting connections.
Maria Rapp and Kiki Anderson’s journey exemplifies the courage and resilience required to follow one’s passion and pursue a dream. Their dedication to building a space that fosters community and support for families has resonated with many, showcasing the power of determination and the impact of following one’s heart.
As Peek-a-Brew Play Cafe continues to thrive, the sisters hope to expand their reach and bring their unique concept to other communities in need of a similar supportive and inclusive space. Their story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the rewards of taking risks and following your dreams, no matter the challenges that may arise along the way.