Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Waxenbaum And Alyson Jarvis.
Erin Waxenbaum and Alyson Jarvis, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2023, we had an idea that was simple but close to our hearts: Create journals and planners that are fun, easy to use, and meaningful for busy people who just want to slow down, prep and reflect, and make memories that last.
It all started when we went looking for a daily journal for our kids. We wanted something simple, quick, and still impactful—but when we couldn’t find what we had in mind, we rolled up our sleeves and decided to make it ourselves.
As moms and former teachers, we know how quickly time slips by. We also know the power of holding onto little moments, traditions, and memories. Planning and reflection have always been passions of ours, so it felt natural to pour that into every journal and planner we create. Our goal is to give people tools that make life feel a little more intentional—whether that’s through meditation, organizing thoughts, or spending quality time with family.
Erin: I used to teach in the classroom, and I earned degrees from Boston College’s Lynch School of Education and Human Development and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. These days, I’m home with my daughter and son, still focused on helping kids grow—not just academically, but socially and emotionally, too. My journey through education, parenting, and mental health is what inspired me to create resources that help people prepare for what’s ahead, while also taking time to look back with gratitude.
Alyson: I’m a mom of two as well, with a background as an art teacher and travel coordinator. Now I work as a photographer, which lets me combine my creative side with my love for capturing life’s meaningful moments. I’m always looking for ways to bring order to the everyday chaos while also making space for memories that matter.
Together, we’ve made it our mission to help people live more mindfully and intentionally. What started as one simple journal for kids has grown into a whole collection of journals and planners for all ages—whether you’re recording milestones, diving into hobbies, or simply finding joy in the little things.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road—finding work-life balance has been one of our biggest challenges. Like so many parents, we’ve had to figure out how to juggle family responsibilities with running a business, and that balance has shifted and evolved over time. We’ve become very intentional about how we structure our days, making sure our families always come first. From school drop-offs to family dinners, those non-negotiable moments are always built into our schedules.
That doesn’t mean it’s always easy. There are trade-offs, and we’ve accepted that Prep and Reflect might not grow as quickly as it could if we poured in every ounce of time and energy. But for us, family has always been the top priority, and that guides every decision we make.
We’ve also learned that caring for ourselves matters, too. Whether it’s taking a quiet moment to journal, fitting in a workout, or simply giving ourselves space to breathe, those little acts of self-care allow us to show up better—for our families, our business, and our own well-being.
The best part is that we truly practice what we preach. The very journals and planners we’ve created are the tools that help us manage our days, reflect on what matters, and stay intentional. The road isn’t always smooth, but it’s one we’re grateful for, because it’s rooted in our values and guided by what matters most.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Prep and Reflect is all about helping people slow down, be intentional and mindful, and capture the moments that matter most. We design unique journals and planners that are simple, meaningful, and built for real life—tools that busy people can actually use every day.
What makes us different is that our products are inspired by our own lives as moms, former teachers, and women who understand how fast time flies. We started with a need for a simple kids’ journal and grew into a full line of journals and planners for all ages, including our bestselling Timeless Collection and our ocean-inspired Full-year Monthly Planners.
We’re most proud of creating products that people don’t just buy—they use daily, to plan, reflect, and build memories with their families. Every design is thoughtful, approachable, and rooted in our belief that life is worth pausing for.
At the heart of our brand is intention. Whether you’re documenting milestones, setting goals, or simply taking a moment for yourself, Prep and Reflect is here to make that process easier, more meaningful, and—most importantly—sustainable.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that might surprise people is that Prep and Reflect actually started because we couldn’t find what we were looking for ourselves. We went searching for a simple, quick, but meaningful journal for our kids—and when nothing fit, we decided to make one. What started as a personal project has now grown into a full brand with journals and planners for kids and adults alike.
Another thing people might not realize is just how much we use our own products every single day. They aren’t just something we sell; they’re tools that help us stay grounded, balance busy family life, and be intentional with our time. In a way, Prep and Reflect has grown right alongside us—shaped by our own experiences as moms, educators, and women trying to make space for reflection in the middle of life’s chaos.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://prepandreflect.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prepandreflect
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Prep-and-Reflect/61552843626957/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prep-and-reflect/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/PrepandReflect/
Image Credits
Alyson Jarvis
