Today we’d like to introduce you to Mara ( Barbie) Feldman .
Hi Mara, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been an entrepreneur for many years, but Mia’s Scoops & Sweets became something very special to me. I created it inspired by my daughter Mia and with a vision of building a fun, welcoming place where families could make memories together.
Like any business journey, it hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced challenges, taken risks, invested a lot into my vision, and learned an entirely new industry along the way. But every challenge pushed me to become stronger and more creative.
What started as an ice cream shop has grown into something much bigger. We’ve created community events, partnered with local organizations and businesses, supported children and families, and built connections with other women entrepreneurs.
Today, I’m focused not only on growing my businesses, but also on empowering women, connecting people with opportunities, and making a positive impact in my community.
I’m still building, still learning, and still dreaming bigger. I truly feel like this is only the beginning.
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?
This journey has taught me so much about faith, resilience, and believing in myself. Building this store took a major investment, a lot of hard work, and many sacrifices. I already knew business, but the ice cream industry was completely new to me, so I had to learn quickly and be willing to ask questions, make adjustments, and keep growing.
There have been financial pressures, long hours, unexpected setbacks, and moments when things didn’t go as planned. But I’ve learned not to let a difficult moment define the entire journey. Every challenge has made me stronger, more creative, and even more determined.
What keeps me going is seeing families come through the door, watching children get excited, and knowing that the business has become more than just a place to get ice cream. It has become a place for community, connection, and memories. That reminds me why I started and why I continue to push forward.
We’ve been impressed with Mia’s Scoops & Sweets , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Mia’s Scoops & Sweets is a family-focused ice cream and dessert shop in Downtown Plainfield, New Jersey. We specialize in creative, over-the-top desserts, signature treats, themed events, and fun experiences for families and children.
One of our signature treats is Duckylicious™, a playful ice cream creation topped with candy and a little duck that reflects the fun spirit of Mia’s. I love creating desserts that make people smile and give them something memorable to enjoy together.
What makes the business special to me is how we bring people together. Through “Scoop up a Book,” we encourage children to read in partnership with the Plainfield Public Library and the Reading Circle. The Downtown Plainfield Duck Hunt invites families to explore participating local businesses and discover prizes along the way, with sponsorship from Downtown Plainfield SID and support from the City of Plainfield.
We also use our space for community events, collaborations, and children’s activities. I’m proud of building a welcoming place where families can make memories and local businesses can support one another.
I want my business to have purpose. I’m passionate about supporting women, connecting entrepreneurs, and using my platform to make a positive impact in my community.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I believe luck can open a door, but you still have to be prepared to walk through it. I’ve had opportunities come my way, but I’ve also worked very hard to create many of those opportunities through consistency, relationships, and putting myself out there.
There have also been moments that did not feel lucky at all — setbacks, unexpected problems, and times when things didn’t go according to plan. Looking back, some of those difficult moments taught me the most and pushed me in a better direction.
I’m grateful for every person who has supported me, every connection I’ve made, and every opportunity that has come my way. But I also believe that hard work, resilience, and being willing to keep going are what turn an opportunity into something meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.miasscoopsandsweets.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miascoopsweets/
- Facebook: https://www.miasscoopsandsweets.com/
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/Ep7w-5sBWF
- Other: www.tiktok.com/@miasweetscoops
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