Two months left in this year, and for many of us, it has felt like a wild dream. So many clients, friends, and family members have shared that this has been a tough one. Between the economy, the political climate, and uncertainty around technology, many people have started to retreat. In some ways, it feels similar to the pandemic era: people feeling more isolated and lonely than normal.
But this is your reminder to be the villager you wish to see in the world.
I grew up in a Greek household and actually lived in a village in Greece when I was 17 years old. I learned firsthand how to milk a goat and be a farmhand alongside an elder Yiayia who didn’t speak English. My mom and Yiayia taught me how to be a villager: to invite people in, make them feel welcomed and loved, and be willing to create spaces that bring people together. In a world that can sometimes feel like the opposite, I’ve seen what a huge skill this is. This November, I invite you to think about how you are showing up. Where is your energy going? How can you intentionally be the villager you wish to see more of in the world?
It’s incredible what can happen when we decide to show up.
The Power Of Connection
Perfect example: About a year ago, I shared how much I love helping other women curate their villages, but I felt like I was missing part of mine. I have two little kiddos, and as much as I know about nutrition and wellness, I had turned into the mom barely surviving on my kids’ leftovers and relying on nap time and coffee to keep me going. I kept hoping I would meet someone who could support me in this area and, lo and behold… Village Foods opened!
Meet Kelly Langstaff, mama of two and owner and founder of this little gem helping families stay nourished with delicious, nutritious food. I immediately reached out to Kelly in her DMs and shared that not only are both of our businesses built around the concept of the village but I am literally the mom who needs her. I first tasted her food while hosting a pop-up event in Capitola, and I knew immediately I had hit the jackpot. Her salmon plate with asparagus and potatoes was divine, and my kids were devouring the zucchini muffins and fresh tuna packed with veggies. As Kelly and I got to know each other, we realized we had a lot more in common. In 2025, we both lost our corporate jobs. We both have two kids. We both experienced the grief of losing someone we love.
Most importantly, we are both passionate about helping moms and families feel supported and reminding people that it really does take a village. Village Foods started small. Kelly shared her idea with local moms, people said YES, and she began prepping foods for new moms in the community. Then the village showed up for her, too. Her own village helped to make her vision a reality. What began as an idea to make life easier for other families eventually became a real storefront and gathering place for the community. That is what I want us to remember. Following your dream doesn’t always mean having the perfect business plan or knowing exactly where it will lead. Sometimes it starts with noticing what you love, recognizing what people around you need, putting your idea out there, and allowing other people to come alongside you.
Building Together
We can build incredible things when we stop believing we have to build them alone. Kelly followed something she loved. Her community supported her. Now her business is supporting that same community. The ripple effect is real. That, to me, is what being a villager is all about. So this is your reminder: Notice your talents. Notice what you’re genuinely passionate about. Notice where those gifts could support your community. Then go out and DO IT.
And when you see another woman doing the same thing: support her. Buy from her. Share her work. Collaborate with her. Tell your friends about her. Imagine what becomes possible when instead of competing, retreating, or trying to do everything alone, we actually become the village for one another. Kelly and I are doing exactly that by teaming up for a Friendsgiving pop-up this November, and I hope you’ll join us! Make sure you’re on my newsletter at jaimemcfaden.com for all the details. And if you haven’t visited Kelly’s adorable space yet, go check it out! Village Foods is located at 21245 East Cliff Drive. The storefront is open Tuesday-Friday, 10am-6pm, with grab-and-go Village Foods meals and products from other local makers, including Melo Bread. villagefoodssc.com/
Go support a mama who took a dream, turned it into something real, and is out there being the villager she wishes to see in the world.
