Basking Ridge Mom Launches Custom Online Boutique

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — When Basking Ridge mother Jennifer DaSilva got laid off during the coronavirus pandemic, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

DaSilva had been working in the corporate field for years when she gave birth to her daughter Elliana. She was on maternity leave when COVID hit and had planned to return to work. However, due to the pandemic, she was furloughed and then laid off entirely.

"It stung a little bit since I had the corporate job for years," said DaSilvia. "I took a breather and thought maybe this is a blessing in disguise."

As a new mother, DaSilva took a couple of months to collect herself and just enjoy her time with her daughter. Then her drive took over and she delved into starting her new business, Magic Alley Co.

"I came up with fun designs for t-shirts for my daughter and taught myself to use different design programs and cutting machines," said DaSilva. "I started doing it for friends and kids as well. And I thought I should take a shot and start my online boutique."

The online boutique custom creates and designs specialty T-shirts, onesies, fitness-themed tanks, tote and beach bags, and more.

"I can customize pretty much anything anyone wants," said DaSilva. "They can just say something they like and I can come up with the design."

DaSilva says it is exciting yet exhausting to run her own business but her husband David helps a lot.

"I am excited by the opportunity and hope to one day own my own boutique in town," said DaSilva.

Currently, customers can shop DaSilva's products on facebook.com/MagicAlleyCo or instagram.com/magicalleyco.

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