Getting a few moments for relaxation and self-care can be difficult, especially for moms of young children and babies. A new wellness cafe in Carlsbad hopes to change that. The Lullabar, which opens in June, is a tranquil space for mothers and caregivers of all ages and genders.
The concept for The Lullabar is the brainchild of San Diego “mompreneurs” Stephanie Issa and Christine Ong Forsythe. The friends, both of whom were new moms during the pandemic, were overcome by the loneliness caused by the lockdown as well as the social limitations that many public spaces continue to place on parents.
They began wondering why there weren’t more child-friendly spots that were geared toward adults. “Motherhood is very challenging, especially nowadays, with such little support,” Issa says.
The pair envisioned a luxe environment where moms could take some time out to enjoy a beauty treatment, a cup of coffee or simply the company of other parents — while their children could play in a safe and entertaining atmosphere. They named it “The Lullabar,” inspired by lullabies that Ong Forsythe would listen to with her daughter.
After months of planning, Issa and Ong Forsythe decided to bring on a third partner, Burbank business professional Christine Dawood. An experienced financial planner, Dawood is not only good with numbers but as a mom of three she’s also passionate about The Lullabar’s mission.
The chic Scandinavian design-influenced space in Carlsbad — created by San Diego-based Arch5 Design Studio and showcasing clean lines, sleek modern furnishings, muted neutral hues and natural wood tones — centers around a 900-sq.-ft. play gym for children ages 16 months to 6 years. Supervised sessions last two hours and cost $35 per child, and kids are provided with a variety of activities, from swings and slides to crafts and story time.
After dropping the kiddos off for some fun playtime, moms — and dads — can take some much-needed me time. The Lullabar features a soothing spalike nail salon, as well as an indoor-outdoor cafe that offers coffee, sandwiches and snacks, and baked goods. Sip on an espresso while catching up with friends or enjoy a soothing pedicure.
Need help with motherhood? Classes and workshops will help support new parents and caregivers. Topics will cover everything from meditation and postpartum mental health to breastfeeding, parenting for picky eating, and CPR and first aid.
“We want moms to feel at home at The Lullabar, not a nuisance,” Issa and Forsythe say.
The Lullabar is located in the upscale Beacon La Costa shopping center. For more information or to book some child care (and self-care), visit thelullabar.com.
7750 El Camino Real, Ste. 5145-5150
Carlsbad, CA 92009