CEO and Founder
Hi, I’m Julie Schwarz—an East Coast native with over 30 years of experience in the service and retail industries. I’ve run a catering company, built a farmers market business from the ground up, and now own The Mom-Up Shop, a curated vintage store in Long Beach that helps fund my nonprofit, Project WomanGood, which supports survivors of domestic violence. I spent 15 years living in Boston, where I attended Simmons University—starting in their retail management program with the goal of becoming a buyer, and eventually earning my B.A. in Creative Writing. During that time, I soaked in every bit of retail culture I could, including many treasure hunts at the original Filene’s Basement, a place that taught me the thrill of the find and the power of a great deal.
I’m a single mom, a passionate community advocate, and someone who truly believes that customer service can make or break any experience, regardless of price point. I’m committed to creating warm, welcoming, and empowering spaces—whether it’s in my store, my nonprofit work, or in everyday interactions—and I love sharing resources to help others thrive.
Fun fact: For my 12th birthday party, I went shopping at White Flint Mall with my girlfriends—home to Lord & Taylor, the second Bloomingdale’s in the D.C. area, and the only East Coast I. Magnin. You could say retail has been in my soul ever since.