Here at The Bedford Mom, we believe that moms deserve to be recognized and celebrated! This month, we’re so excited to introduce you to Monika Flagg, a busy mom of two young daughters, Cora (4.5) and Lily (2.5). Monika lives in Bedford with her husband, their two German Shepherds, and a playful Bengal cat. Originally from the Seacoast, she made the move to Bedford in 2017 and has loved building her life in this welcoming community ever since. She praises Bedford for its beautiful neighborhoods, strong sense of community, and the way neighbors truly look out for one another. Learn more about Monika below!
Tell us about yourself!
Hi there! My name is Monika Flagg and I live with in town with my husband, our 2 daughters (Cora, 4.5, and Lily, 2.5), our 2 German Shepherds, and our Bengal Cat. I am originally from the Seacoast, and we moved to Bedford in 2017.
Tell us about your work!
I’ve had a bit of a winding career path. I graduated with a degree in Biomedical Science and began my career in medical device and lab equipment sales, but quickly realized I was craving work that felt more social and creative.
That eventually led me to Real Estate after buying our home in 2017 with Jen Delisle of Luxe Living (you may have seen her signs around town!). I joined the team shortly after as her Executive Assistant and earned my Real Estate License.
These days, my primary role is a SAHM—which is somehow both the most rewarding and most chaotic job I’ve ever had. I still work a few hours each week with Luxe Living, which gives me the perfect excuse to use a part of my brain other than the part dedicated to snack requests, laundry, and picking up Magna-Tiles. 😉
What are your favorite local restaurants?
If I had to choose one favorite, it would definitely be Fondi. It feels like a bit of a hidden gem—never too crowded, and the food is consistently amazing. Plus, their patio is super cute in nice weather!
Also can’t go wrong with Copper Door for a work lunch or date night, or Evviva Trattoria for a tasty dinner that’s easy with kiddos!
What is your favorite way to practice self-care?
In short: patting my dogs, mowing the lawn, and a glass of rosé.
Being a stay-at-home mom, finding time for self-care can be a challenge—there’s always something to clean, cook, or plan. Honestly, I love my work, so even a morning in the office feels like a reset for me. I also take a weekly workout class at Martin School of Dance, and love sneaking off to Planet Fitness for an evening workout (and their free spray tan. I might be tired, but I’m glowing). Beyond that, walking my dogs, working in the yard (obsessed with curating the perfect lawn), and going to bed early are all high on my self-care list.
What brought you to Bedford?
We moved to Bedford in 2017 to be closer to my husband’s work. While we miss being near the Seacoast, we’ve come to love Bedford’s safety, strong community, and excellent schools and amenities. We’re also lucky to be within an hour of family, which allows us to see them often—and their help and support mean so much to us in this season of life.
What is your favorite thing about Bedford?
My favorite thing about Bedford is its beautiful neighborhoods—they offer the perfect blend of natural scenery while still being conveniently close to shops, restaurants, and everyday amenities. I also love how friendly, thoughtful, and community-minded the people here are; it truly feels like a town where neighbors look out for one another.
What are your favorite local spots in town?
Definitely Joppa Hill Farm—we love visiting the animals, and this year I even have a community garden plot there that I enjoy tending with my girls. For kids’ activities, some of our favorite local spots are BYPC, Martin School of Dance, Goldfish Swim School, and Let’s Grow Outside. We also frequent Whole Foods Market (hello dollar oyster Fridays), local playgrounds, and the town pool/splash pad all summer long.
What is your go-to ice cream order at the inside scoop?
Maine Blackbear, with rainbow sprinkles!!! Like a pile of them. Ice cream is just a vessel for sprinkles.
What is your best piece of advice for moms who are new in town?
My advice for new moms in town is to take advantage of local resources and community events to get involved and meet people. The library, the town rec department, community events. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself, ask for advice, and most importantly—just be yourself. Joining local moms’ groups and town pages is also a great way to stay connected and in the loop.
What is your best piece of advice for expecting moms or new moms?
Be real, and surround yourself with other people who are real, too. It’s okay to be tired. It’s okay that your kid had a meltdown at Target. It’s okay to admit that motherhood can be messy and overwhelming at times. There is so much value in being honest about the ups, downs, and chaos—because neither you nor your kid need to be perfect. Have the playdate without cleaning the whole house, wear your comfy hoodie. Most moms are far more understanding and supportive than you think. Don’t be afraid to ask for the number of the mom you met at the library or playground, compliment another parent, or strike up a conversation.
In closing, we hope you enjoyed reading this article about Monika! If you’d like to nominate a Bedford mom to be spotlighted, please submit your nomination via email to info@thebedfordmom.com. Thanks so much!