10 Questions with Robyn Schneider
Robyn is the owner of the beloved downtown clothing and shoe store Morlees, a family owned business started by her father and uncle over 53 years ago. A mom of two, Robyn is an accomplished attorney, active in local advocacy, education and politics, and a woman with a singularly unique perspective of life in Jersey City.
You always hear about the difference between old Jersey City vs. new Jersey City. In short, that they are two completely different worlds. You have such an interesting perspective having grown up here but being so active in the community here today, and raising your family here.
That’s very true. I live in two worlds. I am part of the old school Jersey City and I am a part of the new families here as well. My Dad grew up here in the heyday of Jersey City, as the old-timers call it, back in the 30s. I see both sides on everything, not that there is always conflict but I can tell you it was very, very different.
When did your family move out of JC and where did you grow up after moving?
I lived here until I was 6 and then we moved to Springfield. But growing up I was here all the time because my Dad had his business and my Grandma had a gift store by the Court House on Newark Ave.
What’s the biggest difference between your experience growing up here as a young child and that of your two kids growing up here today?The food!
What made you decide to raise your kids here in JC?
In the early 2000s, I was helping my dad at the store on weekends. I had just graduated from Cardoza Law School and it just happened kind of naturally that I was spending so much time here and it felt right.
How did you become involved in local politics?
By accident. After law school I was working as an attorney doing educational advocacy. I had my son in 2007 and didn’t get really involved until 2008. That’s when I started working on Board of Ed., City Council and Mayoral campaigns. Having such roots and with my own family here, I have a real investment in this town and it’s important to give back.
You and Darden currently serve as Democratic Committee people together. What does that job entail?
We are community liaisons, and it’s our job to bring up community concerns and have them heard. We are a good team and love working together. We share the same values when it comes to helping our community.
You also serve on the Board of Trustees at The Ethical Community Charter School. How do you find time to make it all work?
Hyper-scheduling. It’s all about capacity!
What advice do you have for other woman trying to do the same?
Do what you are passionate about. It has to be something you are interested in to keep you going when the going gets rough.
What advice would you give someone interested in opening up a small business in Jersey City?
Make sure you have capital to cover yourself for the first year. Nothing goes as planned.
Describe your perfect night out, assuming you could get some free time.
The couch! Or a walk on the water.
Favorite old-time restaurant.
Laico’s
Favorite new restaurant
Honshu
Best nail boutique
Zion Nails
Thanks for the tips, Robyn. Carry on!