Ashish Rajadhyaksha:

Co-Founder: Director of Retail, Licensing & Green Initiatives

It's been an interesting journey from the world of investment banking to the world of babies. A few years ago, my wife and I had gone to California, and at a cafe over there, we saw an adorable little girl named Emma playing with blocks while her mom was busy chatting with her friends. Sitting there and observing little Emma, I thought about a "Third Place" where friends and family could come to have a "jolly good time" and celebrate life with their little ones.

Having been deeply involved in the concept and brand creation, interiors, retail display, merchandising, marketing and operations of MoonSoup, I have been able to bring out my true creative self to create a truly "up-market yet neighborhoody" home away from home for the entire MoonSoup Family.

Susan Izatt:

Co-Founder: Director of Early Childhood & Community Initiatives

Thrilled to be opening the MoonSoup play center and store. Susan Izatt has been working with babies and toddlers, teaching kids, training teachers and developing early childhood programs for over 15 years. Susan was the director of the NYC, DC and VA Gymboree franchises of Early Learning Concepts, and Director of Early Childhood at Aha! Play Partners, making immersive environments and play labs. Susan has written on children and creativity, developed early childhood arts curricula and programming, taught Kindermusik, and preschool art. Susan loves talking to parents about their children and has taught parenting workshops. (*How To Think Like Two Year Old” at the 14th Street Y was a favorite). She looks forward to creating someplace welcoming, where we celebrate children, and being part of families’ lives. Opening MoonSoup is a dream come true.

Pati Dube: Director of Operations & Retail Manager 

Having worked at two Fortune 500 companies, I have been able to bring my management, organizational and administrative skills to assist in the creation of MoonSoup as Director of Operations. Being responsible for systematically setting up and/or realigning departments has been essential in MoonSoup running efficiently.

Using my passion for Interior Design and Retail Merchandising has enabled me to create unique Gift Baskets for our MoonSoup clientele.

Working in Manhattan is a dream come true with all its culture being accessible and enjoyed. After living in Europe for many years, and dodging hurricanes in Florida, I now make Hyde Park, NY my home.