When Lulu’s Casita opened in Ardmore nearly five years ago, it was a welcome oasis for families of little ones: a cozy place kids could play while parents could connect, grab a coffee, and feel at ease. Their parties and events — and of course their fabulous owner’s community-building spirit —quickly set them apart, and word spread. Now, everyone’s favorite Main Line home-away-from-home is expanding westward.

We spoke to Vivi Zayas, owner of Lulu’s Casita, to learn more about her exciting new space.

Lulu’s Casita will open its second location this fall at 111 N. High St. in West Chester. Zayas said she was drawn to West Chester for her new spot because “it has such a vibrant main street and a vibe that I loved.”

West Chester also has many young families, yet is underserved when it comes to a gathering spot for those families.

“There is nothing around there like us,” Zayas said.

Until September 2018, that is, when the grand opening of Lulu’s Casita West Chester is planned.

Those who frequent the original Lulu’s Casita in Ardmore will be happy to know that they will not lose a familiar face due to this expansion — Zayas will return full time to the Ardmore space during the day come September.

To expand the business, Zayas knew exactly who to call. Lisa Elliott, set to be the manager (and part owner) of the West Chester branch, was one of Lulu’s Casita’s first employees, and has been there five years — you may have even worked with her if you threw a party for your kids at Lulu’s over the years.

“I see myself in her,” said Zayas. Like Zayas, Elliott had also been a nanny before coming to work at Lulu’s Casita.

The West Chester outpost will be about the same size as the original Ardmore Lulu’s, but split-level in structure. Zayas plans to replicate the same style as her first space, as well as bring popular weekly events (like music classes and bilingual storytime) and holiday events (like El Bruncho with Santa) to the new space as well.

And West Chester parents will be thrilled to know that their Lulu’s Casita will also have Friday BYOB Pizza Nights where parents can enjoy a family-friendly happy hour while their kids play before bedtime!

Dying to see the new space? Keep an eye on our website for updates. You can also follow Lulu’s Casita West Chester on Facebook to get updates on what they’ve got planned.

Photograph by Laura Swartz.