Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Dure
Hi Nancy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Play Dates of Orlando started as a dream, deeply rooted in my journey through motherhood and my passion for building community. It all began when I joined an amazing playgroup in San Antonio, where I discovered the joy of creating themed play dates. These events became an outlet for my creativity, allowing me to design meaningful and fun experiences where kids could simply be kids—free to laugh, explore, and make lifelong memories. Seeing the pure joy on their faces, while providing moms a supportive, judgment-free space to connect, became my driving force.
Growing up in Poncitlán, Jalisco, Mexico, we didn’t have many resources, and that shaped my perspective on how vital it is to provide children with carefree, joyful experiences. It also instilled in me a desire to create something inclusive, something that would allow moms from all backgrounds to feel connected and supported. I wanted Play Dates of Orlando to be accessible to all mothers, free from the financial burden that often comes with organized activities. I envisioned a community that welcomed moms from across Orlando, offering an inclusive space where they could meet others navigating the same journey.
I am deeply grateful for the foundation my parents gave me. They instilled the values of kindness, generosity, and the importance of giving back to others. Their commitment to helping those around them inspired me to lead with love and intention in everything I do. I’m also incredibly thankful for my children, who are the reason these play dates exist. They motivate me daily to create experiences that foster joy and connection for other families.
None of this would be possible without my amazing support system. My husband is my greatest cheerleader—whether he’s gathering supplies, holding piñatas for the little ones, or showing up with a much-needed Starbucks when he sees I need a boost. My family and close friends continuously encourage me, and their support drives me to do more and dream bigger.
Today, Play Dates of Orlando has become so much more than I ever imagined. It’s building a community where moms and kids can thrive, connect, and feel truly seen. Knowing that these connections are forming and that families are finding joy in the moments we create is the most rewarding part of this journey. I can’t wait to see how our community continues to grow and how many more memories we can make together.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and strengthened my passion for creating this community. One of the biggest struggles has been balancing my vision with the reality of limited resources. I’ve always wanted Play Dates of Orlando to be accessible to all moms without the financial burden, which means I’ve often had to get creative—finding ways to stretch budgets, repurpose materials, and do a lot of the planning and labor myself. It’s a labor of love, but it can be overwhelming at times.
Another challenge has been navigating the expectations of creating inclusive spaces. Orlando is a beautifully diverse city, and I want every mom to feel welcome regardless of their background or circumstances. Striking that balance has meant being intentional about activities, locations, and the overall vibe of the group to ensure everyone feels represented and valued.
On a personal level, there have been moments of self-doubt. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes effort that goes into organizing these events, and sometimes it can feel like the weight of making everything perfect rests solely on my shoulders. But I’m reminded of why I started this journey every time I see kids laughing or moms connecting over shared experiences.
Lastly, managing time has been another hurdle. Juggling my role as a mom, wife, and event planner while staying true to my mission can be challenging. There have been sleepless nights, last-minute pivots, and moments where I’ve had to lean heavily on my support system to keep going. But those moments have also shown me the power of community—my husband, kids, and family have been my rock, always stepping in to help, whether it’s running errands, or simply reminding me why this work matters.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but every bump has been worth it. Those struggles have shaped Play Dates of Orlando into what it is today—a community that’s not just about playdates, but about creating a village where moms and kids can truly thrive.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work with Play Dates of Orlando has become known for its creativity, inclusivity, and the meaningful connections it fosters. I specialize in creating vibrant, themed playdates that not only bring joy to kids but also provide a supportive space for moms to connect and build friendships. Beyond the events themselves, I’m known for my boldness in stepping outside of the box and doing the things others might not have the courage to try. Whether it’s reaching out to new businesses, hosting large-scale events, or building something completely from scratch, I thrive on taking on challenges and turning them into something beautiful.
My friends back home always joke, “What is Nan going to do now?” It’s funny, but it’s also a reflection of how I’ve always been—the one who dives into new ideas headfirst and finds ways to make them work. I love to have my plate full because it pushes me to stay creative and constantly grow. When I’m juggling multiple things, whether it’s planning events, working with moms, or coming up with the next big idea, it keeps me energized and motivated to do more.
At the heart of it all, I strive to make a difference, not just for the moms and kids who attend my events, but also for myself and my family. My personality is rooted in being proactive, solution-oriented, and always willing to give 110% to whatever I commit to. I want to inspire others to believe in themselves and create something meaningful, no matter how big or small.
What I do is more than just organizing playdates; it’s about creating a ripple effect of connection, kindness, and opportunity. It’s deeply fulfilling to know that my boldness, creativity, and willingness to take on the unexpected are helping to shape a community that means so much to so many people. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality I value most and believe has been integral to my success is kindness. Kindness, to me, is about being open-hearted, judgment-free, and creating space to uplift and help others. In every aspect of my work with Play Dates of Orlando, I’ve seen how powerful it is to approach people with compassion and understanding. Motherhood can be isolating and challenging, and offering a kind, welcoming space allows moms to feel seen and valued. That simple act of kindness often becomes the foundation for deeper connections and a thriving community.
Judgment has no place in the spaces I create. Everyone’s journey is different, and it’s important to recognize that what people need most isn’t critique or comparison—it’s empathy. I’ve worked hard to ensure that Play Dates of Orlando is a safe space where moms can feel supported, share their struggles, and celebrate their victories without fear of being judged. This focus on creating a judgment-free community has been the key to building trust and fostering real, meaningful relationships.
Beyond that, kindness fuels my desire to help others. It’s why I pour so much effort into making playdates accessible, inclusive, and memorable. It’s why I invest my time and energy into creating moments that matter for kids and their families. Helping others isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am. It brings me joy and purpose, and it’s the reason I continue to push myself to dream bigger and do more.
Ultimately, kindness isn’t just a characteristic; it’s a way of living and leading that has shaped everything I’ve built. It’s the thread that ties together the community I’ve created, the relationships I’ve nurtured, and the legacy I hope to leave behind. It’s not just important to my success—it’s the heart of it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Playdatesoforlando.com
- Instagram: @playdatesoforlando
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19Fkoa6eJi/
