Le Village in Des Plaines, IL: A Thriving Business Reshaping Work-Life Balance for Parents
Liz and Andy Bruss, a dynamic husband-and-wife duo from Park Ridge, Illinois, turned a personal need into a thriving business that’s reshaping work-life balance for parents. With backgrounds in chemical engineering and school counseling, the couple launched Le Village Cowork in Des Plaines, Illinois, a community-driven coworking space that features onsite, teacher-led childcare.
Inspired by their own parenting journey and the desire to stay professionally engaged without compromising family time, Liz and Andy brought the Le Village franchise to a long-vacant building in Des Plaines. Their vision: a place where parents can work productively while their children are cared for just steps away.
Opening the business wouldn’t have been possible without the support of a Growth Corp SBA 504 loan. While other Le Village owners pursued SBA 7(a) financing, the Bruss family found the 504’s lower rates and real estate advantages ideal for their needs. “The 504 loan made it all happen,” they said. “Our approval was the only reason we are open!”
Since opening, Le Village has revitalized a once-desolate area, brought families together through events, and provided much-needed balance for working parents. Their impact hasn’t gone unnoticed—they were recently featured on CBS Chicago’s morning show.
For Liz, the most rewarding moments come from hearing how meaningful the space has become for fellow parents. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “As someone who operates on gut instinct, definitely have someone who can help crunch all your numbers and put together a strong business plan. Surround yourself with people who want to see your business succeed. Ask for help! Friends and family will be there if you let them.”
Follow their journey on Instagram: @levillagecowork_desplaines
