Immigration Support

Maggie Gavilán and Emily San Jose started their company, Mother Euro, to address a significant gap in the relocation industry: a lack of comprehensive support for families undergoing international moves. When Gavilán and Jose made their own relocations to Europe, they saw that while there were widely available logistical support services, there wasn’t anyone addressing the emotional and psychological challenges that come with moving abroad. Last September, the duo launched Mother Euro and now offer not only immigration support, but help with real estate and foreign education systems. All Mother Euro members are vetted before they become a part of the international community of ex-pat (or soon-to-be ex-pat) mothers. Today, the Madrid, Spain-based co-founders are proud to help make international moves smoother and to empower U.S. mothers – and their families – in the process. Editor’s Note: Mother Euro has been named to The Story Exchange’s 2025 list of 10 Brilliant Business Ideas. Here's our lightly edited Q&A, with Gavilán. How is your business different from others in your industry? Our focus on mothers. We prioritize mental health and personal growth, creating a supportive community to help families adapt to cultural changes. This comprehensive support system sets us apart in the industry. Tell us about your biggest success so far. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Eighteen months ago, I birthed my daughter, and now I'm expecting my second child. All while building a company. Have you seen an uptick in members applying recently because of the current political situation in the U.S.? Yes, we have noticed an increase in interest. The current political climate has made many families feel a need for community, support and connection, which aligns perfectly with our mission. Since our launch during such a significant political moment, we’ve seen how crucial it is for parents to find spaces where they can connect with like-minded individuals who share their values and concerns. Many mothers are actively seeking supportive networks to help them navigate these challenging times and empower themselves and their children. The response has been heartening, and we’re excited to welcome more families into our community. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? Managing the overwhelming demand. Our inbox is constantly flooded with hundreds of women interested in joining. Emily and I personally vet every member, sifting through applications and conducting interviews. To streamline this process, we developed a more comprehensive questionnaire, which has helped us efficiently identify suitable candidates. We want to ensure that our members understand this is a safe space for mothers. During our conversations, we discuss our trials and tribulations of living and moving abroad, celebrate our wins, and share intimate thoughts and concerns regarding our health and wellness, as well as that of our partners and children. We exchange many personal insights that really should stay within a village of women. Our goal is to learn about one another and grow in community and friendships, so it’s essential that the sanctity and privacy of our discussions are protected—especially when mothers and children are involved. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? I spent over 10 years in New York, working in the fashion industry and later in private equity. The hours were intense, really grueling, and eventually, I realized it just wasn’t sustainable for me. With everything going on in the world, I started craving a slower pace of life – one that was more intentional. I wanted to focus on building a family, which is where I found my true happiness. So, I decided to shift my career to something that supported that vision, prioritizing a better work-life balance and personal fulfillment What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? Prioritize building authentic connections with your audience right from the start. Early on, I wish I had fully realized how crucial it is to create a community where people feel genuinely seen and supported. Take the time to listen to your audience and respond thoughtfully to their needs. How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? I look at my daughter's face and all the darkness fades. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? Anything Ms. Rachel - kidding! It would have to be anything by Cleo Sol. Who is your most important role model? My abuela. She embodied strength and wisdom, and raised four children on her own while maintaining a full-time job in Spain. Despite coming from humble beginnings, my grandmother created a sense of family and support that extended beyond her own household and into her community. Her determination and resilience inspire me every day to persevere through challenges and cherish the bonds of family and community. My abuela’s life was a powerful testament to the impact that love and hard work can have, and I strive to carry her legacy forward in my own life, through my children. ◾ Instagram: @mothereuro Share your story! Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-upWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

Immigration Support

They are Helping American Women and Their Families Relocate to Europe

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