The locally founded Maven Collective is reshaping what it means to work as a parent by creating a co-working space where mothers, fathers, freelancers, and remote workers can gather in a community-minded setting. Founded by Shelby Beach, the space brings to life her vision of a work environment that lets parents balance professional needs and family responsibilities.

Inspired by a mix of personal needs and creative research, Shelby began experimenting with work options before ultimately stumbling upon the idea that would evolve into Maven Collective. However, her journey to this wasn’t straightforward.

“I was working for Bell Bank, and got pregnant with our first child… I went back, but every day I was trying to figure out what I could do to be with her and still make an income,” she said.

Shelby found herself constantly pulled between work and motherhood. After working remotely at Bell Bank, she discovered that major cities like Los Angeles and New York had co-working spaces with childcare.

Shelby began piecing together how she could make a similar model work in Fargo, knowing she’d be venturing into new territory.

While the dream took shape, finding the right space proved to be the biggest hurdle. Shelby spent almost two years searching for a building that could support Maven Collective’s childcare needs, office space, and community vibe. She needed something affordable and functional, which wasn’t easy to find in Fargo’s competitive market. That’s when Jenna from Synclaire Events Venue, introduced her to the current Maven Collective building, a beautiful, historic space filled with natural light and original wood floors in downtown Fargo.

As soon as Shelby walked in, she fell in love with the space. In the building, the second floor hosts the co-working space, as well as the Synclaire Events space (which is only accessible on the weekends). The third floor hosts the nursery, naptime rooms, and private offices for rent. The two floors make up Maven.

Key Features of Maven Collective’s Model:

Coworking Space: With varied seating options and gathering spaces.
Private Offices: Allows members to hold meetings or make calls in a quiet, private space.
Affordable Memberships: Designed to be accessible for working parents, especially mothers.
Childcare in a Mixed-Age Environment: Rather than separate rooms for infants and toddlers, children of all ages interact together supervised.
Community-Oriented Events: Regular yoga classes, craft workshops, and mindful emotions events for caregivers and children.

A Space for Working Moms—and Everyone Else, Too

While Maven Collective’s design caters to working mothers, the space is open to anyone—meaning, men are welcome, and some are even members already.

“I just wanted a space for women to go and be able to have the resources they need and talk to other women about things we’re going through,” Shelby said.

This flexible, inclusive approach has drawn a wide variety of clients, from freelancers and entrepreneurs to remote workers and even several members who are remote employees for companies based in other states, whose employers sponsor their memberships.

Although it was slightly unexpected, Maven has welcomed many photographers and special events into its space. It has been desired by many for its natural light from the large south-facing windows and beautiful, restored interior architecture.

Here’s what’s available!

Photography: With its bright, airy aesthetic, the space has become a popular rental for headshots, family portraits, and creative shoots.
After-Hours Rentals: Outside regular business hours, the space transforms into an event venue for workshops, family events, and even wedding celebrations.
Unique Events for Parents and Kids: Maven hosts events like story time and mindful emotions classes, which bring parents and kids together for fun and relaxation.

For Shelby, Maven Collective’s biggest success lies in the supportive community it has fostered. It’s a small but crucial difference for working parents who want a better balance between work and family. At Maven, parents get a workspace, peace of mind, and a network. One of Shelby’s favorite parts of operating the space is watching mothers bond over shared challenges, whether it’s talking about toddler troubles or celebrating professional wins.

While challenges persist—like coordinating childcare and membership numbers—the rewards have been profound.

With plans for future holiday events, wellness workshops, and open houses, Maven Collective is poised to become a cornerstone of Fargo’s co-working community—an inspiring and unique place where work, family, and community flourish together.

Learn more about rentals, memberships, and more at maven-collective.com

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