Mompreneur Heather Johns finding success in Richmond and beyond

Richmond mom Heather Johns was a teacher before she had children. As any goodteacher would, she sought out fun “teachable moments” with her children, and oftenfound time for those moments when dining out with her family, since the treat of beingserved at a restaurant includes more than just nourishment: it provides down-time and relaxation.

She loved having these times with her family, and always budget-conscious, she had a difficult time keeping track of which restaurants offered “Kids eat free” nights. Like many great American businesses, KidsDineFree.net was born from this challenge by yet another mompreneur in December 2009.

Heather thought: why not see if restaurants would be willing to offer a free kid’s meal with every adult meal purchased? Turns out tons of restaurants thought this was a fabulous idea, and KidsDineFree.net was off and running.

The KidsDineFree.net card is priced at $19.95 and is valid for three months. Cards may be used up to three times per day, seven days per week. For families who dine out often,the savings can pile up! “Our cardholders tell us they love having the convenience of saving any time they want to dine out, and our restaurant partners appreciate the continued business, particularly in a down market.”

Heather’s hard work and persistence has paid off. Today, less than two years later, over 4,200 cards are in circulation with an 85% renewal rate and cardholders enjoy privileges at over 350 restaurants.

“We loved what we were doing so much we decided to offer it in markets outside of Richmond,” says Heather. Now Williamsburg, VA and South Florida have active KidsDineFree.net franchises.

“The economy has hit us all hard, but we shouldn’t have to give up little luxuries like a meal out with our families. That precious time of enjoying conversation without the preparation and clean-up can truly bring a family together. Our goal is for KidsDineFree.net to be in every U.S. market, so families everywhere can enjoy dining out together.” Kudos to Heather and the KidsDineFree.net team.

KidsDineFree.net is an advertiser of Richmondmom.com, and you can purchase one of these great cards at a $4 discount by using code “Ricmom.”