We had the good fortune of connecting with Eliana Valerio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eliana, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting The Virtual Female Co. came from a deep desire to bridge the gap I kept seeing between talented women—especially mothers and women of color—and the access, structure, or support they needed to thrive in business. After over a decade of supporting mothers in pregnancy, postpartum, and early development, and working behind the scenes in different professional roles, I realized I could combine my experience to create a space that offered strategy, systems, and soul. I wanted to build something that felt human, that valued emotional intelligence, and that helped women build businesses that aligned with their real lives—not just their highlight reels.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Virtual Female Co. was born from both passion and necessity. After years of working intimately with mothers as a lactation consultant and child development specialist, I realized that many women—especially mothers, creatives, and women of color—were building businesses without the right systems, strategy, or support. I knew I could fill that gap.

What sets The Virtual Female Co. apart is the heart behind the strategy. I don’t just offer business services—I offer alignment. Whether I’m helping clients streamline operations, build their brand identity, or map out a marketing campaign, I’m always focused on helping them create a business that works for their life, not the other way around. My work blends structure with soul, because I believe women shouldn’t have to sacrifice themselves to succeed.

Getting here hasn’t been easy. I’ve juggled entrepreneurship while raising three kids, recovering from birth, navigating grief, and dealing with the everyday complexities of life. There were moments when I almost gave up. But I learned that clarity comes from action, and progress doesn’t require perfection. I leaned into community, stayed rooted in my purpose, and kept showing up—messy, real, and committed.

What I want the world to know is this: The Virtual Female Co. is more than a brand—it’s a movement. A movement that supports women in building sustainable businesses, honors their seasons of life, and gives them permission to grow at their own pace. My story isn’t polished, but it’s powerful—and that’s the kind of leadership I believe in.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit me in Columbus, I’d make sure they felt both recharged and inspired—because that’s exactly what this city offers when you know where to look. Here’s how I’d plan our week:

Day 1: We’d kick things off with brunch at Katalina’s Café, where the pancake balls and Latin-inspired dishes are a must. Then we’d stroll through German Village, take in the charm of Schiller Park, and grab an iced latte at Stauf’s Coffee.

Day 2: We’d explore the beauty of Franklin Park Conservatory, then head to dinner at Cilantro Latin Fusion—one of my absolute favorite spots. Their flavors remind me of home, and it’s the kind of place where you leave full in every way.

Day 3: Time for self-care. We’d start with a walk along the Scioto Mile, then shop at Easton Town Center, followed by facials or a relaxing treatment at Replenish: The Spa Co-Op, a Black woman-owned wellness space I truly admire.

Day 4: Foodie fun at North Market Downtown. We’d try different vendors (Hot Chicken Takeover is a must) and grab pastries from Pistacia Vera. If there’s a local art or vendor market, we’d definitely stop in.

Day 5: A kid-friendly day at Hannah Park—snacks, playground time, and just soaking up some sunshine while the little ones play. Later, we’d grab Dominican takeout from El Rinconcito Latino and enjoy a casual dinner at home.

Day 6: An evening at Land-Grant Brewing—live music, food trucks, and a relaxed community vibe. It’s the perfect spot to wind down and catch up.

Day 7: A slow Sunday start—coffee, good music, and breakfast at home. Then a trip to The Book Loft in German Village for some quiet browsing, and one last memorable dinner at Chapman’s Eat Market.

Columbus is full of hidden gems, warmth, and culture—and when you experience it through community, food, and intentional time together, it truly shines.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely—I couldn’t do any of this without the people who poured into me, often when I had nothing left to give. First and foremost, my mother deserves endless credit. As a Dominican woman who led with quiet strength and deep faith, she taught me what it means to show up with love even when life is hard. I also want to shout out the incredible mothers I’ve worked with over the years—through birth, breastfeeding, loss, and growth. Their resilience inspired The Virtual Female Co. more than anything.

Professionally, I have to thank mentors and collaborators who saw my potential before I did—from community leaders to business owners who trusted me with their vision and let me learn while building. And of course, my children—each of them has shaped who I am in ways I could never describe. Every version of this business is built with their love and laughter at the center.

Instagram: @themamaplaybook & @thevirtual_femaleco

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.