About Us
Why "The Pink Flamingo?"
While we find flamingos captivating for their beauty, our name holds a deeper meaning beyond aesthetics. Have you ever seen a flamingo that isn't quite as pink as the others in its flock? Perhaps even a white flamingo? When flamingos become parents, they give so much of themselves to their children that both parents actually lose their beautiful pink color for a few years.
Similarly, parents and caregivers often experience this same level of exhaustion and depletion. We can lose our own vibrancy. Yet, sometimes all it takes to rediscover ourselves is getting of the house and enjoying a simple cup of coffee. This was the inspiration behind The Pink Flamingo.
Our vision for this cafe is to provide a haven where children can play and make friends, while caregivers can also unwind and rejuvenate. We want to lighten your load and help you feel refreshed, restored, and ready to embrace the joys of parenthood with renewed energy, or as we like to call it, to feel PINK again!
Meet Rachel
Hello there!
I'm Rachel Queen, co-founder of The Pink Flamingo Play Cafe. I am wife to my amazing husband Alex and proud mama to Sutton and Jett.
Following a heartbreaking miscarriage in 2022, I found myself grappling with profound loss and navigating a challenging, emotional journey. Seeking guidance through therapy, my therapist encouraged me to step outside my home daily—a daunting task as a stay-at-home mom to a nine-month-old. In our quaint town, suitable places for my daughter were limited. It was during this period that the idea of a play cafe first took root.
Motherhood is my greatest joy, and fostering connections with fellow moms has become a deep passion. Creating a haven for mothers and caregivers to bond in our community has been a natural evolution. Initially, I started small—hosting weekly Bible studies and organizing playdates and stroller outings with local moms. Expanding this vision with The Pink Flamingo feels like the perfect next step. I couldn't be more thrilled to embark on this adventure alongside my own mom.
Meet Cheri
I'm Cheri Distefano, co-founder of The Pink Flamingo Play Cafe. For 31 years, I've been happily married to my husband Rick, and together we have two children, Rick and Rachel, and three wonderful grandchildren—Sutton, Jett, and Harper.
Before embarking on this new venture, Rick and I spent 26 years building and running a successful heating and air conditioning company, which instilled in us a deep love for entrepreneurship. When Rachel approached us with the idea for the play cafe, we were thrilled to see her share the same passion and eager to join forces in launching this business.
As a grandmother, I cherish spending special moments with my grandchildren, often taking them to various children's activity spaces. While these outings are always enjoyable, I've envisioned something unique and enriching for them—a vision that The Pink Flamingo Play Cafe will bring to life. Collaborating with my daughter on this endeavor fills me with gratitude, and I anticipate the wonderful memories that await us in our cafe.
Unforgettable Birthday Parties for Kids
Featured on ABC 13: How The Mingo Became a Haven for Families
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
Featured on ABC 13: How The Mingo Became a Haven for Families
We were honored to be featured on ABC 13 News for the heart behind The Pink Flamingo Play Cafe—affectionately known as “The Mingo.” What started as a dream to create a space where both kids and parents feel seen has become a vibrant community hub. Check out the story to learn more about our mission, our family roots, and why this place means so much to us.
Certified Fun Zone by KidsPlayCafes
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
Featured on ABC 13: How The Mingo Became a Haven for Families
Parents love that they can relax with coffee while their kids play in a safe, clean space designed just for them. With engaging play zones, easy online booking, and a warm, family-first atmosphere, it’s a stress-free outing for everyone. Grip socks and clear policies help keep things smooth and secure.
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
Lynchburg Macaroni Kid recognized The Pink Flamingo Play Café as a space where parents can unwind and connect while their kids enjoy safe, engaging play. With a cozy café and a thoughtfully
designed play area, it’s built for both kids’ fun and parents’ peace of mind. It’s more than just play—it’s community.
Featuring Bugle Call Coffee
Featuring Bugle Call Coffee
The Pink Flamingo Play Café Helps Parents Connect While Kids Play
Bugle Call Coffee is a veteran- and family-owned Virginia roastery known for small-batch, fresh-roasted beans sourced from around the world. Their mission blends bold flavor with community and service. The Pink Flamingo proudly serves only Bugle Call Coffee beans.
Junipers Rainbow
Featuring Bugle Call Coffee
Junipers Rainbow
Juniper’s Rainbow is a mural at The Pink Flamingo honoring babies lost and celebrating rainbow babies born after loss. Families can hang tags—clouds for angel babies, rainbow stripes for rainbow babies. It’s a heartfelt way to share their stories and find hope in community.
Lynchburg Living
Featuring Bugle Call Coffee
Junipers Rainbow
The Pink Flamingo Play Café is a colorful space where kids play and parents recharge. Inspired by flamingos, it reminds moms to take time to “stay pink.”
