MINI
NAYA RIVERA Josey’s mom on her new book, Sorry Not Sorry, routines and the challenges of motherhood
The Best Gates for Baby Proofing
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LUNCH BOX HERO— KEEP THE FUN GOING ALL YEAR LONG
HOME SWEET
HOME
RADAR
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D I D YO U K N OW T H E L ARG EST P UM P K I N P I E E VE R MAD E WAS 2 0 F E E T I N D IAM E T E R ?
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT
Nook comes the ultra comfortable, ultra versatile Pebble Pouf ! Made from one of the safest and healthiest foams available, the Pebble Pouf easily serves as extra seating for guests, an ottoman, a play table for your Minis— the possibilities are endless!—nooksleep.com
( THIS JUST IN )
S OL I D, BABY
What if we told you there was a place to shop for colorful, mix and match kids clothes— sans logos, slogans, and sequins? Allow us to introduce you to Primary, a revolutionary kids label with prices (under $25!) equally as impressive as their selection. And if you have Minis with particular demands (no zippers!), Primary will easily become your one-stop shop! —primary.com
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST ◀
MEET SOUNDBUB
This Bluetooth enabled portable speaker and infant soother will be a game changer for new parents! “I love that SoundBub can play music and white noise and record voice messages! Talk about small but mighty!” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —wavhello.com
M I N I f a l l ‘16
Introducing elegant Grey Melange. A classic, versatile neutral. StokkeÂŽ XploryÂŽ
stokke.com
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T H E TOTAL P E RCE N TAG E O F K I D S WH O P R E F E R CH O C O L AT E CAN DY FO R HAL LOWE E N . TREAT YOURSELF ▶
FA L L
Visit Georgetown Cupcake for a chocolate ghost or goo-nache cupcake this season!
When the weather takes a rainy turn this fall, spend it indoors playing at one of Kidville’s many locations! —kidville.com
Make fall chores fun! Spend some time raking the leaves into a pile and let the kids jump inside!
Get crafty with the kids this fall! Design your own pair of bat wings and ears with a kit from Seedling! —seedling.com Take your Minis to one of LA’s best pumpkin patches—Underwood Family Farms, Live Oak Canyon Ranch, and Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch, to name a few.
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
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DREAMWORKS’ TROLLS ▶
M I N I f a l l ‘16
We’re all eager for the arrival of DreamWorks’ Trolls, hitting theaters November 4! With celebs like Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake and a sweet story about a troll princess and her Mini friend, this movie won’t be one to miss!
The
Convertible Stroller
Bugaboo Donkey
Designed specifically to grow and flow with your family.
O N Y X
C O L L E C T I O N
The collection you want, the look you need. Just like your favorite leather jacket you take it everywhere and wear it with everything. Go ahead and make a statement & sign it in black‌
mini-magazine.com
Head to Mini for more interviews F E AT U R E S
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If you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow Mini! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new kids products and collections, our #minisays series and much more! Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine or visit www.instagram.com/ minimagazine.
with parents around the world, style and more
LIVING
B A BY + K I D S
THE MAGAZINE
RED WINE WILL ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE Moms rejoice! Having a glass of pinot has perks. minimagazine.com/red-wine MATERNITY JEANS— YOUR MUST-HAVES FOR FALL These will become your new fall staples! mini-magazine. com/maternity-jeans-fall HOW TO EASE BACK TO SCHOOL ANXIETY A new school and new friends can make any Mini uneasy. mini-magazine.com/back-toschool-anxiety
THE MOST UNIQUE KIDS HALLOWEEN COSTUMES What could be better than a no-sew costume? minimagazine.com/unique-kidshalloween-costumes
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36 | INSIDER SCOOP These
are the only boots the Minis will need this season 15 | MEET THE TEAM The
team that makes all the Mini magic possible 18 | EDITOR’S LIST
A carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season
21 | THE STYLE SPOT The best of fall boots, school ensembles and plaid! 28 | MOMMY CHIC It’s the style spot for our chic Mini moms 32 | TECH KIDS The latest and greatest from the Mini tech sphere 34 | BOOK CLUB A stack of titles you’ll want to cozy up and read this fall
39 | LUNCHBOX HERO
Healthy food brand Happy Family shares three recipes from their new book 44 | ON THE SCENE Mini
introduces you to the best strollers for all of your fall adventures
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80 | CASA KAELEN The founder of the eponymous brand shares on life with new baby Oliver 88 | PERFECTLY PIPPA
50 | SAFETY GATES Mini
58 | HAPPY HOME Heather
shares two design-friendly gates to keep baby safe
Taylor opens the doors to her home bursting with Hollywood charm
52 | MOON MAMA Moon Juice founder Amanda Chantal Bacon shows us around her LA shop
66 | MAMA SAID Mini cover mom Naya Rivera on her new book, routines and her greatest parenting fear
Head across the pond to meet this multi-tasking mama and owner of popular sample sale boutique, RSPV
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100 | COLOR CRAZE The
founder of BURU gives Mini a tour of her Salt Lake home 112 | NICO NICO Designer Sue Tsai talks home life and balancing career with motherhood 120 | EASY ELEGANCE Queen of comfortable chic Rachel Pally on the transition to parenting two boys
130 | IN THE FAMILY Meet
the family behind the musthave Solly Baby Wrap 140 | ROCKET POWER Rockets of Awesome founder Rachel Blumenthal dishes on her new start-up
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hatchcollection.com
Founder and Editor in Chief K aitlyn K irby Cover Photo grapher G retchen Easton Photo graphy A ssistant Abby Hall St ylist Taylor Jacobson Hair R ichard Collins Makeup M atthew VanLeeuwen Editorial Team Editorial Pro duc tion A ssistant M ichael B enters Contributing Photo grapher Bridget B adore Contributing Photo grapher Vanessa Tierney Contributing Photo grapher Lily G lass Contributing Photo grapher Lindsay Brown Contributing Photo grapher Love & Lemonade Photography Contributing Photo grapher M argarita K arenko Contributing Photo grapher Brooke S chultz Contributing Photo grapher Chrissy Powers M ini O ffices M ini M agazine Email | hello@mini-magazine.com Web | w w w.mini-magazine.com M ini M agazine is a digital lifest yle publication for the moder n parent available online at w w w.mini-magazine.com. All r ights reser ved. No par t of this publication may be reproduced, distr ibuted, or transmitted in any for m or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other elec tronic methods, without the pr ior wr itten per mission of the publisher, except in the case of br ief quotations embodied in digital and pr int reviews. Copyr ight Š 2016 M ini M agazine.
MINI
EDITOR‘S LETTER
DAY IN THE LIFE: Find me on Instagram @ minimagkate for more adventures behind the scenes at Mini.
BABY BRAIN: (From top) The goodies are piling up as I begin prepping for baby. Among my faves: The Glow book, aden+anais swaddles, Nuna LEAF baby seat and Zoli nail trimmer. HATCHNG: This HATCH Collection dress is on repeat.
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Mini friends! This Editor’s Letter will be the first in the history of Mini—in nearly six years— where I am writing as a parent (or soon-to-be) myself. Just before the launch of our summer issue, I found out I am expecting my first Mini this coming spring! This magazine has come a long way since its founding all those years ago and I am excited to share an even closer relationship to the contents and parents featured here as I embark on my own journey into motherhood. In this issue, we head inside the homes of designers Rachel Pally, Heather Taylor, Kaelen Haworth and Sue Tsai of Nico Nico, in addition to the founders of Solly Baby, Rockets of Awesome and BURU. We have a chat with Moon Juice mama Amanda Chantal Bacon in her Los Angeles shop, spend the day with Pippa Vosper at the gorgeous Kensington Hotel in London and of course, dive into routines with our cover mom Naya Rivera. So here’s to a beautiful fall season and as we head into the holidays, a calm start! Enjoy!
Kaitlyn Kirby
Founder and Editor in Chief
kate@mini-magazine.com
D E S I G N A L L A R O U N D YO U
Josephine Ald 3042 Lincoln W ay San Francisco , Califnia 94 115
“Zoo Menagerie” by Moglea (Audubon, IA)
Party dreams brought to life.
BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
INVITATIONS
NURSERY ART
PARTY DECOR
Sourced from a community of independent designers. Available at www.minted.com
MINI
EDITOR’S LIST ◀ FAB COLLAB
◀ AIRPLANE CARDIGAN
Iconic designer Jonathan Adler teamed up with Fisher Price on this cool collection. —fisher-price.com
◀
If you see me out and about this fall, chances are I’ll be wearing a long cardigan like this! —hatchcollection.com
BABYMOONERS
This self-installing car seat is first on my list in my baby prep. Talk about peace of mind! —4moms.com ◀ BITTY BUNDLE
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Five essential products from Fridababy will make those new parent days much easier! —fridababy.com
SUPER SNEAKS
We all love Freshly Picked moccasins, but I’m loving their Mini sneakers for fall! $65; —nordstrom.com
◀
SELF-INSTALL SEAT
◀
This Babymooners sweatshirt is an adorable piece to pack on a pre-baby trip! —shopburu.com
Plenty of things keep you up at night. Shopping for your kids shouldn’t be one of them.
Our Stores
landofnod.com 800.933.9904
Chicago, IL North & Clybourn 312.475.9903 Northbrook, IL Northbrook Court 847.291.9902 Oak Brook, IL Oakbrook Center 630.368.9990
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©2014 LT Apparel Group, all rights reserved.
ST YLE SPOT exciting this season
School year duds that will keep Mini wardrobes
ST YLE SPOT ST YLE SPOT
Mini lumberjacks
Cozy fall boots to block the rain and cold Flannels and plaids for more than just
MOMMY CHIC
Mini’s latest Mommy Must-
PHOTO: HUNTER
Haves, like satchels, maternity jewelry and more!
M I N I f a l l ‘16
MINI
STYLE SPOT
SCHO OL DAZE
Dressing for the school year can become such a chore! Try these uniform-inspired ensembles on for size.
LOAFING AROUND
These loafers will kick any outfit up a notch! Above: $59; Elephantito; Below: $142; Marie-Chantal
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BOW TO THE QUEEN
UNIFORMITY
Dress up your look with this Kate Spade headband. $18; bloomingdales.com
Gucci knows a thing or two about chic staples. neimanmarcus.com.
SCHOOL PREP
CHECK IT TWICE
This Oscar de la Renta tweed blazer gives kids a sophisticated look. zappos.com.
A check dress is exactly what school dreams are made of. $54; alexandalexa.com.
From Diaper Rash to Relief, FAST. e
Touch-Fre
Spray
The brand moms and pediatricians trust to gently help treat irritated baby bottoms, fast. Find out why moms love Dr. Smith’s®
@DoctorSmiths
Visit DoctorSmiths.com for retail locations near you. Copyright ©2015 Mission Pharmacal Company. All Rights Reserved. DSO-P156003-2
B O OT BAND
Autumn can bring wind, rain and chills galore— not to mention a great deal of leaf pile jumping. Make sure your Minis’ feet are outfitted in these!
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1. WATERPROOF WONDER
3. GALACTIC GALOSHES
5. MINI MINNIE
$30; Butler Emperor Supreme Boot, amazon.com
$39.95; Western Chief Star Wars Rain Boot, amazon.com
$165; UGG Disney Sweetie Bow Boot, amazon.com
2. POLKA POWER
4. HIT THE MATTE
6. SPARKLE CENTRAL
$175; Burberry Ranmoor Polka Dot Rain Boot, neimanmarcus.com
$80; Hunter Original Matte Waterproof Boots, hunter-boots.com
$65; Hunter First Classic Glitter Rain Boot, nordstrom.com M I N I f a l l ‘16
P L A I D PA L O O Z A
Flannels and plaids aren’t just for Mini lumberjacks, you know! We’ve pulled the best of these prints for your fall wardrobe.
AND CHECKMATE
We’re deeming buffalo check the pattern of the season. Above: $29.99; Itzy Ritzy Lumberjack Plaid Moccasin; itzyritzy.com; Below: $19.95; Gap Buffalo Plaid Mittens; gap.com
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FLANNEL FROCK
Pair this dress with knit tights for a sweet fall ensemble. $39; hannaandersson.com
HAT TRICK
This furry hat will surely keep Mini ears warm. $20; nordstrom.com.
BUFFALO GALS
ZIP IT UP
A cozy jumper complete with bloomers. $23; oshkosh.com.
This vest is the perfect piece to carry over from fall to winter $17; carters.com.
MINI
MOMMY CHIC
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The Farah ($147) is a grab-and-go style great for short fall trips! Wear it across your body or hang from your stroller with the Jem + Bea stroller straps. Farah boasts three separate compartments and a handy travel-size luxury padded changing mat! —jemandbea.com
FALL CLASSICS
DOEN
Cozy sweaters, flowing dresses, airy tops galore! DÔEN is a beautiful collection that just gets it right, season after season. This fall, the hand-knit cable Serena crew sweater and vintage 70’sesque Anka dress will be staples in your wardrobe, whether you’re snuggled up by a crackling fire or exploring a chilly city. We also love that the brand has launched a Mini version, Yearling by DÔEN! —shopdoen.com
MINI MUST-HAVE
“ I’m a huge fan of Rifle Paper’s beautifully
whimsical floral prints, so when I heard of this collab with Solly Baby, the ultra-soft wrap instantly became a must-have!,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —sollybaby.com.
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WWW. NI NE I NTH E M I R R O R . CO M 3.1 PHILLIP LI M • A LE X A NDE R WA NG • M A R NI • M I SSO NI • VA LE NTI NO • A ND M A NY MOR E
MINI
MOMMY CHIC
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
Mama’s got a brand new bag! The (Anti) Diaper Bag from HATCH ($298) comes with a matching changing mat and three clutches stitched “THIS,” THAT,” and “THE OTHER”. —hatchcollection.com
MOM-TO-BE JEWELRY
Have you ever heard of a pregnancy necklace? Meet ILADO— the first ever maternity jewelry brand. Drawing inspiration from an ancestral chime pendant traditionnally worn by Mayan mothers, the unique brand offers a collection of necklaces designed to both style the bump during pregnancy and soothe your baby with their soft chime sound. —ilado-paris.com
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The Anya Hindmarch Black Vere Satchel with hidden pockets and sections to keep you organized, whether you decide to tote this baby to school pick-up or out on the town as a chic way to carry your essentials. Find it with our friends at Nine in the Mirror, who curate each product with moms in mind and style at the forefront. —nineinthemirror.com
M I N I f a l l ‘16
Photo: The Little World of Fashion
ILADO
TECH KIDS
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T H E NUM B E R O F M I NU T ES P E R DAY T HAT K I D S S P E N D R E AD I N G , P R I N T O R S C R E E N .
MINI MUST-WATCH
ROBO BABY
Photo: SNOO
What do you get when baby whisperer and celebrated author Dr. Harvey Karp (The Happiest Baby on the Block) and designer Yves Béhar come together to create a lifechanging product? The SNOO smart sleeper! Proclaimed the “safest baby bed ever made,” SNOO boosts sleep with the soothing white noise and motion your baby loved, 24/7, before birth. It’s basically your own personal robotic night nurse, for under $7 a night. —happiestbaby.com
Did you know Pokémon Go is making a splash in baby names? Parents have now taken to naming their Minis after characters like Evee, Onyx and Roselia— which have recently climbed the charts (up as many as 5,000 spots in some cases!) in homage to the augmented reality game. Even Mini monikers like Ivy, Star and Ash are displaying a rise in popularity that hasn’t been seen since Pokémon’s original debut nearly 20 years ago. —pokemon.com
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Photo: MacWorld
RIGHT NOW IN TECH KIDS
B O OK C LU B
Staying indoors this fall doesn’t have to mean boredom! Our current Mini mustreads will keep your Mini page turners entertained all day (and night!) long.
FOR RHYMES
MIGHTY, MIGHTY CONSTRUCTION SITE
FOR HISTORY
EDITOR’S PICK
PLANET KINDERGARTEN: 100 DAYS IN ORBIT
by Sue Ganz-Schmitt The perfect intergalactic tale for schoolbound kids this year! FOR HALLOWEEN
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THE MONSTER NEXT DOOR
by David Soman
M I N I f a l l ‘16
FOR LAUGHS
THE CRAYONS’ BOOK OF COLORS
by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers The crayons are back! This fun board book introduces young readers to colors with a special birthday story!
I AM GEORGE WASHINGTON
by Brad Meltzer We can all be heroes. This Mini historical book series explores the greats.
by Sherri Duskey Rinker Bulldozer, Crane, and many more work together to tackle their biggest job yet!
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INSIDER SCOOP
T H E m i l l i o n s O F K I D S AN D AD ULTS T HAT E N RO L L I N S CH O O L AN NUAl LY.
BEST IN CLASS
Renowned for superior quality that will last through the years, keeping kids both dry and stylish, Hunter’s latest Back to School collection offers the top-notch rain gear we know and love in a variety of bold colors and prints. Go glossy in lipstick pink or matte in classic navy! PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HUNTER
MAKE PLAY PERSONAL
Pinhole Press helps you share your special moments through photos. Create custom memory games, books, puzzles and flash cards for your family and let the fun begin!
“Pinhole Press has always stood apart for their unique ideas and beautiful designs.�
QUINOA WITH CHICKEN AND MIXED VEGGIES 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast Salt and pepper 1 cup cooked quinoa 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded (about 1/2 cup) 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper 1/2 cup frozen peas, defrosted 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1/4 cup raisins 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves 2 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a small baking dish. Place the chicken breast in the prepared baking dish and season with salt and pepper. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the chicken until opaque throughout or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 165°F, about 30 minutes. Set aside until cool enough to handle, then shred into pieces. Transfer to a bowl. Add the quinoa, carrot, bell pepper, peas, chickpeas, raisins, and mint to the bowl. Toss until well mixed. Stir in the olive oil and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
From Happy Family, one of the fastest growing organic food brands, comes a new cookbook that makes healthy eating for the whole family easy and delicious. The Happy Family Organic Superfoods Cookbook is the ultimate food guide for parenthood and beyond!
LU NC H B OX H E RO PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HAPPY FAMILY
SUNFLOWER SEED BUTTER, BANANA, FLAXSEED & MAPLE WRAPS 2 whole-wheat tortillas 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Place the tortillas on a clean, flat surface. Spread 2 tablespoons sunflower seed butter over one-half of each tortilla. Place half of the banana slices in an even layer on top of the seed butter. Sprinkle each with half of the flaxseeds and drizzle with half of the maple syrup. Fold the bare side of each tortilla over the covered half to form halfmoons. In a large frying pan over medium heat, toast the filled tortillas, turning once, until they begin to puff and turn golden on both sides, about 5 minutes total. Transfer the tortillas to a cutting board and let cool slightly. Cut each tortilla into 4 triangles and serve warm.
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CARROT, PEACH, AVOCADO AND FLAXSEED PUREE 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup) 1 fresh peach, skin on, pitted, and chopped, or 1 cup frozen sliced peaches, defrosted 1 avocado, halved, pitted, and peeled 1 teaspoon ground flaxseeds 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Fill a pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Distribute carrots in a steamer basket and place in the pot. Cover and steam until tender, 8–10 minutes. Remove the steamer basket from the pot and let the carrots cool.
In a food processor or blender, combine the carrots, peach, avocado, flaxseeds, and ginger. Puree until smooth or until the desired consistency is achieved. Serve immediately. To store, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
ON THE SCENE
6
MINI
T H E M O N T H S O F S L E E P N E W PAR E N TS WI L L M I S S o u t o n T H RO U G H AG E 2 .
T H E R AVA
The Nuna® RAVA™ is filled with little extras like laid back legroom, fuss-free adjustments, and the simply™ secure installation that makes setup a snap! PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NUNA
GROWS WITH YOU
AIR BOUND
This seat can have kids rearfacing up to a whopping 50 pounds!
Aircraft certified to travel everywhere with your family!
SWEET STRAPS
Colored belt path indicators decrease risk of user error and a no re-thread 5-point harness decreases frustration!
MUSCLE FREE
true tension™ doors ensure an ultrasecure fit without the struggle.
STRETCH BABY
BUBBLE FREE
Recline angle guides clearly confirm the perfect riding angle!
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Laid back legroom gives up to 2 inches more leg room rear facing— plus extra support for forward facing riders!
relax, parenthood just got 3x easier
Good news: now there’s Nuna for every age. Our well-loved PIPA infant seat, new RAVA convertible, and new AACE booster are sleek, simple and exceed American safety standards. So you can relax and enjoy every magical, messy, covered-with-crumbs moment. Take a test ride at nuna.eu
THE MOXI
The latest stroller from 4moms® is a serious sidewalk stopper. With its modern design, on-board power and smart features galore, you’ll never go back! PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF 4MOMS
SMART STROLL
Charge your phone, track distance, calorie burn, time, speed and battery level on the LCD screen! TAKE A SEAT
Seat can be used both front and rear facing, has 3 recline positions and a built-in bassinet for newborns! JUST FOR YOU
Height adjustable handle bar ensures parents of all heights can enjoy a leisurely walk. STORE IT
The large, removable storage bag offers room to stash whatever you wish!
STAR POWER
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With generators in the rear wheels, you can illuminate pathways to be seen at night!
M I N I f a l l ‘16
LIGHT THE WAY
Did we mention there are headlights— and taillights?
Discover
The all-new, all-terrain Bugaboo Buffalo
PR IA M LU X
Looking fly, baby! The PRIAM Lux Butterfly edition from Cybex is an expert combination of simplicity, functionality and beauty. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CYBEX
MIX AND MATCH
This seat is a matching option for the PRIAM Frame that can be used from birth up to 55 pounds!
BAR NONE
The leather-like bumper bar quickly opens on both sides for easy access.
THREE IN ONE
The 3-in-1 modular PRIAM system can be used with carry cot, lux seat and with infant car seats!
EASY FOLD
With the seat in the front-facing position, both frame and seat fold into a convenient compact size.
ON THE GO
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PRIAM offers 3 wheel choices: Wheels Light, Wheels All Terrain and Wheels Trekking.
SAFE KIDS, HAPPY HOME
See our full line of baby gates at munchkin.com
THE VIBE
With see-through mesh and seamless, modern construction, the Munchkin vibe™ gate allows you to define your space without disturbing your taste. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MUNCHKIN STAYS PUT
Innovative TurnKey Mounts™ make for easy install and positioning!
STYLE MINDED
Hidden welds and premium mesh, this gate works with your home’s design!
NO ASSEMBLY
The vibe™ gate comes fully assembled in the package for quick installation!
YOUR WAY
Use the oneway opening for stairs and the two-way for doorways!
MINI TIMELINE
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The vibe™ gate can be used with children from ages 6 to 24 months.
T H E LU NA
This award-winning safety gate features a motion-activated LED light and TurnKey Mounts™ for installation in minutes. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MUNCHKIN
ANY WHERE
Fits openings 30” to 54” wide and 29” tall with pressure mounts! EASY LOCK
Simply push the door closed to lock! No tricky buttons or maneuvers!
GLOW GATE
The motion-activated LED light illuminates your spaces at night!
moon mama
Amanda Chantal Bacon, founder and owner of Moon Juice (the plant-sourced alchemy brand dedicated to nourishing and elevating body, beauty and consciousness), give us a tour of her new shop and life as a mom.
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photography by L I L Y G L A S S interview by K A I T L Y N K I R B Y
How often are you in the shop? What does a typical day look like as the founder of this great brand.
MINI |
I was once in the shops 7 days a week, 16 hours a day with Rohan strapped to me, but these days I spend a lot of time with the team in the office and taking meetings all over town— actually all over the country!
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
What are your go-to Moon Juice products?
MINI |
I truly use them all at different points in life. Right now, I’m heavily rotating the watermelon rind and aloe juice, Brain Dust, tocotreinols, fermented green crisps, and vanilla mushroom protein.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
Since Moon Juice has an emphasis on wellness— how are you instilling these values in your son?
MINI |
Kind of hard to escape the clutches of wellness at our home! From the foods in the fridge, to the mud-based toothpaste, focus on play rather than screen, and communicating from a calm grounded place.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
What is your personal approach to wellness?
MINI |
I shy away from sugar, wheat, dairy, and drama. I lean into greens, adaptogens, healthy fats and meditation.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
How did your healthy lifestyle carry over into your pregnancy with your son?
MINI |
The horrifying part was that I couldn’t eat a vegetable for the first four months. That was my body’s protective preference. It all worked out, but it was very confusing. I focused on getting enough plant protein to stave off nausea, curbing cravings with good raw fats, and energized with maca and cacao almond milk shakes!
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
Tell us how you decided on your son’s name.
MINI |
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
He decided. I had never heard of the name and it bubbled into my consciousness as a command from him on how best to name him.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
MINI |
What is a typical breakfast, lunch, dinner in your household?
MINI |
Sprouted quinoa toast with lots of coconut oil and warm protein tonics with coconut milk, brain dust, maca, mucuna, and cacao. [And] rotations of gluten-free pancakes, sweet potatoes, sprouted quinoa, seaweed, avocados, cultured veggies, homemade coconut yoghurt, berries, chia pudding, nut and seed snacks, melon, tempeh, dhal, hummus, raw chocolate. It’s just the two of us, so there’s no expectation of what meals should look like. We just eat balanced whole foods when we’re hungry— sometimes at the table, sometimes on the floor!
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
MINI |
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
style?
How would you describe your personal
Easy! I like things to be made well and sourced intentionally. Beyond that, it’s got to look good under fire and slip on in 30 seconds. Has your style changed at all since becoming a mom?
I think I’ve given myself more permission to dress the way I’m going to function best— from school drop off, to meetings, impromptu scooter rides and then dinner.
MINI |
How has motherhood changed you?
It has been hardcore training in the art of patience and non reaction. I can handle so much more now that I have the extra time and space in me to not get triggered and react.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
MOON SQUAD Moon Juice offers a variety of products ranging from Activated Cashews to Vanilla Mushroom Protein and their signature dusts— Sex, Brain, Beauty, Power, Dream and Spirit.
FA S T FA C T S ON MY NIGHTSTAND Lots of crystals. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO George Harrison. LAST BOOK I READ Mating in Captivity. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD #doyogaeverydamnday or whatever that cool hashtag is. MORNING ROUTINE Make it out the door by the skin of our teeth in time for school bells. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP RTH. IN MY FRIDGE YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND Raw butter. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Relish an early bedtime. SIGNATURE SCENT Rose and sandalwood.
As a business owner, what would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
You want to give each your all, yet the two are decidedly in opposition most of the time.
MINI |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
of love!
The daily heart bursts
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
How do you manage to keep all of the plates spinning? What helps you to juggle motherhood and career?
MINI |
Where do you like to shop? For yourself and your son.
MINI |
I like Ulla Johnson for me and Sweet William for Rohan.
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
If you could give your son one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
Keep spinning baby! Don’t think too hard or it all comes crashing down. Just keep going, don’t give up, don’t stop AMANDA CHANTAL BACON | Work on impeccable to sit around and feel bad for yourself, and don’t manners, but don’t listen to anybody unless they truly have something to teach you. listen too hard to the platitudes about every woman needing me time. I believe there are seasons in life. If you’re in the middle of a bliz- MINI | Do you see more children in your future? zard, just do blizzard with a smile on your face and then relax and take in all the me time when AMANDA CHANTAL BACON | I’m open, I’m confused, I’m hopeful. I’m also considering mother it’s hammock season. of one to be a great honor, [so] we shall see!
AMANDA CHANTAL BACON |
happy home
photography by L O V E A N D L E M O N A D E PHOTOGRAPHY
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Designer of the eponymous home goods and textiles line Heather Taylor Home, this Los Angeles mom (to daughter, Scarlett) invites us into her 1920’s bungalow bursting with Old Hollywood charm.
Definitely the kitchen. In the morning, the light streams in and it’s just a happy space filled with bright colors and patterns. Cooking and baking are two of my favorite ways to chill out, so the kitchen is where we all hang.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
What are some of your favorite elements in your home? Where did they come from?
MINI |
My husband and I used to own an art gallery and we collected a lot of great pieces over the years, like original paintings by Frohawk Two Feathers, Jeana Sohn and Kyle Field. I love living with art and now we get to watch Scarlett experience it. I’m like an anti-hoarder but there are a few special things that mean a lot: an abstract wooden sculpture by my grandfather, our water carafe made by Adam Silverman, and all the linens I’ve collected (and made) over the years.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place!
MINI |
We live in a bungalow built in 1924 that has lots of old Hollywood charm. The style of the interior is clean, but with bold pops of color— Moroccan floor tiles in the kitchen and dashes of sunshine yellow and Yves Klein blue throughout. I wanted the house to have year-round vacation vibes [and] be a comfortable and cozy place for Scarlett to grow up. HEATHER TAYLOR |
Let’s talk creating a kid-friendly environment without sacrificing style! How did you do it?
MINI |
My style isn’t about keeping things perfect or too “done,” so incorporating Scarlett hasn’t been much of an issue. Her toys and little furniture just added a new layer of sweetness to our interiors (although I could do without the LEGOs).
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Do you have a favorite room in your home? Tell us why you love it.
MINI |
MINI |
Where do you spend the most time in your home? HEATHER
A close second to our ktichen is our backyard. TAYLOR |
Probably her bookshelf, filled with her favorite reads and little treasures of the moment.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
MINI |
We have 30 year old citrus trees, bougainvillea and some beautiful old rose bushes. This is where we spend a lot of time as a family and have dinner parties. Talk to us about your daughter’s room. What inspired you in creating her space?
MINI |
I wanted her room to be a cozy, sweet space for her to grow up in. A place where we could read books [and] sing songs. I wanted it to be a place a little girl would love without being too juvenile. It used to be my office, which had these emerald-hued walls and I decided to leave them for her. I wanted to add little whimsical details, so I hung two ukuleles (one pink, one marigold) on the wall behind the glider.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
What are your favorite elements in her room?
MINI |
How would you describe your personal style?
I dress for comfort and ease but then throw on some cool jewelry or a bold lip for a dash of drama. Even when I’m taking Scarlett to ballet, I’m “dressed.”
HEATHER TAYLOR |
MINI |
Has your style changed since becoming a mom? HEATHER TAYLOR
My style hasn’t necessarily changed— I have always dressed pretty functionally since I am always on the go. I still wear a lot of white, which means I walk around with lots of avocado stains and somehow I’m OK with it!
|
What does your skincare routine look like?
MINI |
I wash my face morning and night with Avene Milk Cleanser. I’m very into oils. In the morning, I apply African Botanics Marula Oil and at night, I use Sisley Black Rose (you only need two drops so it lasts forever). I also try to get to the Korean Spa every few months for a good scrub. I love the Santa Maria Novella Cosmetic Oil as a body moisturizer. It feels luxurious but light and has the most gorgeous scent. I also keep By Terry lip balm by my bed and apply before [going to sleep]. I feel like my lips look plumper when I wake up! I don’t wear any makeup except for lipstick. I’m a lipstick junkie— the brighter the better!
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Where do you like to shop? For yourself and your daughter.
MINI |
I like to shop at Jenni Kayne, Clare V, Mohawk General Store and lots of vintage spots. For Scarlett, I love this shop in Korea called Bene Bene. I also love La Coqueta in London. And thanks to the internet, I can shop both of these websites while watching Game of Thrones on my couch!
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
Everything is different now. Even though Scarlett is just about
HEATHER TAYLOR |
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to turn two, I still feel like a “new mom.” I wonder if this feeling ever goes away? I’m much more emotional and sensitive than I used to be. I see everything through Scarlett’s eyes and it’s just unbelievably intense. When I was nine months pregnant, one of my best friends told me that motherhood is like living life in technicolor— the highs are insanely high and the lows are pretty darn low. Getting to watch Scarlett grow up and experience life is such a gift. What would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
The honest answer is that I constantly struggle with how much time I spend with Scarlett. I’m running a fulltime business with only two and a half days a week of childcare. This requires me to work most nights after she goes to bed and I use every single second of her nap to work. I send dozens of emails, have a call or two and maybe even a meeting during her daily two hour nap.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
How do you manage to keep all of the plates spinning?
MINI |
I do know that there are benefits to owning my own business and one is that I can be in control of my schedule. I mostly follow my gut and try to carve out specific times for work and specific times when I am 100% with Scarlett. I’m so lucky to have a husband who is extremely involved and also
HEATHER TAYLOR |
works from home. I [also] have a nanny who works with us two and a half days a week. She watches Scarlett, helps around the house and cooks while Scarlett naps. I couldn’t do any of this without her. What surprised you most about motherhood?
MINI |
HEATHER TAYLOR |
really is.
How intense the intensity
FA S T FA C T S IDEAL DATE NIGHT Dinner at the Hungry Cat, followed by a movie at The ArcLight. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Beyonce’s Lemonade. ON MY NIGHTSTAND Stack of New Yorkers. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP Nickey Kehoe. FAVORITE KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Jon & Vinny’s. TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Almond milk cappuccino. LAST BOOK I READ My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Do more yoga. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Sparking water and rosé for me, Greek yogurt and grapes for Scarlett. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The Sound of Music. SIGNATURE SCENT Orange Blossom by Coqui Coqui.
On a career note, tell us how Heather Taylor Home came to be.
MINI |
I’ve been knitting and weaving for years and have long appreciated handmade textiles. I also love entertaining and setting a beautiful table but I couldn’t find linens I loved without traveling to some far flung locale.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Where do you find inspiration for your products?
MINI |
I find inspiration in so many places, but always when I travel. The first inkling of inspiration for the line came while eating breakfast in Greece in 2006. The table was covered in a white crocheted lace tablecloth, which felt like
HEATHER TAYLOR |
the perfect mix of elegance and ease. I’ve been trying to recreate the feeling of that breakfast ever since. Let’s wrap it up on a sweet note. What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
Seeing my daughter’s sweet face right after she wakes up.
HEATHER TAYLOR |
Mama Said
TA K E I T F R O M N E W M O M N AYA R I V E R A — M OT H E R H O O D C H A N G E S YO U. M I N I S P E N T
T H E D AY W I T H T H E S O R R Y N OT S O R R Y AU T H O R TO TA L K R O U T I N E S , H E R N E W B O O K , W H AT W O R R I E S H E R M O S T A B O U T R A I S I N G S O N J O S E Y A N D T H E O N LY T W O T H I N G S SHE HAS TIME FOR IN HER SKINCARE ROUTINE.
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photography by
photo assistant
GRETCHEN EASTON
ABBY HALL
styled by
hair by
makeup by
TAY L O R J A C O B S O N
RICHARD COLLINS
M AT T H E W VA N L E E U W E N
We’re thrilled to have you on our fall cover! Let’s dive right into your life as a mom. What does your morning routine look like? What time do you get up?
MINI |
My typical mom morning starts at either 6:30 or 6:45 AM— if I’m lucky! That extra 15 minutes of snooze time is always so sweet. Josey is up by now, so I change him and give him a bottle. We will spend that time in bed together cuddling and joking around. Hide and seek works wonders when trying to stay under the covers for as long as possible. We brush our teeth together (he’s obsessed with doing this) and then head downstairs to play some music, dance, and get a snack. Breakfast is usually at 8 and now that Josey is older and can eat so many things, we try to go out for breakfast a few times a week. We also hit up Coffee Bean or Starbucks in the morning where Josey requests that I buy him a banana off the counter every time. We’re back by 9 for his nap [and] I get an invaluable hour break. I use that time to answer emails and call my mom to tell her all the cute new stuff Josey did in the three hours prior. That’s a typical morning for us.
NAYA RIVERA |
What do you think is the greatest challenge of motherhood?
MINI |
Really making time for yourself is a challenge. Taking the time to not worry about your house, or to-do lists, or the baby is hard, but necessary.
NAYA RIVERA |
MINI |
What is your favorite part?
The love I get from him. Little things like the two kisses he stood up and gave me last night to say thank you for making him mac and cheese from scratch. It’s a love never found anywhere or with anyone else.
NAYA RIVERA |
What surprised you most about motherhood?
MINI |
NAYA RIVERA |
become. MINI |
Probably how truly selfless you
How has motherhood changed you?
It’s made me a much more observant person.
NAYA RIVERA |
What do you hope to instill in your son, Josey? What is most important to you in raising him?
MINI |
I hope to instill good morals and values in him. I want to teach him to be confident but kind, strong but not proud, and to always be in love with life.
NAYA RIVERA |
MINI |
What worries you most?
Puberty. I’m going to cry so hard when the day comes that he doesn’t want to hold my hand because it’s not “cool.”
NAYA RIVERA |
We love getting a glimpse inside Mini spaces, so thanks for showing us around Josey’s room! What was your inspiration for the design?
MINI |
NAYA RIVERA |
I wanted a room that had bold patterns and felt cozy at the same time.
MINI |
MINI |
What are some of your favorite elements in his room?
NAYA RIVERA |
I love the wallpaper and the Roman shades. I also love the bird chandelier.
MINI |
NAYA RIVERA |
MINI |
ly?
How do you keep your home kid-friend-
Hardcore baby-proofing and allowing every space to be a play space to a certain extent.
NAYA RIVERA |
You’ve just released a new book, Sorry Not Sorry, which has gathered a lot of buzz! Tell us what we can find inside the book.
MINI |
You can find a lot of funny and authentic stories about the ups and downs of growing up. It’s all very relatable and feels like a conversation between friends.
NAYA RIVERA |
If Josey were to read the book one day, what do you hope he will take away from it? I hope he would take away that growing up has its challenges but behind every cloud is a silver lining.
If you get any “me time,” how do you wind down or spend it? I get my nails or hair done or sneak away and take myself to lunch or dinner completely alone.
NAYA RIVERA |
Looking back to your first days as a parent, what would you tell yourself?
MINI |
You’re going to get a lot less sleep in about a year.
NAYA RIVERA |
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FA S T FA C T S TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Latte, either iced or hot. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Cake by the Ocean. It’s a Josey favorite. ON MY NIGHTSTAND Everything. There’s so much stuff on it. Baby books, baby creams, toys. It’s crazy. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Fraggle Rock. MY SKINCARE ROUTINE Wash and moisturize. That’s about all I have time for now. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Love someone so much. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE A ton of condiments. I’m a sauce girl. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Hubby’s choice. Getting taken somewhere he picked out. Dinner, drinks, finishing off watching Netflix shows in bed. SIGNATURE SCENT I don’t really wear perfume. I use a lot of essential oil infused body oils. The lavender scent is good for Josey too. SHOWS I’M WATCHING Finished Vice Principals and Stranger Things. About to start Luther and of course. I’ll never leave my Real Housewives out.
W W W. N I N E I N T H E M I R R O R . CO M 3 . 1 P H I L L I P L I M • A L E X A N D E R WA N G • L A N V I N • M I S S O N I • VA L E N T I N O • A N D M A N Y M O R E
casa kaelen photography by
L I N D S AY B R O W N
Owner and Creative Director of namesake fashion label KAELEN, new mom (to son Oliver) Kaelen Haworth gets real about living in New York City, creating a neutral baby space, and the challenges of motherhood.
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Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place.
MINI |
Anytime! Happy to have you. I would describe it as comfortable. That’s really what we wanted when it came down to it. My husband Simon and I love to entertain and spend time in our home and it was important to us that it be cozy and feel homey. KAELEN HAWORTH |
Do you have a favorite room in your home? Tell us why you love it.
MINI |
I love the kitchen. It’s what sold me on the apartment. It’s so open and inviting and it ended up being the natural hub. People just gravitate to it. I also cook a lot so I love having the counter space and the openness to still be able to hang out with whoever is home while I’m cooking. KAELEN HAWORTH |
What are some of your favorite elements in your home? Where did they come from?
MINI |
I love the dining table. It came from my dad’s store in Canada— Murrons Cabinetree. We like to entertain and the table is big enough to seat a crowd but not so huge that it doesn’t feel intimate. I also love the wine glass rack and the book shelves that my husband made. He used shipping pallets and found materials. He has a great eye for that type of thing! KAELEN HAWORTH |
Where do you spend the most time in your home?
MINI |
The kitchen or the couch! We have a dog and two rescue cats and it’s the best thing in the world when they get up on the couch with Simon, Oliver and I. It’s like a big family island. Before Oliver was born, I would have said the bathtub, but the days of a nice, relaxing bath after work are behind me, it seems. KAELEN HAWORTH |
Talk to us about your son’s room. What inspired you in creating the space?
MINI |
We didn’t know if we were having a boy or a girl, so we knew we had to keep it neutral. To be honest, we would have done that anyway. I liked not having a preconceived idea of who this baby would be and the freedom that comes with that. We went with a natural wood color for the crib and the set of drawers and we added a soft Moroccan carpet with gray, cream and mint green tones. We filled the space with books along the molding and on shelves around the room because it adds color and substance without overwhelming anything. KAELEN HAWORTH |
MINI |
style?
How would you describe your personal
Classic. I wear a lot of cotton shirts, jeans and sweaters. But if I want to get dressed, I get dressed. I love a reason to get fancy. KAELEN HAWORTH |
Has your style changed at all since becoming a mom to Oliver?
MINI |
It just means I have to change a bit more frequently due to spit up or drool or pureed carrots. And I guess my white button-downs are further down the chain when I get dressed in the morning. I will say it’s helpful that athleisure is having a big moment right now. KAELEN HAWORTH |
What do you anticipate you will be living in this fall, outfit-wise?
MINI |
I have been wearing my bell-sleeve blue cotton shirt constantly. I wear it with my J Brand culotte jeans and my brown suede Dorateymur mules which are nerdy and fabulous. KAELEN HAWORTH |
Let’s talk about your daily routine. What time do you get up?
MINI |
Beauty wise, I use RMS (the Living Luminizer and mascara are amazing), Glossier (Boy Brow, Stretch Concealer, Haloscope), and I mix a dark brown eyeshadow from Mac and Egyptian Magic if I’m going out and I want some drama. I haven’t used an eyeliner in years and I don’t own makeup brushes. If I can’t use my fingers to put it on, I don’t want anything to do with it. Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
We get up at 7 which is when Oliver wakes up. We set an alarm just in case, but for the most part he is a pretty reliable one. I feed Oliver while Simon feeds the cats, walks the dog and picks up the coffee and the New York Times. We all reconvene in the kitchen and Oliver has his (second, technically) breakfast— oatmeal. We are usually out the door by 9 when Oliver’s parttime nanny Olive comes in. We have her 3 days a week, the other two days Simon and I split duties and spend more time at home. KAELEN HAWORTH |
MINI |
Now let’s talk skincare and beauty routine.
My skincare routine is more intensive than it used to be because my beauty routine is pretty non-existent. I use an oil cleanser from Tatcha and Embryolisse eye cream, Eve Lom Brightening Serum and Embryolisse Lait‐ Crème Concentré mixed with Zelens Z-22 Absolute Face Oil. Simon says my face looks damp 90 percent of the day which I choose to take as a compliment. I use Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask when I can (it’s a 30 minute commitment) which really helps. KAELEN HAWORTH |
I was just thinking about how things are starting to feel normal again after six months of upside-down madness. I really was shell-shocked when Oliver was born. Everything was so intense. Love, fear, uncertainty, sleep deprivation. KAELEN HAWORTH |
FA S T FA C T S TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Large with a dash of milk from Juicy Lucy on 1st and 1st. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Solange. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Take a bath and read my book. ON MY NIGHTSTAND A Little Life, Purity, We Should All Be Feminists, an emergency soother and some hair elastics. LAST BOOK I READ In its entirety, Infinite Jest. I’m not being pretentious, but I’ve been trying for about five years. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Mixed berries. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Be so insane about a routine. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Dinner and a movie. FAVORITE RESTAURANT The Smile. SIGNATURE SCENT Le Labo Rose Perfume Oil.
It really hit me hard. I felt like I just wanted to be home with my family and get used to being a mom, but at the same time, I needed to get out and see friends and just breathe for a minute. It was a hard balance and that is the biggest change. Making sure you have time for yourself and time as a couple is important and I realize now how lucky I am to have such a supportive and amazing husband in Simon. Having a baby has brought us closer, for sure. Motherhood has also given me clarity with regards to what I want to spend my time on. It helps put the things and the people that are worth your time and energy into sharper focus. What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
Seeing Oliver smile and light up when I go get him out of his crib in the morning was worth all of the insanity of the KAELEN HAWORTH |
newborn months. He is such a happy baby and that makes me extremely happy too because I feel like at the end of the day, no matter what or how we feel like we messed up, he is happy and healthy. MINI |
What was the biggest surprise?
How difficult it is! Honestly, I don’t think I ever expected it to be so hard. We read like one book and thought we had it down. You can’t imagine the emotion and selfdoubt that comes with it. All you want is to do the best thing for this tiny human who really can’t give you any positive reinforcement, [but] it makes all the difference in the world when they can start to show you they love you back. Also, it surprised me how much fun it is to feed him new foods and watch his reactions. It cracks me up. So far, avocado, peas and sweet potato are his favorites. We do not care for butternut squash. KAELEN HAWORTH |
On a career note, tell us how you decided to become a designer.
MINI |
I was lucky enough to be exposed to a lot of different aspects of the fashion industry through Parsons, as well as internships I had while in school. I always knew I wanted to be in fashion because I’ve always loved it, but being in New York and exposed to so many creative people really sealed it for me. KAELEN HAWORTH |
What was your inspiration for this season’s collection?
MINI |
I was thinking about heritage and really getting into the fabrications in a way that felt nostalgic without being too retro. KAELEN HAWORTH |
What would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
KAELEN HAWORTH |
I am still figuring all of
that out. I know that the work and creative outlet is important, so I have to make time for it in some way. I am fortunate that I can work from home if I need to and take my time getting back into the work grind which I do not take for granted. I think the plates are spinning a little slower right now which feels OK to me. If you could give Oliver one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
KAELEN HAWORTH |
unnoticed.
Be kind. To everyone. It won’t go
Perfectly Pippa photography by
M A R G A R I TA K A R E N K O
interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
location THE KENSINGTON HOTEL, 1 0 9 - 1 1 3 Q U E E N ’ S G AT E , LONDON SW7 5LP
Mini jumps across the pond to London’s stunning Kensington Hotel to catch up with expert multitasking mama and former fashion editor of Harper’s Bazaar UK, Pippa Vosper— owner of sample sale boutique RSPV, stylist, fashion consultant, Lomax spin instructor and mom to son, Astor!
in Spring 2017, so exciting developments are in place. What was the behind-the-scenes process like opening the shop from start to finish— From scouting locations to opening the doors?
MINI |
It’s been a while since we’ve caught up! Tell us about your latest venture, your shop—RSPV!
MINI |
When we first spoke, I was the fashion editor of Harper’s Bazaar UK with constant shoots, travel and never ending deadlines. Since I had my son, I realized I didn’t want to go back to an uncertain schedule, so I set about opening the store I had always wanted. Having worked in fashion for 20 years, I had come to know so many designers and PR directors, so I asked them to trust me in selling their runway [and] press samples and past season collections in a boutique environment— an upscale sample sale if you will! I launched the store in April 2015 and it has grown ever since. I didn’t expect it to be quite the success it has been, but everybody loves to find the perfect clothing and accessories at a fraction of the retail cost, no? I’m moving the store to Notting Hill
PIPPA VOSPER |
It was all strange and brilliant timing, to be honest. My husband and I were in the process of buying a house when we received a tip-off from an estate agent in one of our desired areas. We viewed this other property and made an offer there and then. The building had a store space in the ground floor, so I persuaded my husband to let me renovate the space and launch my business in the store underneath where we would live. Now my business has outgrown the space and we need to relocate to another space with at least three times the floor area.
PIPPA VOSPER |
What has been your proudest moment to date with the shop?
MINI |
Having Vogue feature the store and also hosting the Vilshenko and then Versace sample sales within the first two months of opening. It was quite an achievement looking back, but as I was running with what was happening, I didn’t see just how great these things were for the future of my store.
PIPPA VOSPER |
You’re also a part-time spin instructor! When and why did you decide to take on this fitness role?
MINI |
I wrote a feature for Harper’s Bazaar on the gym where I now teach—Lomax in London’s Chelsea—and spent a week training with the brilliant Jonathan Lomax and his right hand Hilary. I just loved the place and the energy and asked if I could train to become a spinning instructor with them. Two days later, I was on a bike training and as with most things in my life, it all just happened quite organically. It has now been three years since I taught my first class and I still love being up on the instructors bike. Each class is always so much fun.
I would be eternally grateful! I drink alcohol perhaps twice a month, I have never smoked and eat a balanced diet, so all in all, I think I’m very healthy. Oh, apart from the sugar!
PIPPA VOSPER |
What does your wellness regime look like? What do you stick to diet-wise, what do you stay away from?
MINI |
How about your daily skincare and beauty routine?
MINI |
There are a few skincare products I cannot live without— Sisley’s Supremÿa Baume, Votary London Superseed Facial Oil and Erno Laszlo’s Detoxifying Cleansing Oil. I work with all three and have found the cleansing oil to be the most effective I have used, the Supremÿa Baume is perfect for day and the facial oil allows my skin to be completely rejuvenated overnight.
PIPPA VOSPER |
Give us a glimpse into your morning. What time do you get up?
MINI |
Each day, I’m up no later than 6:30— this is not always my choice, but Astor is and always has been an early riser! I like to ease into the morning and often place
PIPPA VOSPER |
I try to eat as healthily as I can, although if someone could let me know how to truly eliminate my insane sugar cravings,
PIPPA VOSPER |
a guided meditation on in the background. I can’t always follow it, but having it on while I’m getting Astor’s breakfast and starting the day is always so uplifting. Once Astor is at nursery, it’s straight to work, either at the store or consulting for any one of the brands I work with through the year. I’m not particularly good at taking time off or relaxing, so there’s always something to do the minute Astor is at nursery. The weekend mornings usually see my husband and I getting up together to go running by the river with Astor with us in a Mountain Buggy. A leisurely breakfast and then I will oversee the opening of my store before we head out to do something Astor has in mind— more often than not it’s his favorite petting farm!
PIPPA VOSPER |
You’re managing to do all of this while chasing after your son, Astor! How do you manage to balance motherhood with your career?
PIPPA VOSPER |
MINI |
Since Astor was born, I vowed to spend as much time as I could with him and it has worked. I left my demanding job at Harper’s Bazaar, took a wonderful year off with Astor and then just kind of got on with things, not thinking too much about the demands of anything. The minute you actually consider how many directions you’re being pulled in, that’s when it can become overwhelming. I have always had the mentality that you should just get on with things and work hard. I got this from my mother who was very successful as an owner of bars and pubs in London, while living as a single mother of young children.
What do you think is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
The guilt of whether or not you are giving your child the attention they deserve and need. I spend so much time with Astor, but on days where I am simply snowed
under with work and he asks me to play with him and it’s not possible, that adorable request from my son sticks with me for days! When I am working, he has his amazing nanny with him, but still, it’s so hard when he asks me to play and I just can’t move away from my desk. What surprised you most about motherhood?
MINI |
That it would be so fun, that you could be so unbelievably in love with someone and that as each day, week, month passes, you find your child more and more interesting, loveable and even more of a joy to be around.
PIPPA VOSPER |
What do you anticipate you will be living in this fall, outfit-wise?
MINI |
More Céline! I have learned that simple suits me and I have to stick to that. I always think more intricate and detailed clothing is far more interesting, which it is, but sleek tailoring and great basics work so well on my frame, so I have to avert my eyes when I see something a little wilder! Now I know to stop wasting my money on clothing that will sit in my wardrobe for the next two years with the tags still on.
PIPPA VOSPER |
MINI |
How about Astor?
He looks so great in unpractical creams and white. I love him in camel sweaters and white trousers with chestnut brown boots, but everything (except the boots) are dirty within 20 minutes as he’s a typical boy! With his piercing blue eyes, light wash denim shirts are probably my favorite thing to see him in, with chunky knits.
PIPPA VOSPER |
What is most important to you in raising your son?
MINI |
That he knows he is loved. My husband and I make sure to let Astor know how much we love him, how important he is and how he can count on us for anything.
PIPPA VOSPER |
Where have you seen the greatest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
My levels of organization are now flawless. With a child to look after and out for, there’s little room for maneuver if you want to fit everything in. I hardly sweat the small stuff any longer. I just look at Astor and as long as he’s fine, I’m fine.
We can always count on you to know the best shops and locales in London! What are some of your favorite local shops?
MINI |
PIPPA VOSPER |
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Alex Eagle is the most visually exciting store in London I would say, I want everything in there— and they include a great edit of childrenswear also! Magma is somewhere I can get lost for hours— they stock the best books and magazines. As a cyclist, I love the Tokyobike store. I’m [currently] coveting the Mint Green mini velo— it’s divine.
PIPPA VOSPER |
FA S T FA C T S LAST BOOK I READ A Confederate General from Big Sur by Richard Brautigan. TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Iced latte, full fat milk, no sugar syrup. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Train for another marathon. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Chet Baker. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Smoked salmon, avocados and eggs. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK The Wind in the Willows. SIGNATURE SCENT Noble Incense by Bella Bellissima. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Lady and the Tramp. FAVORITE RESTAURANT Casa Cruz in Notting Hill. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Wearing a backless black velvet gown, cocktails somewhere fabulous and dinner somewhere even more fabulous! ADVICE TO MY SON Be adventurous and always be kind.
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Mom to Olive and founder of BURU— the first and only online destination that stocks high fashion designer wares handselected for breastfeeding mothers— Morgan Hutchinson opens the doors to her color-filled home, showing us around her kitchen, closet and nursery as she awaits baby number two!
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place!
MINI |
If I could pick one word to describe it, I think I would choose happy. I don’t like to take design too seriously and I think a home should be fun and inviting. Of course, I would hope that it’s also chic with just the right amount of whimsy! Overall, our 1920’s Tudor is drenched with white walls, white glossy trims and bundles of color through our textiles, furniture and art. It also has its fair share of gold. Let’s just say, I have yet to meet a brass étagère or side table I don’t like! MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
Let’s talk creating a kid-friendly environment without sacrificing style! How did you do it?
MINI |
I was raised in a home with a dining room table that was MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
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color craze
photography by B R O O K E S C H U L T Z
always set with china and with bookshelves full of delicate treasures within my grasp. I grew up drinking out of real glass, and I’m pretty sure that baby-proofing wasn’t even a thing! I have taken cues from my own mother that it’s okay to create the style of home you want while including your children, but not designing around them. I never felt out of place in the home I grew up in, but I also appreciated the boundaries and the beautiful aesthetic that my mother created. I feel it is so important to instill those values in my children as well. Of course, it goes without saying that safety is first. I am a stickler for making sure that leaning mirrors and heavy objects are properly secured to the walls, I keep obvious choking hazards on higher shelves, and I avoid sharp-edged coffee tables in family rooms. But in my honest opinion, kid-friendly is just an attitude. Children are worth every spill, stain and tear and are inevitably going to
destroy something that you spent your hard-earned money on. My belief is that I would rather take the risk and spend said money on something I love, versus buying subpar looking stuff that I don’t care about getting ruined. What’s the point of that? If it’s ugly and not my style to start, isn’t that worse that having my dream sofa with a couple small stains? I’ll take the blue velvet Knoll sofa with sticky fingerprints every time! Do you have a favorite room in your home? Tell us why you love it.
MINI |
That’s a tough one for me, but I really do love the formal living room. It’s a bit like a box of skittles— but it just makes me happy. We started with the ceiling wallpaper, Kelly Wearstler’s Channels print in black and white and then began putting the other pieces together: royal blue velvet Knoll sofa with a rainbow of silk pillows, green velvet ombré upholstered bench and Vladimir Kagan lucite chairs paired with light blue Milo Baughman chairs. To tie it all together, I had a drapery workroom sew panels of silk (the same as the rainbow on the sofa) to create a colorful ombré effect around the entire room. I wasn’t sure it would actually work, but I think the risk paid off! MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
What are some of your favorite elements in your home? Where did they come from?
MINI |
I really love our art. Brett and I try to buy a piece everywhere we go. Sometimes it’s from the street and sometimes it’s from a gallery. Our walls are filled with memories from our journeys together and now with our little ones! I particularly love all the pieces (in some cases, bazaar pieces) from our four years in China when we were just married. MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
Talk to us about your daughter’s room. What inspired you in creating her space?
MINI |
It all started with the wallpaper! I knew I wanted something bright and fun that didn’t read too “little girl.” When I saw the chartreuse chinoisserie print— I was sold! Olive (a very opinionated little 4-year-old) was on board with the paper, so I let her choose the pink color of her window treatments (from a selection of three mom-approved samples). The brass bed was my grandmother’s and we just filled in the rest! MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
What are your favorite elements in her room?
MINI |
I really love her tiny ghost chairs and mini tulip table. I have to squeeze myself into the chairs, but we love to have play tea parties at this table. I am also crazy about the giant Peppermint Patty by Tom Everhart called Home Girl MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
Dreams. It’s just the right amount of fun girl power that the room needs! We’re excited to get a peek at your nursery! Tell us about your favorite elements here.
MINI |
The nursery is a bit toned down compared to Olive’s room. I knew that I wanted to keep it serene and when my interior designer friend Meredith McBrearty introduced me to a collaboration between one of my favorite artists, Hunt Slonem and Kravet fabrics of his famous bunnies in black and white, I was sold! The print is simple and sweet and perfect for a baby boy without being too “baby!” Though I am keeping it pretty monochromatic right now, it will be easy to add pops of color at any point with pillows, throws and art. The space is technically still a work in progress and I am seriously trying to not have an anxiety about that. I realize that baby boy won’t have a clue! MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
And let’s talk about this closet! What was important to you in creating the perfect closet?
MINI |
I really wanted to the closet to feel like another room— an extension of our look, not just a place to store our stuff. I wanted it to feel glam! As moms, we have so little time for ourselves to get ready. Why not make the most of the moment and feel like a movie star for five minutes everyday! To achieve this, we included a large built-in vanity with traditional make-up mirror lights, lacquered and mirrored it all and added gold brass trim to the doors to give it an extra punch! MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
In all of the hustle and bustle of moving and renovating, you’re still running a business! Tell us how BURU has evolved over the past year.
MINI |
BURU’s biggest evolution this year has been the addition of MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
our BURU White Label— our private label collection that offers mamas elevated #momstyle at more attainable price points in washable and wearable fabrics and silhouettes. It’s been a game changer. Don’t get me wrong, we love our ready-to-wear brands, but offering our mamas styles that they can add to their wardrobe mix without breaking the bank brings me a lot of joy. How do you manage to keep all of the plates spinning?
MINI |
MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
Other than coffee and B12 vitamins? I would have to say my passion for this business (so important to love what you do) and the great love I have for my family. It helps that I can include my family into the business. In fact, I am not sure how it would work otherwise.
My husband is very involved and helps in so many ways and of course, Olive is one of our main lookbook models! I imagine baby boy will be too! I think it is important to accept that with business ownership many lines get blurred. I’m never off the clock for any of the roles that I play— wife, mother or business owner. And that’s OK. There are times when I am more focused on one role than another, but to truly juggle means that you always have multiple balls in the air! What would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
a waste. I’m still a clean person—but I use a light of short cuts! Where are your favorite places to shop for a new baby? What have you purchased?
MINI |
I’m a little embarrassed to say that his wardrobe is far behind where Olive’s was at this point. Olive was the 13th girl in a row on my side of the family, [so] we are not quite sure what to buy for a boy! That said, my go-tos are Feltman Brothers, Cabbages & Kings and Florence Eiseman. MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
What is your greatest worry about welcoming your second child?
MINI |
Would it be totally terrible and gross if I just admitted that finding time to shower is my greatest challenge? Honestly, by the time I get everyone situated and out the door, I am ready to get my BURU day on. The thought of taking loads of time everyday to properly groom seems like such MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
Time. Life seems so crammed already. It feels a bit overwhelming to think about adding another human to the mix, but I know that it will all work itself out. MORGAN HUTCHINSON |
FA S T FA C T S IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Eat a proper lunch. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Bon Iver radio on Pandora (to calm my nerves) and the Olivia Newton-John station (for dance parties with Olive). FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Birdie’s Big Girl Dress. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Classic? Sleeping Beauty. New? Zootopia. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Sparkling water. FAVORITE RESTAURANT Here in SLC, an oldie called The Paris Bistro. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Have a drawer in my vanity full of Dum Dum suckers for emergency bribes. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP Alice Lane Home. SIGNATURE SCENT Currently Maison Margiela Replica Flower Market.
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nico nico
photography by V A N E S S A T I E R N E Y
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Founder of the popular organic clothing label Nico Nico, Sue Tsai takes a day to relax with Mini and her son—for whom the brand is named—at her beautiful Los Angeles home. This designer mom talks her greatest joy, why she decided to venture into childrenswear and the three must-do’s that she always tells her son.
Where do you spend the most time in your home?
MINI |
Thank you for inviting us into your home! How would you describe your home— the design, the feel?
I would say the dining area. That is where Nico does his homework, where I work on projects and where we all gather as a family for hang time. A close second would be our bedrooms for movies.
MINI |
SUE TSAI |
Our home is pretty cozy yet minimal with souvenirs and finds from flea markets and travels around the world.
MINI |
Do you have a favorite room in your home? Tell us why you love it.
SUE TSAI |
SUE TSAI |
MINI |
Talk to us about your sons room. How would you describe his space? Minimal furnishings, but filled with Manga series books and LEGOs!
My favorite place would be our dining area. We spend most of our time working on projects, playing games and eating meals around the table.
MINI |
What are some of your favorite elements in your home?
SUE TSAI |
SUE TSAI |
MINI |
I love our family photos displayed throughout the house, Nico’s artwork from when he was little and all the different little finds from our travels.
SUE TSAI |
On a career note, tell us about the idea that started Nico Nico— and how you decided to continue into kids clothing. My background is in women’s wear, so it was natural that I ventured back into apparel design once Nico was born. The idea was spawned after a friend of mine decided that it would be fun to create and design a childrens clothing line together.
MINI |
What was your inspiration for this season’s collection?
MINI |
This season is about voyage through space with all the Greek gods and goddesses that our constellations are named after.
SUE TSAI |
SUE TSAI |
What do you anticipate you will be living in this fall, outfit-wise?
MINI |
For me personally, I love the Athena Dress and Saturn Jumpsuit. They are my goto pieces both easy for day and night.
SUE TSAI |
MINI |
style?
How would you describe your personal
Sort of “no fuss.” I keep it pretty simple! But I always bring an extra change of clothes with me because you never know where the day will take you.
SUE TSAI |
Let’s talk about your daily routine. What time do you get up? I wake up pretty early, generally at 7 AM with an occasional 5:15 AM yoga class. I prepare breakfast and lunch for Nico and then we are off to school. I love this time with him because we get to bond and start the day together. After I drop him off, I head to the office and start my day at 9:00. My schedule can shift daily depending on where I am in the season. After work, I pick up Nico and we head off to soccer practice. Practice is four times a week— he’s a pretty devoted athlete. After practice, we grab a bite, work on homework and by then we’re off to bed. My day pretty much revolves around my son and my work. We wake up the next day and start the routine all over again.
Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
FA S T FA C T S BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Be a soccer mom! TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Nonfat latte. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Sleep! CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Frank Ocean. LAST BOOK I READ The Girl on the Train. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Up! ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Green juice or a coconut. And hot sauce! FAVORITE RESTAURANT Terroni. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Where the Sidewalk Ends.
I think my biggest change since becoming a mom is my level of patience. I’ve learned to take a deep breath, take the time to explain things and guide [Nico] the best way I can.
best you can. You will fail, you won’t get everything done, but you do the best you can.
MINI |
Has your style changed at all since becoming a mom?
SUE TSAI |
I’ve stayed pretty true to myself. I don’t tend to follow trends, so I just wear what feels right for me, day or night.
MINI |
SUE TSAI |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
Seeing Nico happy and doing the things he loves, like soccer. If he is happy, I’m happy.
SUE TSAI |
Tell us about your skincare and beauty routine.
What was the biggest surprise of motherhood?
How much joy my little man can bring! How tired I can be, but somehow manage to keep going. It’s just natural instinct and SUE TSAI | I don’t have one! I’m pretty low main- it becomes easy because you love this little tenance when it comes to skincare. Soap in soul, your baby. the evening and light exfoliation a few times a week. MINI | If you could give your son one piece of advice, what would it be? MINI | As a designer, what would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom? SUE TSAI | There are three must’s that I always tell Nico: Never give up, don’t be lazy, [and] SUE TSAI | It’s a juggle for sure! You just do the ALWAYS be kind. MINI |
SUE TSAI |
easy elegance photography by L O V E A N D L E M O N A D E PHOTOGRAPHY
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Long heralded as the queen of chic, comfortable and casual, designer Rachel Pally carries over her unparalleled style to her bright and airy Los Angeles home. The new mom of two chats adjusting to life with her two boys Tao and Luca, how she dressed the bump and designing a oneof-a-kind nursery.
Congratulations on the birth of your second little one! We’re so excited to catch up with you! How has it been adjusting from being the mother of one child to two?
MINI |
We have so many children all of a sudden! Two kids is so many kids— but we are adjusting well. My husband and I both work for ourselves and have relatively flexible schedules. So between the two of us, pre-school and our wonderful nanny, we have it covered! Plus Luca (our newest addition!) is a dream baby [which] makes the adjustment so much easier. Knock on wood. RACHEL PALLY |
What advice would you give moms about to welcome their second child?
MINI |
I was worried that I couldn’t possibly have enough love for two babies. I give my older son, Tao, so much of my heart that I couldn’t imagine that there would be anything left over. And then Luca was born and my love was so infinite and so immediate. So don’t fret mamas! There’s enough to go around. Time, on the other hand— there never seems to be enough to go around. But, I’ve noticed I’m much easier on myself as a second-time mom and much more realistic about how things will be. I suggest taking time to relax and enjoy it more. I’ve found I can since I’m not quite as worried about everything as I was with Tao! That said, we were recently in Mexico and the baby was coughing and I was RACHEL PALLY |
freaking out. But my husband reminded me that I’d done this before and all would be OK. I’m still a worrier, even though I’m not a first-time mama anymore! Oh, another perk to look forward to— breastfeeding has been easier this time around (as it is for many women), so that takes a ton of stress out of the equation! Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place— how would you describe the design, the feel?
MINI |
Our home is mid-century, built in 1965. We fell in love with it when we saw it and then came up at night to see the view— then we were totally sold. It’s just so magical and private. The house is also very kid-friendly, which is a must now that we have two children. The house sets up with a large communal area— a huge eat-in kitchen and living room that opens to the outside with big sliding glass doors. It’s Southern California indoor-outdoor living at its best. Design wise, we have a ton of art that we have collected over the years, as well as treasures and textiles we have picked up on our travels. Oh! And my extensive collection of what my husband calls my “ugly pottery” that I have been collecting forever. RACHEL PALLY |
Where do you spend the most time in your home?
MINI |
The kitchen. My husband and I can cook and watch Tao and Luca RACHEL PALLY |
play at the same time. We also spend a lot of time outside, having picnics in our front yard, swimming, collecting leaves and rocks, kicking a soccer ball, painting at the easel. What are some of your favorite elements in your home and where did they come from?
MINI |
I love the large pink painting in our living room. My uncle, Marc Pally, made it many years ago. It’s such a striking piece and always a great conversation starter. I also love the pillows we made from fabric we bought in Vietnam, Cambodia and Morocco that adorn all of the couches. I love that from our bed we can watch the sunrise through the trees. I love the Garza leather chair we have in our bedroom that I bought on a whim at Heath. I love the photograph my brother took in Cuba from the back of a cab and printed for me for my 30th birthday. Everything we have in our house means something to us. RACHEL PALLY |
Let’s talk Mini spaces! How did you design the new space for the baby?
MINI |
He moved straight into the room vacated by his big bro. I would like to say that we had grand plans to re-do his nursery, but let’s be honest, I’m a working mom and there aren’t enough hours in the day! So, Luca’s sweet nursery is the same as Tao’s. Oeuf Sparrow crib, dresser and bookshelf from Dwell, a cozy sheepskin over a mustard printed rug. Simple. One very special addition is a beautiful dreamcatcher my closest girlfriends and mamas made Luca at my blessingway. They each brought small talismans, shells, feathers or charms to put on the dreamcatcher and we all sat around eating treats and making it together. During Luca’s birth (I had a home birth), I hung it in my bedroom to be with us and then moved it to his room afterwards. He’s so blessed!
RACHEL PALLY |
What kid-friendly elements have you incorporated into your home to keep it stylish yet practical?
MINI |
We bought a large credenza to put under our TV for toy storage so we don’t RACHEL PALLY |
have to have kid stuff strewn all over the house. And when it was time to get Tao a big boy bed, we went with a mid-century day bed from West Elm and a cool tie-dye comforter and used some pillows collected from our travels to spice it up. Just because it is a “kid’s room” doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate the design elements from the rest of the house! Tao’s room also has a great rug from Joinery and a photograph of the Challenger by our dear friend Spencer Lowell. He also has his own gorgeous dreamcatcher from Electric Love that I bought when I first found out I was pregnant with him. Hopefully, by keeping his decor classic we won’t have to replace everything as his interests change! Dressing the bump can be a challenge, but so can finding a chic, yet comfortable ensemble as a busy new mom! What pieces are you living in these days?
MINI |
I literally wore a black fitted jersey dress every day of my pregnancy. Paired it with flats, boots, heels, jewelry, a leather jacket, over a bikini. I’m serious, every single day. If I never wear another black fitted jersey dress for the rest of my life it will be too soon! Post-baby, I have been living in looser, mid-length dresses or vintage Levis with a flowy top. I just need to make sure I can have a boob accessible when I’m with the baby and more pump-friendly clothes while at work. Although I must admit that I’ve been known to end up pumping in my underwear, so I can wear cute clothes to work! I think our caftan dress is the best— great for pregnancy and great for post-pregnancy. It hides the extra pounds we all hold onto after baby and also hides those oh-so-attractive nursing bras. Not to mention, they are super comfy and can be dressed up or down. RACHEL PALLY |
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FA S T FA C T S FAVORITE LOCAL KIDS SHOP Eggy on 3rd. BEST BABY SHOWER GIFT TO GIVE Solly Baby wrap and nipple cream. Both are necessities. FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL Anything cooked on the BBQ and eaten outside! CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Bob Marley. FAVORITE KID-FRIENDLY SPOT IN LA Our backyard! We love to have our friends over to hang in the yard and play in the pool. OUR NIGHTTIME ROUTINE Dinner, playtime, bath, books, snuggles, songs, lights out. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Iggy Peck, Architect and Rosie Revere, Engineer. SIGNATURE SCENT I love Pratima Skincare body oil. I use the Pitta and Love oils. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The only one we have is Winnie the Pooh.
in the family photography by C H R I S S Y P O W E R S
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If you have little ones, chances are you’ve heard about the Solly Baby Wrap or maybe even have a stack of them perched in your nursery. Mini takes you behind the scenes to meet the family behind the brand— founder Elle Rowley, husband Jared and their Minis: Lucy, Solomon and Frances— plus one on the way!
We are such big fans of Solly Baby! Tell us how the brand has evolved since it’s beginning.
MINI |
After using migraine-inducing carriers that left me feeling like a packhorse with my first baby in 2009, I wanted something comfortable and chic to wear my second baby in so I could not only take care of his needs, but also so I could still chase after my toddler and her needs as well. There were only a few other wraps on the market and they were heavy and hot and didn’t appeal to me aesthetically, so after making my own wrap, absolutely loving the experience, and discovering through the feedback of friends that I had done something really different, I decided to start making and selling them on Etsy. From selling there I could see there was a real demand, so I took it to the next level by sourcing real manufacturing and started working through social media to get the word out. In 2016, that’s an obvious route but in 2011, advertising through social media was really just beginning. ELLE ROWLEY |
What is one thing everyone should know about babywearing?
MINI |
It reduces postpartum depression and colic, increases bonding and gives caregivers a certain level of confidence that they can go out with their baby as well as take care of other children. ELLE ROWLEY |
What is a common misconception you hear about babywearing?
MINI |
That it’s hard! Packing backbreaking, cumbersome gear all over town to tote your baby in is what’s hard, not learning how to tie on a wrap. ELLE ROWLEY |
How do you manage to balance your growing family and your career?
MINI |
The number one thing that’s made the difference has been being deliberate about my time. When I don’t plan out my day, then it hits me in the face. When I do, then somehow it all works out. ELLE ROWLEY |
Thank you for inviting us into your home! We loved following along with your adventures on your farm in Oregon. How does it feel to be back in California? What do you miss about Oregon?
MINI |
We still feel like a piece of our hearts are in our farmhouse in Oregon, which is why we kept it, but we are home in California. Still, I miss having a more distinct fall and winter and I miss the simplicity of our lives there. We were able to spend so much quality time there together as a family. We are so grateful that we’ve been able to keep that home though so we can return for summers and special holidays to recenter. ELLE ROWLEY |
Tell us about this home— How would you describe it?
MINI |
I am so grateful that we have a separate room for their toys in this home, leaving their room just for sleep and getting ready. I have always felt like bedrooms are for sleeping, not hanging out in, so I like small bedrooms and bigger living spaces. Their playroom is a work in progress, but Jared and I want it to be a space to feel inspired to play, to learn, to create, and to have fun together. ELLE ROWLEY |
Our other homes have had much more of a distinctive mid-century feel to them so we wanted to try something different here. It’s a pretty traditional, storybook home [and] we wanted the design to reflect that. We hope to stay in this home for a long time, so we have put a lot of time into making it a place that we could put down roots, create traditions, and where the design and decor would reflect the warmth and love that we hope to share here. ELLE ROWLEY |
Where do you spend the most time in your home?
MINI |
Definitely the kitchen. I’m always cooking, eating, working, cleaning, or teaching my kids in this space. ELLE ROWLEY |
How about your kids spaces? What are some of your favorite elements in their rooms?
MINI |
Do you have an every day routine? Tell us what a typical day looks like.
MINI |
Always meditation [or] spiritual time in the morning before the kids are up. Then it’s a quick rush to exercise, get ready for the day, and help Jared get kids out the door. A few days a week, I volunteer at my children’s school in the morning and work in the afternoon but the other days I work until after lunch, from home unless I have meetings at our office in Carlsbad or LA, and then Jared works in the afternoon until evening. I spend that time with our toddler and then with my older kids when they get home from school. Evenings are spent together and once kids are in bed, Jared and I are able to hang out, which might just be my favorite part of every day. ELLE ROWLEY |
How has your style changed since becoming a mom?
MINI |
Definitely simplified. I’m not as interested in trends and more interested in investing in pieces that I love [and] will last for years to come. ELLE ROWLEY |
MINI |
Where do you like to shop?
I am a sucker for small, designer brands like Christy Dawn, First Rite, and Rachel Craven. My sister-in-law and I started a children’s clothing line, ARQ, last year so my littlest one pretty much wears our line exclusively, but I love Mini Boden [and] Mabo. ELLE ROWLEY |
What do you think is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
ferent places at once. Feeling like I’m not doing any of it as well as I’d like to. But I think those challenges are not exclusive to working moms, I think most moms struggle with that. What do you think is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
Having my head in a million different places at once. Feeling like I’m not doing any of it as well as I’d like to. But I think those challenges are not exclusive to working moms, I think most moms struggle with that. ELLE ROWLEY |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
MINI |
ELLE ROWLEY |
Having my head in a million dif-
Seeing my kids conquer something they’ve been trying to learn or overcome. ELLE ROWLEY |
FA S T FA C T S ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Eggs. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Sufjan Stevens. FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL Homemade soup and fresh bread. GUILTY PLEASURE Cookies, always cookies. LAST BOOK I READ Carry On, Warrior by Glennon Doyle Melton. ON MY NIGHTSTAND A stack of books on business, religion, and educational theory. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Have such a hard time being patient! IDEAL DATE NIGHT Street tacos, movie theater, and a walk on the beach after just to talk. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Anything by Virginia Lee Burton. SIGNATURE SCENT Smokewood.
rocket power photography by B R I D G E T B A D O R E
Rachel Blumenthal—formerly of Cricket’s Circle—is on a mission to propel her latest venture, unique kids clothing subscription service Rockets of Awesome, into cyberspace. How does she do it? Mini dives in to find out what life is like running the new brand alongside her two littles, Griffin and Gemma.
Let’s talk about your new venture, Rockets of Awesome! What was your inspiration behind creating the brand or where did the idea come from?
MINI |
When I became a mom, I was excited to shop for my son, but I quickly found it to be a chore to find stylish clothes that didn’t cost a fortune. I had to either spend way too much time digging or sacrifice style or value. When I heard the same frustration from the Cricket’s Circle community, I knew I could create a solution. Rockets of Awesome simplifies the process of shopping for kids and delivers stylish, high-quality kids clothes at an incredible value, taking a pesky task off of every parent’s to-do list. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
What sets Rockets of Awesome apart from the other kids subscription boxes?
MINI |
RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
Besides taking the
legwork out of shopping for kids, the clothes resonate with both parents and children— they are so cool I wear them! Designing and producing our own product enables us to capture our customer’s feedback and directly impact the items we produce for them next season. It also enables us to deliver the value back to the customer. Unlike other brands, we also require no commitment. You only pay for what you love, return what you don’t— with no styling or other fees. We think it’s important to give our customers this option as it’s another way to simplify the shopping experience. What are some of your favorite pieces in the current Rockets of Awesome collection?
MINI |
For girls, the comfy crew is magical. It literally feels as though you’re wearing heaven. It’s been so popular that we’re bringing the same fabric back in new styles and colors for winter. For boys, it’s all about the graphic tees. Our in-house boys designer hand draws most of them and they are on the softest cotton! And for boys and girls, our iconic silver bomber jacket is both a statement piece and the perfect everyday staple. The best thing about our collection is that all the pieces mix and match to make endless outfits. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
You’re now a mom of two! How do you balance motherhood with running a new start-up?
MINI |
Not that well, but I keep It’s all about prioritizing and giving yourself a break. I am pretty strict about a schedule— balancing work, time with my kids and husband, and some personal time in between. I live by lifehacks (FreshDirect, recurring Soap. com deliveries, a weekly lunch routine) to eliminate as many decisions and tasks from my to-do list, leaving room for the important things like kid dates. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
possible. I wake up around 7 to get ready before my kids are up, that way I can spend 30 minutes of dedicated time with them before we’re off to school and the office. The morning is a chaotic hustle and I’ve recently started trying to squeeze in a 2-minute plank because I read on NYTimes.com that some trainer claims it’s as good as a 30 minute workout! My husband and I switch off school drop-off each day at 8:15 and then it’s straight to a meeting or the office.
Give us a glimpse of your morning. How do you begin every day?
You’ve most recently come from Cricket’s Circle and now onto this new venture— and your husband is a co-founder of Warby Parker! How do you plan to instill this entrepreneurial drive in your own kids?
I used to be a 5 AM workout girl, but now that I’m up late at night catching up on work, I try to sleep as late as
We’re currently strategizing a cookie and lemonade stand with our 5-year-old son. He’s in charge of creat-
MINI |
RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
MINI |
RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
FA S T FA C T S FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL Pizza in the car on the way to Long Island on summer weekends. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Taylor Swift. It’s my son’s obsession, I swear. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Organic fruit, yogurt, and string cheese. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Omakase sushi and a walk home. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Not work out. ON MY NIGHTSTAND Excedrin and a baby monitor with the sound off. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Eloise. I always dreamed about being her. GUILTY PLEASURE Nail salon massages, Bergdorf Goodman and snow cones.
ing the menu, going food shopping with us, pricing his food, and then calculating the cost of goods to determine his profits. Right now, he’s pricing each cookie at $10, so he can get that LEGO set he wants, and we’re trying to explain to him that’s not the best value to the customer! How would you describe your experience going from mom of one to mom of two?
MINI |
out. She then suggested that our baby be in the nursery when our son arrived at the hospital, and he should be in charge of going to get her and bringing her to us. She said that if he walked into the room to the two of us with her, he would feel left out and like someone was taking his parents away from him. I’d say that, in combination with a serious LEGO set, made the transition pretty seamless. What do you love about raising your kids in NYC?
MINI |
You never feel like there’s enough of you to devote enough attention to each, so it’s learning to give myself a break. Beyond that, it’s balancing who I am paying attention to at any moment and distracting the other one to not notice. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
What advice would you give to moms getting ready to welcome their second child?
MINI |
Our doctor gave us great, practical advice during my pregnancy. She suggested that we start calling the baby “your baby” so our son felt responsible and not left
The noises, people, sounds, colors, buildings, and surprises that our kids are surrounded by every day is both inspiring and character building. To my son, there’s no difference between someone that is a different race or a friend at school with the same gender parents. Everything he sees daily provokes questions and ideas. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
What do you think is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
You always feel like you’re face (thankfully I shower a lot) and use three running like that harried woman in the movies makeup items: Maybelline mascara, Jane and you’re mediocre at everything. Iredale eyeliner and Kevyn Aucoin blush. My acupuncturist just begged me to start moisturMINI | Let’s talk style! How is your personal izing more and suggested I get an acupuncture style reflected in Rockets of Awesome? facial. She swears it’s like Botox but better! RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
Our clothing is designed in-house, led by Zia Taylor, SVP of Design and Merchandising. Zia and the the design team create thoughtful, original, stylish collections season after season. The clothes have to be sophisticated and cool enough to represent the parent’s style but super-soft and comfortable for the kids. I love the clothes so much I receive a box for myself in a size 14 every season! RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
What is your skincare [and] beauty routine like now that it’s fall?
MINI |
I’m basically a flunkie when it comes to beauty. I barely wash my RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
Your favorite people to follow on Instagram, GO!
MINI |
@Evachen212; @Kellywearstler; @Ryankorban and @archdigest; @ Thewebster; @Warbyparker so I know what my husband’s company is up to (he often forgets to tell me they just opened another store); @Drawbertson a longtime friend and creative inspiration; @Flourshop; @Violetgrey; @ JillKargman because she’s hysterical; @Geronimoballoons who makes inspiring balloon creations; @Unbirthdaybakery for insane cakes; @Lizzie_Darden for color inspiration. RACHEL BLUMENTHAL |
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