MINI F O R T H E M O D E R N PA R E N T
KYLE RICHARDS
at home with the Beverly Hills reality mom of four— plus her new brainchild
A ZEBRA IN MY ROOM how animal prints can soften (and sweeten!) a space
THE BEST SPF FOR YOUR KIDS
SUMMER FUN DENISE RICHARDS NIA VARDALOS ALISON SWEENEY INDIA HICKS CYNTHIA ROWLEY PLUS THE BEST NEW KIDS SWIMWEAR
6 FAMILY HOT SPOTS IN THE HAMPTONS
Taking you higher, bringing TM you closer. Stokke® Xplory® and Stokke® MyCarrier At Stokke®, we are committed to putting children first. Our products are designed specifically to encourage child development and to strengthen the bonds between parents and children. We believe it is in a child’s best interests to be as close as possible to its parents, and to be in an environment of genuine safety and security, free to learn and to grow. Our products are innovative, sustainable and child-centric, providing smart solutions for your baby’s needs and fitting easily into your home and life. Stokke® products are also designed to grow with your child.
www.stokke.com
MINI
ON OUR RADAR
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT HATCH Collection comes the HATCH-toHospital Box— a perfect gift for yourself or a special mom-to-be this summer. Packed with your luxuries for a stay in the hospital. $248, hatchcollection.com.
THIS JUST IN
T RU N K S F OR T WO If you’ve got a Mini Mister who looks up to Dad, even modeling his sartorial side, let them take the sand in style with swim trunks from Tom & Teddy. The swimwear collection introduces men’s suits in eye-catching patterns and colors with matching pieces for your little guy. Think penguin and octopus prints, as well as solids in red, yellow, and navy, with UV protection and quick-drying fabric. These trunks for two are sure to be a big hit during your summer vacation. —tomandteddy.com.
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
◀ TIME TO XPLOR
Summer is a great time to explore. Here to make your trips even easier is the Stokke® Xplory®— the ultimate connection stroller that grows with your child. The Xplory® lifts your little one closer to you so you can explore together. “You will love this addition to your baby gear, not to mention it’s sleek and chic design,” said Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. $1099, stokke.com.
USE YOUR NOODLE
SUMMER SAFETY ▶
4
Is riding bikes one of your children’s favorite activities during the summer months? Protect their noggins with the bold, new Joovy Noodle Helmet. $29.99, joovy.com. M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI
LOG ON TO
MINI CAL
MINI You could win products from our favorite brands!
SUMMER
The season’s latest and greatest from around the world and the web
Just for Minis ages 0 to 4, the Little Theatre of Chicago will send your tots down an imaginative path before they are out of diapers. —EmeraldCityTheatre.com.
Entertaining the kids during the summer can be exhausting. Take some time for yourself— join the Soul Train. Go on, spin your heart out. —Soul-cycle.com. LOG ON TO
MINI Find more openings and events this summer!
Give your little one the star treatment this summer with Red Carpet Kids. Offering Mini Hollywood events, this is the perfect choice for your next birthday. —Redcarpetkidsnyc.com.
6
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
An electrifying story told through dance and technology, iLuminate’s Artist of Light will mesmerize your children with their glow-inthe-dark show beginning June 24. —iLuminate.com.
contents
02 04
06
12 14 16
18
22 24 26
28
30 36 38 40
42
44 54 60
26
TECH KIDS THE LATEST AND GREATEST FROM THE MINI TECH SPHERE 28
WHAT’S IN THE BAG A PEEK INSIDE THE HANDBAG OF MAMATO-BE ALI LANDRY 30
12
18
MEET THE MINI TEAM
THE STYLE SPOT
INSIDER SCOOP
THE TEAM THAT MAKES ALL THE MINI MAGIC POSSIBLE
TRENDS THAT GIVE A NEW MEANING TO GOING GREEN
FOLLOW MINI INTO THE HAMPTONS FOR A LOOK AT A CHIC BEACH MARKET
16
22
EDITOR’S LIST
MOMMY CHIC
36
A CAREFULLY-CURATED LIST OF KATE’S IT ITEMS
THE STYLE SPOT FOR OUR CHIC MINI MOMS
WITH UPPABABY MESA
ON THE SCENE
66
contents
64 66 68
70
80 84 86 90 92 26
94
96 98 104 106
108
110 112
54
70
90
108
FAMILY VIBES
COASTAL CHIC
ME AND THE MRS.
KELLY IN CHIEF
SWANKY SOPHISTICATE KELLY WEARSTLER ON PARENTING TWO BOYS
A BRITISH STYLE ICON INFLUENCED BY THE ISLANDS
THE BON VIVANT OF THE INTERNET IS NOW A MAMA-TO-BE
PR POWERHOUSE KELLY CUTRONE ON HER ROLE AS MOMMY
60
80
94
PETITE PARADE
PETUNIA SAYS
THE HOUSEWIFE LIFE
A MENAGERIE OF FRAMED PRINTS TO GRACE YOUR NURSERY
PARENTS— MEET THE REAL PETUNIA PICKLEBOTTOM
OUR COVER MOM KYLE RICHARDS ON NEW BEVERLY HILLS BRAINCHILD
66
86
DADDY DUCK
MOMMY MAGIC
THE SNACK SUPERHERO OF THE FOUR-FEET-ANDUNDER CROWD
A MOM ON AN ENCHANTING TELEVISION SERIES TALKS TO MINI
94
BABY + KIDS
d wellstudio.com
MINI MAGAZINE
Kaitlyn Kirby
founder and editor in chief
WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGn |
Scott Kisloski
PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART DIRECTION | P H O T O G R A P H Y A S S I S TA N T | CONTRIBUTING WRITER |
Gretchen Easton
Abby Hall
Ender Gocmen
P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S |
Caroline Bui
P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S |
Lauren King
LO G O N TO
MINI V is it u s o n th e w e b fo r m o re M IN I m u si n g s!
12
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Cover photo by Gretchen Easton, assisted by Abby Hall, wardrobe styling courtesy of Kyle by Alene Too
INTRODUCING NOOK’S NEWEST COLOR...
“Best Overall” Infant Mattress Babble’s Best Picks 2010-2012
The Difference is Breathability. Nook uses breathable, organic and non-toxic materials desgined to enhance air flow, while drawing heat and moisture away from your baby to promote a full night’s sleep. Our ultra soft fluid-resistant fabrics and exclusive removable & washable cover make night time cleanups easy; even for the groggiest Mom or Dad.
Nook Pebble Pure Mattress
Find a Nook retailer near you at www.nooksleep.com
Available Exclusively at NessaLee Baby (US) www.nessaleebaby.com and West Coast Kids (Canada) www.westcoastkids.ca Hawthorne, CA - info@nooksleep.com
MINI
FROM THE EDITOR
We’re back again! Mini is so happy to be celebrating it’s second annual summer issue with the lovely Kyle Richards of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and proud owner of luxury women’s boutique Kyle by Alene Too. To kick off the summer season, we have a bundle of great giveaways happening on our website— a summer wardrobe from FabKids, the fabulous gift of a good night’s sleep from Crane & Canopy, and the chance to spruce up your children’s spaces with Monte. If you haven’t yet, head over to Mini Magazine’s homepage and learn all about how you can enter. In this issue, you will find summer memories from your favorite celebrity parents like Bree Turner of NBC’s Grimm, Cynthia Rowley, Kelly Cutrone, India Hicks, Kelly Wearstler, and so many more. We have an inside peek at two of New York’s hot, new summer destinations— the UES’ Red Carpet Kids and Serena and Lily’s East Coast presence in Wainscott— and a stack of poolside reads to add just a touch of relaxation to your (much-needed) vacations. Many of the interviews and stories in this issue are all about how parents handle the summer months when the weather is hot and the kids are out of school. For me, summer seems to wrap up all too quickly, but with this issue, we hope to offer you the best in seasonal fun, trends worth trying, and loads of parenting advice to last you the whole year long.
14
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI
editor‘s LIST
Dress up: Pink Chicken New York has the best summer dresses and bright prints.
◀ ONE LOVE
Who said one-pieces weren’t chic? This adorable striped number from Lauren Moffat™ for Madewell fits the bill. $210; madewell.com.
NAUTICAL NAILS ▶
Essie is the only way to go in the summer. The newest collection includes this favorite— Naughty Nautical. $8; essie. com.
◀ BELLY BEAUTY
It just wouldn’t be summer without Soludos. Now in kids sizes, this popcicle print makes me smile. $38; soludos.com.
◀ SHIRT AND SAIL
16
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
The Cape is calling! With the ties from seaside brand Vineyard Vines, now your Mini Mister can match Dad! $75; vineyardvines.com.
POSH POUCH
◀
◀
SUMMER STAPLE
I love this mamainspired collection exclusively for bellies. A great way to prevent stretch marks during bikini season. From $20; zoeorganics.com.
Swim Trunks Jute Pouch. $68; jonathanadler.com.
MINI LITTLE LILLY ▶
SHARK SHORTS
FRUIT INFUSION ▶
Infuse your summer wardrobe with the fruits of the season. Haven’t you heard? Pineapples are all the rage in swimwear. $68; jcrew.com.
◀
Lilly Pulitzer offers quintessential summer prints on all of their Mini swimwear. $58; saksfifthavenue. com.
style spot
This swimsuit by Vilebrequin is the safest way we know to swim with the sharks. $141; alexandalexa.com.
◀ CITRUS CHIC
This sweet bikini from EGG Baby comes in lemon and polka dot. $40; egg-baby.com.
OCEANS BY OSCAR ▶
Take a dip in these modern Batik print shorts by Oscar de la Renta. $57; oscardelarenta.com.
SUIT UP
It’s finally summer! And you know what that means— break out the swimwear! Here’s a peek at our favorite swim suits of the season, with everything from boardshorts to bikinis.
18
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Milly Minis V-Neck Cover-up, $130; nordstrom.com
GET THE LOOK
SUN BUM PRO ▶
Active parents and kids, this is for you. The Sun Bum Pro line was made for those who work and play hard in the sun. $18; trustthebum.com. ◀ PURE & FREE BABY
HAMPTON SUN®
◀
Fragrance-free and naturally sourced, Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby is gentle on baby’s skin. $10.50; neutrogena.com.
This powerful, ecofriendly mist can even be applied to wet skin— no need to towel off or wait for skin to dry. $32; hamptonsuncare.com.
◀
AVEENO BABY
COOLA BABY
◀
As mild as water on baby’s delicate skin, this natural formula is waterresistant for 80 minutes. $9.99; aveeno.com.
Made from organic materials to protect from both harmful rays and pollutants. $36; coolasuncare.com.
SUN SHIELD
Whether you are on the beach or on the go, safe skin is in! Protect yourself with the best SPF for every occasion and age— from tots and big kids to adults. FOR MOM Nars Pro-Prime™ MultiProtect Primer SPF 30 Sunscreen, $34;
sephora.com
HATCH: The new Plage collection features flowy summer pieces in white gauze.
◀
WHITE HOT KICKS
Protect your little one’s feet from the water and hot sand this season with these cute kicks. $34; nordstrom.com. ◀ IN THE HOOD
CRISP-ADRILLE
◀
This baby blanket by TANE™ has a hood for extra comfort with summer snuggles. $118; jcrew.com.
We’ll say it again— it’s not summer without Soludos. Grab ‘em in white. $24; soludos.com. ◀ MR. CLEAN JEANS
We’re certain white denim is even cooler on little boys. $52; jcrew.com.
PUT A BOW ON IT ▶
Everything’s sweeter with a bow. These white shorts are a staple. $29.90; zara.com.
W H I T E PA R T Y
Don’t worry about that crazy rule after Labor Day. Every season is the time to wear white, but we do fancy it best at the beach.
20
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Stella McCartney Arlo T-Shirt, $70; stellamccartney.com
GET THE LOOK
style
spot
◀ KIWICRATE CRAFTS
Start with Kiwicrate’s Window Garden to keep your little one busy this summer. $19.95/month; kiwicrate.com.
MAKE BELIEVE MAGIC ▶
SIDEWALK ARTIST TEMPORARY TATTOOS ▶
Wearable art is always dependable for a smile, especially when the options are so cute. $5 per set; tattly.com.
◀
Perfect for bedrooms or playrooms, these Land of Nod playhouses will provide hours of fun. $149; landofnod.com.
Two Mini favorites, biking and chalk art, have come together in this cool bicycle attachment. $20; uncommongoods. com.
SUMMER CAMP
When school’s out, entertaining the little ones can be a challenge. Pick up a few of our Mini finds to keep smiles on their faces and maybe yours too. Melissa & Doug Blossom Bright Kids’ Sprinkler, $19.99;
SPLASH CITY
melissaanddoug.com
MINI
MOMMY CHIC
WE’RE OBSESSED WITH
HATCH PLAGE
Our friends at HATCH Collection have done it again. With their new line, Plage, the company takes on beachwear and does so with pieces in beautiful, lightweight gauze. Including flowy dresses, kaftans, tunics, and skirts, this is the collection to breeze you through summer. —hatchcollection.com.
THIS JUST IN
MAXIS
Maxi dresses are one of Mini’s secrets to looking chic and feeling comfortable during the dog days of summer. Better yet? Expecting mamas-to-be can really bump up the style factor in Ingrid & Isabel’s Convertible Maxi Dress— with easily convertible straps to be worn without or as a halter. This flattering empire waist accentuates your bump and moves with you, allowing for an easy transition to postpregnancy. Pair with a flashy pair of flats and your easy-to-wear summer ensemble is complete. — $128; ingridandisabel.com.
FROM OUR FRIENDS
INDIA HICKS JEWELRY
22
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Snag a taste of the island life where designer India Hicks lives, raises her children, and creates beautiful, unique pieces of jewelry. Inspired by both her father and her adventures in the Bahamas, the collections include necklaces, cuffs, earrings, and more. Want to learn more about India’s island life? Turn to Page 78. —indiahicks.com.
mommy
chic WE’RE OBSESSED WITH
CYNTHIA ROWLEY
This Mini mama literally does it all. We’re obsessed with her dresses and how her collection runs the gamut from floral feminine to edgy downtown. Next up for the designer is her new CuRious Candy locale in Manhattan. Find more about Rowley on Page 78. —cynthiarowley.com.
THIS JUST IN
DROP IT Drop It Modern is a new backdrop line sure to spark your event fancy. With every color and style ranging from sparkly sequins and glitter to chevron and ombre, hanging one of Drop It Modern’s backdrops at your next birthday party or social soiree will soon make you the talk of the town. We suggest the Modern Mint and Spangled backdrops paired with balloons and gold glitter to add some pizazz to your summer. Hey, why not amp up that pool party this weekend? Photo © Logan Cole. —dropitmodern.com.
FROM OUR FRIENDS
KATE SPADE TEE PARTY
24
A hole-in-one for style! That classic Kate Spade sassy wit is back and ready to tee off this summer. Grab your clubs and accessorize with a grass iPhone case, golf ball-esque clutch, On Par bangle, or Tee Time necklace. Or try our pick— it’s quirky, but we kind of love the raffia golf hat. —katespade.com.
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI
TECH KIDS
FROM OUR FRIENDS
TREATS FOR EVERYONE
Our friends at treat.™ offer so many reasons to celebrate and send a card to a special someone. Now join their One Million Card Giveaway and claim your own adorable card absolutely FREE. Follow the link on the right for more details on how to participate and be sure to enter code MINITREAT. —treat.com.
THIS JUST IN
M AT C H GAME With a wide variety of premium products ranging from wedding suites to home decor, Pinhole Press is the modern parent’s photo and paper source. Just for summer, keep your child on their toes and their brain sharp with a photo memory game or flash cards. Simply choose your favorite people, pets, and personal pics to upload, customize the alphabet, and let the games begin! —Pinholepress.com.
LOG ON TO
MINI To view more of our favorite summer products!
WE’RE OBSESSED WITH
IBELLY APP CINEMAMA
26
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
If you are expecting, chances are you’ve been searching for a creative way to document your growing bump. Look no more— new iPhone app CineMama captures your pregnancy and tracks your belly’s growth. —iTunes.com.
MINI
WHAT’S IN THE BAG
ROASTED ALMONDS “An instant energy boost” $5; traderjoes.com
W H AT ’ S I N T H E B A G
AL I L AN DRY ? Mother of two (soon to be three!) Ali Landry wears many hats— actress, TV host, designer, and former Miss USA. Mini took a peek in the expecting mama’s handbag to find an assortment of glam goodies: Mac Dazzleglass lipgloss in Bare Necessity (“I love this gloss! I buy them two at a time”), a Mini orange leather notebook for uncluttering a busy parent’s brain (“The color is great and it’s easy to find in my bag”), Portrait of a Lady parfume by Dominique Ropion for Frederic Malle (“This is so rich and unique. I also love Carnal Flower”), Honest hand sanitizer, and Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater (“My husband and the kids are obsessed. We do a little spritz throughout the day for a refreshing pick-me-up”). For more Mommy Musings, follow Ali on Twitter: @AliLandry.
“I’M CURRENTLY CARRYING MY CELINE LUGGAGE BAG IN BLACK CROC.” Luggage Tote Bag, celine.com “These are my favorites. They are great for our skin and smell divine.” MD MOMS Towelettes, From $5; mdmoms.com
28
LIFEFACTORY Water bottle in Carbon, $24.99; lifefactory.com
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
www.maddersonlondon.com
MINI
insider scoop
MORE FROM
MINI
SUMMERTIME SHOP Just in time for the summer season, decor favorite Serena & Lily opens their first ever retail store with a Hamptons location in Wainscott, New York. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SERENA AND LILY
30
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Click here to shop Serena & Lily ’s fab summer finds!
Beloved lifestyle and home decor company, Serena & Lily, has now made it’s way to the Hamptons. In their first-ever bricks-and-mortar store, the brand is celebrating the summer months in the quintessential seasonal locale. The new Serena & Lily Beach Market, which opened on Memorial Day, is a one-of-a-kind destination with a personality and style unique to the area. “It’s a major step for us as a brand,” said Lily Kanter, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. “We’re so thrilled to finally have a three-dimensional space where people can come interact with our product. It will be like walking through the pages of our catalog for many, but we’ve taken the vision even further with this space. There’s a surprise around every corner.” Inside the 3,200 square foot space, customers can wander through a selection of Serena & Lily’s core product: bedding, furniture, outdoor living, and a separate KIDSHOP space featuring bedding, games and unique items for
MINI SAYS
SURFS UP, SERENA
The new Serena & Lily Beach Market store is located at 332 Montauk Highway in Wainscott, New York.
baby and kids. In addition, the Beach Market will feature seasonal merchandise available only at the store, including vintage and unusual items hand-selected by Serena, limited edition surfboards and board shorts in Serena & Lily signature patterns, and exclusive product from unique specialty brands. ■
TIEKS IN TOW These comfortable, Italian leather ballet flats with catchy blue soles are popping up all over and have quickly become Mini’s new mommy must-have. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TIEKS BY GAVRIELI
32
Perhaps you spied them as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things earlier this year or discovered them on your quest to find the perfect ballet flat. Well, Tieks by Gavrieli are so much more than that. This emerging brand offers high-quality, Italian leather shoes and we can assure you the foldable gems are the end to the flat dilemma— they are 100% comfortable, 100% of the time.
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
INSIDER
Made from 100% premium, soft, top- grain leather, each pair of Tieks is designed to fold and fit inside a purse, making them wearable and carryable all day, every day. According to the brand, Tieks are designed add flexibility to your lifestyle by ensuring comfort is close even when wearing heels. The foldable split-sole design is compact and lightweight, making it easy to bring your Tieks along when you are in heels. When you need to take off your heels, Tieks provide comfort without compromising your style. No matter the color (and you’ll be thrilled to see the variety), each pair o Tieks comes complete with a leather outsole, treated and coated to be flexible, while maintaining its reputation as both more durable and sturdy than regular full-grain leathers. The non-skid rubber patches and cushioned instep assure comfort with each step, so you can wear your Tieks without even a thought of discomfort. Remember that old flat dilemma of no support and aching feet? Those days are long gone. MORE FROM
MINI Click here to purchase your own pair of Tieks!
SCOOP
The brand states that the back of your Tieks are cushioned rather than elasticized to ensure your Tieks are never too tight on your heel— a problem we’ve had with many a cute-on-the-outside, standard pair of ballet kicks. What’s more, every pair arrives at your door sporting a signature Tiek Blue stripe and Tiek Blue rubber patches— a color only associated with the loveliest of luxury goods. Mini had the chance to try out a pair of the fabulous, new footwear and we have to say we’re more than impressed. Tieks are available in a multitude of colors, including snake skin, leopard, patents, metallics, and even present a vegan collection. The flats come packaged in a signature blue box, adorned with a flower accent— making the packaging every bit as sweet as its contents. And with free returns and shipping on all U.S. orders, how can you resist these foldable wonders? Take it from us (Oh, and Oprah too), these are a must-have in your mommy summer footwear arsenal. —tieks.com.
MINI MUSINGS
Events include personal butlers, red carpet interviews, paparazzi photo shoots, and more.
LOG ON TO
MINI To check out the latest Red Carpet Kids collab!
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION New York’s most unique and exciting event experience for children sits nestled on the Upper East Side of Manhattan but offers a taste of pint-sized Hollywood glam. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RED CARPET KIDS
34
If you think you have a Mini Diva on your hands, you haven’t seen anything yet. New York City’s hottest new event experience, Red Carpet Kids, offers school-age silver screen stars an interactive, Old Hollywood concept where professional actors lead them through a variety of different VIP, celebrity, and movie experience options.
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
INSIDER
The Red Carpet Kids Mansion, located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, is outfitted with a film studio, red carpet press stage, art deco lounge, and luxurious movie theatre complete with concession stand. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a doorperson at their VIP check-in, then led by a personal butler to their red carpet interview and paparazzi photo shoot. So far so good? It gets better. Mini guests can then choose which celebrity experience they prefer— everything ranging from
SCOOP
a day of beauty and glamour to shooting a live-action film with movie crew, costumes, makeup, and a special film premiere in the Mansion’s on-site cinema. All-inclusive packages include Royalty on the Red Carpet, the Hollywood Improv Bash, the Movie Buff Party, the World Premiere Party, and the Academy Awards Gala. So don’t throw another boring birthday party, celebrate the occasion on the red carpet. We are obsessed with these glamorous Mini events, now log on or call to book yours today! —Redcarpetkidsnyc.com.
MINI
FROM OUR FRIENDS
SUMMER LOVING
With the warm months upon us, CelebrityBabyScoop asked some of our favorite celebrity moms to share their summertime memories. STORY BY CELEBRITYBABYSCOOP
From Tori Spelling’s family vacations in Las Vegas, to Jewel’s horse riding adventures in Alaska, to Denise Richards’ family fun with furry friends, read through our list of unforgettable summer stories. JEWEL, MOM TO 1 1/2 YEAR OLD KASE
“They’re all outdoors,” she said. “I grew up in Alaska and the outdoors are so beautiful. I don’t think I spent any time inside except to sleep. My memories were horse riding and getting outside.” TORI SPELLING, MOM TO LIAM, 6, STELLA, 5, HATTIE 1, AND FINN, 8 MONTHS
36
“Everyone always asks me if I flew all over the world as a child,” Tori said. “But the truth is, my
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
dad was afraid to fly. So we drove to Vegas for a month every summer— before Vegas was kid-friendly. I really have to hand it to my mom for always finding fun things for us to do in Vegas. SARAH WAYNE CALLIES, MOM TO KEALA, 6
“I lived in Hawaii, so it would have to be the beach,” Callies said. “We had a fun tradition where we would try to watch the sun rise over the water and then drive to the other side of the island and watch the sun set. My hair was constantly a mess of salt, seaweed, and sand.” DENISE RICHARDS, MOM TO SAM, 9, LOLA, 8, AND ELOISE, 2
“Some of my favorite childhood memories are from growing up in Illinois,” she said. “I will never forget the family vacations that I spent with my loved ones, and of course, my pets!” LAILA ALI, MOM TO C.J., 5, AND SYDNEY, 2
“As a child, we didn’t go on summer vacations,” Laila shared. “I just remember that my stepsisters would come over and everyone would be there. It was great to have everyone come to the house to go swimming together and pile up in the car together. Summers were always family time.” NICOLE SULLIVAN, MOM TO DASH, 5, AND BECKETT, 3
“Camping with my family and our dog,” the MADtv alum said. “And I still love it!”
MINI
on the scene GET THE LOOK UPPAbaby CRUZ $459.99; uppababy.com
S M A R T S E AT
UPPAbaby releases the new MESA infant car seat with top-knotch security features to make your summer travels less stressful. PHOTOGRAPHY BY UPPABABY SHADY BABY
QUICK RELEASE
A convenient one-push stroller release on carry handle.
A hideaway canopy pulls over baby’s head with SPF 50+ which proves perfect for summer.
WELL RESTED
MESA’s adjustable headrest includes SIP Side Impact Protection for extra peace of mind.
SIT TIGHT
The seat’s norethread harness protects baby during even the bumpiest of road trips.
SEATBELT SCENARIO
The red to green tension indictator and mini LATCH connectors provide confirmation of secure install. MORE FROM
MINI
38
Includes SMARTSECURE™ for accurate, 10-second install!
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
LOVE THE LOOK The UPPAbaby MESA car seat also fits with the CRUZ and VISTA strollers for easy transitioning. $279.99; uppababy.com
Select Innovation Select the Original
CITY SELECT The award-winning City Select allows you to mix and match seats, car seats and bassinets to customize your stroller into 16 unique combinations to suit your family’s needs.
www.babyjogger.com
twitter.com/babyjogger facebook.com/babyjogger
MINI
GEAR GUIDE
FEEDING FRENZY This modern, easy to clean seating element from phil & teds® will convert from high chair to My Chair as your child grows. PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHIL & TEDS
40
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Baby feeding time can be a messy exercise and one that sees parents rolling up their sleeves and scrubbing hard in an effort to return their high chair to its former pristine glory. These efforts often go unrewarded with crumbs and little pieces of food hiding away in creases and cracks, making it impossible to truly get it clean. Then there’s the space that this often clunky piece of furniture takes up in your kitchen or dining room, and the difficulty in storing it away. And more often than not, it doesn’t complement your lovingly designed decor. phil&teds® heard these plights and designed a high chair that offers the perfect solution. The poppy high chair is the newest addition to the phil&teds range of ultra adaptable products to help parents adapt & survive. The poppy is packed with all the essentials you’d expect and more, offering great value beyond your baby’s high chair years! It’s stylish, comfy, safe and easy to clean. The super cute poppy has a fresh and modern design.The waterproof, smooth seamless aerocore seat eliminates any risk of food hiding in cracks and simply wipes clean. It can even be put in the dishwasher! The soft and spongy seat provides maximum comfort so your baby can happily focus on their job— eating food! The seat is also insulating, hypo-allergenic, UV resistant and non-toxic.
There’s no need to retire the poppy to the garage once your baby’s high chair days are over. It converts to ‘my chair’ for later adventures, creating a fantastically fun space for toddlers & pre-schoolers to confidently eat and play. The poppy is lightweight (only 4 kgs) which is lighter than the average high chair and is globally safety certified— not all high chairs are! The passive harness frees up both hands to allow parents to easily buckle up the five point safety harness. phil&teds® have designed the poppy with your child’s safety in mind first and foremost. The poppy comes in three vibrant colours to choose from to best suit your decor— cherry, lime and bubblegum blue. So if you want to take the fuss out of feeding time, and have a high chair that is stylish, comfy and easy to clean, the phil&teds® poppy is for you. For more information visit philandteds.com/poppy loads of space for baby’s food and has been ergonomically designed to fit baby perfectly from 6 months to 2 years.
MINI
how-to
Every summer, swarms of Manhattan dwellers undergo the transition from city hustle and bustle to casual, carefree Hamptons living. Hamptons Magazine’s Editorin-Chief Samantha Yanks is Mini’s trusted luxury lifestyle gurus who spends her summer months hitting the local beaches (Mecox is her favorite), participating in area events, and sharing her SPYLuxe finds (the editor mama’s initials and term for eyeing luxury finds through her ultra-chic magnifying glass. Mini sat down to ask her favorite family locales and familiar functions on Long Island, giving you a taste of the good life this summer and more reasons to pack it up and experience the fabulous hot spots that reside in the Hamptons.
ASK S A M A N T HA
Hamptons Magazine’s Editor in Chief Samantha Yanks has an eye for luxury living. We asked her how to have a fabulous Hamptons summer and she answered.
42
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
BY SAMANTHA YANKS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SETH SABAL
LA FONDITA
AMAGANSETT, NEW YORK
LOG ON TO
MINI SUMMER SECRET: Many do not know that La Fondita is part of the Nick and Toni’s restaurant family.
For more of Samantha’s Hamptons family picks!
LA FONDITA
The best Mexican food in the Hamptons, says Yanks. 74 Montauk Hwy., (631) 267-8800. SANT AMBROEUS
The perfect place to stop for a summer gelato. 30 Main St., (631) 283-1233. WÖLFFER ESTATE
Celebrating their 25th Anniversary this summer, visit WÖlffer Estate Vineyard on Friday nights for live music, sunsets, and sips of their famed rose. 139 Sagg Rd., (631) 537-5106. BHUMI FARM
A new farm in Amagansett aiming to reconnect children with the source of their food. Town Ln., (646) 496-8364.
SANT AMBROEUS
SOUTHHAMPTON, NEW YORK
ROAR FOR THE CURE
A local carnival supporting pediatric cancer this summer. maxcurefoundation.org. HAMPTON CLASSIC
An iconic Hamptons event for the whole family. hamptonclassic.com.
WÖLFFER ESTATE
SAGAPONACK, NEW YORK
MINI
book club
I SCREAM, ICE CREAM You don’t know what a wordle is? Think “reindeer” and “rain deer.” Soon you’ll be making up your own. $13; amazon.com. THE DAY THE CRAYONS QUIT Ever wonder what it would be like if your crayons refused to work? This hilarious book out June 27 will entertain your little scribblers. $17.99; us.penguingroup.com. BRAVE SQUISH RABBIT Summer calls for sleepovers, but no one is afraid of the dark here! $12.99; us.penguingroup.com. SOMEONE COULD GET HURT You know you’ve said it. This memoir of 21st century parenting is a great beach read. $25; us.penguingroup. com. MRS. LILIEN Just for Mom and Dad, learn to conjure up the perfect cocktail this summer. $13.50; amazon.com.
SUMMER READS
There’s nothing better than sitting poolside with a great book. Here’s what’s on our summer reading list, with titles for both Mom and Dad and the Minis.
44
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
THE CHIL DR EN ’ S CO L LECTIO N 699
madison avenue, new york
( 21 2) 838- 3775
saks fifth avenue, ninth floor, new york www.mrsstrong.com
( 21 2) 940- 4463
MINI
CLOSER LOOK
JUST ADD LOVE Toddler sold separately, instructions not included. Nia Vardalos’ new heartwarming, laughter-inducing book, Instant Mom, is one you won’t want to put down this summer. BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTOS COURTESY OF HARPER COLLINS
46
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
From My Big Fat Greek Wedding Fame to the playdate circuit, Nia Vardalos has had quite the journey into parenthood. The time came to step off the long and widing road of failed fertility treatments, one she and husband Ian Gomez had been on for close to a decade, but not because of a pregnancy. No, it was the mere hours’ notice that changed her life when Vardalos received the call and became an Instant Mom. The new book, laden with Vardalos’ wit and touching storytelling ability, tells the tale of the couple’s attempts to conceive, adopt a baby, and every heartbreaking step in between. While it may have been a bumpy road, this story does indeed have a happy ending— and one that is well-deserved for the Instant Mom Vardalos.
Imagine spending 10 years trying to become a mom, with failed fertility treatments, stalled attempts at adoption, and other setbacks along the way. That’s just what funny couple Nia Vardalos and Ian Gomez went through on their quest to become parents, finally ending with the successful adoption of their 7-year-old daughter, Ilaria. She never intended to become a spokesperson for the cause, nor did she have intentions of writing a book to tell her adoption story, but Vardalos’ friends urged her to pick up the pen. In fact, she even ponders in the book’s prologue: “I worry if I’m doing the right thing in telling this story.” The truth is, Vardalos admits, she rather likes her privacy and strives (as many parents do) to protect her daughter’s anonymity. Writing the story of her adoption may have provided a window into the family’s life, forcing Vardalos out of her comfort zone, but it also gave other parents on the same journey a push of hope. So, she jumped. Little did she know then that Instant Mom would become an instant success. Often wondering why the success of her first movie happened, the thought surfaced that perhaps this was the reason. “Maybe I’m supposed to be using my big mouth to talk about adoption,” she wrote. Now the spokesperson for National Adoption Day, Vardalos uses her experience to help
CLOSER
LOOK
other parents with no reliable information on where to begin, how to adopt, or that there even is a light at the end of the long and seemingly dark tunnel. “I have met people whose heart aches to be parents, who don’t know the ways to adopt. Studies have shown worldwide there are as many prospective parents as adoptable children. But some think they don’t have the financial means to adopt. Countless prospective parents are waiting to be “matched.” I was once in that position,” she said. Able to relate to them, Vardalos shares the many, many ways to become a parent. “Some methods are expensive and time-consuming, some can lead to heart-break. Some work for many. Some don’t. And some are amazingly simple and accessible to everyone. One way MORE FROM
MINI Click here to purchase your copy of Instant Mom!
worked for me.” That’s all it took. One method, of many, to create an Instant Mom. Just one phone call and 14 hours’ notice to end her 10 year struggle with fertility and lead her to the then-preschooler that would soon become her daughter. The story is both funny and fascinating, helpful and informative, full of the trials and tribulations that many parents experience. Her goal, even mentioned in the book’s prologue, was to create a “how to adopt” book of sorts, while still retaining her daughter’s privacy. Much like her journey, Vardalos’ book presents a labor of love from the very beginning to the fulfilling end: “I wait for my daughter to come home from school. I ask for her permission to write a book about her. She cocks her head, smiles, and says okay. Then she wryly offers a few pointers on which stories should be in the book.” She’s now a mom, a spokesperson for adoption, and a beacon of hope for many parents hoping to achieve the same end result— a family. And while there is no right way to create one, the recipe is the same for each: just add love. ■ See the link on the left to purchase your own copy of Nia Vardalos’ Instant Mom.
48
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
tutu too
Summer is best en tutu, don’t you agree? The latest from Tutu du Monde has us twirling with excitement. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDRENA PARKER AND HANNAH SCOTT-STEVENSON
50
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
On right: Curtain Call Capelet in Off White, Giselle Tutu in Biscotti. On left: Honeysucke Tutu in Apricot, Feather Headband.
On right: Sugar Plum Fairy Tutu in Violet, Queen B Shrug in Pink Sugar, Enchanted Butterfly Hairclip in Pink Sugar. On left: Grapevine Tutu in Amethyst.
52
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI
FAMILY VIBES
Swanky sophisticate designer, Kelly Wearstler manages a busy schedule as a world-reknowned tastemaker in addition to chasing after her two young sons. INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KELLY WEARSTLER
54
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
dining area, while the kids play in the atrium or room next door. MINI: Describe your personal style in terms
MINI: What are some of your favorite pieces
from your collections and why? Which pieces do you wear most often?
KELLY WEARSTLER: I always have a piece of jew-
elry from my line worn with vintage pieces— which I collect. Lately I’ve been wearing more delicate pieces like my diamond rarity rings, layering small feminine rings with chunkier ones. MINI: What advice do you have for parents
designing a children’s space? What are some must-do’s and do-not’s of designing a children’s space? KW: Practicality is a must. It’s important to
choose color fast fabrics that are durable. I have two boys, so I always leave room for rough housing in my designs. Interiors that transition easily from indoor to outdoor are great for kids. In our home, we built a living area directly off of our kitchen. The adults can cook and socialize in the kitchen and
of fashion or design. How is that reflected in your collections or your home? KW: I am a great lover of vintage and have
been collecting vintage clothing, jewelry and furniture for years. I like to have a natural element combined with rich sophistication. My love of metal never dies. I mix raw and refined, vintage and modern, playing with different metals and patinas. I have a painterly eye and always aim to create texture and depth in my designs.
MINI: What traits or quirks do you think your
sons inherited from either yourself or your husband? Are there any you hope they do or do not? KW: Our boys are very athletic and vivacious
kids. They are accomplished snowboarders and play hockey. I hope they have inherited our self-reliance. I was raised to be proactive and make thing happen for myself. We also both deeply love what we do— my boys are encouraged to invest in their passions.
56
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
“ THEY PLAY IN A THREE-PIECE BAND CALLED THE NEGOTIATORS. ”
MINI: How would you describe their style? What are they into
these days?
KW: Rock ‘n’ roll. They play in a three-piece band called the Ne-
58
gotiators. They like La Miniatura, which is an amazing children’s
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
photography by THOMAS WHITESIDE
on my mind
I ALWAYS MAKE TIME FOR . . .
My family and yoga. MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER IS . . .
A double, extra dry, nonfat macchiato. THE ULTIMATE MOMMY GETAWAY WOULD BE . . .
A mini yoga retreat. IN MY HANDBAG, YOU CAN ALWAYS FIND . . .
My camera, a sketchbook, Dr. Hauschka lip balm, iPhone, Blackberry, my sons’ homework. ONE PIECE OF STYLE ADVICE FOR MY KIDS . . .
Take risks.
line, and Hysteric Glamour Kids, a Japanese brand. MINI: Give us a sneak peek into your life. How
do you begin each morning and end each day? Do you have a routine? KW: I begin each day with a Bikram yoga class
or Barry’s boot camp to stay centered and healthy. I stop by Urth Café for a quick bite and my daily double, extra dry, non-fat mac-
chiato to fuel up for the day. I get to work around 9:30am and am in meetings with my design teams and clients until 6. Fridays, I volunteer at my son’s school working in their garden. I’m always out the door by 6 o’ clock to have dinner with my family. Then the blackberry goes off. At home, I’m completely focused on my husband and two sons. ■
MINI
AT HOME
PETITE PA R A D E Committed to producing high quality artwork now a staple in many nurseries, Sharon Montrose of the Animal Print Shop photographs a variety of cuddly little darlings— Mini animals, of course. INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ANIMAL PRINT SHOP
Together with her husband, Sharon Montrose created the Animal Print Shop as an online art gallery and store to display the framed prints of her pint-sized menagerie. With the Babies and Little Darlings collections— including lambs, lion cubs, kittens, elephants, and our favorite, the giraffe— the Animal Print Shop has caught the attention of parents everywhere and placed prints on the walls of some of the most adorable nurseries. MINI: We are obsessed with your photogra-
60
phy! Especially the Mini animals! How did you get into photographing these adorable little critters?
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
SHARON MONTROSE: Thanks! At first I had a
very tough time turning what I loved doing into a way to earn a living. I floundered before I became established as a working photographer. I was shooting headshots and
MORE FROM
MINI Click here to shop Sharon’s Baby Animal Prints!
weddings and doing okay, but I wasn’t happy doing either and had lost the love I had for photography. Around the same time, I adopted my first dog, so I started taking photos of all the dogs in my life to see if it reignited
the love I once had for photography. It did and I learned an important lesson as a result— I had to have an authentic connection with my subjects.
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
on my mind
THE LAST BOOK I READ WAS . . .
People still read? Just kidding! The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. IF I WERE AN ANIMAL. . .
My dad and brother swear I used to say I wanted to grow up to be a bunny.
MINI: Naturally, the Babies and Little Darlings series are our
favorites. Where did you find the inspiration for them?
SM: I’m immediately inspired and drawn in by their cute-
ness. It’s hard not to be— they’re baby animals!
MINI: The prints are perfect for all ages, but we love them for
nurseries. Why do you think the photos are great to place in children’s spaces?
MY FIRST PET WAS. . .
Two cats: Patches and OJ.
64
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
SM: People have told me they like the sweetness of my im-
ages, so perhaps that’s it. The prints are interactive. I hear stories all the time about children naming the animals, sing-
at
home
ing to them, saying good morning and good night to them. I’m happy they’ve found an audience in children’s spaces.
Which animal prints are your favorites?
MINI: What is a typical day like photograph-
parent who their favorite child is!
ing animals in the studio? Run us through the process. SM: My shoots are rather large productions
that involve many people who help me in various ways. It’s not as exciting as people imagine it to be. It’s work. Okay, maybe we get to cuddle a lamb— but then it’s back to work!
MINI: The giraffe and baby elephant we love!
SM: Oh, I can’t answer that! That’s like asking a
MINI: How is photographing Mini animals dif-
ferent from photographing actual babies or children? SM: A lot easier! ■
MINI
DADDY DUCK
The dad behind Brooklyn-based tiny treat company Little Duck Organics, Zak Normandin set out to become the snack superhero of the four-feetand-under crowd. And did. INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY STORY BY ENDER GOCMEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY LITTLE DUCK ORGANICS
He can embarrass you some of the time, but he is a superhero almost all of the time. He’s your dad, and part of being a dad is looking out for what’s most important in this world. But contrary to popular belief, it’s not himself— it’s his kids. The same goes for Zak Normandin, founder of Little Duck Organics. “When I became a parent and started spending time in the baby aisle at the grocery store, I quickly saw the opportunity to create an option for parents that
66
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
FATHER OF INVENTION
was more nutritious and better designed,” Normandin told Mini. “I had already been working with food brands as a packaging design consultant and had a strong desire to bring something, like a fun brand, to life. Three years later, we have an office in Brooklyn, eight employees, and seven products in over 6,000 stores nationwide. What a crazy contrast to the days when I was packing boxes in my basement in New Hampshire.” Based out of Brooklyn, NY, Little Duck Organics is the “coolest baby and kid-food company around,” priding itself on making 100% organic snacks. They promise 100% real fruit, no added sugar, and according to their website, “no added zombies!” Whew! While their snacks are sans zom-
bies, there is plenty more that sets these tasty snacks-for-tykes apart from the rest. “As a company, we can really have fun with what we are putting out there,” said Normandin. “I think that is something that sets us apart from other brands— taking risks and stepping outside of the comfort zone that has been established within the baby food category. We’re not afraid to shake things up and have a little fun.” Fun isn’t the only consideration when it comes to Little Duck Organics’ research and development team. “When we launch a product, it’s important that we’re really considering what is not currently on shelves in the kids food aisle,” Normandin told Mini. “We noticed that most baby cereals were rice-based, fortified, and lacked any real, wholesome nutrition. So, with that thought in mind, we set out to create the first ancient grainbased baby cereal (Little Duck Organicss’ new Mighty Oats) using wholesome ingredients like Quinoa, Amaranth, Chia and Millet. To push the innovation boundaries even further, we packaged it in single serve cups and made the packaging out of compostable and plantable materials.” It’s true— just by planting your Mighty Oats box, you can sprout your own carrots, lettuce, or tomatoes. And while business for Little Duck Organics seems to be headed in the right direction, Normandin admitted it’s hard work. “I’ll be the first to tell you that this life, while extremely rewarding, comes with its share of sacrifices. On one hand, I
on my mind
BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD . . .
Feel so instantly connected to another human. THE ULTIMATE DADDY GETAWAY WOULD BE . . .
Exploring a new place without an agenda. MY PARENTING BOOK WOULD BE CALLED . . .
Let’s Make Pancakes. MY DADDY MANTRA IS . . .
Please take your finger out of your nose.
68
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
have a lot of flexibility in the hours I work. This allows me to spend time with my kids when I normally would not be able to if I had a typical corporate job,” he said. “But, the obligation that I have as a leader within the company is a commitment that I take very seriously. I view the people who devote their time to the growth of our brand as part of my family. Truth is, we actually spend more time together during the course of the day than I do with my own children— it’s just reality.” Between the life of a busy parent and bustling career, Normandin still has time to refine his personal style. “I’m a simple guy. I like wearing old, broken-in Levis jeans, and natural-colored T-shirts
or simple button-downs. Beyond that, I typically wear a pair of sunglasses and loafers. I’m a big fan of classic, sophisticated men’s style [and mine] is still very-much the same as before I was a parent. Nothing has changed drastically, only improved.” Normandin was also happy to share his four-yearold son, Oliver, shares his sense of style. “[He] dresses very similar, although he loves anything with Batman or Spiderman on it.” So there you have it. Little Duck Organics snacks are every bit as fun and stylish as their founder Zak Normandin. But if you happen to pick up a package sporting a Batman logo, you’ll know Oliver was involved. ■
MINI
tastemakers
C O A S TA L C H I C
Designer, author, model, mother, free spirit— some time ago, India Hicks fell in love with a tropical island where she went on to raise her four children. Today, many of her designs are influenced by the island life. INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTAN GOETZ AND JOSEPH MENOCINO
70
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI: What is it like raising your family in the
Bahamas?
INDIA HICKS: It’s very unique, I would imagine.
Choosing to live on island in the middle of virtually nowhere, 17 yrs ago, was quite an unusual decision [for someone] who’d began life in a very traditional English household. [But] the unusualness of this life has lead my children to growing up with rather brilliant imaginations— sometimes a little too brilliant. They come up with ideas that possibly were better kept in their heads rather than coming through to reality. MINI: What do you love most about motherhood in paradise? IH: That my children are incredibly free and relatively safe— they’re just possibly not safe from themselves because of the crazy ideas
that they come up with. They once invented the world’s largest skateboard by tieing five of their own skateboards to the bottom of a gigantic box that they had made. Then, went at full speed down a very sharp hill wearing motorbike helmets. Thankfully, because clearly it ended in disaster. MINI: What’s important to you in raising your children? IH: That I have confident happy children. Possibly, if I had to say a motto, I would like my children to have confidence in themselves. I think it’s a huge attribute going through life if you believe in yourself. It’s very good for my children to understand love, security and comfort— the things that some of us take for granted, that aren’t necessarily there for all kids. MINI: What is your fondest childhood memory? IH: Having described rather a formal cold,
British formal upbringing, I have to say all of my childhood memories include my mother whom I’m incredibly close to and has really given me all the stability of my life and is the backbone to my own. I think possibly one of my consistent childhood memories is Christmas at my grandfather’s home and the confusion of how Father Christmas would get down [the chimneys] with the fires actually burning, worried that he would get obviously singed toes. MINI: How do you think your children would answer that question? IH: In particular, my eight-year-old wanted a birthday party on the beach and having had three older brothers, we had done quite a few different birthday parties. We came up with the idea of having a gigantic food fight. We got paper plates and loaded them up with whipped cream, spaghetti, and jelly. It was spectacular and we all ended up in the ocean. I would imagine that’s gonna be a fairly strong memory.
72
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
the ultimate mommy getaway? a hot bath with a barricaded door.
india hicks’ simple steps to great style allow rotating galleries. spell out child’s name in bold, mismatched letters. curate collages— post cards, photos, souvenirs. use oversized maps of the world. remember, pink doesn’t have to be too girly.
74
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MORE FROM
MINI: We just adore your jewelry line!
How is your personal style reflected in the collection? IH: It’s entirely personal. My fingerprints are all over these collections. The concept comes from me, the design comes from me. It’s a great process, it’s also terribly intimidating and you’re worried the whole way through. MINI: Talk to us about your home collection. What inspired you to create bedding and decor? IH: This is new because it’s such a different market. HSN reaches 100 million homes and the incredible thing is that because you are reaching that many, you can get really beautiful products at a very reasonable price and that’s very exciting. MINI: How is your personal style or island lifestyle reflected in your home’s design or decor? IH: Our island lifestyle is reflected all over. It’s a mixture of British West Indies with the sort of eccentricities of a native whit. We have large vases of palms, mosquito netting, overhead fans, large wooden floorboards, and I think all of that says this is a home in the islands. MINI: Is this aesthetic carried over into your children’s spaces as well? IH: Yes— in one of our boys rooms, there are two beautiful antique beds with carved pineapples that we bought at a flea market in New
MINI Click here to shop the India Hicks collections!
Orleans. Above the beds, there’s a framed, vintage Union Jack flag, so you’ve got the past and the present. MINI: How would you describe your own style? What can we always find you wearing? IH: Modern classic. Right now I’m wearing a pair of jeans and a striped Breton T-shirt. In the collections, you’ll see muted palates and then there’s a shock of color— [much like] the way that I decorate, my wardrobe is very similar too. Obviously, when I’m on the island I tend to wear color a little bit more. MINI: What would we find in your handbag that says you’re a mom? IH: Little, tiny bits of Lego, half-eaten sticky sweeties stuck to the lining of the bag, an endless number of hints that would say that I have too many children. MINI: Finally, what is your parenting motto? IH: “Don’t roll your bloody eyes at me.” It’s not a motto, but it’s what I say more than anything else. ■
Having designed her first dress at the age of seven, mom of two Cynthia Rowley’s namesake collection has since grown to include eyewear, menswear, shoes, and shapewear to name a few. Now the Rowley empire is expanding again— this time with candy.
CYNTHIA ROWLEY
76
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE GLOW AND CYNTHIA ROWLEY
MINI: Happy Summer! Let’s get started talk-
ing about your namesake collection. What was your inspiration for designing the most recent collection? CYNTHIA ROWLEY: It is inspired by the idea of
celebration. It’s celebratory prints and fabrics in casual and easy-to-wear silhouettes and pieces. There is a confetti print, there are a lot of foil T-shirts.
MINI: Describe your personal style and how
that can be found in your collections.
CR: What I’m wearing right now is pretty
typical. I wear these bonded leggings that we make. They are the most comfortable things in the whole world. I suggest getting them in seven different prints so that you can wear them every day which is basically what I do. I wear leggings year-round with sneakers on my way to school drop-off in the morning. Then I change into heels or wedges when I get to work or go out. Today, I’m wearing my hubby’s white shirt with tons of turquoise and beaded necklaces— usually things that can go from seven AM to midnight.
MINI: We are obsessed with your dresses!
Which pieces do you wear most often or think are must-haves for every chic parent?
CR: There’s always a certain sportiness to every-
thing. I have these bonded dresses— they’re fitted and comfortable and you can dress them up or dress them down. I think that in the summer especially, the easiest thing that you could ever do is throw on is a dress with flat sandals, heels, or sneakers and a pair of sunglasses and you’re done.
MINI: Has your style changed at all since mother-
hood?
CR: I don’t think it’s really changed. I have always
been crazy busy. It’s always been the plate spinning balancing act, except now there’s kids involved.
MINI: What were your style staples during
your pregnancy?
CR: With my first, she was born in May so
I wore a lot of giant oversized dresses. My youngest was born in January so that was a bit tough because I had to figure out layers of clothes. Pants are never comfortable when you’re pregnant. I think dresses are the best and wearing them with bare legs if you can, depending on the season. I think an over-the-knee boot is good cause your knees are never that great during pregnancy.
78
MINI: Do you think your children will grow
up to be a fashionistas just like you?
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
CR: I’m definitely not encouraging it, al-
though I think they just cant help themselves. It’s definitely around the house. I wouldn’t call it a fashionista way, it’s more of a self expression, a way of them having their own identity. So far, even though they are both girls, they don’t seem that interested. Who knows? That’s the bottom line. I’m definitely not encouraging it, but I’m not discouraging it.
MINI: Right now, what do they want to be
when they grow up?
CR: My older one writes a lot. She wrote a
travel journal for Seventeen and another for Teen Vogue. She likes to write. They’re
taste
also very interested in art because my husband has a gallery, writes about art, and we collect. I think maybe something creative. The world is changing so much, I don’t even know what careers will be available then. I’m trying to keep an open mind. MINI: Now that it’s summer, what is your advice
for designing a great wardrobe this season?
CR: It’s as important to think of your casual, fun
clothes as it is to think about the dress or the work thing. I think a lot of people fall into the rut of “I’m going to wear these same old shorts that I’ve had for the last fifteen years.” That’s the stuff you actually end up living in on the weekends. Same with a swimsuit, get your fun clothes organized. You only need a few things. Make sure to treat yourself in that part of your life. It’s easy to rationalize “I need a new blouse to wear at work” or “I need a summer skirt.” It’s not as easy to rationalize “I need the really badass pair of cut off jeans that I’m going to wear every weekend.” Those are the ones that will make you really happy.
“I use this every morning with mascara, eye liner, and lipstick.”
makers
MINI: What’s most important to you in raising
your children?
I asked my daughter last night, “What is the one thing I’ve taught you?” I wasn’t trying to fish for compliments, I just wanted to know what she would say. She said, “Be yourself [and] that being a good mom is really important.” I guess the most important thing is that they are their own person and that I want them to feel that anything they want to do, they can do. CR:
MINI: What new projects are you involved with
or launching?
CR: I just became the best mom ever! On Moth-
ers Day, we opened our second candy store called CuRious Candy. We do kids birthday parties at one and the other, flavor of the day. It’s really awesome. My older one is already asking to work in the candy store. My little one, she’s passing out business cards in the playground at her school. We’re also launching an eyewear website— I think shopping online is part of the routine for a lot of moms. ■
THE ROWLEY ROUTINE REDKEN WATERWAX
PREVAGE SERUM
FISH OIL
“Take your vitamins, take your fish oil, drink a lot of water. You can have a natural look.”
“My husband uses it too. We fight over it.”
PETUNIA SAYS
INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANCY NEIL RAYA CARLISLE AND KIM CORONA FOR PETUNIA
80
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
If you have children, you know Petunia Pickle Bottom. Meet DeNai Jones, the woman behind the brand that brought you the collectible, fashionable diaper bag. Because of her, Petunia Picklebottom has been the modern mom’s staple for more than a decade. MINI: Mini loves Petunia Pickle Bottom!
How did you come up with the idea?
It all started in the year 2000, when I became aware that the marketplace was in desperate need of a diaper bag that both spoke to a modern mom’s fashion aesthetic and had the functionality to fit the needs of a parent. With my background in art, the business acumen of my husband Braden (who is now PPB’s CEO) and the keen eye of my friend Korie Conant (who is now PPB’s CMO), we set out to design an answer to what we saw as this void in the marketplace. DENAI JONES:
MINI: How did you decide on the name
Petunia Pickle Bottom?
DJ: It’s actually a childhood nickname
given to me by my dad. When I was first conceiving of the business, the idea to call it Petunia Pickle Bottom came to me, and it has been fun to watch those three words grow from a playful family moniker to the name of a company I’m now proud to say I’m a part of.
MINI: How do you conceive your designs,
choose fabrics and pick colors for the season? DJ: With a lifelong passion for art, the design
process is really special to me. It’s the reason I still feel so lucky to get to do what I do for a living. All of our patterns and fabrics are designed in-house, so every season I start by gathering fresh inspiration from a variety of sources, including recent travels and fun vintage fashion that has caught my eye. Then I’ll work on some sketches, which will ultimately lead to our collaboration on a collection’s pattern, color and textile selections. MINI: Before the invention of the widely suc-
cessful Boxy Backpack, what were women carrying as diaper bags?
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
Photography courtesy of Petunia Picklebottom
82
DJ: In the year 2000, most parents were carry-
ing a diaper bag that was suited to the baby, not the parent. There has been a major shift in the market, especially over the last decade, where parenthood has been presented with modern and beautifully designed products. It has been an honor to be a part of moving the industry to that place. MINI: You’re the mother of two young boys,
Sutton and Miller. Have they inspired any products?
DJ: People are often surprised to learn that
84
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
PPB was born six years before my first son was born. When my husband and I started our own family, I gained a firsthand understanding of the needs of a parent and began to design with that additional experience in mind. We travel a lot as a family, and every trip I pay close attention to the way that our existing products—as well as products in the works—perform. For instance, this past season we introduced a new Wistful Weekender bag with a long carry strap option, which I discovered was really useful for me when traveling so that I could hold both of my boys’ hands through airports and while
taste
makers
exploring around town. MINI: Do your boys show any interest in your
signs or products?
de-
DJ: They are very excited that my husband and I
not only get to work together but that we do so in a creative space. My boys love looking through all the fabric design print-outs, and they’ll often spot a Petunia Pickle Bottom product on the street even before I do. MINI: What would you suggest as the perfect Baby
Shower gift?
DJ: I love to give one of our Boxy Backpacks filled
with books. It’s a versatile choice for mom and a timeless gift for a new baby.
MINI: What Petunia handbag might we ex-
pect to see you carrying and what PPB items would we find inside? DJ: I am currently bouncing between two bags
from the new Petunia collection: the Bisou Bowler in cut-velvet fabric and the laser-cut leather Heathrow Holdall. Whichever bag I’m using, inside you would find my Petunia Westward Wallet, my PPB Powder Room Case full of makeup essentials, a pair sunglasses, a bottle of coral-colored nail polish and my iPhone with a PPB Adorn case. Of course, there are also always snacks for the boys and the odd matchbox car or little toy floating in there as well. ■
on my mind
NO ONE TOLD ME MOTHERHOOD IS . . .
Always changing. Just when you’ve though you figured it out. MY CHILDREN CAN’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT . . .
A kiss from me! IF I HAD MORE TIME, I WOULD . . .
Paint.
MINI
the it list
MOMMY MAGIC Dancer turned actress Bree Turner plays an important role on NBC’s hit television show Grimm, a series based upon the famed book of fairy tales. But when the cameras are off, the real storybook saga begins— Turner’s life as mom to son Dean and daughter Stella. INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI
7864
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM CANTOR
MINI: Congratulations on Grimm being re-
newed for a third season! How does it feel to be a part of a successful show on NBC?
It feels fantastic! The love and support from our fans is incredibly special.
BREE TURNER:
MINI: You grew up in the East Bay and
moved to Los Angeles to study dance at UCLA. How did you make the transition into acting? I was a dancer in LA before I became an actress. I danced professional for about seven years. Towards the end of my dance career, I needed to make the leap to something else. Acting felt like the natural evolution of my creative path. I realize now it wasn’t that I suddenly chose to be an actress at 22, I had always really been acting, it was just being expressed through dance. BT:
BT: Dance gave me a strong work ethic,
which I carried into my acting career. My professional life has been a dream come true. I don’t really believe in luck.— I believe in hard work and good timing. I applaud my young children when they work hard to achieve their goals rather than focusing on my praise, on “how smart and talented they are.” MINI: How has your career shifted to acco-
modate motherhood? We know life tends to get crazy for working moms.
BT: I’ve been forced to take the pressure off
of myself and remove “perfection.” These accomodations have ironically only made my career more enjoyable. MINI: What do you think are the best as-
pects of being a working mom?
BT: Feeling fulfilled outside of the home
MINI: Tell us about your first job as an ac-
tress.
and bringing that sense of self back in. Happy woman [equals] happy mommy.
BT: It was this MTV series called “Un-
MINI: What advice would you give to work-
dressed.” It was basically a nighttime soap. We burned through two to three epsiodes per week. It was great training ground.
ing mothers trying to advance their careers?
MINI: Coming from a structured dance and
to all people, all of the time. Be comfortable with the feeling of guilt. Guilty for being at work, guilty for not being at work. All of these feelings are OK! Just do your best.
acting background, how have these crafts helped you to become a better mother to Stella and Dean?
BT: Be realistic. Don’t try to be everything
MORE FROM
MINI Click here to catch up on the latest Grimm episodes!
on my mind
THE ONE THING NO ONE WARNS YOU ABOUT AS A MOM . . .
How truly sleep deprived you will be. MY ADVICE TO MY NEW PARENT SELF WOULD BE . . .
Put those kids on a strict sleep schedule now. THE LIPSTICK I’M WEARING RIGHT NOW . . .
Clinique Chubby Sticks. MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER IS . . .
Venti soy latte.
88
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
the it
MINI: How do you balance your shooting
schedule in Portland and your life in Los Angeles?
list
how will you spend your summer vacation? BT: Being that my family resides in two
I have an incredible support system. I 100% could not pull off starring in a successful television show, with two children, under the age of three, in a different city, without my family. My husband is incredible. I had to go back to work one month after having Dean— Justin took off of work for six weeks to be Mr. Mom in our tiny temporary apartment in Portland, alone with a newborn and our adjusting toddler. I mean, are you kidding me? What man does that? Then my aunt came back with me after our mid-season hiatus and helped me with the kids for three months as we were ending Season 2. She will be sainted in her next life. Believe me.
places at all times, simply staying together in L.A. and healing the family unit is the focus. We walk a lot together and play in our backyard. Stella has turned into a mermaid in the pool, so we spend most of the weekend in ours.
MINI: When you travel with your family,
inspired by The Grimm Fairy Tales, what fairy tales have you introduced Stella and Dean to or which are your favorite that you can’t wait to share with them?
BT:
how do you entertain your children?
BT: What happened before the iPhone?
Were children just running around naked and screaming while parents lit their hair on fire? Give Stella the iPhone (with only educational and creative apps, I swear) with her kid-safe headphones and we are looking at a peaceful and relaxing crosscountry flight. Dean, on the other hand, is currently a wet noodle on my lap. The best distraction with him are Mum-Mums. MINI: Since shooting will resume in the fall,
MINI: Do you have any favorite places to
visit or trips planned?
BT: Justin and I just stayed at the Meadow-
wood Resort in Napa for our anniversary. We had dinner at the French Laundry which honestly changed our lives. That sounds crazy, but it was truly miraculous!
MINI: Since the characters in Grimm where
BT: Stella loves Cinderella— the Disney
version. I’ll save the Grimm’s version of unjust oppression triumphant reward for when she’s a bit older. MINI: Kids grow up so fast, what will you
miss most about having an infant?
BT: Their baby smell, their chubby little
hands. The way they nestle into your neck, breastfeeding. ■
MINI
ME AND THE MRS.
Say hello— to ourMrs. friend! Kelley Lilien is an arbiter of style, an aficionado of fêtes, and now a soon-to-be mama of three! Mini had a chat with the blogger maven on just how the Mrs. does summer (Hint: a cocktail recipe may have been involved). INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI
90
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KELLEY LILIEN
MINI: Can you explain what the Mrs. Lilien
aesthetic is?
KELLEY LILIEN: It’s very I Love Lucy, but fast-
forwarded to the 1970s culture. The boozier the better, the blingy-er the better!
MINI: How did the creation of the Mrs.
come about?
KL: By total accident! But being that I liter-
ally am Mrs. Lilien it just seemed like a natural progression. It’s a fabulous way to express my other worldly personality into an assortment of visual nonsense!
MINI: We adore the Mrs. blog! Where do
you find inspiration for your website?
KL: From the frightening corners of my
head or from the tribulating conversations that go on in the office. MINI: How would you describe your blog? KL: It’s a zany mirage of things that go on in
my head.
MINI: What do you enjoy about it most? KL: [Blogging] makes me laugh and I have
a blast doing it.
MINI: As a mother of two children and one
on the way, how do you find the time to “live the good life?”
KL: I think the good life is defined indi-
vidually. The “good life” for me is sitting on the patio with my kids around or going to a resort and resorting it up, still with the kids. Fabulousness (no, it’s not in the dictionary) is within. I don’t believe you have to lead two separate lives in order to do so. MINI: What would you suggest to moms in
need of a break?
KL: Play some tunes for an hour and make
yourself a Mom-tail— they’ll survive.
MINI: When I think of summer, I think of
family vacations. Do you and your family have any trips planned or favorite places to visit?
KL: We make an annual trip to Hawaii
fulfill the surfing fantasies of the male population in the house. We ADORE mini staycations like jaunting down to Palm Springs or indulging in nearby resorts.
MINI: How have you seen your parenting style
change since your last little one?
KL: I’m very grounded with my children. They’re
MINI: What would we find in your suitcase?
their own little individuals and I treat them as so— with tons of respect and a loving, motherly tone.
KL: Everything from patio gowns and headscarfs
MINI: What are you most looking forward to
to multiple bathing suit options that support an awkwardly growing body. Not to mention three pairs of sunnies and baubles galore!
92
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
about Baby No. 3— anything you’re excited for this time around? How are you currently preparing?
the it
MORE FROM
list
MINI Click here to buy Mrs. Lilien’s Cocktail Swatchbook!
MINI SAYS
MOCKTAILS FOR NOW
Maybe the Mrs. can’t indulge at the moment, but you certainly can! Grab your copy of the Mrs. Lilien Cocktail Swatchbook today!
on my mind
MY FAVORITE FRAGRANCE FOR SUMMER IS . . .
Unscented body lotio— a pregnant woman’s BFF. MY LAST FOOD INDULGENCE WAS . . .
KL: I’m so excited because its been a long time since
I’ve had a baby and in my eight years of being a mom, I’ve really developed my own stride. We are beyond excited for the baby and to be able to share it with the older kids. It’s a huge family experience. Think Partridge family, Lilien style! MINI: Summer time is filled with entertaining out-
doors. What are your tips for making a Mini gathering memorable? KL: Always a signature, yummy, icy cocktail upon
arrival, dining al fresco on the patio, a melamine explosion— lots of flaming tiki torches and crowded fire pits. ■
Haagen-Dazs coffee ice cream. My mouth is watering at the mention alone. MY FAVORITE TELEVISION MRS IS . . .
Edina Monsoon— the head MRS in charge of Ab Fab (Absolutely Fabulous). SOMETHING I DO BEFORE BED IS . . .
Light my shrine? Rub my genie bottle? One of the two. Sometimes both.
MINI
the HOUSEWIFE LIFE As detailed on Bravo’s hit Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Kyle Richards leads a glamorous life. Mini spent an afternoon with the mother of four to chat summer style, parenting amid the chaos, and her latest brainchild, boutique Kyle by Alene Too.
INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRETCHEN EASTON WARDROBE STYLING COURTESY OF KYLE BY ALENE TOO
94
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI: Our readers may know you as one of
the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Tell us how you got involved with the show. KYLE RICHARDS: The producers saw a docu-
mentary on E! about my nieces, Paris and Nikki Hilton, and they looked at it and thought “She’d be perfect for the show!” MINI: Who would you say you bonded with
the most on the show?
KR: A lot of the women were my husband’s
clients. In season 1, Lisa and I bonded the most, but eventually we all became close. I’m also really close with Taylor and Cammile and obviously my sister, Kim.
MINI: You have four daughters. What do
you consider the greatest part of being a mom? KR: I’ve been a Mom so long, it’s hard to
remember. I was only 19 when I had my first daughter, so I was practically a child myself. I always knew I wanted to be a mom and have a big family. I love every moment. I feel like my children teach me something everyday and they make me realize what life is all about.
MINI: What is the greatest challenge of
Right: Kyle’s youngest daughter, Portia. We’re certain playing dress up is a blast when your mom is such a style maven.
be the best wife. It’s a lot having four kids and being attentive to each and every one of them. I think I’m pretty good at it because I’m a great multi-tasker. Of course, there are times when I feel like one is getting more attention than the other and then I have to remind myself to balance.
motherhood? How do you think you’re handling that?
your go-to pieces, patterns or colors for summer?
KR: Making sure that you’re on your game
KR: I always love wearing jeans and a blazer or a
with each child and that you’re still able to
MINI: How would you describe your style? What are
pretty blouse. In the fall, it’s usually jeans, boots and a
96
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
98
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
blazer. In the summer, jeans and a pretty blouse. Right now, I’m loving electric blue as a color. I never was a blue person, but right now, I’m really loving it. MINI: How is your personal style reflected in your
Portia’s style these days is jean shorts with her boots from Target and a T-shirt. That’s her look right now and I’m trying to help her break out of her shell. She loves anything pink, purple, and princess-y. She’s definitely a girly girl! MINI: What is the funniest thing Portia has said
home? What types of things can we find inside, style/design wise?
recently?
KR: Our last home was very modern. It was a
KR: “Oh my gosh, there’s a moth! Everybody hide
modern Balinese-style home. Although I loved it, we didn’t feel that it was very cozy. So when we bought this house, we really wanted it to feel very comfortable and homey. We were inspired by the homes we would see in the Hamptons and decided to go with a very East Coast, Hamptons feel.
MINI: We have to talk about Portia. We adore
watching her on RHOBH and she was so fabulous at our cover shoot! You have older daughters, but what’s it like now having a daughter as young as five? KR: I was 19 with my first, in my 20’s with my
second, in my 30’s with my third, and almost 40 with my last. It’s interesting how you change as a parent, but I’m always going to be a neurotic mom— I know that! I feel like Portia really keeps us young. Mauricio and I always say having another child was the best thing we have ever done.
MINI: How would you describe Portia’s style?
What is she into these days?
KR: Portia’s style? That question makes me laugh.
your sweaters!” and “Mom we’re out of my favorite cereal, we need to go to Neiman Market.” I actually started a Twitter account for all of the funny things she says because they all make us laugh and I wanted to share that with other people.
MINI: Right now, what does she want to be when
she grows up?
KR: A pediatrician. She’s always been a very
nurturing little person. She loves to take care of people. She’s always said she wants to be a doctor to make people feel better and she has stuck [with that] for quite a while.
MINI: What quirks, loves, or traits do you think
your children have inherited from your husband and yourself? KR: People always tell me my girls have my
laugh— we tend to laugh really hard. [That] makes me happy because they look so much like my husband, sometimes I feel like there is very little of me in there. When I see them throw their heads back and laugh hard like I do, I see myself in them.
100
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
102
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
MINI: What’s important to you in parenting your
children?
ily plans for trips or activities? Favorite places to visit during the summer season?
KR: I think the most important thing you can
KR: When the kids were younger, we went to
teach your children is to treat others the way you want to be treated. I want my children to be strong and independent, kind and thoughtful, and ultimately leave this world a better place. Kyle by Alene Too. Talk to us about that venture and how that came about.
Hawaii every year. But now that they’re getting older, we want them to see different parts of the world. Now our new rule is to go some place new every summer. It gets a little more difficult since there are so many of us and our rule is that everyone has to agree. Last year we went to Turkey, Greece, and Israel. It was an amazing trip. This year, it looks like we’re going to Italy.
KR: I went to Boca Raton for a book signing
MINI: With such a busy schedule, what do you
MINI: You have also just opened your first store,
at their store and I absolutely fell in love. The second I walked in, I said “This looks like everything I would want to have in my closet. So when I came back to L.A., I reached out to them and said I want to open that store here in Beverly Hills. We needed something like that here. We met and here we are. I absolutely adore my partners, they’re amazing! I’m so fortunate.
MINI: How would you describe Kyle by Alene
Too? If it’s anything like your closet, it must be amazing! KR: [Kyle by Alene Too] has everything from
jeans, T-shirts and sweat pants, to black tie gowns, and everything in between. A lot of stores in Beverly Hills are really limited on their sizes because people here tend to be really thin. We have a wide range of sizes for everyone from teens to women in their 70s shopping in my store.
MINI: Now that it’s summer, what are your fam-
think is the key to organizing career and the chaos of motherhood? KR: Prioritize! As long as you’re putting your
children and family first, everything else falls into place. ■
on my mind MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER IS
This is embarassing. I love regular coffee at home with tons of powdered Coffee Mate, one teaspoon of sugar, one packet of Stevia in the Raw. IN MY FRIDGE YOU CAN ALWAYS FIND
Organic milk and pink lemonade. THE HANDBAG I’M CARRYING NOW
A Valentino studded with crystals. THE SONG I CAN’T GET OUT OF MY HEAD
I Love It by Icona Pop.
MINI
in motion
FITNESS FOOT F O R WA R D As host of NBC’s The Biggest Loser, Alison Sweeney is counted upon to keep fitness first. Although the contestants are not the only ones looking up to the actress and author, her two children are also just learning the in’s and out’s of living a happy, healthy life— through excercise and eating, this Mom shares her tips. STORY AND INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NBC
MINI: As host of The Biggest Loser, talk to us about the fitness in
your own life. Do you follow a specific regimen or have activities that you do regularly? ALISON SWEENEY: For me, it’s really important for me to keep up my
cardio. I do have a trainer, but I don’t get to see him all the time. I work out on my own a lot and I really like maintaining my own fitness. I run and ride my bike— both outside as well as in spin class. I try to get a good cardio workout in at least four times a week. In addition, at least once a week, I do a day of circuit training with weights to help me maintain muscle tone. My schedule is so busy all the time, so I don’t hold myself to specific times or a firm schedule, but these are my goals and I do the best I can.
MINI: Have you always been into fitness or was there a certain point
in your life that you became more health-conscious?
104
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
AS: I’ve always been athletic. I loved sports in
school and was always pretty coordinated. But after school, that just sort of disappeared. I joined a gym, but never really went and then working out for a long time felt like torture— like punishment. Thanks to working at The Biggest Loser, I learned that fitness is a reward to your body. It’s a way to take care of yourself and I really look forward to it now. MINI: Let’s talk diet. What does healthy eating
mean to you?
AS: It means every meal making the best decisions
you can. I do try to think ahead, if I know I’ll be somewhere only unhealthy foods are available, I try to prep snacks to bring— Like on an airplane I bring my own fruit and veggies to munch on. But I also don’t beat myself up for a few cheats once in a while. MINI: Are there certain foods you are surprised
your children love? What do you tell them about eating healthy foods? AS: My kids love kale chips. I love that.
They also munch on raw bell peppers as a snack. It makes me so happy to see that they enjoy healthy foods
MINI SAYS
This fit mama’s ultimate mommy getaway would be relaxing on a beach with hours of free time to read.
and consider them ‘snacks’ or treats. It’s so important to start that young but if you can get your kids on a healthy routine from the beginning, you’re making it easier for everyone. MINI: What do you think is most important in
teaching children about diet and exercise?
106
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
It’s a tricky balance. More than anything, I don’t want my kids to have a negative self image or an unhealthy relationship with food. But at the same time, I don’t think there’s a reason to keep the whole “sugar is bad for you” a big mystery or secret. Unlike our generation or our parents, our kids today have unprecedented access to completely
in
unhealthy food. And just like I had to learn not to talk to strangers when I was a kid, I think our kids today are going to need to learn how to protect their bodies from all the bad foods out there. So I simplified the concept— basically, they know that sugar isn’t good fuel for their bodies and that’s why they can’t have too much of it. The ol’ Popeye mentality— spinach makes your muscles grow! MINI: Are you into healthy cooking
as well? What is one of your favorite dishes to make? AS: I love to cook healthy foods! We
do a lot of grilling at home which is a healthy and delicious way to prepare protein without a lot of added fats. I also make sure that I dish up reasonable portions of everything for the family. The rule in our house is you have to finish your veggies before you can have seconds of anything. My kids get macaroni and cheese too (once in a while), but again, they don’t get too much. MINI: With your busy schedule, what do
in the evening. Ben and I are reading Diary of a Wimpy Kid together and when I get to pick, we read old Calvin & Hobbs cartoons. I love how some of them get a complete belly laugh out of Ben. I sing to Megan almost every night— except when she decides she’s singing to me. She makes up her own songs. It’s hilarious. MINI: Looking back on your first days as
a mom, what is one piece of advice you would give yourself?
AS: I got great advice right from the begin-
ning. The most important I think was to go with my instinct. For all the information that’s out there, all the advice and expert opinions, you have to do what’s best for you and your family. Only you really know what that is. You just have to have the confidence to trust yourself. ■
MORE FROM
you always make time for with your kids?
MINI
AS: I try to spend quality time with my
Click here to buy Alison’s book The Star Attraction!
kids. Either breakfast, starting the day together, practicing spelling words or homework and getting ready for bed
motion
MINI
K E L LY I N CHIEF We’ve always been fans of the PR powerhouse that is Kelly Cutrone. And although her If You Have to Cry, Go Outside motto may not work on the younger crowd, this rockstar mama gave Mini a few parenting pointers. INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI
108
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PEOPLE’S REVOLUTION
THE MODERN MOM
CLOSET CONFESSIONS
Cutrone is mom to daughter Ava, 11, and shows her softer side in Bluefly’s video tour of the duo’s closets.
MINI: Tell us about the work environment at your
PR company, People’s Revolution.
KELLY CUTRONE: It’s very entrepreneurial. Mean-
ing, I live and work in the same building. Today I’m down here in a black T-shirt and some flipflops. I just did cardio for an hour and then ran downstairs to work with the team. We work in a collective manor. We all sit at a table and then we have another showroom upstairs. It’s very open, very transparent, creative, very real. It’s a very dynamic space and environment.. MINI: What does your daughter Ava think of your
job?
KC: She knows how to do my job. She was born
in the back of People’s Revolution. She likes to call herself the longest working person [in the company]. I don’t think she wants to do PR per
se, but I definitely think she wants to work in the fashion industry. She’s totally interested in it. MINI: Does she love fashion as much as you
do?
KC: I think that she probably loves it more
than me because she’s just starting out— she loves to dress herself and she loves to go shopping. She’s obsessed right now with Brandy Melville. That’s her new thing and unfortunately, for me, she’s wearing those beanie knit hats. [I tell her] “Ava, it’s the summer. You kind of look like Mischa Barton circa 1992.” [She tells me] “Mommy, you just don’t get it.” I’ll have to walk around with a neon pink knit cap in 90 degree weather. MINI: Let’s talk parenting. How would you
KC: The most important thing for
me is that I stay focused on her and that I do the best for her in every moment of every day. Am I sometimes a lazy mom? Yeah! Do I let her watch YouTube for an extra half hour so that I can try to get in a single mom nap? Sure, I do! It’s not all yoga and intuition at the house. MINI: What do you find the most
difficult part of motherhood?
KC: The most difficult part of moth-
describe your parenting style? KC: I worship my daughter in the sense that I
know she’s the only child I have. I feel like I’m watching her for God. It’s kind and it’s understanding and, at the same time, it’s mentoring. It’s reflective of what society would do. I’m trying to mirror society’s views on basic manors and etiquette— I do insist on her using that. We have a very open relationship with no secrets. She has been pretty forthcoming about her growth and relationships with boys and stuff like that. She’s been pretty awesome I have to say. MINI: What’s important to you in raising your
daughter?
110
M I N I s u m m e r ‘13
erhood is womanhood— they are two different things. A friend of mine had asked me if I feel like more of a woman since I’ve become a mother. I feel like less of a woman and more of a mother. They are completely separate realities. The issue is really making time for yourself when you’re a mom. MINI: What has your daughter
taught you?
KC: I had already given birth to
myself before I gave birth to Ava and that was kind of a deal that I made with myself. The only thing that I learned and didn’t already know is that labor and giving birth to a child, there’s not a word on the planet to describe how that happened or what it’s like.
mother of
invention
MINI: Now that it’s summer, do you have fa-
vorite places to visit or things to do in the city with Ava?
on my mind
KC: We’re not big city people in the summer.
Like most New Yorkers, we go upstate. We have a house in the Hudson Valley and we really love it there. We do everything— we swim, we boat, we cook, we garden, and we do cool things that commit us to the earth as a family.
THE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE MY NEW PARENT SELF . . .
MINI: Now we have to ask. Do you think it’s pos-
MY STYLE IS BEST DESCRIBED AS . . .
sible for women to have it all?
KC: No, I don’t. I do think that there are some
women that get it all. But then I think that there are some women that get a lot and they accept the fact that they have a lot more than most. They are happy and stop complaining about it. ■
You better get ready.
Minimalist Goth. My major go-to piece is this Donna Karan black blazer. MY PROUDEST PARENTING MOMENT WAS . . .
I was pretty amazed that I had a baby by myself. It’s a harsh thing to go into labor alone. THE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM . . .
Bills. ONE PIECE OF STYLE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE MY CHILD . . .
Drop the beanie.
CAN’T GET ENOUGH KELLY? Click here to buy the books! If You Have to
Cry, Go Outside and Normal Gets You Nowhere are full of Kelly-isms.
MORE FROM
MINI Click to subscribe for Mini updates on our next issue!