FROM OUR FRIENDS AT Away comes their tiniest travel set yet— the allnew Kids Collection! Designed by fellow parents, this Mini line offers bold colors, tough materials, and thoughtful details in a Kids Carry-On , adventure-ready Backpack , insulated Lunch Box , and perfect Packing Cubes — all built to make family travel easier (and way more fun). —away.com
The latest swim drop from Hanna Andersson is making serious waves this season. “My crew has been living in these summer striped suits!” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. “They’re cute, comfortable, and so well made— we love to pass them down year after year!” Available in sizes for baby and big kids, these suits are made to move, splash, and last well beyond summer! —hannaandersson.com ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
SUMMER SHIELD
From beach days to sprinkler sessions, Tubby Todd’s SPF makes sun safety a breeze. Created with sensitive skin in mind, the lightweight mineral formulas are reef safe, water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and provide broad spectrum protection against UVA/UVB rays, blue light, and free radicals. Available in a range of easy-to-use formats— including Mineral Sunscreen , Mist , and Sunstick —this lineup is made to keep the whole family protected through cannonballs, cartwheels, and everything in between.
Cal
Mozart for Munchkins brings free, interactive concerts to Hudson Yards all summer long! Kids can dance, play, and explore live music from world-class musicians in the Public Square and Gardens.
Kids Club at The Grove is back with live music, puppets, and storytelling fun— every Thursday morning in The Park! RSVP required.
MINI MUST-HAVE ▶
This towelling hoodie from Boden will be your Mini’s BFF after a day at the beach!
Plan your visit to any National Park (yes, you choose!) on August 4 and enjoy free entrance for everyone in honor of Great American Outdoors Day!
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
Dive into the Science of Slime and become a Certified Slimer at the Sloomoo Institute’s Sloomooversity, a hands-on, screenfree kids program with hour-long classes offered weekly.
The Smurfs are back on the big screen! This allnew animated adventure follows Smurfette and her little blue crew on a magical quest that’s equal parts heart, humor, and high-energy fun. It’s a must-see for the whole family this summer!
For life at home.
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Head to Mini for more interviews with parents around the world, style, and more
FOLLOW MINI
Be sure to follow Mini on Instagram! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new baby gear, nursery tours, and much more!
Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine
WANT TO BE A BETTER PARENT? DR. BECKY SAYS START HERE Dr. Becky Kennedy shares her sought-after approach for Mini parents
18 ADORABLE BACK TO SCHOOL BOOKS Get your Mini student prepped and ready for another year of learning ahead with these adorable reads!
NEHA RUCH IS REBRANDING THE STAY AT HOME MOM The founder of Mother Untitled, Neha Ruch is on a mission to rebrand the Career Pause
80 STUNNING SUMMER BABY NAMES THAT BRING THE SUNSHINE Whether you’re due in June, July, or August— or you simply have an affinity for the season of sun
13 | MEET THE TEAM The team that makes all the Mini magic possible
14 | EDITOR’S LIST
A carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season
19 | THE STYLE SPOT Explore seasonal style from gingham fits to outdoor kicks
24 | ON THE CLOCK Barefaced founder Jordan Harper’s most-used apps, fave kids movie, and more!
29 | MOM It’s the style spot for all of you chic Mini moms from bump to beyond
32 | TECH KIDS Discover the latest and greatest from the Mini tech sphere
35 | BOOK CLUB New Mini reads about dreaming big and the first day of school
36 | HEALTH The new Hiya x Disney Princess vitamins bring storybook magic to your Mini’s daily routine
39 | FRESH START Perelel co-founder Alex Taylor is on a mission to support women’s health at every stage of motherhood
48 | HOME The designers behind Kobel & Co share how to create style-forward, functional spaces that grow with your kids
54 | ROOM FOR PLAY How Myriam Sandler creates playful spaces that spark creativity to keep kids engaged
60 | ON THE CLOCK Marea founder Liz Joy’s go-to Sunday ritual, favorite kids’ book, and what’s always in her fridge!
65 | ON THE SCENE Discover the sleek new ride from Bugaboo, a smart e-stroller from Cybex, and the rear-facing car seat built to last
70 | SCOOP A new book on fatherhood, Peppa Pig meets Hill House Home, and clean baby formula
80 | RIGHT ON TIME Comedian Whitney Cummings opens up about new motherhood, finding calm at 40, and life with son Henry
106 | LA VIDA COQUETA A Parisian inspired birthday party that truly thought of every detail— down to the ball pit props
MINI
Founder and Editor in Chief
Kaitlyn Kirby
Cover Photography
Kimberly Genevieve
Cover Hair
David Robert Naumann
Cover Makeup
Jenny Ventura
Cover Styling
Annie & Nora
Mini Offices
Mini Magazine
Email | hello@mini-magazine.com
Web | www.mini-magazine.com
Mini Magazine is a digital lifestyle publication for the modern parent available online at www.mini-magazine.com. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in digital and print reviews.
(On Right) Cover mom Whitney Cummings splashes around with son Henry. (Below) The comedian talks why pregnancy at 40 was perfectly timed, life since welcoming her first child, and how it’s helped her heal.
Somehow, we’re now in those dog days of summer! It’s been a full season over here, packed with family vacations, long beach days, and too many ice cream nights. But, I’m not quite ready to let it go. That’s the spirit behind our late summer issue— one more dose of sunshine that defines this magical season with our kids.
On the cover, comedian and new mom Whitney Cummings opens up about what it means to embrace motherhood at 40— on her own timeline, in her own way, and with her signature honesty and humor.
We’re also sharing stories of the bold women behind brands we all know and love. From Celia Muñoz, founder of La Coqueta, to Alex Taylor of Perelel, who’s on a mission to change women’s health, to catching up with Jordan Harper, the expert (and mom of 4!) behind Barefaced. Whether you’re soaking in the last days of summer or already eyeing the back-to-school aisle, I hope this issue brings a little light and maybe even a new idea for your next family adventure.
MINI
EVERYDAY OUTFIT
My kids have been living in these super soft skater dresses all summer long! hannaandersson.com
ALL SEASON CHIC
The Shea McGee x Tuckernuck collab has the prettiest pieces that transition well into fall. I love this gingham dress! — tnuck.com
SUN-SATIONAL
Do yourself a favor and grab this Supergoop! PLAY SPF jug. The whole fam uses it every day! — supergoop.com
COMFY CREW
There’s something about a summer stripe and Oso & Me makes some of the cutest (and comfiest!). — osoandme.com
This quilted bedside storage keeps your Mini’s favorites within reach— all tied up with a cute little bow! My 5-year-old will love stocking this up. westelm.com
THE SPOT TO SHOP FOR THEIR MINI WARDROBE
Style
BOW AND BEAR CHECK, PLEASE MINI TREKKERS
BOW AND BEAR
Step into a world of cozy nostalgia with the launch of Kyte Baby’s new Bow and Teddy Bear Collection! Featuring delicate bow details, sweet teddy bear prints, and their signature buttery-soft bamboo fabric, this limited-edition capsule is designed to feel like a warm hug. Perfect for snuggles, playtime, and everything in between, it’s a timeless collection made for making memories. —kytebaby.com
LIGHTS OUT
The cutest (and most classic!) way to cozy up this season!
These cheerful checks are made for sunny playdates, picnic afternoons, and all the twirling in between this season.
Above : $48 ; Navy Gingham Short Set, petite-plume.com; Below : $44 ; HannaSoft Stretch Sleeper in Pine Gingham,
transitions into fall. $48; maisonette.com
VERY VERSATILE
An easy breezy shirt with a polished collar to dress up or play. $52; shopminnow.com
Pair this romper with a jean jacket $39; janieandjack.com
TWIRLING TIME
The perfect picnic dress in lightweight cotton linen. $27; hannaandersson.com
MINI TREKKERS
JORDAN HARPER
MINI SPENT TEN MINUTES WITH THE founder and CEO of Barefaced—an expert-led clinical skincare brand that delivers real results— and board-certified Nurse Practitioner Jordan Harper, who’s also mom to four (Charlie, 6, Jojo, 5, and twins Tommy and Archie, 3), to chat favorite kids’ reads, the podcast she can’t stop playing, her uber clean coffee routine, and the unexpected item always in her fridge.
ON MY NIGHTSTAND The Five Minute Gratitude Journal, Hatch Restore, and my Kindle.
FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Beauty and the Beast.
ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Organic pasture raised eggs... and Botox. Perks of being a Nurse Practitioner.
APPS I USE MOST Instagram, Slack, ChatGPT, Podcasts, and Photos. I love going down memory lane and looking at old photos before bed.
PREGNANCY CRAVINGS
Chick-fil-A nugget ice. Could. Not. Get. Enough.
LAST BOOK I READ The Almanack of Naval Ravikant. I highlighted half of it.
WARDROBE STAPLES
Athleisure. But I really need to start wearing real clothes more often.
ON THE CLOCK
FAVE LOCAL RESTAURANT Bistro by the Tracks.
CAN’T STOP LISTENING The Diary of a CEO podcast.
SIGNATURE SCENT I stopped wearing fragrance during my first pregnancy because it gave me headaches. I’ve gone all natural ever since.
FAVE LOCAL SHOP Twig, the cutest children’s boutique in Knoxville.
COFFEE ORDER I rarely get coffee out because I’m really into my home routine. Mold-free coffee with protein powder, alkalizer, frothed grass-fed half and half, and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
GROWING UP, I WANTED TO BE A Singer. I’ve always loved music and performing.
IF I HAD MORE TIME I would start gardening. I love the idea of doing something with my hands and letting my
FAVE KIDS BOOK For the twins, we’re loving Explore the Outdoors. For the girls, Otis and Charley’s Hardworking Tails is always in rotation.
SHOWS I’M WATCHING RIGHT NOW I just finished Sirens. I don’t let myself start shows with more than one season because I get so into them I’ll sabotage my sleep until I finish.
The coziest & chicest new addition to your wardrobe
FOR ALL YOUR LADY BUMPS.
LAURYN X BUMPSUIT
Lauryn Bosstick’s collab with Bumpsuit brings effortless edge to maternity and beyond. The limited-edition collection merges her signature neutral palette with Bumpsuit’s cult-favorite comfort, delivering sleek essentials you’ll live in— pregnant or not. From the ultra-soft Everyday Dress ($140) to the sculpting Bodysuit ($135) and cozy Ribbed Cardi ($130), each piece flatters, stretches, and supports your evolving body. Whether you’re sporting a bump, nursing, or chasing Minis, this drop nails the perfect mix of minimalist style and made-for-mom function. —bumpsuit.co
LAURYN X BUMPSUIT SUPERGOOP GLOW
Glow up, the easy way. Whether you’re headed to drop-off or squeezing in a solo Target run, Well People’s clean beauty lineup brings that lit-from-within look— without the 10-step routine. Start with the Bio Bronzing Priming Serum stant sun-kissed boost (no sun required), then layer on the Daygleamer Mineral Sunscreen Serum SPF 34
GLOW SECRETS
Exhausted from a nonstop summer? Supergoop’s new glow-givers are here to bring tired skin back to life— no vacation necessary. The Mineral Glowscreen Soft-Radiance Drops SPF 40 brighten, blur, and protect in one easy step, while the Glowscreen Sunlighter Stick SPF 45 adds a sheer, luminous finish on the go. This is your late-summer radiance routine, simplified. supergoop.com
perfect with a subtle radiance. Finish with a swipe of the Supernatural Stick Highlighter on your cheekbones and brow bone for that “I totally slept eight hours” kind of glow. Fast, fuss-free, and mom-life approved. wellpeople.com
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
Tech
MS. RACHEL TONIE LANDLINES PODCAST WITH ALLISON WILLIAMS
CLICK TO LISTEN TO ALLISON’S PODCAST!
MINI MUST HAVE
MS. RACHEL TONIE
Ms. Rachel has officially joined the Tonies fam! The brand-new Ms. Rachel Tonie brings her beloved songs, lessons, and learning moments to screen-free storytime. Just pop her on the Toniebox and watch the magic happen! Packed with 40+ minutes of music and educational fun, it’s a dream come true for little learners and a total win for parents looking to dial down the screen time. Singing, talking, and playing? Ms. Rachel makes it all feel like play. tonies.com
RIGHT NOW IN PODCASTS
Actress and mom Allison Williams teams up with longtime friends Hope Kremer and Jaymie Oppenheim for Landlines, a refreshingly honest podcast about motherhood, adulthood, and everything in between. With heartfelt stories, candid conversations, and expert insight, the trio offers a real and relatable look at modern mom-ing. —spotify.com
Book Club
Sunny adventures, slowing rhythms, and late summer magic— these new kids’ books are perfect for storytime snuggles with your Mini crew.
EDITOR’S PICK
THE BAGEL WHO WANTED EVERYTHING
by Alan Silberberg
Your Minis will chuckle at the tale of this plain bagel who dreams of being so much more!
FOR NOSTALGIA
GILMORE GIRLS: GOODNIGHT, STARS HOLLOW
by Morgan English
Lorelai fans unite! Introduce your Minis to the magic of Stars Hollow with this read.
FOR LOVE
TIO AND TIO: THE RING BEARERS
by Ross Mathews and Dr. Wellinthon Garcia-Mathews
A heartwarming story about two uncles getting married— and the two little ring bearers who help make their big day unforgettable.
FOR LESSONS
TINY T. REX AND THE FIRST-DAY OOPSIES
by Jonathan Stutzman
Tiny T. Rex is ready for school— until a few oopsies shake his confidence. A sweet, silly reminder that mistakes are part of learning and growing.
FOR CULTURE
CHAPPELL ROAN
by Cat Reynolds
From small town beginnings to pop stardom, Chappell Roan’s story is one to remember. A fun, empowering read for little music lovers.
THE LATEST IN THE WELLNESS WORLD
HIYA LAUNCHES DISNEY PRINCESS-THEMED KIDS DAILY MULTIVITAMINS
LLET’S BE HONEST—
getting kids to take their vitamins isn’t always a fairytale. But Hiya, the clean kids’ vitamin brand trusted by over a million families, just made wellness way more magical. In an enchanting new collab with Disney, the brand has launched a limited-edition Disney Princess-themed Kids Daily Multivitamin that turns healthy habits into a moment of fun and imagination. Still packed with the same pediatrician-approved formula parents love (and kids will actually chew), these vitamins come in a seriously cute collectible bottle featuring beloved Disney icons Cinderella, Belle, Moana, Jasmine, Tiana, Rapunzel, and Ariel. Each Welcome Kit includes a sticker pack so your little one can decorate their bottle to their heart’s content. Think of it as a daily dose of vita-
mins with a side of creativity. As with all Hiya products, you won’t find any added sugar, artificial dyes, or gummy junk. Instead, these chewables are made with a blend of 15+ essential vitamins and minerals plus 12 real fruits and vegetables— making them a no-brainer
for picky eaters and growing bodies alike. Whether your kid is obsessed with mermaids or dreaming of far-off kingdoms, you can feel good knowing they’re supporting their immune system, focus, energy, bone and eye health, and overall development. Hiya’s subscription model makes the whole process even easier. After the first month’s Welcome Kit,
refillable bottles (yes, still princess-themed!) arrive straight to your door— just in time to keep the routine going without missing a beat.
The best part? You can grab the limited-edition Princess Multivitamin for 50% off your first order—just $15 for the bottle and one-month supply. Or, if you already have Hiya in your routine, you can snag the bottle on its own for $20.
This launch is part of Hiya’s mission to reimagine kids’ wellness with clean, fun, and accessible solutions. Since 2020, the brand has become a favorite among Millennial and Gen Z parents for its ingredient transparency, no-nonsense labels, and thoughtful designs that turn vitamins into something kids actually look forward to.
B ecause when your kids feel like royalty and you feel like you’re winning at wellness? That’s a happily-everafter worth celebrating. Available now at hiyahealth.com.
FRESH START
As co-founder of Perelel, ALEX TAYLOR is reshaping women’s health with stage- specific care. We asked the mom of two how she’s pushing for better research, redefining her own wellness, and staying grounded with simple, everyday habits.
Perelel was born from a personal gap in your own care during pregnancy. Can you take us back to that moment when you realized there had to be a better way?
It actually started when I was diagnosed with a stress-induced autoimmune disease at 28. I had to learn how to advocate for myself and build my own regimen of vitamins and supplements, piecing together advice from various practitioners and brands. When I became pregnant, the confusion only deepened— I wanted a team I trusted, from my OB/ GYN to my nutritionist and naturopath, to align on what I was putting into my body. At the same time, my cofounders had their own experiences that opened our eyes to how much our bodies and nutritional needs change across life stages and how no brand was addressing women’s health in this way. That’s why we created Perelel— to offer doctor-led, stage-specific solutions that evolve with women through every hormonal shift, so they never have to navigate it alone.
“Our approach is about honoring the complexity of the female body.”
pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and beyond. We’re not just guessing what women need. Instead, we work with a panel of leading doctors and researchers to ensure every product is grounded in science, thoughtfully formulated, and safe to combine. We take the burden off women to figure it out alone. Our approach is about honoring the complexity of the female body, and making it easier for women to care for themselves— without the overwhelm or guesswork. And because we know women have historically been left out of research and care, we built a giveback model into the brand that supports underserved women and funds women’s health research. Perelel isn’t just another vitamin company— it’s a movement toward better care, better information, and a more empowered future for women.
Perelel is often described as being on the leading edge of women’s health. What’s one thing you’re most proud to have pushed forward for women through the brand?
There are a lot of supplement brands out there. What makes Perelel different, especially for women in their reproductive years and beyond? Most vitamins on the market take a onesize-fits-all approach, especially when it comes to women. But the reality is, our bodies change constantly, and so do our nutritional needs. At Perelel, we’re the first and only OB/GYN-founded vitamin company offering targeted, stage-specific formulas that evolve with a woman’s hormonal journey— from preconception through
I’m incredibly proud of the attention we’re helping drive toward the women’s health research gap. It’s not always the most visible issue— but it’s the golden key that unlocks so many possibilities for our health. Most people don’t realize that, historically, women were excluded from clinical trials, and even today, the majority of medical research still skews male. That means what we know—and don’t know—about our bodies directly impacts the care we
One word to describe this season of
“Expansive.”
receive. It’s a systemic issue that trickles down into everything from misdiagnoses to subpar treatment protocols. Last year, we launched a campaign called Perelel Universe that asked people to imagine a world where women’s health was actually prioritized, where research reflected our bodies and needs. As part of the campaign, we created a petition urging Congress to close the gender research gap. We hit 10,000 signatures in just three days and have since passed 30,000, with a goal of reaching 50,000 this fall. And alongside awareness, we’re backing it up with action. (If you haven’t already, please sign and share the petition by visiting Change. org/CloseTheGap) Through our Perelel Pledge for Women’s Health Equity, we’ve
committed $10 million to support closing the research gap and expanding access to high-quality prenatal care here in the U.S. Because it’s not enough to just talk about change— we have to build it. And that’s what makes me proud every day.
In a space that’s historically underserved women, what do you hope more people start talking about when it comes to our health?
I hope we start talking more about how little we’ve been taught to understand our own bodies and how much that lack of information has cost us. For too long, women have been expected to just “deal with it,” whether it’s debilitating periods, fertility struggles, postpartum depletion, or the symptoms of perimenopause. These aren’t niche issues— they’re universal ex-
Day in the Life
It’s all about routine for the wellness pioneer, especially during the week.
MY MORNINGS ARE A mix of intention and chaos (in the best way). I start by meditating with my husband, and sometimes our son joins if he wakes up early, which I secretly love. I try to get a workout in before the day kicks off—usually strength training or Pilates, three to five times a week—then it’s the full sprint: getting the kids ready for school and heading into the office to be with my team or jam through a day of meet-
ings. Evenings are sacred in our house. I try to be home for dinner, bath time, and bedtime with the kids—we read books, snuggle, the whole thing. I don’t really watch TV after they’re asleep; I’d rather wind down with a book and get to bed early.
periences, and yet they’ve been stigmatized, minimized, or ignored altogether.
One area that’s finally starting to get a bit more attention is perimenopause, but we still have a long way to go. Most people don’t realize that perimenopause wasn’t even widely referred to by a common name until the 1990s. It’s the transition into menopause, but it can begin as early as your mid-thirties and last anywhere from 4 to 10 years. And yet, so many women don’t even know what it is, let alone how to navigate it. That’s something we’re talking a lot about at Perelel right now: How can we help women understand what’s happening in their bodies, and give them the support— nutritional, emotional, and educational—they need to feel empowered instead of confused? At the end of the day, we deserve better: better research that includes us, better products that evolve with us, and better conversations that remove the shame and secrecy. Because the more we talk about it, the harder it becomes to ignore— and the closer we get to real change.
kids—because presence, not perfection, is what creates connection in both work and motherhood.
“Presence, not perfection, is what creates connection in both work and motherhood.”
As a mom and co-founder, what’s one boundary or habit that’s helped you stay present in both roles? Getting crystal clear on what matters most in each moment. I live by the mantra: ‘Just do the next right thing.’ It helps me stay grounded and focused, especially when life feels like a constant juggle. I also try to be fully where my feet are—whether I’m in a boardroom or at bedtime with my
How has your own health or wellness routine changed since becoming a mother and launching Perelel? Before becoming a mom and building Perelel, I thought of wellness mostly in terms of physical health—working out, eating well, checking the boxes. But motherhood and entrepreneurship shifted everything. I hit a point early on where I was running on empty, giving everything to my family and my company, and neglecting myself in the process. It wasn’t sustainable and it certainly wasn’t aligned with what we were building at Perelel. Since then, I’ve redefined wellness to include boundaries, rest, mental clarity, and self-compassion. I’m much more intentional now about supporting my hormonal health— fueling my body with nutrient-dense food, supplementing based on where I am in my cycle or life stage, and being mindful about stress. I’ve also learned that my wellness isn’t separate from my work or my parenting— it’s the foundation that supports both. Launching Perelel made me realize that the most powerful thing we can do as women is to care for ourselves in a way that’s informed, holistic, and unapologetic. That shift changed everything for me.
Has there been a parenting moment that changed or shaped how you lead your team or run your
Mom Support
Taylor details the daily vitamin line-up that keeps her grounded.
TRIPLE SUPPORT PROTEIN
It has 20g of plant-based protein, plus creatine (which I’m obsessed with for brain and muscle support) and fiber. Some mornings I’ll blend in a scoop of our Symbiotic Greens Powder for an added punch, or I’ll drink it separately after breakfast on my drive to work.
CELLULAR HYDRATION
POWDER Post-workout, I always reach for this. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid, collagen, and electrolytes— and I’ve genuinely seen a difference in my skin and fine lines. I usually keep sipping on it throughout the day.
MOM MULTI SUPPORT
PACK With lunch or dinner, I take our Mom Multi Support Pack. It covers all my nutritional bases and includes a Beauty Blend I swear by for my hair, skin, and nails, plus a Cognitive Support Blend which is key for mom brain.
SLEEP SUPPORT It has a proprietary magnesium tri-blend that helps me fall asleep, stay asleep, and actually wake up feeling rested.
business? Motherhood constantly reminds me that everything is temporary— every phase, every challenge, every breakthrough. Nothing is static. That mindset has shaped how I lead more than anything else. It’s taught me to be adaptable, to stay open, and to stop clinging to single outcomes. Just like with parenting, building a business requires flow— meeting each moment as it is, not how you expected it to be. The more I’ve leaned into that, the better I’ve been able to lead with clarity, creativity, and resilience.
Any parenting hacks or wellness shortcuts that have been game-changers for you? Honestly, the biggest game-changer has been letting go of perfection. I used to put so much pressure on myself to do everything ‘right,’ but the more I’ve embraced ease and flexibility, the better everything flows— at home and at work. On a practical level, I’m big on systems. I prep as much as I can the night before so I can just grab and go. I batch my calendar to protect my energy and try to keep mornings tech-free for as long as possible. But mostly, I’ve learned that wellness doesn’t have to be elaborate. Sometimes it’s a walk around the block with my dog while I soak in some morning sunlight, a five-minute meditation, or simply having a good ol’ impromptu dance party with my kiddos. It all counts.
You’ve become a real advocate for better, more personalized care for women. What’s the impact you hope to leave in this space— not just as a founder, but as a mother and leader? At the core of everything I do—whether it’s through Perelel, advocacy, or motherhood—is the hope that more women feel informed, empowered, and truly supported in their health journeys. We’ve been underserved for too long, and it’s time we changed that. I know we can’t stop at product. The work
we’re doing to close the gender research gap and support legislation like AB 432 in California, which would require doctors to receive continued education on perimenopause and menopause, is about building a system that finally sees and supports women, not just when they’re trying to conceive or pregnant, but across their entire lifespan. My hope is that one day, my daughter—and every girl growing up today—won’t have to fight for answers about her own body. She’ll have access to informa-
Most Out-There Health Thing I’ve Ever Done ”Worked
at an orphanage in Nakuru, Kenya in college.”
WHAT SHE SAID
The mom of two gets personal.
MY COFFEE ORDER
Cappuccino with whole milk.
PARENTING MANTRA
Grace over guilt.
IN MY FRIDGE
Good Culture cottage cheese.
SPOT TO UNWIND Beach hike.
FAVE TV SHOW
The Studio. The finale was perhaps my favorite 30 minutes of TV ever.
MOST USED APP Substack.
LAST THING I GOOGLED
“What is half horse half man ? ” My daughter saw a painting with a centaur.
ON MY NIGHTSTAND
The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest.
DINNER WHEN NO ONE FEELS LIKE COOKING
Postmates from our favorite local Mexican restaurant.
Designing a family home means creating a space that’s both beautiful and suited for real life. Here, we tapped ELIZABETH BENNETT and MALLORY ROBBINS of interior design studio Kobel + Co to share their top tips for balancing style withfunction.kid-friendly
BUILT
What are the first things you consider when designing a family home with young children in mind?
Much like any project, we start by getting a strong understanding of what uniquely makes this family tick. What do they value and how do they intend to use their space? Is it for entertaining or to cozy up as a family of four? Understanding both how they want to use their spaces and how they want it to feel helps us ensure that every functional, real life decision follows ladders back up to their ultimate goal for their home.
How do you balance a polished aesthetic with kid-proof durability in your designs?
Kids or no kids, we often rely on performance-based fabrics for the “heavy lifting” pieces within the homes we design. Quality performance fabrics can look and feel just as enticing as other options, making building in peace of mind an easy choice. Why not ensure your space is both kid proof AND red wine proof?
What are a few design choices you recommend avoiding in homes with little ones?
The only choice we’d avoid is one that makes your family feel like they cannot use the space. We feel strongly that homes are meant for living and spaces should feel invit-
ing, not precious. While we’re the first to encourage clients to abandon myths that you can’t have a white sofa AND kids, we’re also sensitive to what makes each client uniquely comfortable. If sharp, glass corners are going to make them feel like it’s suddenly a no-go zone, then by all means, let’s make it an ottoman and ensure they get to enjoy the space to the fullest.
Headshot by Paul Versluis
Are there any go-to materials or fabrics you always reach for when designing for families?
Performance chenilles and velvets are some of our favorite fabrics as they both hold up to everyday usage and offer a tactile, luxurious feel. Prints and patterns are a great way to add both color and fun, while masking the wear and tear of life. Performance-based and vintage rugs are also a go-to for our studio— a rug that can stand up to spills or already has built-in patina enough to mask one is a great way to round out the space.
What are your favorite ways to design “grow-withthem” spaces that can evolve as kids get older? Don’t baby the baby! Kids deserve to have spaces that inspire them too; we keep our kids’ rooms and hang-out spaces feeling elevated in a way that not only challenges a child’s sense of design and wonder but also allows a lot of flexibility as they continue to grow. You might see us using imaginative or bright colors, but in a sophisticated pattern. We’ll typically avoid motifs that feel classically infantile. Lastly, we think about art in kids’ spaces just like any other room in the house, aiming for pieces that evoke a feeling and stand on their own in the space.
How do you incorporate smart storage solutions into family spaces— especially for all the kid stuff?
Storage is always top of mind in kids’ spaces; we find the most successful solutions are the ones kids are most apt to use themselves, such as oversized baskets designed to catch lovies (anyone else’s children have a squishmallow obsession?). We also love a built-in a kids’ space, whether that’s a desk full of art supply drawers for your “maker” kiddo, a bookshelf built into their bunk bed stairs for the bookworm, or oversized cabinets to hold crafts, creations, and everything in between.
Can you share a recent project where you designed a standout kids’ room or play space? What made it special?
We recently completed three siblings’ spaces at our Willow Kids project, inside of a lovely French style home. The client is not only an art collector, but also one who values the importance of making children’s spaces just as complete and inspiring as the rest of their home. These rooms will truly shape the little humans growing up within them. She had a very clear sense of direction in terms of color palette that she wanted to run with in each of the three rooms but gave our team true
Ahoy, Baby This nursery was inspired by the serene palette of the sea, complete with a gallery of vintage paintings and sketches.
Creator Corner The built-in bunk/loft/desk area was custom designed to fit the room’s sloped roofline.
creative freedom on how they came to shape, and we were thrilled with the result.
The oldest boy’s space—a proclaimed architect in the making—has textural walls contrasted against a built-in bunk/loft/desk area our studio designed to fit the sloped roofline of his space. The upholstered elements in the space are perfectly suited for an active kiddo while also deepening texture. Despite the bold colors, the space still has an overall sense of calm for this chronic creator, with colors all drawn from the client’s vintage superhero art.
The girls’ room is a true Parisian escape, all centered on the Prospect Park Mural by The Lawns Co. with which we wrapped her oversized walk-in closet, effectively making it her own little secret
playroom. We leaned into the peach and mustard tones in this space, against a classic millwork design and playful rug. We softened the client’s antique bed by overlaying it with a custom cornice in the softest polka dot sheer fabric. The result was a space that felt magic-filled for a four-yearold, but easily transitionable to a teenage space.
The baby’s room was inspired by the palette of the sea— serene but soulful. We kept everything neutral but tactile and leaned into a gallery of vintage paintings and sketches. The womb chair and ottoman are a playful contrast to the cleanlined custom daybed, and a vintage rug underfoot keeps the space feeling both collected and timeless.
Any quick tips for parents who want to refresh a space without a full re-design?
Art is an amazing way to make a big impact in a room! Buy pieces that provoke a feeling— even if you’re not sure exactly what it is that makes that piece speak to you, just avoid pieces that feel overly tied to a specific age to ensure they grow with them. Art doesn’t have to be investment heavy. Shopping vintage stores for oil paintings or online for oversized prints are great ways to add splash without breaking the bank. ■
ROOM FOR PLAY
Play and design expert MYRIAM SANDLER was already inspiring millions of parents with her viral videos— then she wrote the book on it. Literally. With PLAYFUL BY DESIGN, the mom of three and creator of the beloved platform Mothercould is on a mission to make independent play doable, delightful, and totally stress-free.
photography by KRIS D’AMICO AND NICK BUMGARDNER REACTOR MEDIA
Myriam, what are the first few steps you recommend for someone who wants to revamp their home for more independent play— but doesn’t know where to start?
Start by decluttering. Kids don’t need more, they need better. Fewer, more intentional toys lead to deeper play. After that, carve out a small, defined play zone, even if it’s just a corner, and stock it with toys that spark imagination and not just entertainment. You don’t need a full makeover. Start small and observe what works.
Do you believe every home has the potential to be “playful by design,” even small apartments or shared spaces?
Absolutely. Playful by Design isn’t about square footage, it’s about a mindset. Even a shelf, a small table, or a few bins can create a world of possibilities. It’s about curating what you have and making it accessible and open-ended.
What are your go-to materials or types of toys for fostering open-ended play?
Building toys like Magnatiles or blocks, pretend play items like dolls or kitchen tools, and basic art supplies like crayons and play dough. These grow with your kids and can be used in countless ways.
What role does color, storage, or organization play in making a space more inviting for kids? A lot. Kids are visually sensitive, too much clutter or bright overstimulating colors can overwhelm them. Use neutral tones, clear storage bins, and rotate toys to create a calm, focused environment that encourages exploration.
How do you recommend keeping play spaces engaging over time without constantly buying new things?
Rotate, don’t accumulate. Hide some toys
away and swap them out every few weeks. Repurpose household items into play prompts. Sometimes “new” just means “seen again in a new way.”
What does play look like in your own home right now with three kids?
It’s a beautiful mess of stations. One kid might be playing café in the living room, another building a fort, and another quietly coloring. I’ve set up our home so they know where to go and what to do— without needing me to direct every step.
How do you personally balance moments of joining your kids in play with letting them explore on their own?
I see myself as the spark, not the engine. You have to let your child be the architect of their own play space. I’ll set something up, play for a few minutes to get them going, then gently pull back. Boredom isn’t the enemy, it’s actually where creativity is born.
What’s one boundary or habit that’s been a game-changer in helping your family embrace more independent play?
Becoming a “yes” type of mom, within reason, has been a game-changer. When I stopped micromanaging how play should look and started saying yes to their ideas (building a fort with the couch cushions, mixing toys in new ways), it sparked their creativity and gave them ownership of their play.
Have your kids surprised you in how they use or reinterpret the spaces you’ve designed?
All the time! I’ve seen a sensory bin turned into a soup shop or a doll bed repurposed as a racetrack. That’s the magic—you set the stage, and they make the play. ■
MOM MUSTS
The creative play expert shares fast facts.
ONE TOY YOU’LL NEVER PART WITH
Art supplies. They’re timeless and grow with you. Creativity doesn’t have an age limit.
YOUR FAVE LOW EFFORT, HIGH IMPACT SENSORY PLAY ACTIVITY
Rainbow rice. It’s colorful, easy to make, and lasts forever.
PARENTING MANTRA
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.
GO-TO SNACK FOR YOUR KIDS
All kinds of fruit.
ONE THING YOU ALWAYS HAVE FOR ON-THE-GO PLAY
I’m always rotating, but I stick to a few categories: Small drawing kits (notebooks, crayons, or water reveal books)
Mini sensory items (a small container of play dough or a fidget toy)
Pretend play prompts (mini dolls, animal figurines, or cars)
Reusable sticker books
LIZ JOY
MINI SPENT TEN MINUTES WITH THE founder of Connecticut-based lifestyle brand Marea—known for its effortlessly chic, resort-inspired pieces and cult-favorite denim drawstring pants—and mom of three (Brian, 12, Grace, 10, and William, 5) to chat favorite podcasts, her goto self-care rituals, the denim she lives in, and the snack she’s always stealing from her kids.
CAN’T STOP LISTENING Podcasts! I’m loving the Aspire podcast by Emma Grede— so inspiring.
FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Moana. MY COFFEE ORDER Cold brew with Chobani sweet cream.
FIRST THING I DO WHEN THE KIDS GO TO SLEEP
Sit on the couch with my husband and sigh— sweet relief they are all tucked in!
PARENTING MANTRA This too shall pass.
KIDS SHOW I SECRETLY ENJOY Fuller House. Such a fun throwback!
APPS I USE MOST ChatGPT and Instagram.
ON THE CLOCK
ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Diet Coke.
TIME I USUALLY WAKE UP 7 to 7:30 a.m.
LAST BOOK I READ The Women by Kristin Hannah. Incredible!
FAVE LOCAL RESTAURANT
The Sinclair in Fairfield. The best ceasar salad and Aperol Spritz around!
FAVE WAY TO SPEND A SUNDAY Wake up slow, have coffee in bed, tinker around the house, by the pool or in the garden.
FAVE KIDS BOOK Elephant and Piggie— All my kids loved these!
ON MY NIGHTSTAND Usually sentimental things my kids make for me that I haven’t filed away yet. I like to keep them there to look at right before bed and as soon as I wake up.
SIGNATURE SCENT Le Labo, Santal.
SNACK I STEAL FROM MY KIDS Pirate’s Booty. Can’t get enough.
WARDROBE STAPLES
Anything Marea! I love our drawstring denim because they feel like sweatpants but are actually jeans, any of our pointelle tees, and a pair of boat shoes.
SELF CARE LOOKS LIKE
Playing tennis with my friends, going out to lunch with my mom, taking a long walk with my dog, doing a workout class, going on a date night with my husband.
MATERNITY SO YOU CAN KEEP DOING YOU
READY TO SOAR
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THIS JUST IN IN THE MINI WORLD
Scoop
CLAIBORNE SWANSON FRANK DEBUTS TRIBUTE TO MODERN FATHERHOOD
Craig Melvin with his daughter at a beach in Westport, Connecticut.
photography
CLAIBORNE SWANSON FRANK
LFOLLOWING THE SUCCESS
of Following the success of her bestselling book Mother and Child, celebrated fine-art photographer and author Claiborne Swanson Frank returns with a powerful new release: Father & Child (Assouline), created in collaboration with Brunello Cucinelli.
This time, Swanson Frank shifts her lens to explore the evolving experience of fatherhood in the twenty-first century—capturing over 50 iconic dads with their children in a series of deeply personal and visually striking portraits.
The book features a wide range of fathers, from athletes like Eli Manning and Tony Romo to artists, musicians, designers, and storytellers like Craig Melvin, Jimmy Chin, Rashid Johnson, Wes Gordon, Kevin Love, and Brunello Cucinelli. Each portrait is paired with a
heartfelt quote or story that sheds light on the joys, fears, humor, and growth that come with being a parent. Whether it’s a dad playing music with his child in Nashville or hiking through the Tetons with his son, the imagery brings the emotion of everyday fatherhood to life.
What sets Father & Child apart is its blend of raw authenticity and timeless elegance. Shot in locations as diverse as beach houses in the Hamptons, mountain cabins in Wyoming, and family farms in Connecticut, the book offers a window into the quiet, meaningful moments that often go unseen. The result is a rich, emotional tapestry that celebrates what it means to show up, connect, and raise the
next generation.
Swanson Frank’s signature portrait style— ethereal, intimate, and infused with light—elevates each page. And with a foreword by Brunello Cucinelli, the book is not just a work of art, but a meaningful reflection on the power of love, legacy, and presence.
With 300 pages of photography and personal storytelling, Father & Child is a perfect addition to any family’s coffee table. It’s also a thoughtful gift for the father figures in your life— an heirloom-quality book that invites you to pause, reflect, and celebrate the bond between parent and child.
Whether you’re raising little ones yourself or reflecting on your own relationship with your dad, Father & Child is a reminder of how powerful, tender, and transformative fatherhood can truly be.
Father & Child is now available at assouline.com for $120.
Eli Manning with his children at his beach house in Quogue, New York.
James Van Der Beek with his children on his ranch in Texas.
Joseph Altuzarra and Seth Weissman in their vegetable garden at home in Watermill, New York.
Tommy Haas Tommy Haas and his daughters on a tennis court in Los Angeles, California.
Nacho Figueras with his children in Wellington, Florida.
Puddle Chic
Hill House Home and Peppa Pig join forces for a playful, pastel-packed collection made for moms, minis, and muddy puddles alike.
PRETTY IN PEPPA
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Nara Baby
Meet the first whole-milk, clean-label infant formula in the U.S., backed by moms like Nicky Hilton Rothschild, Serena Williams, and the Foster sisters.
FORMULA, REIMAGINED
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Capturing the beauty, simplicity and magic of childhood.
TIME RIGHT ON
photography KIMBERLY GENEVIEVE
For WHITNEY CUMMINGS, becoming a mom at 40 wasn’t late, it was perfectly timed. Now she’s calmer, more confident, and exactly the woman she always wanted to be.
hair DAVID ROBERT NAUMANN makeup JENNY VENTURA styling ANNIE & NORA
interview KATE KIRBY
WWHITNEY CUMMINGS
has made a career out of telling it like it is. Whether she’s on stage, behind the mic, or in front of the camera, the comedian, writer, actress, and Good for You podcast host has never been one to sugarcoat real life— especially now that she’s living one of its biggest plot twists: motherhood.
“I had a kid at 40,” she says. “I have accomplished a lot of the things I wanted to accomplish. It’s going amazing, and I don’t know if I’d say that if I was 25. I don’t know that if I was 30, because I’m sure I would be like, I’m falling behind on work, and I’m never gonna get ahead, and I have to choose.”
Instead, Whitney, currently on her North American Big Baby tour, has found herself in a place of calm she never expected. She’s grounded. Grateful. And hon
estly, thriving. “Let’s just pretend it was by choice.” she adds with a laugh. “I now realize how empty everything else is. I already had that epiphany by the time I had my son.”
She pauses before offering a disclaimer, in classic Whitney style: “So all that said, with all of the positivity you’re about to hear, I’m not a Scientologist. Don’t panic. I just had
my child at a time when I’d already [tried everything]. Success didn’t work. Being able to pay my bills didn’t work. Fame didn’t work. None of it worked, so I sound delusionally positive.”
But that hard-earned peace didn’t come easy. Whitney speaks openly about the personal work it
took to get here— therapy, Al Anon, 12-step programs, the long road to letting go of perfectionism.
“If I had him any sooner, I do not think he would be this calm, because I’m not a stress case,” she shares. “Before therapy, if I had a kid and you guys came over for the photo shoot, I’d be like, ‘Henry, you’ve got to look good in this photo shoot, because it’s going to reflect badly on me.’”
Now, she sees things differently. “I was just kind of able to detach with him. To go, ‘You don’t want to hug a stranger, fine. You don’t want to say hi to that person? That doesn’t mean you’re shy.’” Instead of obsessing over appearances or expectations, she’s focused on creating a calmer, saner start for her son— one she never had herself.
Pregnancy at 40, she tells us, was unexpectedly empowering. “So much of being pregnant is being able
to ask for what you need… cancel something if you need to cancel something, have boundaries. Put yourself first.” For Whitney, the experience wasn’t just about growing a baby—it was about maturing into the person she’d always wanted to be. “It was like a rapid maturation software update… things got so clear.”
Her take on motherhood may have arrived later than expected— but for Whitney, it’s everything she never knew she needed, right on time.
They call having a child at 40 a geriatric pregnancy which is so wild. What do you think surprised you the most about being pregnant at 40?
Such a good question. Honestly, how great I was at being pregnant because I was 40. And so much of being pregnant is being able to ask for what you need, cancel something if you need to cancel some-
thing, have boundaries, put yourself first. It was very important to me to not make a lot of adrenaline in utero and set my child up to already be addicted [to that]. So it was amazing how I was able to go, ‘Yeah, I’m just not texting that person back. I’m not going to that thing.’ The only end of that movie is adrenaline for me while I’m pregnant. As a chronic people-pleaser, I was just able to say no. There was actually something so freeing about it.
I don’t recommend getting pregnant just to heal your codependency, but— I’m like, ‘How come I couldn’t do this this whole time?’ I think the thing that was the most surprising about pregnancy at 40 was how quickly I was able to be the person I always wanted to be. The way I’m eating— I’m eating the sourdough and not the processed food. I’m
making my own sourdough. I’m going to make my own salad dressing. How come I haven’t always been doing that? How come I only respected myself physically and mentally when it was for someone else? I used to spend so much time thinking, ‘Should I go to this thing? Should I do this thing? What should I get her for a present? A candle?’ A lot of my decision fatigue went away. There was such a rapid maturation software update, where things got so clear.
Let’s back up even further. You froze your eggs first in your 30s and then you conceived naturally later. Tell me how that whole journey shaped your perspective on motherhood or timelines. I was—I’m going to say 31 or 32—and I was on a movie set with someone who had everything: the house, the car, the fame, everything… and couldn’t get pregnant naturally. She was a little bit older and I watched her going through it—putting her career first, as she should have— but she didn’t find the time to freeze her eggs, and just couldn’t make it happen. And I got it right away. I thought, I’m doing that.
People talk about the biological clock—your uterus and your follicles— but what I don’t hear a lot of people talk about, and I did in my HBO special, is how when that clock is looming, you start lowering your bar for who you date. You start doing this math: ‘Okay, I’m 34. I’ve been with him a year. He’s not right, but if I break up with him it’s going to take me a year to find a new person—best-case scenario—and that guy might have a chain wallet, and I’ll just have to be okay with that, because then we’d have a year to have a kid, if I can even have one.’
I felt really relieved that I was able to take a year off after freezing my eggs. That bought me [more time] to make myself the person my future child deserves as a mom. I did a year off dating to reboot my software. Both my parents started dying, and I was able to be present with them, deal with some of that, and know: my eggs are on ice, I have time, I need to heal this.
I really wanted to grieve a lot of my childhood, because I see a lot of parents where their inner child is running the show—and a child is raising a child. And my gut was like, ‘You’re not ready. You don’t even feed yourself in the morning. You don’t sleep eight hours.’
Freezing my eggs gave me the time to have the epiphany of— stop trying to find a husband. That’s not what your future child needs. Your future child needs a father. And you’re trying to find a husband for you. It clicked. Freezing my eggs gave me the time to stop looking for a husband and start looking for a father. If they’re also a husband? Great. But I have to know they’re going to be a good ex-husband, in case that’s how it goes.
I didn’t know if it would actually happen. I kind of just went off birth control and was like, if it happens, it happens. I can always adopt. And then it happened.
I met this man who I just [knew] that’s a father. I don’t know if you’re my husband, but I know you’re a father. We were kind of like, if we’re not together, he’ll never know any different. And we have the best thing.
If I hadn’t frozen my eggs, I’m sure I would have a kid right now with a man who is an aspiring DJ. Not even a DJ. An
aspiring DJ. Aspires to play other people’s music. So I did the best I could.
So on that note, what does modern co-parenting look like right now for you?
You know, I picked right for once. I respect him so much. He’s so present. I always just say, like, “slow” works over here. He doesn’t do [the over-scheduling thing]. I see parents that are like, ‘Okay, from 2 to 3, we’re going to go to the park.’ I’m like, ‘From 2 to 3, we’ll go to the park, but there’s a chance from 2 to 3 we will just be walking up and down the stairs trying to get to the park.’ And that’s okay.
We’re both not very results-oriented— very play and make a mess. We’re so similar. Co-parenting is very interesting. We make fun of each other because neither of us is pretending we know all the answers. He’ll come over with a toy and I’m like, ‘Oh! Did you bring over some mouth-sized blocks? Thank you so much for bringing the toddler-throat-sized marble.’ We’ll send each other Instagram and TikTok parenting stuff back and forth, like, ‘Should we try this?’ It’s so fun, actually.
both [parents], even if you’re not together?
What does a typical day look like now for you and Henry?
I wake up, take a shower, do sunscreen, and put on clothes with pockets. That was a big thing causing me stress in the postpartum time— like, ‘Where’s the phone? Where’s the bottle?’ I have a strap on my phone now— it’s so dorky. It’s like the pocket protector of phones. I’ve got a vest with huge pockets, a fanny pack attached to it, the Tushbaby with pockets— because it’s always, ‘Where’s the snack now?’ I leave the house like I’m going to war against a baby. Literal military fatigue.
“What’s better than your kid loving both parents, even if you’re not together?”
I love watching [Henry] and his dad. He’s obsessed with him. [Henry] reaching for his dad when I’m holding him— that makes me feel so good. It makes me want to cry. What’s better than your kid loving
I get him from his crib and we chill. He talks to his animals, we say good morning. We don’t rush. Then we go downstairs, make breakfast. Maybe he eats, maybe he doesn’t. I put his food in little containers, we go for a walk in his car with cupholders. We stop, sit on the curb, and talk about the cars, the bugs, whatever. And because I’ve already done my posting for the day before I even see him, I can just be present or knock out anything else while he zones out. When we get back, we do chores together— dishes, packing, cleaning up my room. I really loved the idea in Hunt, Gather, Parent of involving kids instead of saying, ‘I clean, you go play.’ It takes longer, but he learns. If we play upstairs, we also schedule time to “put it back.” Otherwise it’s 11 AM, we have to leave, nothing’s cleaned up, and
I’m stepping on a truck at 2 AM. So we play for 20 minutes, then put it back. I tell him, ‘You love your room being clean.’ It energized me to realize I don’t have to clean everything at night. He’ll do it on his own eventually. I’m sure it’ll fall apart at some point, but for now, it works.
Then we might water the plants, feed the dogs, use the hose—he’ll nap around noon. We’re about to try a new thing: dinner at five. A hard five. Which means 5:30 if you’re not being draconian. Then outside, bath, and down by 7 or 7:30. I do stand-up at night, so if he wakes up when I get home, great. He’s at a place where now he’ll say ‘bed, bed’ when he’s ready.
Has your parenting style—or what you thought it would be— changed since becoming a mom?
I have to be honest— I’m not as great with humans, but animals I understand. I work with horses and rehabilitate abused pit bulls and such. It’s actually helped me way more than it helped them. So I kind of treat my baby like a dog. Is that going to get me canceled?
The worst thing for anyone is stress. Nothing is worse than stress, cortisol, and adrenaline. It’s not about what I do as a parent— it’s what I don’t do. It’s shutting up. I talk for a living. I have to have an opinion on everything. Now, I shut up. Because I want to know who he is. I let him explore. I let him do his thing. And when he’s in imminent danger, I step in.
I don’t do the milestone thing. I don’t even know what they are. It’s not about teaching your child how to do everything the “right” way, it’s about doing it yourself and letting them mimic you. They might have a totally different way, and that’s fine. I try to keep his tolerance for dopamine low— low stimulus. He hasn’t seen cartoons. He watches real trash truck compilations on YouTube. I didn’t realize how much I would trust my gut.
I also didn’t realize how boring parenting would be and I mean that in the best way. Like, just sitting with a shovel for 45 minutes. I don’t want him to be the kind of kid who gets bored that fast. So I sit and I watch. I let him be. I’ve had to face my own inability to sit with my thoughts. I’ve had to ask myself, ‘Are you trying to show
WHAT SHE SAID
The multihyphenate mom gets personal.
MY COFFEE ORDER
Mocha latte, whole milk, extra hot.
PREGNANCY CRAVING
Sourdough bread, toasted, pepperjack cheese, and eggs. Just carbs.
MOST USED APP Voice Memos.
SNACK I ALWAYS HAVE ON HAND
Pickles and black olives.
NOW LISTENING
The piano version of Baby Shark and Hailee Steinfeld “Love Myself.”
BABY PRODUCT I SURPRISINGLY LOVED
The Baby Shusher Sound Machine.
WORD TO DESCRIBE LIFE RIGHT NOW
Purposeful.
WHAT I WANT MY SON TO KNOW AS HE GROWS UP
That he’s expensive. That’s the truth.
him this carousel because he’s bored? Or because you are?’
I’m strict where it matters: crossing the street, the pool, sharp things. Be a little scared of me, just enough to stay alive. You’ll understand later.
How did you decide on the name Henry? So I was going to name him Wolf. There was no Wolfgang, it was just going to be Wolf. I mean, I’ve got the necklace, I’ve got monogrammed quilts— everything said Wolf. His whole nursery. And then after I had him, I was just like, no. I didn’t look at him and go, ‘Your name’s…’ I just was like, ‘I am going to protect this child. Cummings is already going to get him bullied, let me just minimize this.’
We’re in the hospital room. My aunt is there. I’m like, ‘I can’t name this kid Wolf.’ When you’re pregnant, you’re like, ‘I’m going to do it with the dolphins in the ocean. His name is going to be Hawkeye.’ And then you have the kid and you mature immediately. I was like, ‘I don’t need my friends to think my son has a cool name. What am I doing? It’s not my name. I think it’s a cool name, but it’s not about me. How do I make this as not about me as possible?’
‘What about Henry?’ I don’t like Hank. But Henry— it’ll stick. And the middle name? I landed on Wilder. That was it. Henry Wilder. I kind of don’t feel like he’s a Henry. He’s kind of a Wolf. I forgot his name all the time at first— maybe it was postpartum. I was like, ‘Henry?’ It’s kind of fancy. I still don’t know if it matches.
You’ve talked about your experience with postpartum depression. What do you think helped you get through that?
“I look at [postpartum] more as a software update. I powered down. Came back better.”
I think a lot of the postpartum depression for me was the mental exhaustion of going, ‘I don’t even know what world I’m preparing this child for.’ And also the shame that comes with wanting to see your baby so badly, but also wanting to sleep. I was so tired. Someone else was watching my kid and I was sleeping— and I just felt like shit. Co-sleeping was kind of working and kind of not, and if you’re breastfeeding, you [have to] wake them up. Being bad at something—we don’t love that, especially something you’re “supposed” to be good at biologically.
It was going to be Charlie Wolf. Then I thought of a second name—something a girlfriend of mine had—but there’s something weird about naming your kid something a friend has. Then I thought,
Then I realized, when you have a kid, you figure out what defines you. For me, it was my mental quickness— being able to pull a joke fast, dazzle people with how sharp my brain was. That was one of the pillars of my self-esteem. And after having a kid, I hate saying this, but I was like, ‘Do I switch vocations?’ I couldn’t remember my Social Security number, my phone number.
I was like, ‘Is this my brain forever? Am I just a ditz now?’
I don’t even know if I’d call it postpartum depression. I wasn’t depressed. I was the happiest I’ve ever been. But I couldn’t get out of bed. I was in an existential crisis. Everyone wanted to come visit, and I was like, ‘I’m sitting on ice, what do you mean you want to visit?’ I ended up sending a mass text like, ‘Give me 40 days, I’ll reach out to you.’
I look at it more as a software update. I powered down. Came back better. What helped was talking about it. I started taking NAD, lipoic acid, NAC, SAMe, peptides, creatine. I hiked with him. I threw a lot of stuff away. I believe a good clean-out helps— visually processing too much is exhausting. I put all my clothes for the week on hangers ahead of time. I moved my skincare and toothbrush into his nursery bathroom so we could get ready together. It saved energy. I started showering first thing in the morning, which I never did. That hour before he wakes up? Game changer. I post what I need to, send emails, shower— and then I can be fully with him. Because I was getting discouraged when I was trying to do it all while he was awake. I think a lot of the depression for me was how disconnected I was from myself. I couldn’t do any of the things I usually do. I was frazzled. I don’t like being frazzled. I’d keep saying, ‘I’ll shower later,’ and then it’s 6 PM and I haven’t done it.
I had to go off social media just to stop scrolling— cut all the stuff that was draining me. I had to take inventory of every little thing that was sucking up my time and cut it out. Go to bed earlier. Stop giving
away energy before the day even starts.
Let’s end on Henry’s birth. If you go back and think about that day, what was it like meeting him for the first time?
My boyfriend’s a professional skateboarder, and I always ask him, ‘What’s that feeling as soon as you land? Is it elation?’ And he’s like, ‘No, it’s just relief.’ I think that was it with him, just relief. Because he was out. I had to get an episiotomy and his cord was wrapped around his neck. You could feel in the room that it was tense. They brought in the vacuum, and they wanted me to sign something.
My amazing OB was staying very calm, but his heart rate would go up and down. You’re kind of just in this oddly disassociative state. It was totally out-of-body. I think I was preparing myself for it to go poorly.
I got induced at 39 weeks. I know a lot of people have opinions about that, but I was pushing and I kind of wasn’t doing it great. She looked at me and was like, ‘I need you to push. This is it.’ Because it was about to go very sideways. I got it. Woman to woman. It just happened.
He also had a short umbilical cord— have you ever heard of that? She was like, ‘What is this short umbilical cord? There’s nothing short about you!’ So they couldn’t put him on my chest— he came to my stomach. And then it was just relief. And then you’re figuring out how to breastfeed. There’s no time to enjoy it.
I wish I could say there was some magical thing. It was very technical. He came out, and I just looked at him, and I was like, ‘Of course you look exactly like your dad.’ I think it was just... relief. ■
Mother of Invention Munoz has five children: Flavia, Lucas, Siena, Bosco, and Hugo— after whose birth La Coqueta was born.
LA VIDA
After launching La Coqueta in 2013, CELIA MUÑOZ transformed her Spanish roots and love of classic children’s fashion into an international brand. But behind the smocked dresses and timeless designs is her proudest creation of all— her five children. “I try my best every single day,” she tells Mini . “Some days with more success than others— but my family knows I give it my all.”
COQUETA
photography INNA KOSTUKOVSKY
When Celia Muñoz launched La Coqueta in 2013, she was a mother of five with a clear vision: to bring beautifully made, timeless children’s clothing to the modern family. Inspired by her Spanish heritage and a practical need for well-made pieces, she built the brand from her London basement— playroom included. In our conversation, the designer and entrepreneur reflects on those early days, her growing global brand, and the parenting mindset that’s shaped it all.
What inspired you to launch La Coqueta? Was there a specific moment that made you realize you needed to launch a children’s brand?
I founded the brand in 2013 after the birth of my fifth child, Hugo. I would say that along with a love for fashion, the business idea was born out of necessity. I noticed that it was hard to find well-made, affordable and good quality pieces for daily wear. I started to buy clothes for my children every time I would visit my hometown in Spain. After receiving many compliments on my children’s clothing and following several personal orders from friends in London, I started exploring the opportunity
of making a business out of selling Spanish clothes. This is how La Coqueta was born.
Can you share a pivotal moment in La Coqueta’s early days that affirmed you were on the right path?
Seeing the enthusiasm from friends in London who loved the clothes I was sourcing for my own children made me realise I was meeting a genuine demand and that there was a clear gap in the market for wellmade clothing featuring beautiful prints, traditional silhouettes, and hand-smocked designs. Launching our first store in leafy Hampstead
remains one of my proudest and most cherished milestones. In those early days, I was a young entrepreneur with five children under five, running the shop with a playroom tucked away at the back for them whilst operating our online business from the basement of my home! It was a time of immense passion and purpose. I had the opportunity to personally greet our clients, listen to their stories, and truly understand the needs of our growing community.
With so many milestones behind you—from opening your first store to global expansion—what accomplishment are you most proud of today?
“There is always a little pinch me moment when I think back to those early years.”
Building an incredibly competent, high-quality team is one of my proudest achievements and of course the continued expansion of the brand. From store launches (we just launched at iconic department store Harrods and have several US launches in the works), to our online growth, becoming a global brand, exciting collaborations, new designs, and a growing team continue to make me very proud. There is always a little pinch me moment when I think back to those early years.
As a mother of five, do you have any strategies that have helped you manage the demands of running a successful business while also being present for your family?
Life is less chaotic now that my children are older, but when they were little, it was wonderfully busy and full of energy. I feel very fortunate to have a strong support sys-
tem and a wonderful husband and family. My husband and I always divided our tasks. He did all the cooking for each month in a weekend, for example, and froze everything so I would not have to cook and could focus on quality time with the children. I haven’t cooked for 20 years! For me, planning is key. It is always a juggle, but I manage my time through carefully planned to-do lists without which I would be lost! I like to try and have a very predictable daily routine with my family. I find it allows me to have great freedom to do what I want as well as get a lot done workwise and spend quality time with my children and husband.
What elements do you consider essential when designing pieces for today’s children?
La Coqueta’s collections are beautifully made, functional yet smart, easy to wear, hard-wearing and machine washable. These are non-negotiables and at the center of my design process. As a mother of five, I know how important it is to find easy-care clothes that stand the test of time. It is very important to achieve that and to create clothes that can be passed on to the next baby and still look great.
What does your design process look like when you’re building a new collection? Did you ever test pieces with your own kids?
I think it is so important to stay true to your brand and those best-selling styles whilst also adding newness each season to
excite your customers and keep it interesting. We always begin by reviewing the success of previous collections, closely analyzing the styles, silhouettes, prints, and fabrications that performed particularly well. Customer feedback plays a vital role in the process and we truly value the insights from our community. I genuinely love every stage of designing a collection— from those first sketches and sourcing beautiful fabrics, to receiving initial samples in the studio and bringing the vision to life during our seasonal campaign shoot. It’s a joyful, creative journey that I find incredibly fulfilling. My children were very much part of the process. Their feedback was always honest—sometimes brutally so—but it was incredibly valuable in understanding how the clothes fit and wore throughout the day.
The La Coqueta x Hill House Home collab garnered a lot of attention! Can you walk us through how this partnership came to be and the creative process behind designing pieces that resonate with both audiences?
We were so delighted with its success; it was our first foray into womenswear. To create a capsule for the whole family and see the collection come to life in our exclusive prints and complementing Hill House’s signature aesthetic has been really special. It was such a pleasure to work with Nell and her team.
I have been a fan of Hill House and Nell’s designs for so long. With both of us being mothers and having shopped one another’s collections since the very beginning, the collaboration felt very intuitive. From the offset, we were very aligned on our vision and creative process. We wanted to create a collection that celebrates the joy of motherhood
and the magic of childhood through beautiful, whimsical designs. From the collection’s color palette, exclusive prints and silhouettes, to the smallest of details: pintuck pleats, ruffled shoulders, pretty peter pan collars and delicate hand-smocking— the collection really blends the very best of La Coqueta and Hill House to create the perfect spring capsule for mama and mini.
La Coqueta has such a strong brand identity. How do you stay connected to your “why” behind the business, even as it continues to grow?
What keeps everything connected is the fact that I’ve been the designer from the very beginning and I’m still the main designer and creative behind our collections. Ultimately, it’s the same mind, the same ideas, and that continuity is what allows a true signature style to come through. I plan to live and work until I’m 120, so there’s still much to explore and many more years of creativity ahead! As our team grows, my ongoing challenge is to preserve the original spirit, the one that started in a garage, and keep it at the core of everything we do. The only way to stay truly connected is to stay true to yourself: to create from a place of authenticity, unaffected by outside noise. La Coqueta’s collections are nostalgic, marrying traditional Spanish aesthetic with our distinct design identity and 13 years on, this remains at the heart of our brand.
What advice would you give to other mothers who are balancing the challenges of entrepreneurship with raising children?
Last Laugh “My children imitating my Franco-Spanish accent when I speak English never fails to make me laugh out loud. They’re incredibly English, having been raised here, and when they mimic me, it’s both hilarious and heartwarming.”
It’s important to keep perspective and adjust your expectations. Not everything will be perfect and often, good enough truly is enough. Finding peace in that is essential. Whatever you choose to do, do it well. The quality of your focus and presence matters far more than the quantity of time spent. This applies not only to your professional life, but also to your family and your personal growth.
As a mom of five, what does rest or me time look like for you (if it even exists)?
I’ll be brutally honest, I don’t get much me time, but truthfully, I don’t miss it. This is simply the season of life I’m in. I have 24 hours in a day, and my top priorities are clear: my family, my work, and my health. I’m fully committed to each of them, and the only way I can make it all work is through careful planning and structure. Everything goes into my diary. My days typically begin with morning exercise, followed by a full work day, and then family time in the evenings and on weekends. I also plan a weekly date night, which is non-negotiable. Life feels full and fulfilling. It may shift in the future, and when it does, I’ll adapt and reprioritize. But for now, this is where I am and I’m embracing it.
What’s the best piece of parenting advice you’ve ever received?
Be open minded, embrace every opportunity, and everything life throws your way. Do not be overly hard on yourself. The concept, at worst, of being a good enough mother is a wonderful one. My father taught me that. He is a psychologist and I applied Winnicott’s theory to the max.
STYLE SNAPS
A quick peek into Celia’s world.
MY COFFEE ORDER
Matcha with soy milk from Hagen, my favorite local coffee shop.
GUILTY PLEASURE
Arroz con leche with cinnamon— truly something that awakens all of my senses!
ALWAYS IN MY BAG
My signature Westman Atelier red lipstick.
FAVE NEW PIECE FROM LA COQUETA
The Belia dress from the AW25 Collection.
GO-TO WEEKNIGHT DINNER
We love to encourage our children to take turns making a simple supper. My son, Hugo makes a delicious roast chicken salad.
MOST WORN ITEM IN MY CLOSET
My Loewe trainers.
BABY PRODUCT I SWEAR BY
A knitted baby set. A newborn essential and the perfect gift.
Dream Vacation “Somewhere incredibly adventurous, meeting people so different to me that everybody learns.”
