Mama Disrupt® ISSUE 5 by Mama Disrupt®

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

SARAH JESSICA PARKER: MOTHERHOOD UNPLUGGED 9 772207

070001

YOU R BU N D LE O F M A M A GOO D N E SS

ISSUE #5 SUMMER 2017/18 $9.95 AUD (inc.GST) | $10.95 NZD (inc.GST)

I S S U E #5 / / S U M M E R 2 0 1 7 / 1 8 / / W E A R E M O D E R N M O T H E R H O O D

SUMMER 2017/18

E M P OW E R M E N T LI F E S T Y LE W E LLN E SS T R AV E L I N T E RI O RS SO U L FA S H I O N

be ready for more with the bugaboo donkeyÂ˛

more adventures more ways to customise

Pregnancy, the most

beautiful days of your life.

It’s It’s all all about about you. you.

Avoid stretch marks During pregnancy, skin tone is pushed to the limit. The skin’s elastic fibres are tight and risk splitting, leaving marks. Tonic Body Treatment Oil $68 Firms, tones tissues and helps prevent skin slackening by improving skin’s tone and elasticity which helps minimise the appearance of stretch marks. Stretch Mark Minimizer $75 Applied daily to targeted areas, this rich, creamy texture helps reinforce skin’s support structure, prevent the formation of stretch marks and reduce the appearance of newly formed ones.

Beautiful, comfortable legs Make sure your legs stay beautiful throughout your pregnancy. They will have to support all the extra weight of your pregnancy. Energizing Emulsion $55 It relaxes and relieves tired, heavy-feeling legs and promotes an immediate feeling of lightness and well-being. Essential oils and plant extracts leave the skin soft, supple and well moisturised.

To learn more, please visit:

www.clarins.com.au/maternity

MAMA MOVEMENT

WE’RE MAKING WAVES Get YOUR COPY of Mama Disrupt® across the world in over 10 COUNTRIES AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND USA CANADA SINGAPORE HONG KONG UNITED ARAB EMIRATES MALAYSIA INDONESIA THAILAND TAIWAN + ORDER ONLINE AT MAMADISRUPT.COM

#GLOBALMOVEMENT #MAMADISRUP T

DISTRIBUTION // INTEGRATED PUBLICATION SOLUTIONS [FAIRFAX] EXPORT // EIGHT POINT MEDIA

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

PICTURE: SHUT TERSTOCK

(PRINT + GLOBAL DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AVAILABLE)

HERE COMES BUBBLE The bubblesuit

IN STORE ONLINE

JESSICA JANE SAMMUT FOUNDER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @JESSICAJANESAMMUT

EDITORIAL DEPUTY EDITOR Yasmin Thomas SUB EDITOR Louisa Ottaviani

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Katie Mackenzie EDITORIAL ASSISTANT India Zeke INTERN Natalie Bascur

CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR Kristyn Jenkins

DIGITAL DESIGNER Natalie Crombie

SALES PARTNERSHIP MANAGER Connie Trinh connie@mamadisrupt.com

OPERATIONS PRODUCTION MANAGER Poppy Elliott ACCOUNTS Cathy Wilson

CONTRIBUTORS

Amy Molloy, Nicole Madigan, Dr Libby Weaver, Anna Kożdoń, Belinda Xia, Melanie McNiven, RB Aesthetics, Aquabumps, Karen Anne Overton, Nicole Williams, Melissa Webster, Style Life Home

WITH THANKS TO

We are incredibly lucky to work with a host of mind-blowing creatives in putting together Mama Disrupt® including stylists, photographers, writers, digital gurus, artists, illustrators and fashionistas. We may not be able to mention every individual by name, but each person has been an integral part of making these pages glow with love and inspiration. We are also indebted to our advertisers who are riding this incredible journey with us, believing in our dream. And finally, but by no means least, we thank YOU, our amazing tribe of modern mamas who are making this soul sisterhood so special. We couldn’t do it without you.

PROUDLY MADE IN NOOSA (OVER A MOJITO)

FOR JASON, ZAC + FINN

SUBSCRIBE MAMADISRUPT.COM MAIL@MAMADISRUPT.COM

MAMADISRUPT.COM

@MAMADISRUPT

Published by JJS Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 2460, Noosa Heads, QLD 4567 // ISSN 2207-0702 Printed on sustainably sourced paper using vegetable and soy-based inks. Printed in Australia by Printcraft, Brisbane, QLD. Distributed by Integrated Publication Solutions. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part thereof of any material contained within the pages of Mama Disrupt ® without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Views expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. JJS Media Pty Ltd does not endorse any of the products or services that appear in advertising or editorial content. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, no responsibility is taken by JJS Media Pty Ltd for errors and omissions.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

TAKING OVER

ONE YEAR STRONG! // W E ARE M ODERN MOTHE RHOOD

Ryan e R ynolds

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MAMA I N F LU E N TA K E O V C E R ER

SPRING 2017

SA R A H J MOTHERH E SS IC A PARKE R OOD UNP LUGGED :

WINTER 2017

ISSUE #5 / / SUMM ER 201 7/ 1 8

AUTUMN 2017

YOUR GOALS.”

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LD TO WILD CHI AMA M WONDER

ER M EN T ST RE N G TH + EM PO W

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ERMEN ON ON T YL IFFAE S H I O N T Y F A S HRI I O R S B E A U T Y F A S H I S T L ES B ETARU N R S B E A U T NL TE EW FA S H I O S SE L L NAEV E L I N T E NEW R EI LOYL R EAUTY I N T E R I O SS TRA F EE LS TIY I O RTSR BA V E L P I OTNR LAI V I REAST S I NET ESRS VEL IN SLN IN E LL N L E R AV T W L S E T E S L E E Y W RIORS E L I FE E WSE TL L N SOUL F TION LIFE STYL E STYL S P I RT I A ASHIO IN ON LIF S P I R A T I O N N IN INSPIRA

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY TO US! #MAMADISRUPT #TAKINGOVER #MAMAMOVEMENT

CONTENTS

106

24 91 126

50 ON THE COVER Sarah Jessica Parker PICTURE: © Ryan Pfluger/The New York Times/Redux/Headpress

MAMA FAVOURITES

10 12 14 16 138 144

MAMA WORD // What’s Vibing in our Mama Hood ED’S LETTER // One Year On BIRTHDAY SPECIAL // One Year Strong Q+A WHAT’S NEW // Get On-trend with the Latest Finds MAMA COLLECTIVE // Shopping Loves JJS // Attitude of Gratitude

MAMA EXCLUSIVE

24 30 36 42

SARAH JESSICA PARKER // Motherhood Unplugged MICHELLE ALAN // A Beautiful Life BOHANNAH GERRITSEN // The Simple Folk REVIE JANE // Brave Heart

MAMA STYLE

46 INSPIRATION // Activewear 50 ARTIST PROFILE // Female Empowerment Series 73 WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE // Hudson’s Party 80 PHOTO SERIES // Aquabumps 131 FASHION EDIT // Modern Times

MAMA HABITAT

60 67 86 91

FRANKIE’S NORDIC NOOK // Rustic Nordic VALENTINA’S NEWBORN NEST // Classic Boho HOME OFFICE // Who Runs the World? Mamas! MINIMALIST SANCTUARY // Clean Slate

MAMA LIFE

98 106 112 119

NOMAD // Happy Camper JESSICA DEMPSEY // Style Setter BETHANY MARSH // Falling Away VANESSA BREUER // Bohemian Fantasy

MAMA SOUL

126 132 134 136

MAMA MIND // The Cult of Busy MAMA BEAUTY // Secret Weapons for Mama + Boo MAMA YUM // Thai Beef Sunshine MAMA BOOKS // Fav Mama Reads

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WORD

#soulchats IT’S OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY!!! And our chief mama bear wants to hear from YOU – our fierce mama tribe! What do you love about Mama Disrupt®? Become Jess’s friend on Insta @jessicajanesammut and let her know. Plus don’t forget to sign up for your FREE weekly mama motivation at mamadisrupt.com. Thank you fo r all your love and support!

Connect with Jess @jessicajanesammut on Insta and become a part of our social sisterhood!

@BABYJUMPIE

#MAMASCOLLECTIVEEAST

MAMA WORD We head uptown, downtown and outta town to see what’s vibing in our MD® HOOD.

MD SOCIAL SASS We are loving all the pics you have been sharing with us @mamadisrupt. Here are some of our favs. ®

Join our daily motivation + conversation We love your bones! Follow us @mamadisrupt, take a snap and show us how you #mamadisrupt. It might be having two minutes to yourself, enjoying a bear hug with your mini-me, sharing the cray cray of mum life, or just generally kicking ass. WHATEVER IT IS, WE WANT TO SEE!

@MOCKED_

@KOMBILIFE

Tag us #mamadisrupt @mamadisrupt

@ROSEGRACE_PHOTOGRAPHY

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

@THEMAMASORORITY

Swoon + share

@EASTIESCOLLABORATE

We want to see how you are enjoying your dose of MD®! Share your most creative pic of your Mama Disrupt® summer issue for a chance to be featured in the pages of next season’s Mama Disrupt® . Tag us #mamadisrupt @mamadisrupt

@HOUSEOFWHITE_ #MAMADISRUPT

FROM OUR FEED

@mamadisrupt

Love Letters “Mama Disrupt® is the cool mum mag of today, reminding us mums that we are not alone, we are strong, we are still babes and we can be inspired by each other.” ~ Jessica Dempsey (@whatwouldkarldo)

“I was avoiding opening the pages of my Mama Disrupt® mag as I thought I would see lots of rad mamas doing amazing things with their lives, and I would feel like I was sucking at my job as a mother. Until eventually I did, and saw that it was actually FULL of the support I needed: other mamas sharing their struggles, inspiration and stories. I instantly felt connected and not crazy!! It’s so good to know I’m not alone! Thank you for not only creating the most empowering magazine, but a real and relatable one also. FINALLY!” ~ @_sarahelise_

@HONEYANDFIZZ_THEBLOG

“Reading Mama Disrupt® is like catching up with a courageous and supportive best friend over a glass of wine.” ~ Michelle Alan (@mish_mac)

HEART MELT @TOPKNOTGIRL_

LIFE IS MADE OF THESE MOMENTS @COURTNEYADAMO

“I’m a huge mag snob. Working in them for 10 years I feel like I’ve seen it all on repeat, but this ... this is so so great! Love love love.” ~ Cassandra Croucher “The Mama Disrupt® movement is for badass mamas who know who they are and aren’t afraid to show the world they’re perfect in their own way! YES!” ~ Jesse Mountford “I cannot wait to devour every page! So grateful to @jessicajanesammut and her team for this wonderful magazine!” ~ Lauren Hele “You’ve created an amazing legacy! It’s such an awesome way for mamas to connect and support one another. LOVE!” ~ Penelope Austin “I am so impressed and captivated by the movement you have started! You are AMAZING!” ~ Angie Kilner

MORNING SNUGGLES @OUR.HAPPY.MESS #MOTHERHOOD

IT’S BEEN A LONG WEEK! #MAMADISRUPT

SALTY’S CORNER The hot weather has hit Noosa, and Salty’s been lapping up many a walk in his spiritual home, the beach! After all your requests, here is a pic of him enjoying his birthday party! It’s given us inspiration for our very own end-of-year MD® bash! What a pampered baby he is. Follow Salty’s adventures on our social feeds. @mamadisrupt @jessicajanesammut #puppydisrupt

. e r e h e r a e MIND. BLOWN. W

. n o r a e y e On . g n o r t s r a e y One

VIBE WITH US mamadisrupt.com @mamadisrupt #mamadisrupt 12

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 17/18

The beauty of Mama Disrupt® has been the tribe that has come together in the pursuit of living motherhood fearlessly.

ED’S LETTER

One year on. One year strong. It’s unstoppable, the power that comes from women supporting women; mamas supporting mamas. This Movement is OURS.

PICTURES: MEL ANIE MCNIVEN // MAKE-UP: RB AESTHETICS ZAC + FINN WEAR: BEAU HUDSON / BRAVE + FEARLESS

can’t believe we have made it. What an INCREDIBLE year it has been! Having launched this time 12 months ago to such a huge welcome, we have soared higher and further with guts, grit and goodness with each day that has passed. Fuelled by bucket loads of passion (and coffee), we have worked our little socks off, and here we are. It’s surreal. It’s amazing. It’s my dream staring back at me. When I began to put Mama Disrupt® together in 2016, I was guided by heart. It spoke (it had been whispering for a while, in fact), and finally, I listened. I was ready. She took me nine months to build, my baby. The same time as it takes to grow a human child. Nine months of non-stop hard slog, dedication, obsession and belief. And yes, there were days when I wondered what the hell I was doing! But eventually, there she was on the shelves, and the world stopped turning for a second. We had done it. She was real. So, what next? I had been living and breathing my Mama Disrupt® pregnancy daily, and now I had her in my arms. I could dare to look forward and beyond. Could we do another issue? Could we make it to the end of the year? The energy was as infectious and all-consuming as if I had been pumped full of oxytocin. And there appeared the next milestone. The one year mark. If we could make it to this point, we would never look back. And as I sit here now writing this, I am in awe, humbled and grateful and forever changed by what has unfolded – the LOVE you have shown, the CHAMPIONING you have done, the REVOLUTION you have allowed us to lead. It’s unstoppable, the power that comes from women supporting women; mamas supporting mamas. So, this is not my moment, this is OUR moment. This is not my dream, this is OUR dream. This is for EVERY one of us. You, me, and all mothers on this planet. This movement we have created is OURS. Thank you for being part of our DNA, our purpose, our reason to get up in the morning. And most of all, thank you for believing in me. With the greatest love and gratitude forever on behalf of myself and my amazing MD® team ...

T U R N OV E R TO R E A D J E S S ’S A N SW E R S TO YO U R Q U E S T I O N S O N T H E PA S T 12 M O N T H S O F O U R M A M A D I S R U P T ® J O U R N E Y ...

O F F I C I A L M E D I A PA R T N E R EMPOWERING MOTHERS.

F O U N D E R + E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

CONNECT WITH JESS @jessicajanesammut #JJS

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

B I R T H DAY S P E C I A L

ONE YEAR

STRONG It’s been a HUGE year, and one we wouldn’t have achieved without YOU! We sit down with our founding CHIEF MAMA BEAR, Jess, to answer your questions on all things MAMA DISRUPT® regarding our journey so far … #underthehood

ow. What year it has been. Twelve months ago we shimmied onto the motherhood scene and turned it upside down. We broke rules, we cracked stereotypes and we smashed myths. We kicked mama’s guilt to the kerb and laughed in the face of sleepless nights. We created not only a magazine, but a MOVEMENT – and one that has now impacted on a whole army of fierce mamas across the globe. And it’s all been down to one woman – our feisty #girlboss and mama of two, Jessica Jane Sammut. So, as promised, we present the leader of our mama pack to you, answering your questions on everything you have ever wanted to know about our crazy, exciting and magical adventure so far. Presenting THE original Mama Disruptor, JJS UNCOVERED...

WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR JUGGLING #MUMLIFE WITH YOUR BUSINESS HUSTLE? ~ @TIARNE.STRAATMAN JESS: Combining motherhood with running a

business is a constant juggle and one that I am always looking to finesse! YES, life is a little mad. It only takes something small to blow the whole thing out. I am hands-on mum – I take my kids to school, I pick them up, I help them with their homework. But, I also work over 60 hours a week running Mama Disrupt®. We are in start-up mode, and it is BUSY! But, I MAKE it work. I have fought hard to arrange my life around my kids. I knuckle down during school hours, and then I start again at night when my boys go to bed. You can make anything happen if you really want to. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

We are the storm. We are modern motherhood. We are Mama Disrupt®.

HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL WHEN YOU PICTURE ALL THE MAMAS OUT THERE READING MAMA DISRUPT®? HAS IT TURNED OUT AS YOU EXPECTED? ~ @MRSTRUTERRANCE JESS: It is beyond my wildest dreams, and I

am so grateful. The impact we have had, the positive empowerment we are spreading, the fun we are having; it is more than I could have wished for. The emails and messages we receive daily from women and mothers whose lives have been changed by Mama Disrupt® gives me goosebumps. I am amazed by the love and unwavering support of our fearless tribe.

WAS THERE EVER A MOMENT WHERE NEGATIVE SELF-TALK CAME CLOSE TO SUCCEEDING? HOW DID YOU NAVIGATE YOUR WAY OUT? ~ @MUMSOCIETY JESS: YES! Months before launching Mama

Disrupt®, when I was building the foundation of the magazine, I had a moment when I felt the fear enter my veins. My blood ran cold. My appetite vanished. My legs were telling me to run for the hills! It was a hit of reality – a sudden comprehension of what I was about to try to do. The pressure was on, and I was way out of my depth. But I kept going, and I waited for the feeling to pass. Because I had actually been here before. I had been here when I became a mother. And I figured, ‘Hell, if I can grow, birth and raise a human, I can do ANYTHING!’ Slowly the fear

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR STARTING A BUSINESS? – @HERDRUM 1. PREPARE TO BECOME OBSESSED WITH IT // You will need to make it happen. 2. BE AUTHENTIC // It’s a quality that is often lacking in today’s commercial platform and will set you apart. 3. NEVER EVER GIVE UP // You will need to be tough.

HOW DO YOU STAY HEALTHY + WHAT ARE YOUR BEST LIFESTYLE TIPS? – @PRETAPREGNANT_COM JESS: I eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and watch how much sleep I get. I also make sure I live a life that feeds my soul. HOW DO YOU PUT YOUR HEART AND SOUL INTO SOMETHING YOU’RE SO PASSIONATE ABOUT WITHOUT LETTING YOUR MAMA GUILT TAKE OVER? ~ @COCOANDGINGERNEWZEALAND JESS: I don’t believe that reaching for your dreams is incompatible with

motherhood. Yes, it takes 10 times more planning and yes, you cannot get things done as quickly, but it is possible to create a life that balances the things that serve your soul with motherhood. And in doing so, I am a better, more fulfilled, person to my children. I want to give them a mother who loves life. I think it is important that we, as women, follow our path and model to our children what it is to evolve.

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR CREATIVE ENERGY FROM? ~ @HERDRUM JESS: I think when you are following your true purpose, the energy comes from within naturally. It’s a part of your heartbeat.

WHAT WORDS OF ADVICE WOULD YOU WOULD OFFER YOUR 18-YEAR-OLD SELF? ~ @BOHOMOTHERHOOD JESS: Believe in yourself! As a young woman, I did not feel as strong as

I do now. My inner confidence has come as I have grown up, as has my understanding of who I am. But life is a journey, and as such, this growth has been a part of mine. It couldn’t have happened any other way.

WHAT DOES GRATITUDE MEAN TO YOU? ~ @MAMASCOLLECTIVEEAST JESS: To notice the little moments and be thankful for every day. I am

PICTURES: MEL ANIE MCNIVEN // MAKE-UP: RB AESTHETICS

left me, and the rest is history. It goes to show that if you follow your truth, great things happen. Don’t look at how to get from A to Z, instead, look at how to get from A to B, and work from there. Confidence grows with every step forward.

WHAT SELF-CARE PRACTICES DO YOU INCORPORATE INTO YOUR LIFE TO AVOID OVERWHELM AND BURNOUT AS A MAMA OF "THREE" (YOUR TWO BOYS AND MAMA DISRUPT®)? ~ @MAMASMETIME JESS: Self-care is so important, which is something I have come to

realise. I live in Noosa, so I love to wake up early (5am) and go for a long walk on the beach alone as the sun rises over the ocean. I put my headphones on, grab a coffee and hit the sand. It allows me to decompress. I feel the stress ebb away and my soul resetting. The beach is my happy place. After that, I am ready for anything!

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING ABOUT RUNNING MAMA DISRUPT®? ~ @LITTLEBOXOFLOVE_ JESS: Seeing how we have created such an incredible movement

that is empowering mothers to live life on their own terms, without guilt – creating their own version of what it is to be a mother. We're changing the world!

FINN WEARS: SINGLET + SHORTS, BRAVE + FEARLESS. ZAC WEARS: SLEEVELESS HOODIE, MINIME + CO // SHORTS, BRAVE + FEARLESS

grateful for my beautiful family, for my amazing MD® team, and for the feeling that I am right where I should be. Happiness is found in the simplest of things.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT’S NEW

COOL, HAPPENING + DOWNRIGHT AWESOME – THESE MAMA NEWBIES ARE ROCKIN’ OUR WORLD!

THE POWER OF NATURE These mamas mean serious business and we are LOVIN’ it! The dedicated dream team of Catherine, Celeste and Sarah are passionate about lifestyle products that are natural, yet luxurious. The Natural Supply Co collection showcases the best in cruelty-free, eco-friendly and organic products for the whole family. From candles to make-up, cleaning products to insect repellent, shampoo to organic tea... if you love it and want it, there is a natural guilt-free version for you! Afterpay available. naturalsupplyco.com // @naturalsupplyco

CALI VIBES Give the kids’ summer wardrobe a makeover with Hello Banjo’s latest collection ‘Palm Springs’. Created by owner of Billie the Kid Apparel, the Hello Banjo prints shout adventure, good vibes and laid-back fun for your little ones. #summerstyle From $25 / hellobanjo.com.au // @hellobanjo__

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT’S NEW

bohemian summer The ultimate fashion and lifestyle brand for free-spirited little people, Children of the Tribe have unveiled their highly anticipated SS17/18 collection ‘Lost Desert’. Inspired by the mystical magic of the desert, blush and ochre sand dunes, and the FREE-SPIRITED vibes of nomadic desert cultures, Lost Desert is a celebration of star-filled skies, towering rock formations, a kaleidoscope of colour and mind-blowing sunrises and sunsets. Perfect for a bohemian summer, the collection features dreamy, floaty pieces coupled with playful prints like utopia tie-dye, vintage fauna and chambray stone polka dots. Designed with love, a host of new styles showcase detailing like colourful embroidery, crochet and beading. We also ADORE their slogan collection of rompers and onesies. #superrad $39.95 / childrenofthetribe.com // @childrenofthetribe

WATER BABY Can’t wait to introduce your bub to the magic of the ocean? Neither can we! We love new products that are not only safe for bebe but make life with growing families a little easier to navigate, too. This summer, wade into the cool blue with this clever new creation by Frog Orange, a baby carrier made from water-friendly neoprene. Keep your child safe, buoyant and warm as they learn to love the water. Choose a style in either orange, royal blue, grey, navy or green, and hit the beach. All carriers are safety certified and a great gift idea for new mums and dads as we go into the summer season. #genius

$139 / frogorange.com.au // @frogorangewaterbaby

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

ANIMAL LOVE

WHAT’S NEW

We adore these cute playmats by Mister Fly! Choose either a bunny or koala design for the perfect addition to your nursery. Made from 100 per cent cotton, these mats also come with calico carry bags for easy storage while on the go. Sah cute! $99.95

/ twentyonemoore.com // @twentyonemoore

Work it! Circle In is a world-first by two Australian mothers! It’s a one-stop online interactive resource and hub to help women navigate parental leave, return to work and juggle motherhood with their career. This online hub has everything! Women who are thinking of having a baby, are pregnant, going on maternity leave or preparing to return to work can draw on expert advice and resources designed to help them through these challenging times. Best of all, it’s FREE! So check it out mamas. It’s real, it’s practical and it’s AWESOME. circlein.com.au // @circlein.co

SHINY KEEPSAKE Gift your bebe with a beautiful piece of jewellery and just think of how it will become a loving reminder of such a precious time in your life . Made with love, Tiny Matters is a collection of keepsake jewellery engraved with meaning for the little love of your life by Australian jewellery designer, Matters Speaking. We’re lovin’ the vibe. From $69 / mattersspeaking.com // @matters_speaking

GIRL POWER Meet the glittery new empowering journal for young girls everywhere! Despite all the opportunities available to girls today, the fight for equality – and self-esteem – continues. Girlish is a journal created for curious young gals who want to learn more about girl power, celebrate who they are, define their values and have fun along the way. Filled with information, inspiration, truth bombs and surprises, Girlish embraces all the beauty, chaos, hope and frustration of being a girl in the twenty-first century. $24.99 / blackincbooks.com // @nerobooks

WHAT’S NEW

CHIC MAMA

MOVE IT MAMA

Calling all fashion-conscious mamas! We are LOVING this luxurious carry-all made from beautiful high quality leather. The stylish design is complimented by practical features, including a spacious interior, and numerous pockets, with four large compartments to keep you organised. The lining in the main compartment is removable for easy cleaning and also transforms the bag into a regular handbag when your boo is older. Bonus extras include the leather pram strap, key clip, optional insulated bottle holder and padded changemat. Totes gorgeous. $399 / budu.com.au // @budu_baby

Get into shape with the The Mumma Movement – a brand new post partum eight-week online program guranteed to get you moving! Created by exercise scientist, doula and motherof-three (and all round super hip chick) Ariel Blyth, the Aussie crossfit mama, you’ll be loving your new found energy. Includes specialised sessions and weekly nutritional support. $167 / themummamovement.com // @ohmmumma

BABY ON THE GO Mountain Buggy have done it again! The talented team have cleverly updated the uber-sophisticated, 4-wheel, all-terrain, cosmopolitan luxury buggy complete with bassinet, modular seat, cosy toe and matching parenting satchel. There’s a lot to love: an ultra-smooth navigation both on and off road, an easy compact fold for quick storage, a soft charcoal melange fabric with a striking geo print, a sleek bucket style seat with parent and forward facing options, as well as stylish leather detailing. An extra-large sun-hood extension provides even more protection from the elements, and an adjustable handle enables you to choose the height for a more comfortable push. Plus, the unisex geo print will go down well with papa! mountainbuggy.com // @mountain_buggy

SPECIAL DELIVERY Forget generic gift hampers! Silver Stork are in the business of creating bespoke care packages for new mums, mumsto-be and their babies. Expect luxury items and essentials from well-known, trusted and boutique brands. So, take the guesswork out of what you need and let Silver Stork tailor a care package for you with their personalised service. Easy! Purchase a gift for a friend, work colleague or simply treat yourself! Free shipping Australia wide. From $180 / silverstork.com.au // @silver_stork

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT’S NEW

FUN OUT OF THE SUN Keep your family cool and in the shade having fun with the addition of the Sunshade for your Springfree Trampoline. Ideal for young jumpers, the Sunshade filters 99% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your kids while they bounce. When not in use, the Sunshade easily packs away in its own storage bag, and takes less than five minutes to install! Springfree Trampoline with Sunshade from $1148 / springfreetrampoline.com.au // @springfreetrampoline

SNACK-TASTIC Passionate about designing dinnerware that delight and inspire both the young and young at heart, We Might Be Tiny offers minimalistic items that not only look good in the home, but are functional and practical, too. Bear, bunny and cat snackies are the cutest new silicone bowl and plate sets around. Take them from the freezer to the microwave to the dishwasher with ease. Get 10% off with code SUMMERMAMA. $35 /wemightbetiny.com.au // @wemightbetiny

TRENDING: #OOTD Created by some rad dads, Me & Mini clothing delivers a perfect mix of witty charm, street culture and a big dose of parenting feels. The new range brings to light allergy awareness with designs that are customisable to suit your little one’s needs. So, for those mamas always on the lookout for products serving kids with sensitivities, or if you’re just after that clever statement tee, make Me & Mini your go-to. Get 10% off with code LOVEMAMA. From $25 / @meandminiclothing //meandminiclothing.com.au

Swimwear season is upon us and we are totes excited about the pieces being designed by Sydney-based label, Ink Swimwear. Splash about in a collection inspired by tropical beaches and endless summers and choose from a mix of bold statement prints and classic cuts, and feel island time taking over. Get 20% off your first order with MAMA20 (excludes skincare). inkswimwear.com.au // @inkswimwear

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CREDIT HERE X X XX X X X XX X XX X X X XX X XX X.

ISLAND LIFE

WHAT’S NEW

FASHION WITH ‘TUDE Introducing a timeless, functional and vibrant unisex brand for kids, with a strong focus on using sustainable and certified products at affordable prices, we love these peeps. Made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, using organically certified dyeing and printing processes, it’s all about designing a better future for our children. From $16.95 / piccoloandmithelabel.com // @piccoloandmi

NATURAL SKINCARE Founded by pharmacist and Natural Living expert, Cara Little, Pure Home Body is a health-friendly, plant-based, non-toxic home and body care range suitable for the whole family. Be inspired to make choices about what you bring into your home with this range, with good health the gold of our time. And with Pure Home Body hoping to encourage wellness through inspiration and style, there is a hit of girl power in each product. From $18.95 / purehomebody.com.au // @purehomebody

BABY ON BOARD! The Omni 360 creates the ideal environment for bub to chill out in and get some shut-eye. Ensuring your cub receives the best support at every age and stage, we love how this all-in-one carrier adjusts as baby grows, and gives max comfort and support for mama too. With the ability to carry your baby front inward facing, forward facing, on the hip and on the back, you’ll be pumping your family adventures to the MAX! $289 / ergobaby.com.au // @ergobabydownunder MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT’S NEW

LUXURY LEATHER When it comes to mama style, we WANT one of these new Bird on the Buffalo baby bags. A luxurious leather hand bag collection designed in Australia with the modern mum (and dad) in mind, each bag is carefully handmade from beautiful, soft, buttery leather that will age with grace. The Myna Tote ($245), is one of our favs. Available in a selection of gorgeous earthy colours, it features a multitude of pockets to hold all your mama essentials and keep you organised. Enter code MAMADISRUPT to receive a bonus Sawah Money Purse (RRP$65) with your order. birdonthebuffalo.com // @birdonthebuffalobags

FIND A NANNY YES, you can have a nanny! Placement Solutions has been leading the in-home childcare industry since 1988, with their professional and personally screened nannies providing pro-active childcare in your home, alleviating the stress of drop-offs and pickups from long day care, and ensuring that your boo boos receive the highest calibre of specialist care. With awesome initiatives such as Nanny Share, enabling two families to split the cost of a nanny, it’s an ideal child care solution. placementsolutions.com.au // @placement_solutions_nannies

STYLE IS AS STYLE DOES Welcoming a new baby is an adventure. Excitement builds through pregnancy whether you’re having a first baby or you’re a practiced parent. And choosing the latest innovative stroller is FUN too! The new Redsbaby JIVE² Platinum comfortably accommodates newborn to toddler-sized passengers, converts into an easy-to-use tandem, has a sophisticated exclusive gunmetal chassis complemented with a black leatherette handle bar and bumper bar, and possesses luxurious quilted detailing to create a premium LOOK, FEEL and DRIVE! In an exclusive colour palette of Glacier and Mulberry, we’re hooked. redsbaby.com.au // @redsbabyaus

mama sass We LOVE Bae! And this summer, we are so excited as the label launches Bae Boutique, an elevated collection of event dresses that are both maternity and feed friendly. No more struggling to find a going-out dress. HOORAY MAMA! baethelabel.com // @baethelabel

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SJP: COVER FEATURE

MOTHERHOOD UNPLUGGED FASHION ICON, screen HEROINE, TV producer, wife and MOTHER, Sarah Jessica Parker is a woman who KNOWS what she WANTS. TOUGH, STRONG, and TENACIOUS, it hasn’t always been easy, with the HEARTACHE of infertility a part of her tale, but NOTHING has stopped this #MUMBOSS from rising to the TOP.

WORDS // Karen Anne Overton

veteran of Hollywood for more than 30 years, Sarah Jessica Parker feared the work would not always be there. But with her fashion, perfume, production and acting empire as strong as ever, this fearless mama has always marched to the beat of her own drum, continuing to defy the long-held notion that women over 40 cannot survive in show business. Her greatest role, however, is being mother to James, 15, and eight-year-old daughters Tabitha and Marion (born via surrogate). Today, the striking 52-year-old’s priority is her family, including husband of 20 years, Matthew Broderick, all the while maintaining her athletic physique and peerless style acumen. Naturally, there are still comparisons being drawn between Sarah and her most famous shoe-addict alter ego Carrie Bradshaw, but the actress is quick to draw the line between fiction and reality. “Except for the fact that we both love living in New York, there really aren’t any similarities,” she says firmly. “I’m a working mother who has been married for a long time and my children keep me very busy ... I usually don’t wear heels because I’m always running around with my kids!” In 2016, Sarah made her television comeback, 12 years after the final Sex and the City episode aired, in the HBO dramedy Divorce. Despite vowing never to return to the small screen, she couldn’t

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He cts I want to ethic p not just cacse ew it comes to oh f being nabjaleunt HocusanPoeasier tim e th work on an t her famsilpyoise and agra Thaaytswpourk calve looking afte e to e d a fi often I’m at ffoerdrfehcetllpy, sbculpted an w rst and bey’sa Hallow r their child ancer’ d able to put a d h e p u h re o e t n r a m s o n n e is s f ,” e d e h noatrah s-onenmtiooth for long upne,riand D she says. “I n er. them to bed poss love bein ods of timnes, not to m 33 that S wa eF every night. v d a e H rn g a tu a n , Last year, th b n w e ti le ” hich is a lu rm til sh nry Just Wa to give mwyekriidnsg aLostubou e lithe actre xu n’t u manygwporomfessionally fo ableidro ss starred in in to knse, itanwas together wit ic n e u k a in n ti e tt d rk a o o s h n th ir ’t n w d d ha en e romantic a haevec h her rebell th an comedy,M ious teenag erdre vofotiron to lready bveing dinnre as friends e a t d a s d heady heigh d a a a A y c ll h R n e e o e h d th a aughter. A sm em Oft ds Lead to Ric sha ydJnb ts of her tele an ned h point s en all productio r. The pair vision perfo amcto y, by whome, abaonudt afilm John F. K itm d Alongside h C w n te e o w rm a it d th a a h ts n n y d li ce fl w n e s – aptly, he ho btarie a er acting wo tag, it leasse iction, bu ow dd r role on Div ck – aitefedllre ath addru rk, Sarah is at rd. She kes a ero g se tr Jeans and it e ip rw m o s tf th ro ri re h a o e u rc ig co g v d e was nom ably stra the stator’shfiislm mmitted to se s new vinta lym t bhloItsaso her role asBaro ge line. She workdoca anks r nadG stars are giv en admirinated fo deth inngnseov, eler rea rel re o e has also lau glo salbaem ld y a b b h n u d G o fe n en a windo ch lo fl a li le b ba b the e. re atr nched the S w to success r fo g in a sta UNIC JP CollectEioighties, assloavdeoth uld nurtu Jessica Park od , and wisely and bein t sEhFe acn a n n e is er brand, th o th re a f th d sh ca all ab ip il , o m h ’s h th e s c p s, it e New York onld in Nord anks to her latiso wehl at aving aign sposkre h re y e ll a d sm e a n r k st But ultimate o a h c d a ro in ri s y, im m e pdurs d ven for Jordach itable fashio and that’ famil ly, there is n ture n sense and Bro uew a la s brgeeyond actsays wistfounllliy.ne“.SSoarah is acute o amount o up in the stability busin“eIssgre ly in e a g h w f success th s a are dato n d ,” that was lack sa has worked vvy. feel good t at will conv ppeareth ing from he e haerdcoau leaftain m p actress is de s in e t ce k cr a h r e m o r th wn childho th d g c , n e termined to th 2 e a w 0 e o .” th 0 S lf a t 2 fe ra is nm od. Whethe oty li . Bu succeed on mes in The secret is r workin oer.irHseornaJnach e tabloids sthgift of at theodf oth her own term th te a d g re te a rr g to keep our a ll u or is min ours ofethbeirth s. And the se rs via a s relationship day, or pro reoto g split dothe desitw ghvte cret to maFriollowing th din dapuro ente for us. We d ide her ech ctin n t tal bliss? Sh of their im g hetrofa u b , e on’t talk abo n mily from conc iviledr ut it, so it tireme, rumours e repliesbw noryt jus gle indg to upgry m tr thh oaf w s e d d r a mains som ced the irit ia a e , sm h ft th ileu:p“M le y answ other, a e nnouenthing that rt teemsa erog ath assothe co is y, b e it rr lo il u n s g m a divorce, a fe t nlyrto aslley,ve ut in d”by anekfu e chuils. roblems b d then, th n ave anoth A h . marital p s to e v d li e juggle ur e decid balancing event in o e y k th c “When w t lu a th re its mo stay was one arah adm n need to S It e , . s ft d e o e v d li it c n d x a e ge ays put ys a week eir privile ives to alw ce five da tr Despite th s ffi o e h n s a – t a home ren who work her child en I’m at h ft o it w d n ts a mothers n on ome g able to t to work recious m I love bein “ cts I wan . je s to miss p y ro a p s e e sh ose th hildren,” “I can cho er their c ft a a g in k dy, All Ro ht.” to loo ntic come every nig a it comes d m e b ro w e n to th t them productio starred in able to pu r. A small e actress te iv h th g li u e a d th role on D age Last year, ious teen aptly, her ll – e s b e re c a n r a e s a g rm with h ion perfo to her role is d v together te le it te m r e olle com ights of h the SJP C , Sarah is d rk e o h c w heady he n g u n rker ha e her acti has also la Alongsid e New Yo line. She e th g , ly ta e in is v w nd nd b its new n sense a success, a io to h s Jeans and w fa o d le imitab vince n a win

Sarah credits her children James, 15, and twins Tabitha and Marion, 8, as being the greatest gifts of her life.

resist Catastrophe co-creator Sharon Horgan’s painfully sharp and witty observation of a marriage breakdown, and the audience agreed, with the show confirmed for a second series. Happily married, one might imagine it would be difficult to play a woman in the throes of such a crisis, but Sarah appears fascinated by the many facets of marriage and the family dynamic. “I was interested in the series because it's both a portrait of marriage and divorce, and how this woman feels lost and alone at this point in her life,” says Sarah. “It's about how she has sacrificed many of her dreams for the sake of building a family, then feels disappointed by her husband and needs to start over.” Sarah’s own parents divorced when she was young; she was only three-and-a-half when her mother Barbara married a second time to a truck driver. One of eight children, with three older siblings and four younger half-siblings, Sarah recalls there being very little money – a factor of her childhood which presented itself in various ways: sometimes was no electricity, other times there were visits from debt collectors and occasionally, Christmas or birthdays would pass with no recognition. Despite this hardship, the actress has a matter-of-fact approach to her past. Far from feeling bitter, she has used the experience to propel her forward, working fastidiously from a very young age at dance and drama to ensure her own future.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

And her work ethic has paid off, with moderate success arriving early for Sarah. Having attended the School of American Ballet in New York City, Sarah possessed a dancer’s poise and grace which made her ideal for Broadway and film roles which had theatrical undertones – like Footloose, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, and Disney’s Halloween jaunt Hocus Pocus. Her background in ballet also explained her ability to run about the streets of Manhattan in towering Louboutins, not to mention her perfectly sculpted calves. Often cast as friends and sidekicks, it wasn’t until she turned 33, however, that Sarah landed the role that was to make her a household name in Sex and the City. By this stage she had already been working professionally for more than two decades. It was during this period she met Matthew Broderick – a fellow stage and film actor. The pair shared a devotion to their craft and married in 1997. Unlike Carrie Bradshaw, Sarah’s love life has been admirably straightforward. She briefly dated John F. Kennedy Jnr and was romantically linked to Robert Downey Jnr during the eighties, a love that floundered due to his severe drug addiction, but she ultimately sought someone dependable – finding in Matthew a relationship that she could nurture and by doing so, let blossom into something real. “I grew up in a large family, and having children and being in a stable relationship with the man I love is something that gives me security and makes me feel good,” Sarah says wistfully. “So that’s really what it’s all about for me. My children give me so much happiness, they’re the greatest gift of my life.” Following the birth of their son James in 2002, the couple appeared to hit a rocky patch. Rumours of Matthew’s infidelity were rife, and for a time, news of their impending split dominated the tabloids. But the couple threw the world’s media a curveball, and instead of confirming divorce, announced the birth of not just one, but two daughters via a surrogate. The anxiety and tension, as it turned out, was not the product of marital problems, but infertility, as the couple had struggled to conceive naturally for a long time. “When we decided to have another child by a surrogate mother, after trying for years, it was wonderful,” says Sarah. “All three of us were very excited. It was one more lucky event in our lives. And then, thankfully, there came two!” Despite their privileged existence, Sarah admits that balancing the juggle has its moments. And though she may “have an easier time than working mothers who are at an office five days a week and often need to stay late”, it is not simply a case of being able to

COVER FEATURE

“I’m a working mother... I usually don’t wear heels because I’m always running around with my kids!”

PICTURES: GET T Y IMAGES / SHUT TERSTOCK

afford help, but of not wanting to miss precious moments with her children. Sarah strives to always put her family first and be a hands-on mother. “I can choose the projects I want to work on and often I’m at home for long periods of time, which is a luxury many women don’t have when it comes to looking after their children,” she says. “I love being able to give my kids a stable routine, having dinner ready for them and being able to put them to bed every night.” Last year, the lithe actress starred in the romantic comedy, All Roads Lead to Rome, about a woman who takes a road trip through Italy together with her rebellious teenage daughter. A small production with limited release, it seems that the star’s film work can never reach the heady heights of her television performances – aptly, her role on Divorce was nominated for a Golden Globe. And alongside her acting work? Sarah is committed to her role as a global ambassador for UNICEF as an advocate for change, as well as her commercial projects, including her SJP Collection of shoes sold in Bloomingdales. Wisely, the New Yorker has worked hard at crafting and leveraging her personal brand, thanks to her inimitable fashion sense and business savvy. But ultimately, there is no amount of success

that will convince Sarah that the wolf is not at the door, with her desire to provide her children with the stability that was lacking from her own childhood, her driving force. Whether working all hours of the day, or protecting her family from prying media, the actress is determined to succeed on her own terms. And the secret to marital bliss? “We keep our relationship for us. We don’t talk about it. It remains something that will always belong only to us.”

Sarah's combined work ethic and commitment to her family has enabled her to juggle motherhood and a career.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

COVER FEATURE

Sarah's Style A mama muse in more ways than one, Sarah's progressive fashion exploration over the years and her ability to push boundaries has positioned her as a true icon of style.

SJP SPEAKS OUT

ON RAISING HER CHILDREN IN NEW YORK // New York is one of the most interesting cities in the world that you could ever raise your children in. I love being able to observe people and feel part of the city when I ride the subway. I love all the different neighbourhoods. There is so much going on in terms of art and culture and it's endlessly stimulating. I think my children are fortunate to grow up here. It means a lot to me to watch them become very curious and excited about being part of this kind of environment, just like I am.

2005

2008

2010

ON SEEKING HELP AS A PARENT // When I need advice, apart from talking to Matthew, I'm very comfortable talking to my brother Pippin, and my sister Rachel has also helped me many times. Although, to be honest, I find myself usually giving advice around the clock to many of my friends!

2015

2016

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2017

ON MAKING HER MARRIAGE WORK // I'm happily married. I know what it's about. I've had 20 years of amazing complications and making eye-opening mistakes, and being educated by those mistakes, and finding out what works for us and circumnavigating the so-called rules. Because there are no rules in marriage. Everybody's marriage is completely different.

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

ON HER PASSION FOR FASHION // Like everybody else, my day dictates what I wear. If I'm running the kids to school in NYC, I am just trying to get them out the door! Whether it's raining or snowing, I dress for the day. But, for days like a press day, I am shined up and present the best version of myself. I think life tells you who you are each day and what you want to say or what you want to convey, though. Everybody makes a choice from there about what to wear, and I'm no different.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I've had years of finding out

what works and circumnavigating

the so-called

rules. Because there are

no rules.â&#x20AC;?

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

A beautiful

LIFE WORDS // Yasmin Thomas

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Michelle and her seven-month-old bebe, Harper, look for the positive in everything.

Having forged a successful CAREER on the CATWALK, these days it’s Michelle Alan’s STYLE and POISE along with her personal account of MOTHERHOOD that’s TURNING HEADS (and collecting HEART emojis) mid-scroll.

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

t was as a fresh-faced teen appearing in a few TV commercials that Michelle Alan had her first taste of stardom … and she was hooked. “I loved being out on location and was excited by the fact that there was potential to travel to some pretty amazing places,” recalls Michelle. It wasn’t until 2008, that the Brisbane-born stunner achieved international recognition, placing First Runner-up in Miss Universe Australia. “I missed out, but I signed up with their management,” says Michelle. A few days later, she was packing her bags for modelling gigs in Hong Kong and Milan. At just 21, Michelle’s first solo adventure signalled a rapid learning curve. “In Hong Kong the jobs came easily and I was working most days,” says Michelle. “But in Milan, it was so much harder. Each day was filled with up to eight castings all over the city, joining queues of hundreds of others models for hours on end.” While it’s not a lifestyle she’d indulge in anymore, now that she’s mama to seven-month-old Harper, Michelle’s contracts sent her all over Asia and Europe – and she got to see the world. “A lot of the jobs that I did book were shot in incredible locations like Como, Rome and Florence, so I’m very grateful that I was able to see Italy like that.” The pitfalls of the fashion industry are widely publicised and Michelle was no stranger to these dark moments throughout her decade-long career. “Working in an industry where rejection is just part and parcel of the job, it’s hard not to get discouraged,” says Michelle. “Early on there were times when I was too big, too thin, too short, too tall, too white, too tanned, all in one day!” But this brunette beauty took it in her stride. “I soon realised you can’t please everyone.” By implementing a positive self talk practice, Michelle found it easier to take the knocks. “I would show up to castings with self-love and confidence and thoughts like, ‘This is me, if you don’t like me, you don’t have to book me. You should be so lucky to have me.’ And that’s when work picked up!” Michelle went on to use this newfound confidence to improve other areas that were suffering. “It helped to purify my personal life,” explains Michelle. “It gave me beautiful genuine friendships with women who inspired me, and it led me to find the most incredible man I now call my husband.”

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Michelle says reading Mama Disrupt® is like catching up with a courageous and supportive best friend over a glass of wine. We love this chick!

In an interesting twist of fate, Michelle recalls the time she almost didn’t pursue her relationship with her now other half. “I had planned a trip overseas to work, and didn’t really have any intention of coming home. Then, right before leaving I met Serkan,” says Michelle. “After only five weeks away, I knew I had to go home to him. Thankfully, I followed my heart because now we are married and have our little Harper. It makes me sick to think that if I hadn’t taken that risk, things might have been very different!” While Michelle, 29, still enjoys modelling, it’s becoming a mother that has proven to be her greatest endeavour. “My number one priority right now is being Harper’s mummy,” smiles Michelle. “It can be overwhelming, but I am learning to trust my instincts. There’s no time for self-doubt when a precious little human needs you to figure it all out for them!” So what has been the biggest change? “I’m no longer doing whatever I want, when I want,” laughs Michelle. “But, I wouldn’t have it any other way. At the end of the day, if there are unanswered emails and piles of washing, I can be proud knowing I’ve given my best effort as a mama. If I have time to reply to emails or shoot some content for the blog and social media during [Harper’s] naps, then that is a bonus!”

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Social media has long been a creative outlet for this stylish mama and Michelle intends to keep sharing regular updates on her life with her audience of a whopping 190,000 followers on Instagram. “The number itself doesn’t mean a whole lot to me,” says Michelle. “But I am certainly grateful to have such a supportive audience to share the highlights of my life with. For me, it has always been a platform to inspire and be inspired. I have had the chance to work with so many amazing people and brands that I would never have come across on my own.” While she is grateful for the support from other like-minded mums, with such wide-reaching exposure comes the inevitable negative trolling. “Someone recently had a go at me for not being ‘real’, saying that I should show more photos of

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER myself with loose skin, bags under my eyes and baby spewstained clothes. My answer to that is that I personally like to follow positive accounts that inspire me, so I choose to post about my positive experiences,” explains Michelle. “Tired eyes and dirty clothes are a given when you’re a mum, so I like to concentrate on things that are happy and helpful.” Today, Michelle is living a life she is proud of and couldn’t be happier or more grateful. “I still pinch myself. I’m living the life I had always envisioned,” says Michelle. “I look forward to each day with my little sidekick. Having a baby means I have given life, but what I didn’t expect is that Harper would give ME life.”

@MISH_MAC

MISH’S FAVES… FASHION LABEL // Zimmermann, Tallulah, Witchery, MLM Label, Sir the Label WARDROBE STAPLE // A white linen t-shirt BEAUTY PRODUCT // Bio Oil for a deflating mum-tum! MUST-HAVE ACCESSORY // A good handbag, although these days, I’m all about the nappy bag. My top picks are Claudine and Ash, Luks Life, Salvatore Ferragamo and Sage + Luna. BABY THREADS // Seed, Cotton On Kids, Mini Marley, Hux Baby MATERNITY STYLE // Legoe Heritage, She Maternity, Bae the Label, Pea in a Pod, Feed Life, Charley M

“IT’S HARD TO FEEL SORRY FOR YOURSELF WHEN YOU’RE BUSY BEING GRATEFUL.”

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

THE MISH MAC MISSION // “TO LOVE AND BE LOVED. TO LIVE A POSITIVE AND COMPASSIONATE LIFE AND TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.”

Michelle is a glass half full girl, and tries to make the best of each day.

“MOTHERHOOD HAS TAUGHT ME THAT I AM SO MUCH MORE CAPABLE THAN I EVER GAVE MYSELF CREDIT FOR.” 34

MAMA DISRUPT // AUTUMN 2017

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MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

MOTHER of three, Bohannah Gerritsen has turned a LOVE of ADVENTURE into a CREATIVE CAREER path â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thanks to a certain social media PLATFORM. WORDS // Amy Molloy

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

“INSTAGRAM HAS ENCOURAGED ME TO EXPAND MY LOVE OF PHOTOGRAPHY WHILE STILL BEING AT HOME WITH MY KIDS.” ohannah Gerritsen can remember the moment she realised her Instagram following of friends and family had the potential to become bigger. “It was the first photograph that got over a hundred likes,” she says, “It felt huge at the time. It was the only image I had ever used hashtags on – a cropped shot of myself holding my pregnant belly. From that moment, I started gaining followers from outside my social circle which changed everything.” Bohannah never imagined that less than three years later, documenting her life on the social media platform would not only become her passion – but a professional income stream. Today, The Simple Folk Instagram page has nearly 75,000 followers, along with its accompanying blog, where Bohannah (Bo) documents her “road-tripping, coffee-roasting, beach-loving, day-dreaming, creative life” as a mother of three (Indiana, three, Archer, two and bubba in her belly). Now describing her professional job as “imagemaker”, the 26-year-old has struck sponsorship deals with global companies and amassed a worldwide fan base of people who love her seemingly carefree life in Western Australia

and wherever the road takes her family of five. “Instagram has encouraged me to expand my love of photography while still being at home with my kids,” says Bohannah. “It's opened me up to opportunities that I couldn't imagine getting elsewhere – and I'm able to earn an income. I guess you could say it's a dream job.” So, how did a mother with no creative industry experience become a maternal Instagram sensation? “I am still surprised at how my account has grown. I'm pretty selective with the content I post. I'm aware not to over-post and I also don't repetitively publish the same image. I think a lot of people share photos because they are chasing the likes – they're hungry to gain more followers. I'm sure that works for some, but I also think it can come across as unauthentic.” Adventure is at the core of the family dynamic. When not exploring the beach near their homecity of Perth, artful images show the brood traversing the Australian outback (Indiana in a feathered tutu), navigating six-hour road trips and uncovering the hidden sites of Bali – the children, a picture of sibling harmony. “My husband (Tye)

Bohannah is on a mission to break down stereotypes, proving that motherhood is truly what you make it.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Bo credits Deepak Chopra’s The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success as helping her understand her life's journey.

“MOTHERHOOD ISN'T ALWAYS EASY, BUT IT IS MAGICAL.”

and I have always loved the outdoors,” Bo says, “So when we had kids, we committed to trying to continue to live as we always had. When Indi was only a few months old, we hit the road at 5am and were at our favourite beach by 8am. I think it's important for children to spend as much time in nature as possible to learn how truly precious it is. Our kids don't have iPads ...” Yet, technology is now at the centre of their mum’s career, and this year Bo even partnered with the clothing brand Bonds, complete with a family photoshoot featured on the label’s website. “Bonds was one of the first companies I ever tagged in my photos because when the kids were babies they lived in their onesies,” Bo smiles. “The first photo I posted of them in their matching onesies was shared on the Bonds Insta page, and it gave me a lot of exposure.” Continuing to regularly tag the brand until they followed her back (“I did a happy dance when they did!”), Bo eventually got a phone call. “It wasn't until about a year later that I was contacted by a Bonds' representative asking if I would be interested in becoming a style blogger,” she says, “Of course I jumped at the chance to work with such an iconic company.” Having also now worked with Bugaboo and Airbnb, Bohannah has had to learn fast when it comes to social media management. With her children’s lives documented in such a public manner, there has also been the inevitable debate around how much is the “right” amount to share.

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

“As my account has grown, I have thought about this topic more and more,” Bo reveals. “I am definitely more conscious about what I share on my platform. More often than not, I keep photos on my camera roll as some things just don't need to be passed on. Having said that, there are always going to be pros and cons of everything we do, and I prefer to focus on the positives.” With a desire to inspire other mamas and a will to live freely, Bohannah is certainly on a mission to break down stereotypes, proving that motherhood is truly what you make it. “Motherhood isn't always easy, but it's also magical and I want to share the beauty of it,” she says, “I hope my feed inspires other mamas to explore their surroundings, to go on a road trip or to try something new, and to capture and share those experiences. I know I am lucky, though. Juggling a job, family and travel is easier when all you need to work is a camera and phone reception.” And next for this idyllic fam? “Over the summer, we move into our newly renovated “shed house”, as well as welcoming baby number three. And then, I promise … no more babies!”

@THESIMPLEFOLK_

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

HOW TO INSTA-STYLE YOUR FAMILY 1. COORDINATE OUTFITS // This happens quite naturally for us and often isn't forced. Even before having kids, my husband Tye and I used to go out dressed the same and wouldn't even notice until we were out (so embarrassing!). Now with the kids, I often dress them in similar colours which always makes for aesthetically pleasing photos. 2. CLEAR THE CLUTTER // If you are planning to take a photo inside, then make sure the area is clean and clutter-free. Allow for good natural light and a few simple accessories (pillow, throw or flowers), and of course, don't forget your kids! 3. SHOOT AT SUNDOWN // I don't really attempt taking outside daytime photos anymore unless it's a cloudy day. My favourite time is 4pm onwards. Sunsets always make for good photos – no shadows, no harsh lighting and beautiful tones in the sky. 4. DON’T FORCE A SMILE // Only take photos when the kids are in the mood. Sometimes it does feel like you're wrangling monkeys and there's no point if it's not fun and they aren't wanting to cooperate. Photos should be a real portrayal of a moment in time. 5. STAY TRUE TO YOUR STYLE // I see so many accounts that all look the same because everyone is so 'inspired' to share photos that are sometimes replicas of another person's art. Be yourself, be authentic and only post what truly makes you happy.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

The family believes in living mindfully and practising gratitude.

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Join the social conversation #mamasandpapasaustralia

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MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

BRAVE HEART

Meet the inspirational FITNESS MAMA, Revie Jane, who is dedicated to spreading positivity like WILDFIRE with plenty of BODY LOVE, one post at a time. WORDS // Yasmin Thomas

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

“SEL F L OVE IS NOT A FINAL DEST INAT ION, IT ’S AN ONGOING JOUR NEY. WE MUST EMBRACE OUR IMPERFECT IONS.” Revie works hard to overcome her negative self talk and strives to find things she loves about who she is.

pen. Vulnerable. Raw. It’s this mindset that drives cross-fit trainer and fitness enthusiast, Revie Jane, to share daily content with her 158,000 Instagram followers. “This is how I want to share my life with others,” explains Revie. “And I hope it helps other women feel less alone on their own journeys. I’m not about sugar-coating things or airbrushing images, this is reality.” Possessing a love for sport from an early age, it’s no wonder Revie decided to pursue it as a profession later in life. “Throughout high school there was one safe place for me and it was in sport,” says Revie. “For a moment in time while passing [the] ball with friends or running in track, I felt free, empowered and confident.” Having spent her youth struggling with depression and anxiety, exercise was her escape and it wasn’t until she was 18 that she discovered the powerful connection between fitness and its positive impact on her mental wellbeing. “I felt stronger, more energetic and I appreciated my capabilities, which turned into a form of self-respect,” recalls Revie. “It is nice that fitness helps me stay in shape but for me, it has always been about the mental benefits.” Building on this confidence, Revie was just 21 when she launched her very own gym on the Gold Coast with the support of husband Clay. Within the first three months, more than 80 members had signed on. “I was completely overwhelmed with the support and love from the local community,” smiles Revie. From day one, it was clear this courageous woman had found her calling, with Revie, in turn, inspired by the bravery of her clients. “I fell in love with the daily physical challenges [my clients] faced and overcame. They would walk in feeling scared, then walk out feeling triumphant and capable! The reward from my job is so fulfilling.”

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

REVIE’S GO-TO BRANDS

Soon, Revie’s online presence was also beginning to gain traction, with her 10-minute home workout tips quickly attracting more followers, and her inbox being flooded by requests from women asking for fitness advice. “My growth across social media came organically,” says Revie. “The workouts resonated with a lot of women leading them to feeling strong and confident.” Living life in the public eye has not come without scrutiny though, and when Revie continued to train while pregnant, her approach was met with anger by online trolls. “I would receive comments like, ‘She is so vein’, ‘How narcissistic’ or ‘If only she cared about her baby more than her looks’, says Revie. “I wasn’t training to look good, I was training because I cared about my mental and physical wellbeing! It was infuriating, but I used the opportunity to educate those who did not understand.” Now, mama to 18-month-old Lexington,

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Revie recalls just how tough the adjustment to motherhood was after giving birth and dealing with both the physical and emotional changes. Thankfully, she was able to rely upon the support of her tribe – many of whom she hadn’t even met in person. “I connected with thousands of women worldwide who appreciated my vulnerable approach in sharing my emotions,” says Revie. It’s this deep affinity with other women that has helped Revie to face motherhood head on, and it’s a closeness she cherishes. “I feel like I am part of an international sisterhood. I am so blessed to know such an awesome community.” Prior to becoming a mum, Revie admits she didn’t realise how different motherhood would be, and it’s given her a new perspective on what it’s like to be a woman. “I don’t think anything can prepare you for the change becoming a mother brings,” says Revie. “I knew it would be hard, but my definition of “hard” after becoming a mum changed dramatically! I gained so much respect for every mother out there.” And for this mama on the go, it's a busy existence. Most days begin at 4am (“My brain is in peak operating condition at that time; and I usually knock out three hours of work before Lexington wakes up”), and three days of the week Revie spends time on her business while Lexi is in daycare. So how does Revie balance the juggle? “I believe that putting my personal ambition first is a part of being a good mum,” explains Revie. “Demonstrating self-care is a great lesson to teach a little person. Once I am at work, I try to be at work, and when I am with Lexi, I try to be with Lexi. It’s about being present and knowing it’s okay to do both.” It’s obvious mamahood has changed this

PICTURES: GE T TOGE THER PHOTOGR APHY

@THANKYOUBABY // Their nappies are what we have used on Lexi forever and we love them. @BONDSAUS // Wondersuits are our favourite PJs! They have the most beautiful prints! @MOUNTAINBUGGY // We have the Terrain running pram and it is the smoothest ride around. We also have the Nano which is quite compact and awesome for quick shopping trips, using a tiny amount of car space. @BUBNEST // This is an awesome little portable bed for babies. Lexi loved hers!

REVIE’S 3 BODY BUSTERS FOR BUSY MAMAS! AIR THRUSTER (3 SETS WITH 12 REPS) 1. Start with your feet shoulder width apart, keep your weight in the heels and hands resting on the tops of your shoulders. 2. Lower your hips until parallel to the ground. pocket rocket for the better, and Revie is clearly enjoying these moments with her boo. “It’s the most soul-enriching thing that has ever happened to me,” smiles Revie. “I couldn’t have dreamt up the love this little lady makes me feel.” And while a large part of her life is spent teaching others, it’s Lexi who appears to have taught her mama a thing or two along the way. “I was the most impatient, headstrong person you’d meet before Lexi came along … I was determined to meet her on my due date and tried every wives’ tale possible to make this happen. Instead, Lex made me wait 40 weeks 11 days to enter the world!” The lesson? “That no matter how set on something I am, a child will do what it pleases! To survive this gig you need to be patient!” laughs Revie. Now living happily with her new family, the 26-year-old’s focus is to stay true to her life’s passion and enjoy every minute with her loved ones. “I’ve learnt that if we aren’t present, we miss such magical moments. So, be in the moment mamas! Don’t miss the magic!” And her dream for little Lexi? “That she grows up in a world that has equality and safety. I want her to know she can achieve ANYTHING.”

3. Drive through your heels and as you come to stand, shoot your hands up into the air palms up to the roof, before returning hands back to shoulders. TIP: AS YOU RISE, ENGAGE AND TIGHTEN YOUR CORE AND GLUTES. ON THE SPOT LUNGES (3 SETS WITH 12 REPS) 1. Stand with your feet under your hips, extend one leg out in front of you so that your knee is at 90 degrees, lunge until your back knee lightly taps the floor. 2. Drive off the front foot, through the centre of your foot to come back to standing. 3. Alternate, stepping forward with your other leg. TIP: KEEP YOUR BALANCE BY PLACING YOUR HANDS ON YOUR HIPS. GLUTE BRIDGES (3 SETS WITH 12 REPS) 1. Lie on your back, place your hands down by your side. Your legs should be at shoulder width, bend them so that your feet are still on the floor but your knees are bent to 90 degrees.

Revie realised she could choose to either let life define her, or to become the heroine of her own story.

“I L OVE T HE QUOTE, 'I AM NOT WHAT HAPPENED TO ME. I AM WHO I CHOOSE TO BECOME.'" - CARL JUNG

2. Place your palms flat on the floor, drive through your heels to raise your hips until they are in line with your shoulder and knees. Squeeze your glutes for two seconds then lower back with control. TIP: ENGAGE YOUR CORE AS YOU RAISE YOUR HIPS.

MAMA STYLE 1. LORNA JANE LOTUS CORE SHORTS, $69.99 Beach workouts just got a whole lot prettier! These versatile shorts can be worn in and out of the water. From the surf to shore line running, they’ll give you the stability to feel supported through any workout. lornajane.com.au // @lornajaneactive

TOP PICK

2. MAMMOJO BREASTFEEDING RACER TANK, $129 + POSTNATAL SUPPORT TIGHTS, $99 Don’t let the fact that you’re breastfeeding stop you from taking care of yourself mama! Thanks to the supportive Lactivewear® range by Mammojo, you can easily feed bub pre-or-post workout! The racer tank’s nursing friendly clasps mean you won’t need to lift your top up to feed either. And the postnatal support tights will have you looking #onfire whilst helping post birth tummies recover. mammojo.com // @mammojo

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3. COTTON ON ACTIVE YOGA MAT, $19.95 We love this yoga mat for some mama zen time at home or out and about. At 4mm thick, it provides the perfect cushioning, whilst still being easy to transport. Plus, it comes with a carry strap. cottonon.com // @cottonon 4. COTTON ON BODY MATERNITY PRINTED CORE CAPRI, $34.95 Made especially for new mamas and mamas-to-be, these sassy capri tights have got your bump covered! Worn over or under your belly offering some serious comfort and stretch, you’ll be active in style in these baby smugglers. cottonon.com // @cottonon 5. ZULU ACTIVE TOTE BAG, FROM $139 + DRINK BOTTLE, FROM $39 Modern mums will love these super chic accessories by Zulu Active. Cart all your essentials around in the stylish neoprene tote bag and clutch – available in a range of colours. We’re also loving the sleek drink bottles which keep your water cold for up to 24 hours. Plus, we can’t wait to see the apparel range drop! zuluactive.com // @zuluactive_au 6. LORNA JANE MATERNITY BRA, $75.99 Designed to offer maximum support, this sporty number has adjustable straps for a custom fit, and nursing clips for easy feeds on the go. Vibing the look and feel! stylerunner.com // @stylerunner

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

It's go time! Get back into EXERCISE after BABY with the HELP of these must-have GEMS that you can even wear to the CAFÉ (post workout, of course…) 4

ILLUSTRATION: JEN AND JENNIFER

M A M AH A PR BO I TM A TO T I O N

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE

Tried and tested by REAL MAMAS, the OMNI 360 designed by Ergobaby is an award-winning baby carrier that will ensure both MAMA and BUBBA feel SAFE and OH-SO-COMFORTABLE from day one. Bring on the SNUGGLES!

n the market for a baby carrier, mama? With so many options to consider, the quest can be overwhelming! Cue Ergobaby – who have been designing breakthrough carriers for more than a decade, nurturing the special bond between mama and child, while also promoting the healthy development of babies through smart and functional design. And their latest offering, the new Omni 360, is amazing. So, before you embark on a hunt for a carrier, here are four reasons why this award-winning product should be at the top of your list.

SUPERIOR COMFORT FOR BABY The Omni 360 creates the ideal environment for your bub to chill out in and get some shut-eye, with your baby feeling super settled while nestled in close to your chest. Its smart design ensures the best in proper head and neck support for your bub with its foldable and extendable cushion, which means there’s no need for a baby insert. Plus, the handy velcro tabs adjust the seat to accommodate your growing mini-me.

SUPPORT AS YOU CARRY Using a baby carrier allows you to go hands-free, but it must offer the right support if you’re planning on wearing it for an extended period of time. The Omni 360 distributes your baby’s weight evenly across your hips and shoulders, and even has crossable straps with double lock buckles for extra safety. All Ergobaby carriers are designed in consultation with health professionals and the International Hip Dysplasia Institute to ensure ergonomic

comfort for both you and bub. The Omni 360 is about getting around without limits.

A CHAMELEON CARRIER A carrier that offers a variety of carry positions is a #gamechanger. From wearing baby around the house, to out and about adventures, to travelling – you will want a carrier that enables your little one to interact with their world, but also allows them to sleep or breastfeed on the go. The Omni 360 does all of the above and more, allowing you to carry your bub front inward facing, forward facing, on the hip and on the back.

DESIGNED TO LAST Want a baby carrier that can go the distance? The Omni 360 can be used from the newborn stage right through to toddlerhood. Made from quality materials and featuring adjustable tabs, it grows with your child, making life's little adventures simple and easy to enjoy ... together.

SHOP THE NEW OMNI 360 NOW AT ERGOBABY.COM.AU INSTAGRAM: @ERGOBABYDOWNUNDER FACEBOOK: @ERGOBABYAUSNZ

“ERGOBABY’S INNOVATIVE AND ERGONOMIC BABY CARRIERS FIT SEAMLESSLY INTO EVERY FAMILY.”

STYLE

STYLE is a reflection of ATTITUDE. ALWAYS be FIERCE. #badass

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

FEMALE SERIES

THIS PAGE: CROOKED OPPOSITE PAGE: FALBANKI

ARTIST PROFILE ANNA KOŻDOŃ

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: PRINCESS, SHADY, SHORT HAIR CLASSY, WINDOW, NOV 16, NATALIA CASTELLAR OPPOSITE PAGE: NOT SAINT

ARTIST PROFILE ANNA KOŻDOŃ

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BROKEN, DARK LIPS, LIGHT CAP, HAND OPPOSITE PAGE: GIRL PWR

BAMBINO STYLE

SAVERS

Skip the MADNESS during the HOLIDAY season with these LIFE SAVERS. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcome!

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MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

1. HIRE FOR BABY, $VARIOUS If the thought of dragging your luggage, oversized baby equipment and possibly screaming kids to the airport is one that puts you off taking a holiday, Hire for Baby can help! With 75 branches across Australia they provide you with all the baby equipment you will require while away from home, delivered to where you need it. You’ll be greeted with clean safe items, so you can enjoy some YOU time. hireforbaby.com // @hireforbabyhq 2. HUBBY MADE TODDLER CHEF STOOL, $327 Finally! Hubby Made’s Toddler Chef Stool is a safe way for your little ones to help and participate in the kitchen with their own learning tower at counter height. Exceptional quality, you'll have this forever. hubbymade.com.au // @hubbyhandmade

3. MOOGOO FRESH CREAM DEODORANT, $8.50 + PROTEIN SHOT LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER, FROM $7.50 Keep fresh in the heat with this aluminium-free, roll-on, natural deodorant by the talented team at MooGoo. Also on hand is MooGoo's popular protein shot leave-in conditioner, perfect for smoothing those humidity frizzies, made with natural coconut oil, jojoba oil and Vitamin E. moogoo.com.au // @moogooskincare 4. BEDNEST, $599.95 Get a good night's sleep with this amazing bedside bassinet. The Bednest is specially designed to sit close to any bed (of varying heights), and its mesh side opens up for easy access – so you can be close to bub, and get a good night's sleep yourself. We love the easy fold and storage feature, too. This bassinet is a #gamechanger. danishbydesign.com.au // @danish_by_design

5. BILLIE THE KID TEE, $25 + PANTS, $29 Billie the Kid are known for their iconic Alphabet Trucker Hats and Mini Alphabet Satchels, and have recently just added a new line of apparel to their range which we LOVE! Style made easy this season. Sizes 0-4. billiethekid.com.au // @billiethekidapparel 6. HARRY & POP SWIMWEAR RANGE, FROM $52 Snap up some fun summer pieces from harry & pop – the ethically made UPF 50+ children’s swimwear collection that will ensure your little rays of sunshine are in vogue while staying protected from the sun’s harmful rays. harryandpop.com.au // @harryandpop 7. HEDZUP NEOPRENE BOOTIES, $35 Protect little toes from hot sand, sharp rocks and slippery bits as they explore the outdoors. These fun swim neoprene booties are perfect for hip little adventurers. Sizes 4-8. hedzupco.com // @hedzupco

8. HEDZUP BEACH HEADREST, $30 Got some beach-hopping planned with the fam these holidays? Good! Not only will you keep the sand out of your hair with this handy beach headrest but you’ll be comfortable for hours while getting that much needed R&R. hedzupco.com // @hedzupco

9. BUGABOO BREEZY CANOPY, FROM $109.95 Protect your boo on hot sunny days with this must-have summer accessory. The Breezy Canopy is water and oil repellent, and provides UPF 50+ protection with its highly durable fabric and mesh panels. It is available for all Bugaboo prams as an accessory, in a range of colour options. bugaboo.com // @bugaboostrollers 10. BABYBJORN BOUNCER BLISS, $209.95 Let baby bounce the day away while you do your thang! The new ergonomic Bouncer Bliss is a cosy place for your baby to play and rest while you get a chance to take a shower or prepare a meal. When your baby kicks their legs or waves their arms, the baby bouncer rocks gently. No batteries needed – this bouncer runs on pure fun! babybjorn.com.au // @babybjorn

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

MAMA CHILL

WHEELS OF ADVEN TURE MOTHERHOOD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the biggest RIDE you will EVER go on.

COLOUR AWAY AND LOSE YOURSELF IN THE JOURNEY. 58

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

MAMA PROMOTION

Experts at capturing your newborn’s FIRST HOURS and your JOURNEY into MOTHERHOOD, GFP Babies are a FAMILY of photographers who believe MILESTONES are for KEEPS.

hat first look at your baby is a moment that changes everything. It’s the moment you become a mother. It's the moment you become a family. It's the moment your heart leaves your body to forever reside in the soul of your cub. But what if you could catch that second in time – that look on your face, that flicker of recognition in the eyes of your child as they meet you? Hello, mama. Cue Nicolle France, the woman behind GFP Babies, a passion project that has become one of the nation’s most beautiful newborn photography services. We grabbed five with the mama of memories...

HOW DID GFP BABIES START? More than 40 years ago, my father and founder of GFP Babies, George France, discovered his love of family photography by taking snaps of families in cafés and restaurants. This passion drove him to start his own photography business centred on capturing family and newborn milestones. GFP Babies now serves tens of thousands of mamas every year in more than 50 hospitals across Australia!WHAT CAN MAMAS

EXPECT?

WHAT CAN MAMAS EXPECT? The journey into mamahood is a rollercoaster ride! When the time comes, mamas shouldn’t be worrying about capturing those fleeting first moments with their new baby. This is where GFP Babies comes in. Our team of professional photographers are trained to work directly in the hospital environment to deliver a warm and caring newborn photography experience in the comfort of the hospital room. New mamas can relax as a GFP photographer captures their baby’s first sleep or even that first smile! Often these moments can be so overwhelming that they get lost in a haze of activity and emotion, so capturing them on camera means mums can treasure their first day with their baby forever. Plus, the images are available to view in a private online gallery that can be shared with friends and family near and far.

WHAT IS THE ETHOS BEHIND THE BRAND? The GFP vision is to build a capsule of timeless moments for the modern parent. We aim to enhance and simplify lives. We know mamas. We know newborns. Our goal is to make a difference and impact positively on people’s lives. Our team of 70 photographers and staff members are like family. Many of them have been with GFP Babies for decades! We are all about being open, authentic, honest and kind.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR GFP BABIES? We are in the process of collaborating with some amazing brands to help mums on their journey of mamahood. Watch this space!

“GFP SERVES TENS OF THOUSANDS OF MAMAS EVERY YEAR IN MORE THAN 50 HOSPITALS!”

BOOK YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION AT SHOP.GFPBABIES.COM.AU @GFPBABIES

HABITAT

FRANKIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NORDIC NOOK

In DESIGNING a HUB for Frankie, ORGANIC TONES and SCANDI decor set the SCENE for a PEACEFUL RETREAT. THEME // Rustic Nordic STYLING // Simone Barter + Anoushka Schollay / Style Life Home PHOTOGRAPHY // Josette Photography

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

hen Luisa and Daniel Klinge decided to update their daughter’s room, they wanted to reflect her adventurous and playful persona, with a cool space of muted tones. We grabbed five with Luisa to talk it through...

WHAT IS THE DESIGN AESTHETIC OF YOUR SPACE?

Scandinavian / Nordic Style incorporating rustic, natural and organic pieces in white, grey and charcoal. We also used soft blush pink tones to make it feminine, without being too baby girl. I love quirky decor – hit me up with oversized flowers, feathers and statement lights any day!

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE ON THE STYLE OF THE ROOM?

The relaxed nature of the style is a true reflection of how we live as a family. Pale greys are a perfect restful colour for sleep, and when teamed with white offer a timeless and fresh finish. Natural elements dot the room, too – oak, weave rugs, and timber. I love the painted floorboards [Palm Beach White Porter Paints] – it enhances the rustic dints and knocks of the timber that have been gained over the time of the home’s life. Contrary to what you might think about kids and white, the floorboards are so easy to keep clean!

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR DESIGN INSPIRATION FROM?

Everywhere – other designers and stylists, magazines, Instagram, Pinterest and generally out and about exploring. My favourite stylist is Paulina Arcklin.

WHAT LOOKS ARE YOU IN LOVE WITH AT THE MOMENT?

I love textural white and natural elements, but I am also obsessed with brightly coloured items that pop in a space, i.e. a peacock blue velvet sofa. I also like metallic anything – lights, taps, mirrors and decor – plus aged brass and the new champagne tones that are everywhere at the moment. Plus, concrete – benches, sinks and even tables!

WHAT TIPS CAN YOU GIVE TO CREATE A SIMILAR FEEL?

Go hard on texture – walls, floors, shelving and soft furnishings. Always go for natural items over man-made – natural rugs, wooden toys/decor, linen. Revive old pieces of furniture and flooring – don’t always buy new. The power of paint is amazing!

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Mama Karla has kept the room clean and siimple so Ivy can play.

GET THE LOOK

M U U T O W A L L D O T S $ 1 7 0 // SURROUNDING.COM. AU I K E A D R A W E R S $ 4 9 9 // IKE A .COM. AU T U T U D E M O N D E $ 2 5 0 // TUTUDUMONDE.COM D O L L H O U S E S $ 5 9 . 9 5 // T E E N I E A N DT I N Y.C O M . A U J E S S B R O W N D O L L $ 3 0 0 // S H O P. J E S S B R O W N D E S I G N . C O M

Luisa has had great fun updating Frankie’s room, favouring a lived-in feel.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ONE MAIN PIECE OF STYLING ADVICE?

Display children’s clothes/shoes, nothing’s cuter! And also display kids’ artwork – scan them, crop them to a smaller size and pop them in a box frame. File the originals.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING A MAMA?

The love! When Frankie grabs my face and says, “I love you, Mama!” my heart melts.

HOW HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE HAVING FRANKIE?

How kids pull at your heartstrings! I’m a pushover at times. I knew a lot though because all of my friends and family had children – maybe that’s why I subconsciously delayed having them!

WHAT TRAITS DOES FRANKIE HAVE THAT YOU HOPE SHE WILL CARRY INTO ADULTHOOD?

It is now super busy and non-stop, but fulfilling. I was older when Frankie arrived (45), so my energy levels are low at times, but I’ve learnt to take care of my health through pilates and eating well. I’ve learnt to be more organised too, so that I don’t get stressed.

Frankie is extremely strong-willed – hard for mama at the moment! But it will be awesome when she’s a young woman making her way in the world.

ARE YOU LOOKING TO HAVE MORE CHILDREN?

For me, it’s Scanlon Theodore, Manning Cartell, Seed and anything from Calexico. For Frankie, it’s Seed, Country Road Kids, Hubble and Duke, Tutu de Monde, My Tiny Wardrobe Sydney and Chikhi.

I’d love to have another child, but unfortunately that time has passed because of my age. Frankie was an absolute gift. We thought we’d never have her after suffering multiple miscarriages. She was a very happy surprise.

WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU KNEW BEFORE BECOMING A MAMA?

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT ARE YOUR GO-TO MUM AND BABY BRANDS?

WHAT IS YOUR FAMILY MOTTO?

Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful.

“I LOVE TEXTURAL WHITE AND NATURAL ELEMENTS, BUT I AM ALSO OBSESSED WITH BRIGHTLY COLOURED ITEMS.”

Frankie’s chic four poster bed is a main feature of the space.

FAV P I E C E S

1. LINEN // It is soft, natural and luxurious. I love the messy bed look. 2. BED // Frankie calls it her “big girl bed house”. It’s so comfy and the perfect size to snuggle in and read books. 3. WARDROBE // We bought this from an antique shop and painted it with Porters White Chalk Paint. It is practical and beautiful. 4. VINTAGE MIRROR // I adore this scalloped bevel-edged round mirror. 5. FLOORBOARDS // The history of the house is evident in every board. I love the worn lived-in look.

STYLE FILE

TOP PICK

FRANKIE’S STYLE 1. MIFFY NIGHTLIGHT $289.95 leoandbella.com.au 2. DAISY RUG $220 armadillo-co.com 3. MOOVER WOODEN DOLLS PRAM $139.95 teenieandtiny.com.au 4. ANGEL PRINT ‘LAI’ $149 magnolialane.biz 5. BED [KING SINGLE] $2199 uniqwafurniture.com.au 6. LADDER $299 houseoforange.com.au

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

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Valentina’s Newborn Nest

When it came to CREATING a CORNER for BABY Valentina in their HOME, The Block’s Jesse Mountford not only CONSIDERED how the room would LOOK, but also how it would FEEL.

HABITAT

THEME // Classic with a Boho Twist STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY // Jesse Mountford

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

HABITAT

“SLEEP IS GREAT, BUT IF YOU WANT THE MOST OUT OF LIFE, YOU HAVE TO WORK FOR IT. YOU HAVE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.”

JESSE LOVES VIBE I love the feel when you walk in. LAYOUT The layout is perfect, with plenty of room to sleep, sit or play. COLOUR SCHEME The bright pops of plum give the room a feminine touch. TEXTURE I like the different textures in the space, especially the timber. CHAIR My most favourite thing is the Hobbe rocking chair.

n putting together a mini wonderland for newborn Valentina, The Block Fans VS Faves’ very own Kenny and Jesse Mountford couldn’t wait to create something that would inspire their newborn to feel safe and secure. We sat down with Jesse to get all the deets...

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE THE THEME "CLASSIC BOHO" FOR THE NURSERY?

Our Pippa McManus print “Sable Ballet” was the inspiration for the whole room. It’s so beautiful and drew us in, so this was our starting point. Then, everything went from there. We wanted a classic feel with a touch of boho to make sure the space still felt organic.

WHEN DID YOU START PLANNING THE DESIGN?

We didn’t know what gender we were having, so we had to wait patiently to plan the room when Valentina was born. That was quite hard because every day I saw beautiful things I wanted!

WHAT MAKES THE SPACE UNIQUE?

The balance of soft wood tones with classic pieces gives the room a really warm feeling. It’s such a lovely space to sit and play.

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR DESIGN INSPIRATION FROM?

I love finding beautiful artwork and letting that guide me.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE INTERIOR TRENDS?

I like comfortable luxury as a general feel. I don’t focus too much on trends. The brand I’m stalking at the moment is Little Rae Prints. They’ve just released a new range which is to die for.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE FOR THOSE WANTING TO CREATE A SIMILAR LOOK?

Shop small is my number one tip. There are so many amazing brands on Instagram that are based in Australia and are working their butts off to deliver original pieces. My number two tip is not to overdo colour. Whether you’re using pink or blue, choose your neutral undertones and then carefully sprinkle some colour around the room using just a few pieces. The overall look is more aesthetically appealing.

A comfy chill zone for mama takes pride of place in Valentina's nursery.

HABITAT

Wall prints personalise the space and set the tone of the room.

DID YOU FACE ANY HURDLES IN CREATING THE SPACE?

GET THE LOOK + Name Flag $23 thispaperbook.myshopify.com + Love You Print $42 toucanonline.com + Name Plaque $39 nestaccessories.com.au + ‘V’ Initial Print $15 designedandcollected.com + Coat Rack $75 thewallcollective.com.au

The main hurdle was ensuring everything fitted into the room without compromising on usability. We perfected the layout by trialling pieces in different places until we were happy.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ONE MAIN PIECE OF STYLING ADVICE?

Don’t be scared to use pieces that aren’t just for the newborn stage. A room should grow with a child. Switching out a few statement pieces as a baby grows is much easier on the pocket.

HOW HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE HAVING VALENTINA?

Being a business owner [Jesse owns lifestyle boutique My Handsome in Townsville] means I’ve had to keep operating when normal working mamas might have enjoyed some well-earned maternity leave. Daily tasks and jobs now need a lot more preparation and organisation to make sure I stay on track! Valentina has slotted right into our lives though, and we couldn't imagine life without her.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT BEING A MODERN MAMA?

It really is true that you can have it all if you’re prepared to hustle. I love being a business owner, mother and wife. Sleep is great, but if you want the most out of life, you have to work for it! You have to make it happen. And it’s amazing that modern mamas all over Australia are making it happen. I love that Mama Disrupt® is empowering the badass mama to know who she is and not be afraid to show the world she’s perfect in her own way!

DO YOU HAVE ANY MAMAHOOD TIPS?

Take advice on board but tweak it to suit you and your baby because nobody knows your baby like you do.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

STYLE FILE

TOP PICK

VALENTINAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STYLE 1. ROCKING CHAIR + OTTOMAN $1490 hobbe.com.au 2. SABLE BALLET PRINT $250 pippamcmanus.com 3. TEENY COT $799 incyinteriors.com.au 4. RHODES TIMBER DRAWERS $999 freedom.com.au 5. BASKET $22 adairs.com.au 6. STORAGE CASES $129 belleandcoliving.com.au 7. THE ENCHANTING ABC BOOK $35 adoredillustrations.com.au

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

Linea by Leander “The innovative design of Linea by Leander ® is not an attempt to keep the classic and organic Leander shapes at a distance. Rather it’s a sophistication of what I love. Making design that matters.” – Stig Leander, Designer + Founder

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CELEBR ATE

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE When it came to Hudsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FIRST birthday, a celebration fit for a KING of the JUNGLE was the order of the day.

THEME // Wild Jungle

PHOTOGRAPHY // Images by Imogen

HABITAT After a rockin' first year, it's time to PAR-TAY!

TOP TIP

hen Jasmin and Terry Mefsut decided on a big bash for their baby boy, Hudson's first birthday, it was the perfect excuse to let loose and make merry. With their first child, Harlow, 3, already growing up so fast, it was the ideal time to take stock with a big family celebration. We got the lowdown on the big day from mama, Jasmin.

Be organised and think about what kids want to do. We had a piñata, colouring, a face painter and exclusive use of a large indoor playground.

WHO PLANNED THE PARTY?

Moi. From top to bottom! My husband just rocked up on the day!

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE THE THEME?

I didn't want anything too baby or cutesy, but still wanted the party to feel like a first birthday. I wanted clean lines and something a little different. So, I chose the colour scheme of jungle green and white, and used a graphic tiger as the main prop. Jungle green was a challenge to work with, especially trying to colour match, but it all came together in the end.

WHAT STYLISTIC TOUCHES DID YOU CREATE FOR THE THEME?

We had a greenery wall with a white balloon installation, a kids’ table with leaves, craft paper plates, and white cups personalised with 'Hudson’s Wild One'. Each child’s table setting had a laser cut white acrylic name place card, a place holder with jungle leaf detail, and a green party hat. We had themed cookies and desserts too, and of course, cake! Plus, Hudson had his face painted as a tiger – adorbs.

WHAT DID HUDSON WEAR?

Cargos and a white polo by H&M.

WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY?

Hudson’s reaction when everyone sang happy birthday to him! It was amazing to be surrounded by so much love and friendship.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

CELEBR ATE

Jasmin wanted a cool theme that would offer some rad styling opps.

" TAKE EACH DAY AS I T COMES, DO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU AND BUBBA, AND ENJOY I T ." WHAT HAS YOUR FIRST YEAR WITH HUDSON BEEN LIKE?

It’s been amazing and has gone so fast. After a shaky start and hard birth, we came full circle and now can’t believe how fast the year has gone. Hudson is a cheeky little boy who fits perfectly into our tribe.

HOW HAVE YOU FOUND MOTHERHOOD SO FAR?

I love it and want to have more babies! I love watching them grow, and learn and discover new things about the world. Sloppy baby kisses are the best!

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU ABOUT MOTHERHOOD?

It is amazing how much you can function with little or no sleep! Also, as a mother, the way you can suddenly relate to other mothers is incredible.

FAVOURITE AGE SO FAR?

Oh, I love every stage! But I'd say the age of one is great as your child really starts to become a little person.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST THING ABOUT THE FIRST YEAR WITH HUDSON?

I have loved seeing my family grow, and watching the relationship between Harlow and Hudson blossom.

ANY MAMA-TO MAMA ADVICE FOR THE FIRST YEAR OF MOTHERHOOD?

Take each day as it comes, do what works for you and bubba, and enjoy it – every single second. It goes way too fast.

"WE CAN ' T BELIEVE HOW FAS T THE YEAR HAS GONE."

Kicking back with some good food and big laughs was the order of the day.

JASMIN’S FIRST YEAR SURVIVAL TIPS 1. Be kind to yourself. 2. Remember, motherhood is a learning curve and all babies are different. 3. Have fun and enjoy.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

STYLING DETAILS Cake, Desserts + Cookies // La Manna Balloons // The Burst Co Greenery Wall // Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Planner Venue // Caulfield Glasshouse Stationery // Penny Lane Stationery Acrylic Signs + Place Names // Etsy Greenery + Plates and Cups // eBay

Hudson loved being the centre of attention.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

BAMBINO MILESTONES

MEMORY CAPSULE TRANSFORM your bebe's EARLY moments into LASTING MEMORIES with these lush finds...

ALPHABOARD CO LETTER BOARD, $60

POIDS PLUME PERSONALISED KEEPSAKE, $1290

MILESTONE PHOTO CARDS, $19.99

Lovingly handmade and oh-so-cool, these letter boards will last you and the fam for years to come. Document your little one’s milestones each day, week or year. Let your creativity lead the way! #heartmelt

This beautiful creation is custom-made from solid brass to the exact weight of your bub and engraved with your bebe’s name, birthdate + weight to keep forever. Use code MAMA150 for $150 off (valid until 28 Feb 2018).

These 30+ photo cards help capture your bebe’s moments in their first year with style. Add a card to your pics and never forget when your little one slept through the night, rolled over or said "Mama" for the first time!

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MESS FREE INK-LESS BABY INK PRINT KITS, FROM $14.95

DESIGN LETTERS BABY'S FIRST BOOK, $99.95

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Cast your baby’s itty bitty tootsies in print forever. The ink-less colour printing technology creates prints in pink, blue, soft grey or black. Simply swipe your bub’s feet with a clear wipe, press onto the special paper and swoon over the cuteness.

A treasured keepsake to celebrate bub’s first 12 months, this gorgeous book features hand-drawn typography by the world-renowned Danish designer Arne Jacobsen. Available in pink and turquoise, it comes with milestone cards too.

Building confidence and nurturing a positive mindset in kids from an early age, this book is filled with affirmations and beautiful illustrations, as children journal their thoughts and emotions. FREE SHIPPING until 28 Feb 2018.

babyink.com.au // @babyinkkeepsake

littlehumanhome.com.au // @littlehumanhome

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MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

WWW.BANDOFBOYS.CO.NZ RAD THREADS FOR BOYS | SIZES 2-10 | NEW SEASON IN STORE & ONLINE

Dance with the waves

into the blue PHOTO SERIES // Eugene Tan / Aquabumps

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

AQUABUMPS

e v o m th wi e th a se

THIS PAGE FROM TOP: CLARITY II, EHUKAI DIVER OPPOSITE PAGE: LONE SWIMMER

Top: Skye wears Elodie ruffle blouse // Featherdrum, Bridgette flared overalls // Featherdrum, Summer Days bracelet + Rose Quartz cuffÂ + Sunshine bracelet // Bluebird Co. Middle: Blanket and assorted ceramic dishes (stylist's own). Bottom: Isabel wears Beatrice Maxi tulle skirt // Featherdrum, bell sleeved leotard // Featherdrum, Summer Days bracelet + Little Mermaid with Pendant bracelet // Bluebird Co.

AQUABUMPS

Letthe rhythm of the water

THIS PAGE FROM TOP: LIGHT SHARDS, HOLIDAYS, NORTH SHORE REEFS OPPOSITE PAGE FROM TOP: GRAYS BEACH, GREEN PATCH

THIS PAGE: ROCK PILES OPPOSITE PAGE FROM TOP: THE COLOURS OF HYAMS, WHITEY

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set your soul fre e

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MAMA SANCTUARY

WHO RUNS THE WORLD? MAMAS!

About to EMBARK on a new CHAPTER of running your own business at HOME? Or do you simply want to CREATE a place to just BE? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how to perfect the ultimate home OFFICE. WORDS // Melissa Webster / The Gather Collective

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

A woman's home office is the female equivalent of a man-cave.

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

There is nothing better than having a dedicated space in your home that inspires. #dreambig

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

MAMA SANCTUARY

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

A new organic label SS 17/18 in store now @neonkitekids

MAMA SANCTUARY

CLEAN SLATE A NEW YEAR calls for new VIBES. So let your inner minimalist come out to play and create a TRANQUIL, FUSS-FREE living space for everyday CALM. WORDS // Nicole Williams / Create Estate

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

I 2018 is a great excuse to cleanse your home of clutter.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

s figuring out your interior style not quite at the top of your to-do list? Well, the good news is that this puts you miles ahead of everyone else when it comes to living a more minimal lifestyle. The reality is, most of us simply don’t have the time or the energy to spend hours curating the perfect “show home”. But when it comes to going minimal, there’s certainly something wonderful behind the idea of having less, spending less and needing less. In the spirit of simplicity, here’s the secret to achieving mimimalism at home – the new year resolution to end all resolutions.

1. GET BACK TO BASICS

When you picture minimalist living you don’t envisage clutter. Minimalism goes beyond pretty “things” and should start as a blank canvas. The first step to achieving this for most mamas is to declutter your home, making room for a more organised, in control, you. Creating a restful, calm space can’t be done amongst a sea of toys, old clothes, papers and ‘we’ll get to it later’ dishes. Let the minimalist effect begin!

There is only one maxim for minimalist living: keep it simple.

TIP // Unless it’s practical, improves your life or makes you feel like the superstar mama you are, bin it.

2. QUALITY NOT QUANTITY

PICTURES: CREATE ESTATE

With the decluttering done, it’s time to focus on the must-haves. That means big-ticket furniture. Start with the essentials and build from there. Invest in pieces that are not only functional but will get better with age. Think hardwood timbers such as oak, and upholstery or bedding in natural linens, bamboo and leathers. Changing your frame of mind to quality over quantity and starting with unique, quality-made items means your furnishings won’t date as trends change, and this will save you thousands in the long run. Cheers to some sun-soaked getaways with the fam-bam instead. TIP // Aim to have just one hero piece in each room to avoid clutter and ensure that the piece screams “Look at me!”.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

3. 50 SHADES OF WHITE

Yes, 50 is being conservative. Paper white, alabaster white, ivory white, egg shell white and vanilla white, the list goes on. As the starting point for minimalist style, getting your white right is the difference between creating a harmonious and inviting room and a clinical, hospital-like space. Cue, a warm versus a cool white. Warm whites are a more gentle hue, best used in south facing rooms or bedrooms to create a cosy feeling. In comparison, cool whites suggest a sense of space and add oomph to open plan areas with an abundance of natural light. TIP // The higher the gloss level of your paint, the easier is it to wipe off little finger prints.

4. build TEXTURE

To avoid white looking too stark, stick to a neutral palette when it comes to decorative extras. Create soft layers of earthy, organic textures for that homely, lived-in feeling. Warming textiles grouped together like cowhide rugs, knitted throws, cushions and soft window dressings is where you can really inject some personality into your room. Just remember, less is more. TIP // Unlike colour-treated cottons, linen sheets and furnishings are 100% natural which make them a great alternative if allergies such as eczema are an issue.

5. POPS OF COLOUR

Minimalism doesn’t have to be boring! Colours have a powerful way of influencing mood, and introducing wall art into a pared back room is a sure-fire way to brighten things up without going overboard. Choose a print, photograph or painting that makes you feel only good vibes. Whether that’s a family photo, a coastal seascape or the children’s kindy artwork, anything with sentimental value gets you bonus points. It’s challenging to be strict with what you allow in your space, especially with kids around, but it’s worth it.

TIP // Oversized artwork makes a room feel more organised and larger than it appears.

“TAKING THE TRIED AND TE STED ‘LESS IS MORE’ APPR OACH DOES NOT ONLY CREATE A CALM AND BEA UTIFUL SPACE, BUT CARRIES A DAILY LIFE TO REDUC CROSS INTO E STRESS AND MAXIM ISE A SENSE OF PEAC E.”

6. GO GREEN

Going minimal is all about finding your place of calm, which means living plants are a winner. Introducing some greenery into your home will not only provide a natural earthy aesthetic, but an interesting dynamic to your existing furniture, without complicating your overall design. It’s not just about the plants either. Get creative with how your present them – hanging, in painted terracotta pots, in vases, on oversized stands, or placed on furniture at eye height. TIP // Stick to low maintenance plants such as succulents, yucca, rubber or spider plants, to avoid eating into your already precious and limited time.

Organic textures and an elementary colour palette help create clean lines.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

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ONE YEAR STRONG

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TODAY IS MINE

M A M A D I S R U P T. C O M @ M A M A D I S R U P T # MA MA D I S R U P T

M A M A D I S R U P T. C O M @ MA MA D I S R U P T # MA MA D I S R U P T

I L L U S T R AT I O N / / A N N A KOŻ D O Ń

I L L U S T R AT I O N / / B E L I N DA X I A

MAMA MOTIVATION

LIVE FEARLESSLY

LIFE

LIVE every MOMENT and LAUGH every day. Let the ROAD be your TEACHER.

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WORDS // Natalie Bascur

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Camping: it’s the BELOVED Australian pastime. Offering PRECIOUS moments with the FAM, SUNSET barbeques and MEMORIES to last FOREVER – what’s not to LOVE? Here are some of the most GLORIOUS BEACH spots to tick off your bucket list. Let the GOOD TIMES roll …

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ustralia in summer is one of a kind. Long hot days, the sprinkler in the front yard, bubblegum paddle pops at the beach, running from the ocean across the searing sand to your towel. As life gets increasingly more ensconced in the digital realm, it’s important to switch off, get away and de-tech, where the only worry is who will be firing up the barbeque, if your wine is cold enough and where you left the playing cards for your daily dusk game. Camping is ALL about the CHILL, the SIMPLER life, the SLOWER pace. Yes, it might be more daunting than an all-inclusive getaway in a hotel, but it also offers memories that are so hard to create any other way, with non-stop quality time as a family a big plus. Embrace it, mama …

1. SEAL ROCKS, NSW

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A small coastal town on the mid north coast of NSW, located south of Forster, about 275km or four hours drive from Sydney, Seal Rocks offers an idyllic beach escape. Known for its striking lighthouse built in 1875, there is not much to do here besides swim, surf and relax! Find Treachery Camp camping reserve right opposite the beach with hot showers, toilets, a baby change table, washing machines/dryers, BBQs, drinking water, and even an onsite coffee hut. It's an easy first step into sleeping under the stars. // treacherycamp.com.au

IN THE LAST TWO YEARS ALONE, 7 MILLION AUSTRALIANS HAVE GONE ON CARAVANNING OR CAMPING HOLIDAYS.

Shopping is fun, but getting back to nature is the best form of therapy.

2. TULKI BEACH, TURQUOISE BAY, WA Known as one of Western Australia's best beaches, Turquoise Bay is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon relaxing, swimming and snorkelling. If you want white sand, crystal clear waters and a massive reef eco system to dive in, then this is the place. Fun fact: whale sharks, manta rays and schools of fish abound here. To get to Exmouth take a two and a half hour flight from Perth. Turquoise Bay is then a 60km drive south from there. Book a camping position in advance to make sure you have got your spot secured. // parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/site/turquoise-bay

3. NOAH BEACH, CAPE TRIBULATION, QLD Snuggle between two World Heritage-listed wonders – the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest – when you set up camp at Noah Beach. Even though the national park campground can be accessed by conventional cars and small campervans, it still has that world’s away feeling, tucked under a rainforest canopy just 50 metres from the beach. And did we mention its prime location? You’re basically central to all the action of Cape Tribulation, so lace up those shoes and get exploring along the park’s rainforest tracks, or head into one of the main villages to see the sights and stock up on supplies. // npsr.qld.gov.au/parks/daintree-cape-tribulation

4. SHARK BAY PENINSULA, WA Situated 500 metres from the beach, and just 24km drive from the dolphins at Monkey Mia, Shark Bay is one of only two places in the world where living marine stromatolites (living fossils) exist. Offering rugged beauty in abundance, it certainly earns its title as a World Heritage Area. And with family friendly

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Beach walks and bare feet are like MAMA N O M AforD chocolate the soul.

Sleeping out under the stars helps to get life in perspective.

Shark Bay Caravan Park offering a fully-fenced 18-metre swimming pool, hot water, BBQs and an outdoor kitchenette, you can't go wrong. // sharkbaycaravanpark.com.au

5. GREAT OTWAY NATIONAL PARK, VIC If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Great Ocean Road experience you are looking for, this is a sweet option. Located just off the Great Ocean Road, hidden behind sand dunes, the Johanna Beach Campsite is a quiet, yet scenic, campground. Offering very basic facilities and unpowered sites (tents only), youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be off the grid in no time. Book through Victoria Parks by phone or online. // parkstay.vic.gov.au

6. CABLE BAY, INNES NATIONAL PARK, SA Just 10km from Marion Bay, Cable Bay Camping Area is a cool find. Drive three and a half hours from Adelaide, and you will reach a self-sufficient campsite, where you will need your own gas, water and firewood. The reward? You are slap bang in the middle of the National Park with lots of bushwalking tracks, secluded beaches and fishing nooks. Little Emu Beach in Stenhouse Bay close by is also another popular stay in the area. // environment.sa.gov.au/parks

7. CAVE BEACH, JERVIS BAY, NSW If there were a golden child of camping spots, Cave Beach would be it. Situated in stunning Jervis Bay, famous for its aquamarine ocean and white sandy beach, just three hours drive from Sydney, you won't want to go home. With a maximum of five people allowed per site, it also makes for a quiet and peaceful spot to camp, with the cave of Cave Beach a mini adventure in itself. // parksaustralia.gov.au/booderee

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8. WINEGLASS BAY, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, TAS Famous for its mountains and arguably the most photographed beach in Tasmania, Wineglass Bay is located three hours drive from Hobart. We’d go there just for the name! Offering both powered and unpowered sites, with well-spaced plots if privacy is what you like, there is something for everyone. Be aware of the peak Christmas and Easter rush. These times are so popular there is a ballot system in place just to get a booking. The Sand Dune Sites Campsites are best for those travelling with young children. // wineglassbay.com

9. CAPE LE GRAND NATIONAL PARK, WA Located 45 minutes drive from Esperance, this section of Western Australia is not to be missed. Lush green grass, clear blue water, and unspoilt white beaches are what those in the know flock here for. Explore Hellfire Beach, Thistle Cove, Lucky Bay, and Wharton Beach. Kangaroos may even appear to take in the afternoon sun on the beach beside you. There are two campsites here: Cape Le Grand Campground and Lucky Bay Camping Area. Both have hot timed showers, toilets and camp kitchen facilities. There is also a first come, first served system, with no bookings allowed. If you can’t get a spot, there are other areas outside the park you can camp in (without facilities), just in case. // parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/cape-le-grand

TOP TIPS FOR CAMPING PACK HAPPY // Bring those things that will make you happy: coffee, cookies, treats, a good book, your favourite magazine, music, a new hobby, your knitting! It's not ALL about the kids. REMEMBER THE ESSENTIALS // Yup, that means the tent, sleeping bags, drinking water, toilet paper, first aid kit, handwipes, sunscreen, garbage bags, pocket knife, spare clothes, insect repellent, torches, matches, cooking utensils, food and foldout tables and chairs. Also pack bright tape/rope to section off areas that are dangerous for kiddos to go.

10. BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK, NSW

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Located right near Gosford on the Central Coast, just an hour and a half by car from Sydney, Little Beach Campground is a tranquil spot where the sound of waves will lull you to sleep. If you are after beachfront tent camping and fishing, this is your destination. BBQs and toilets are the only facilities here, so pack everything else you might need. Isolated and tucked away, the only drawback is that you have to park about 1km away and walk your things in. Once in though, you are only 20m from the beach and the surrounding rock pools. // nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

"The adrenaline and stress of an adventure are better than a thousand peaceful days." ~ Paulo Coelho

PICTURE IT // In your mind, run through all the things you might need during a day in your location. Then cross off anything you could survive without, especially anything bulky that takes up too much room. BRING ENTERTAINMENT // Playing cards, board games, books, bubbles, a journal, binoculars, a Frisbee, a kite, a football, a hammock; they are not things you would use at home that much, but are great for when you have the space and time. BE BRAVE // One of the most beautiful things about being a parent is seeing the world through your child’s eyes, so even if you feel a bit out of your comfort zone without your pillowtop mattress, embrace it and go with the flow!

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ON-THE-GO

SUMMER LOVIN' Get about in STYLE this summer with these mama ESSENTIALS. UP and GO! CHOOZE BACKPACK, $64.95, + LUNCH BOX, $29.95 QUEEN BEE PORTIA TANK DRESS, $99.95 Meet your fave new wardrobe staple! The Portia tank dress ticks all the style boxes while making it super easy for you to feed bub on the go! We love the fuss-free jersey cotton fabric which is a breeze to wear during the warmer months. queenbee.com.au // @queenbeematernity

We love this reversible backpack with two patterned designs – one side rainbow waved and the other with a rainbow heart design – giving kiddos the power to choose which side they would like to use! choozeshoes.com.au // @chooze_au

NUNA SENA PORTA COT, $379 Make moving from one Airbnb to the next a lot easier with the Sena portable cot by Nuna. The chic design delivers plenty of room for baby to sleep and play. The safe and innovative set-up allows you to fold it up and down easily with one hand, too. Suitable for newborns through to toddler. nuna.eu/au // @nuna_australia

BOBO + BOO DINNERWARE SET, $26.95 Keep your kids away from plastics and harmful toxins with this gorgeous bamboo matching set! Perfect for on the go. Dishwasher safe, sustainable and biodegradable. #giftidea avidiva.com.au // @avidivababy

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PHIL&TEDS SPORT BUGGY, $699 If you are wanting something a little different, then look no further than the sport buggy in graffiti print by phil&teds. Super cool, comfortable and perfect for jetting about town, this push-about will leave other wheelies in the dust. philandteds.com // @philandteds

MOOGOO HOLIDAY PACK, $31 Ooh la la, we love this! Full of natural goodness, these mini beauties will have your skin nourished and glowing all summer long! Each pack contains the skin milk udder cream, protein shot leave-in conditioner, anti-bacterial hand moisturiser, vanilla shea sorbet butter balm (limited-edition size + scent), and cow lick lip balm. So treat yourself (or your loved ones), stat! moogoo.com.au // @moogooskincare

SUDO, $VARIOUS Launched in 2003, Melbournebased SUDO has been leading the way in progressive, on-trend fashion, rich in detail, for the next generation of active fashion lovers. Go those summer threads. SUPER RAD! sudo.com.au // @sudokids

MOUNTAIN BUGGY NANO 'YEAR OF THE DOG' SPECIAL EDITION 2018, $POA

MAMAS AND PAPAS BABY BUD, $109.95 + ACTIVITY TRAY, $39.95

Take the guesswork out of travel prep with the very cool nano 'Year of the Dog' travel buggy! This third special edition buggy celebrates the Chinese zodiac with an ultra modern shimmering print. Designed for easy manoeuvering, it folds compactly to fit into overhead luggage compartments, and has a carry satchel so you can sling it over your shoulder. mountainbuggy.com // @mountain_buggy

The perfect companion when your little one starts weaning, the Baby Bud lets them take part in meal times from 6 months â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 years. Attaching easily to any chair, the Budâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four adjustable feet and harness keep it secure, while the soft, comfortable seat insert can be removed as your boo grows. mamasandpapas.com.au // @mamasandpapasau

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Want your phone, keys, wallet and sunglasses within easy reach? Then check out the TNS Pram Caddy. It's GENIUS! This stylish caddy is made from a lightweight coated cotton canvas, and straps on easily to the handlebars of your pram. It even comes with in-built pockets and a padded change mat. Tick! thenappysociety.com.au // @thenappysociety

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AN ESSENTIAL FOR AN EMPOWERED MOTHERHOOD!

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Never miss an issue of our super-spesh bundle of MAMA STRENGTH + GOODNESS, delivered to your door each quarter. An ESSENTIAL for surviving motherhood, we are your WARM CUDDLE on a tough day + your SISTERLY high five on a good one. Be EMPOWERED, be LOVED, be YOU, MAMA. Welcome to the mother HOOD.

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FASHIONISTA, BLOGGER and LOVING mama of THREE, Jessica Dempsey’s GROUNDED approach to LIFE continues to INSPIRE a growing COMMUNITY of women. WORDS // Yasmin Thomas

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essica Dempsey has just given birth, but is showing no signs of slowing down. When she is not running around after her three boys, Aston, 6, William 3, and newborn Freddie, the 34-year-old fashion guru is shooting campaigns for labels such as Gucci and ASOS, or sharing style tips on her popular blog and Instagram platform, What Would Karl Do (WWKD). So, where did this desire to live and breathe fashion come from? “I have always loved fashion from a young age,” smiles Jess. “Mum used to dress me up all the time as a little girl, often in matching outfits with my brother!” After growing up to study visual merchandising at RMIT, Jess went on to work for Hugo Boss, and in 2007, her big break came when she began styling several Neighbours actors for the Logies. “I did this for three years. At the time, I was one of [only] a few celebrity stylists in Melbourne.” In reality, the pressure and demands of the job however were proving to be a hindrance to Jess's life as a new mum, and it wasn't long before she decided to take a step back and reassess. “I wanted to put my son first and the pressure was taking its toll on me,” recalls Jess. “I was keen to focus on creating content and developing my personal brand, whilst having the flexibility of being at home with my son.” Fashion blogging in Australia had just begun to

take off in 2010, and after a trip to Europe that year, Jess felt it was the perfect time to join the new wave of fashion bloggers, launching What Would Karl Do into the digital stratosphere. “I wanted to share my style and loves with an audience,” recalls Jess. “I was already styling celebrities and so blogging felt like the next natural step on my journey.” Later that year, Jess was featured in ASOS magazine, and with it came international exposure and a burst of new followers. And as Jess’s personal life evolved, so did her direction, shifting from high designer styling towards a more intimate journal of motherhood. “My readers loved hearing my real stories as a mother, in addition to the style edits I was putting together surrounding the latest trends, so I started to share more of this aspect of my life.” From there the blog grew, with Jess working hard to deliver genuine content and grabbing every opportunity that came her way. Having appeared in TV commercials for Boohoo. com, whilst also enjoying ongoing partnerships with major international fashion brands (yes, Paris Fashion Week has been ticked off the bucket list), Jess has truly established herself as a credible blogger. But interestingly, it has been the gigs that have kept her working alongside like-minded mamas that Jess has loved the most. “It’s the mumpreneurs who inspire me. Sometimes, it's having a child that makes us take that leap forward.”

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And WWKD wouldn’t be where it is without its followers. “I am so proud of my authentic audience of just under 50,000,” says Jess. “Every follower is real and mostly from Australia, which gives me confidence in what I do and in being able to share [the lives] of my children.” Motherhood has certainly given this mama perspective. “Being a mother has given me purpose. I was put on this earth to raise three gorgeous boys, to guide them, love them and teach them to be good people,” reflects Jess. “It drives me to be a better person, to set better examples and look after myself better, so I can be better for them.” But with the highs of motherhood and the WWKD journey, have come some personal battles along the way, including a health scare that turned life inside out for the young family early on, when Jess discovered a lump in her breast. Aston was only 10 weeks old. “The three days I had to wait for the biopsy results to come back were hell,” recalls Jess. Thankfully, she was given the all clear, but the experience deeply affected her, resulting in an anxiety condition that grew out of control. “I became consumed with what else might be wrong with me,” Jess explains. What followed were a blur of doctor’s appointments, blood tests and scans to make sure there were no other reasons for concern. After finally realising she was suffering from anxiety, Jess took the brave step of therapy, and ultimately came out stronger from the whole experience. “Motherhood makes you so strong, selfless, patient and resilient,” Jess nods. Fast forward to today, and Jess is fighting fit. With three growing children and her online brand to manage, she is certainly busy though. “Each day is different. I work on my blog content, might do a photoshoot, could have a meeting and will answer my emails,” says Jess. But the stylist is adamant that her boys come first. “If one of the kids is sick on my work day, then that day goes out the window and I reschedule. If my boys need me, they are [my] priority, and I am so lucky that my career enables this.” Jess also has the support of her husband of 10 years, Josh, and credits him for being one of her biggest champions. “I see him work so hard for our family, working most weekends. It makes me want to be his rock too, so that when he has days off, we can spend some quality time together with our boys.” And when Jess is having an “off” day? A self-confessed “shy girl”, Jess relies on her “why” to set her back on track, citing the importance of being true to herself as her number one motivator. “After the birth of Aston, I lost my style there for a bit. I couldn’t work out how to dress myself with my new body. I was in my tracksuit pants, breastfeeding on the couch with a screaming child and

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JESS’S STYLE TIPS FOR MAMAS-TO-BE Don’t lose your personal style // Wear what you wore before pregnancy, just find it in a great maternity brand or go up a size. Plan your key outfits // When I am pregnant, I might wear a pant, top and jacket combo one day, and then a stretchy skirt (pulled up over my bump) and tee (tucked in) the next. Invest in the right kicks // Sneakers look awesome with casual dresses, and your feet will thank you for it! Stockpile the perfect fit // Find the right maternity jean and buy in three colour ways!

Jess strives to look after herself better, so she can be better for her boys.

a wardrobe full of amazing clothes that didn’t fit me! So, I started to try and copy everyone else. But I soon realised this wasn't me, and that I needed to reclaim myself and remember why I started my blog. The experience taught me a valuable lesson. Sometimes we get so obsessed with others that we forget who we are and what makes us special.” Leaving behind a full-time salary to pursue her passion has certainly paid off for this mama, and eight years on, Jess has achieved success beyond her wildest dreams. “I enjoy sharing my motherhood journey,” she beams. “There is nothing I want more than to uplift and inspire women." And her wishes for her own boys? “To know they are always loved. This mama's got their backs.”

@WHATWOULDKARLDO

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As a #boymama, Jess can't imagine life any other way.

"Motherhood makes you strong, selfless, patient and resilient," says Jess.

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Falling away WORDS // Nicole Madigan

She’s beautiful, HAPPY and impressively ZEN. But it wasn’t always that way. Having endured a PREMATURE BIRTH and POSTNATAL DEPRESSION, Bethany Marsh took a STEP BACK, DROPPED THE PACE and is all the BETTER for it.

Even though Bethany has found motherhood difficult, it has also been her greatest achievement.

ethany Marsh is one of those women who makes your mouth drop open with envy. For one thing, she’s “I woke up like this” gorgeous. She’s also effortlessly stylish, with a knack for interiors that would impress any seasoned professional. And the apples don’t fall far from the tree. Bethany’s two children, Willow, 4 and Jagger, 1, are sure to break a million hearts, no doubt already melting many. But the peace that fills Beth’s life now is the result of necessary life changes, made after suffering a series of setbacks that took her completely by surprise. “I needed to learn to be in the moment more, spend more time off my phone and give more of my undivided attention to my children,” says Bethany. As far back as she can remember, Beth has been interested in style. “Growing up I wanted to be a lot of things, including a vet and a singer, but as I grew older, fashion really took the lead. After finishing high school, Bethany took on retail work, later moving into childcare for a brief period before leaving to have her first bub at just 21 years of age, 12 months after marrying her childhood sweetheart Keiran. Though her pregnancy was difficult and the birth more painful that she could ever have anticipated, welcoming daughter Willow into the world reduced Beth’s long-existing social anxiety and was an overall happy experience. “It was definitely a wake up call. It was a lot harder than I ever thought, plus I had the big realisation that there were zero breaks in motherhood,” reflects Beth. “Thankfully though, Willow was an amazing sleeper from seven weeks, so I had a pretty chilled newborn experience with her.” Bethany made the decision to be a stay-at-home mum, while her husband ran the couple’s landscaping businesses. But after Willow turned one, Beth’s passion for fashion came knocking once again, inspiring her to launch a public Instagram profile. “My goal for my Instagram was to share my newfound MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

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I d e s i l a e r “I ed to go need lk to ta when someounlden’t do I co kindy the ithout run wg like I feelingoing to was k down brea anxiety in anttack.” a

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BETHANY ON MAMAHOOD + LIFE GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT IN LIFE SO FAR // Becoming a mother. FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND A DAY OFF // Solo shopping. There is seriously nothing like it – total luxury! A SECRET // I click on the news app more than any other app – even I’m surprised by that! love for children’s fashion,” says Beth. “Throughout the years my goals gradually changed, and my feed became more of a fashion and lifestyle hub for mums and bubs.” Six months later, Bethany fell pregnant for the second time, and it was during this period that her Instagram following grew most quickly, particularly as she began sharing the unexpected and scary journey that was unfolding. The couple’s second pregnancy and birth was a complete rollercoaster. “We found out at 24 weeks that Jagger had Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR),” says Beth. The diagnosis meant Beth had a high chance of a second trimester miscarriage, so she was monitored with weekly scans, blood tests and CTGs (cardiotocography checks) to ensure Jagger was never under distress. “After some fluid loss at 30 weeks, the specialists decided it was time for Jagger to be born so I was scheduled in for a Caesarean and Jagger arrived at 30 weeks and two days, weighing only two pounds 12 ounces (1.2 kilos). He spent seven weeks in the NICU which was the hardest seven weeks of my life,” remembers Beth. During that period, Bethany shared many of her feelings with her followers, helping them and also proving cathartic for Beth. “It was like therapy. Every day I would have an inbox full of messages from people checking up on me and wishing me well. It was as if Jagger had thousands of aunties across the world! “In addition to this, I searched high and low over the internet for people who had gone through a similar experience to me. I didn’t want to feel alone. As a result, I connected with so many

LIFE PHILOSOPHY // Kindness goes further than you think! COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT // My family, pets, bed, and my children’s laughter. FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION // Anywhere with sun, sand and sea! HANDBAG CONTENTS // Wallet, keys, three lipsticks, a nappy, a pack of wipes, and my essential oil rollers. ROLE MODEL // My mum is a huge role model. SUPERPOWER // Even though I’m naturally a lazy person, I get in crazy cleaning moods! Just yesterday, I was vacuuming the kids bedrooms, and the next minute I found myself disinfecting the cot!

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autifully “The kids play so bein g their together and watchm ev friendship blosso joy.” ery day is such a

When Beth sought help for the way she was feeling, the fog started to lift.

NICU mums throughout that time, which was an incredible support. This was why I wanted to share my experience – to help others.” While Beth was overjoyed to bring baby Jagger home, his first year was challenging – and all the while, Bethany maintained her fast-growing Instagram feed and blog. “I didn’t know what to expect, and unfortunately my experience wasn’t a great one. Jagger’s first year at home was a definite struggle. Babies are hard, but premature babies are something else!” During all of this, Bethany’s blog was taking up the majority of her spare time. “The content I produced was very picture heavy, so I would have to style a shot, take a picture, edit the picture and then create a post. It would take me days just to produce one post!” Jagger was around 18 months old when Beth realised that something wasn’t quite right. “I would cry every afternoon without fail. I despised leaving the house. I was constantly irritated, and it took very little to make me snap,” says Beth. “It got to the point where I was waking up each morning and instantly feeling dread over having to get up and get through the day, because I was already feeling defeated. I realised I needed to go talk to someone when I couldn’t do the kindy run without feeling like I was going to break down in an anxiety attack.”

Marsh was diagnosed with Postnatal Depression, and was then able to face the problem head-on, with the support of her husband and family. “We had an amazing support system around us and I don’t think we would have gotten through the whole experience without them.” And, while her social media channels were providing a connection to the outside world, as well as a much-valued creative outlet, Beth soon realised it was also having a negative effect on her life, causing her to constantly doubt herself. “It was definitely time to step away once I received my PND diagnosis. I started to make some lifestyle changes! I now honestly feel so much lighter. It has been the best decision for me personally, as well as as a family.” Bethany now takes her days slowly, enjoying spending time in her Brisbane home with Willow and Jagger, now a healthy and happy two-yearold. “The kids play so beautifully together, and watching their friendship blossom every day is such a joy. Next year, Willow will be starting prep, so we are focusing on cherishing the time we have with her at home with us before our lives are filled with school runs every day!”

@BETHANY.LOUISE.MARSH

IF YOU FEEL LOW AND WISH TO TALK TO SOMEONE, DON’T DELAY. CALL THE PANDA NATIONAL HELPLINE ON 1300 726 306 // PANDA.ORG.AU

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Beautiful bedding for baby

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Bohemian Fantasy DISCOVERED at 14. Travelling the WORLD at 16. MODELLING for the likes of Victoria’s Secret, Nautica and David Jones by 25. Vanessa Breuer has LIVED a life. But far from closing doors, MOTHERHOOD has CREATED more opportunities than this NATURE-LOVING RENEGADE could have IMAGINED. WORDS // Nicole Madigan

erman model Vanessa Breuer is in a New York hotel room following a week working in Paris, lamenting the fact that she’s currently away from her beautiful family, husband Oddy, and two little girls Luca, 3, and Evie, 13 months. “My heart aches thinking about the moments I miss out [on],” she says. “But at least my husband is at home, and when I come back and see the life we are living, it feels like I am doing the right thing.”

rch f or a e s o t r o w o n m ys e l f ' r e v o c is 'd o t .” e y g p r p u a o h n d e n v a a h e t I e “ c o m pl l e e f I . e f i l f o t h e me a n i n g

And what a life it is. The family’s home sits atop a mountain hideaway in Ibiza, isolated enough for the four to enjoy themselves, and each other, without interruption. “We spend a lot of time outdoors, in our garden or on the beach,” says Vanessa. “There is no pressure to be a certain way, it doesn't matter what you wear. My kids are naked a lot of the time and roam 'free'.” The only downside to this bohemian existence? The travel, with Vanessa’s modelling jobs often taking her away from her idyllic lifestyle for days at a time. On the flip side, her ability to make more money in a few hours than your average working mum means that Oddy is able to stay home to take care of their two girls full-time. And Vanessa is in awe. “My husband inspires me. He does such an amazing job. He is so selfless and patient with our children,” she smiles. “I am very thankful to have him in my life.”

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Vanessa, 32, grew up in Germany in a small town near Cologne, with a stay-at-home mum and a father whose presence in her life was limited. “Honestly, I don't have too many fond memories of growing up. I always felt like I was born into the wrong place and time, with the wrong parents.” Determined to make it on her own, Vanessa began working at the age of 11, cleaning offices, and later helping at a flower shop, before being discovered on the street by a modelling agent when she was 14. “It happened quickly for me. I suddenly found I was making as much money in one day of modelling than I had in one year of cleaning.” Showing little interest in fashion or magazines, the appeal of the modelling industry had less to do with clothes, and everything to do with Vanessa's thirst for independence and travel. “I lived all over the world and enjoyed working a lot.” But soon life on the road became a lonely affair with the unpredictable nature of bookings and a fast-paced lifestyle often taking its toll. “There are lots of castings where you don't end up getting the job, lonely hotel rooms, new people to work with all the time, different cultures and the constant pressure to fit in clothes.”

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER Vanessa loves nothing more than hanging at home with her brood.

In 2006, Vanessa and her husband therefore decided they were ready for a new chapter, packing up and heading to California, where Vanessa began Culinary School in the hopes of becoming a personal chef. During her second class, she fainted. Turns out, she was pregnant. “It was a great time in our lives. We were away from most of our friends and living in this cute little house, just the two of us. We truly experienced the pregnancy 'together'.” The couple spent their downtime cooking, testing recipes and sunbaking in the backyard. Unexpectedly however, US health insurance requirements prompted the couple to relocate to Sydney later in the pregnancy, where Vanessa experienced an intense but natural water birth. “My body felt like a total mess, but the hormone cocktail was so amazing, I didn't really care too much at the time. I loved being at home and my man took care of me.” During those early days of motherhood, Vanessa’s career was the furthest thing from her mind. But after just two weeks, she was cast for a maternity photoshoot, which took place in her apartment. “They came to me so I could feed my baby, and took pictures of me in maternity underwear – it felt a bit weird at first, but then so good as my body was bouncing right back and I finally had some boobs!” Two weeks later, the brunette beauty was booked for a major Australian television commercial. With her husband by her side during the shoot, Vanessa was able to breastfeed Luca. “After that, I had more work requests, so Oddy ended up quitting his job as a carpenter to become a full-time stay-at-home dad.” And so began family life. And soon, Evie was on the way. Born at 39 weeks, four hours after Vanessa's first contraction, the little fam was complete. And now? Living in the hub of the European party capital, this sought-after model is in high demand, but these days, it's Vanessa who makes the rules, ensuring that her work fits around her role as a mother. “My career is not important to me anymore,” she admits. “But my job provides us as a family with the money to do that we really want to do, so I am very thankful to be in this position.” For Vanessa, motherhood has finally brought a sense of peace and contentment, a welcome feeling after a childhood spent searching for her purpose. “I have no urge to 'discover' myself now or to look for the meaning of life. I feel complete and happy.”

@VANESSABREUER1

MAMA INFLUENCER TAKEOVER

VANESSA’S TIPS WHILE TRAVELLING WITH THE FAM 1. LOAD UP THE SNACKS // Pack a lot of healthy snacks for the kids (and yourself) such as veggie sticks, nuts and fruit. 2. PACK LIGHT // Try not to pack too much, especially for carry-on luggage – your shoulders and back will thank you! 3. SAFEGUARD YOUR FAM // Use colloidal silver spray while travelling. We spray it around our faces so we don't get sick. It is antibacterial and antiviral. 4. DE-STRESS WITH VITAMINS // Take some extra health-boosting supplements such as B vitamin complex during times of stress. 5. GET MOVING // Stretch when you can, even on a plane. If possible, take a walk up and down the aisle with your bub in tow. 6. BE PREPARED // Pack some spare clothes for yourself – at least a T-shirt in case of food spills. Be prepared for the unexpected! 7. JUST BREATHE // Try to stay calm when travelling. Panic and stress do not help the situation or yourself!

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Motherhood has brought Vanessa a sense of peace and contentment.

“When I see the life we are living, it feels like I am doing the right thing.”

www.milkandmasuki.com @milkandmasuki.com

M A M AH P A RB O I TM AO T TION

“WE AIM TO HELP MAMAS FEEL LIKE THEMSELVES DURING SO MUCH CHANGE.”

GLOW IN STYLE

With the BELIEF that pregnancy FASHION should last BEYOND the BUMP, MAMA THE LABEL has arrived, and is the brainchild of one SASSY mother.

or mamas-to-be, pregnancy can be a daunting experience, with bodily changes occurring at a lightning rate! Cue, Mama The Label – a modern maternity fashion line that has recently launched onto the scene to put the BOOM into BUMP. The label has thought of everything when it comes to preggie and post-preggie styling, from chic day casuals, to dressy night pieces, and classic smarts. We grabbed a full fat latte with the talented woman and mama behind the brand, Elyse Gray, who recognised a gap in the market when she struggled to find maternity clothes for herself that would still be wearable once bub had arrived...

feedback from customers about the soft fabrics, the flattering cuts and the easy access to the boobies! We love the connection we have created with mamas. But ultimately, we love helping mothers find a style they feel comfortable in, so it’s one less thing they have to worry about.

HOW DID MAMA THE LABEL COME ABOUT?

WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU?

The idea of Mama The Label was planted in my brain when my son was only days old. I had a wardrobe full of maternity clothes, but only one item that was also breastfeeding friendly. Being a first-time mum, I hadn’t considered the practicalities of breastfeeding, and I couldn’t wear most of the maternity items I had purchased once I had had my baby. That’s when I realised there was a gap in the market for clothes that could be worn before, during and well after pregnancy. Why buy clothes every time our bodies change? Surely clothes can adapt WITH us.

We’re considering a sleepwear range, so we’ll be exploring patterns and fabrics when I head to Bali in December. Exciting!

WHAT SETS MAMA THE LABEL APART?

Our versatility! You can wear the pieces at all stages of your parenting journey, and they can easily be styled up or down for any occasion. We get a lot of

WHAT IS THE ETHOS BEHND THE BUSINESS?

We aim to help mamas feel like THEMSELVES. When you first become a mother, you question everything. Our hope is that while everything else is changing, mamas can stay true to their style and know they've got the basics covered.

ANY MAMA WORDS OF EMPOWERMENT?

Be proud of yourself! We are all learning how to be the best mums we can be. Rather than ask too much of yourself, take notice of what you’ve achieved and trust that you are exactly what your little one needs. Everything else will fall into place!

SHOP NOW, PAY LATER MAMATHELABEL.COM.AU @MAMATHELABEL

Mama The Label is all about the love, the support, the style.

SOUL

You CANNOT POUR from an EMPTY cup. NOURISH and NURTURE your SOUL, MAMA.

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MAMA MIND

THE CULT OF BUSY FRANTIC lifestyles are wreaking HAVOC on our nervous systems. Could you also have RUSHING WOMAN’S SYNDROME? WORDS // Dr Libby Weaver

n a world that is becoming increasingly “connected” (just think of the number of times you have looked at your phone today), along with the pressures of motherhood, a career and a neverending to-do list – rushing is considered the new normal. But what many of us don’t realise is that far from being a sign of success, it is actually a sign that our health is being compromised. From PMS, to anxiety, to losing our temper, to feeling like we can’t cope, Rushing Woman’s Syndrome is the new disease of today’s society, a result of the perceived requirement to be always be “ON”. And it’s not just a theory. Rushing Woman’s Syndrome actually describes what is scientifically known to be Sympathetic Nervous System dominance and the biochemical changes that this drives in the body. And as women, it’s time we said “No”. It’s time we put ourselves first in a bid to protect our health for the future.

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THE ROLE THE NERVOUS SYSTEM PLAYS Our nervous system is a key body system that plays a significant role in the stress response. It can be the difference between feeling calm and feeling frazzled or jittery. The nervous system has a number of parts. The two branches related to the stress response are the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS), also known as the ‘fight or flight’ response, while the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) is the calming “rest, digest, repair and reproduce” arm. The challenge facing many women today is that we live in SNS dominance which plays havoc with weight management, food cravings, sleep quality, patience, moods, self-esteem, and our overall quality of life. But, how do we get stuck in this loop? One of the stress hormones that drives our bio response to stimuli is adrenalin, which communicates to the body that there is a life-endangering threat. With humans having been on the planet for about 150,000 years, this is adrenalin’s purpose. In modern life however, the nervous system doesn’t know the difference between the adrenalin that serves to amp us up from a physical threat to our lives, and our body’s response to the caffeine we drink and/or our perception of pressure. When we live on adrenalin we tend not to sleep restoratively, we crave sugar despite our best intentions, and we find it harder to utilise stored body fat as a fuel, burning glucose instead, turning on the switch that craves sweet food … hello harsh self-talk when you give in to that piece of cake, when really it is not your fault! If we live in SNS dominance for long enough, our body also starts producing larger amounts of another stress hormone, cortisol. This hormone, when produced in the right amounts, helps us get out of bed each morning with the energy to take on the day. However, if we produce too much cortisol as a result of our body’s response to on-going stress, we also find ourselves trapped in a corner of anxiety, fatigue (feeling sluggish and exhausted) and sickness.

THE IMPACT One of the biggest challenges facing women’s health today is the way stress interferes with our female hormone balance of oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones have the potential to make us happy or sad, vivacious or anxious, pimply or clear skinned. They are also tied up in our fertility, impact our menstrual cycles and guide our transition through menopause – big roles for two little hormones! So many women now suffer with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Endometriosis, with both physical and emotional health consequences. From painful periods, to fluid retention, to yelling at the people we love most in the world (and berating ourselves afterwards), it is vital we break out of the cycle of stress in order to combat the immense challenge it places on our hormones.

THE REASON WE DO IT So, why do we do it? On the one level, our rushed way of living comes from a beautiful place – we have big hearts and we want everyone to be happy. However, deeper than that, it comes from a place of believing we are not enough. We rush around and do all that we can to make sure others love and appreciate us so we never feel rejected, ostracised or criticised. But we really don’t need to. We ARE enough.

HOW WE CAN HELP OURSELVES It’s not just the physical health consequences that are a concern for us as perpetually stressed mamas, it’s also the mental indications. And this is where change must start. We must acknowledge how extraordinary we are. We must believe we are worthy. We must love ourselves. We must SLOW DOWN and BREATHE. We must understand the way we move, think, believe and perceive create our need to rush. We must take the time to STOP and NURTURE ourselves. And in doing so, we will become more aware as to why we do what we do. And awareness, rather than judgement is the first step on the journey to retire from the rush. Life is precious, we are precious ... and we must treat ourselves accordingly.

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DO YOU HAVE RUSHING WOMAN’S SYNDROME? 1. DO YOU LOVE COFFEE TO THE POINT THAT YOU FEEL DEPRIVED IF YOU CANNOT GET YOUR DAILY FIX? YES 

“AWARENESS, RATHER THAN JUDGEMENT OF OURSELVES IS THE FIRST STEP IN OUR JOURNEY TO RETIRE FROM THE CRAZY.”

NO 

2. DO YOU HAVE HEAVY PERIODS, IRREGULAR PERIODS, PMS, OR A DEBILITATING MENOPAUSE? YES 

NO 

3. DO YOU CRAVE SUGAR, PARTICULARLY MIDAFTERNOON OR CLOSE TO MENSTRUATION? YES 

NO 

4. DO YOU FEEL OVERWHELMED OFTEN? YES 

NO 

5. DO YOU HAVE POOR SHORT-TERM MEMORY? YES 

NO 

6. DO YOU FEEL LIKE THERE ARE NEVER ENOUGH HOURS IN THE DAY? YES 

NO 

7. DO YOU OVERREACT EASILY EVEN IF YOU DON’T DISPLAY IT OUTWARDLY? YES 

NO 

8. DO YOU OFTEN FEEL TIRED BUT WIRED? YES 

NO 

THE VERDICT If you have answered YES to more than two of these, it may be time to take stock of your lifestyle and pull it back to a speed that is more manageable in the long term. STOP doing those things that drain you, and START doing the things that rejuvenate you. PRIORITISE your lists. DITCH the things that are complicating your life. DROP the guilt. And know that in living with INTENT your whole family will gain.

9. DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU CAN’T SIT DOWN, AS YOU WILL FEEL GUILTY? YES 

NO 

10. DO YOU HAVE A TO-DO LIST THAT IS NEVER CROSSED OFF AND THIS BOTHERS YOU? YES 

NO 

11. DO YOU FEEL A SENSE OF PANIC EASILY? YES 

NO 

12. DO YOU OFTEN HAVE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM PROBLEMS SUCH AS BLOATING OR IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME? YES 

NO 

13. DO YOU FIND IT DIFFICULT TO RELAX WITHOUT WINE? YES 

NO 

14. DO YOU BEAT YOURSELF UP FOR NOT BEING A GOOD ENOUGH WIFE/MOTHER/FRIEND/COLLEAGUE? YES 

NO 

15. DO YOU FIND IT DIFFICULT TO ASK FOR HELP AND ALSO TO SAY “NO”? YES 

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NO 

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

DR LIBBY’S BOOK RUSHING WOMAN’S SYNDROME IS AVAILABLE NOW AT DRLIBBY.COM

NURTURE YOUR SOUL. RELAX YOUR BODY. REST YOUR SPIRIT.

LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE AWARD. VOTED FOUR TIMES FOR BEST DESTINATION SPA IN AUSTRALIA. WWW.IKATANSPA.COM

PHONE 07 5471 1199

A RELAXED MAMA IS BEST FOR BUBBA.

CREDIT HERE X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X .

MAMA MAMA MAMA MAMA MAMA MAMA MAMA

MAMA

TSRTAYVLEE L

MODERN TIMES It’s time to TREAT yo'self and BAE with some of this fine-looking WRIST CANDY… MICHAEL KORS "BRADSHAW", FROM $579 Tech and fashion collide in this striking gold-tone display smartwatch by Michael Kors. Stay online with a simple glance as you connect with your favourite apps and your smartphone. Receive notifications, such as calls and alerts, while on the go. theiconic.com.au // @theiconicau

INFINITY NEBULA COLLECTION, $135

SPARROW WATCHES, $99 Your child will L-O-V-E these gorgeous "time teaching" watches. More than just a pretty face, these babies are water resistant, have Swiss movement and feature a scratch resistant sapphire crystal face. They also come with two bands. #winning sparrowwatches.com // @sparrowwatches

We’ve got a thing for rose-gold and the Nebula collection fits the brief! On-trend with a twist of old world, you can mix and match with leather or mesh straps – it's up to you. infinitywatches.com.au // @infinitywatches

TOP PICK

LONGINES "DOLCEVITA", $3750 Want some luxe in your life, mama? Longines have long been the maker of stunning watches and the "DolceVita" does not disappoint. Inspired by the Italian sweet way of life, it is a celebration of grace with its subtle geometric lines and soft curves. Bella! longines.com.au // @longines

MARLEE BLUSH TIMEPIECE, $59.95 (CHILD), $109.95 (ADULT) Rocked by stylish tots on Insta, Marlee watches are super chic and come in a range of 10+ styles for boys, girls, and mamas and papas who love to match. We are vibing off this rosy addition to the collection. marleewatchco.com // @marlee_watch_co

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SECRET WEAPONS for mum + boo

Want to know the BEST skin + beauty SECRETS? We’ve got yo’ covered GIRL.

THE GLOW FACTOR FOR MAMA DUSTY GIRLS BY MOOGOO EARTH CREAM TINTED MOISTURISER, $20 This clever little multi-tasker offers a three-in-one action. Not only does the gentle, natural formulation provide breathtaking coverage, but it also delivers broad-spectrum sun protection and intense moisture for the skin. Perfect for mamas on the go! As the make-up arm of natural skin care range MooGoo, Dusty Girls' products are also as pure as pure can be. // dustygirls.com.au

FOR MINI CHAMONIXRAIN ORGANICS COCONUT BABY MOISTURISER, $18.95

hen it comes to lookin’ good, feelin’ good and bein’ good, it’s all about the secret weapons that we mamas have in our armoury. YES, sleep helps, but beauty and skin lifesavers can also go a long way. Here are our top picks of outer nourishment and soul satisfying goodness for mama and bub.

This moisturiser is Australian-made, not tested on animals and vegan friendly, consisting of the most beautiful blend of natural and organic ingredients, gentle enough to use on a newborn. Free from nasties, it’s a safe way to nourish your little one’s skin, and is great for grown-ups too. // chamonixrainorganics.com

MAMA BEAUT Y TOP PICK

CLEAN UP YOUR ACT

REFRESH YO' PEEPERS

SIMPLY SWIPE + WIPE

FOR MAMA

THANKYOU BOTANICAL GERANIUM + ROSEWOOD BODY WASH 500ML, $7.99

DUSTY GIRLS BY MOOGOO MINERAL MASCARA, $18

MAC FACE WIPES, $28

If it’s a life-changing shower you are after, we love thankyou’s Botanical Geranium and Rosewood Body Wash. A calming and gentle plant-based cleanser, the natural oils, botanical extracts and soothing fragrance will leave you feeling reset and ready for action! And the best part? You’ll be helping others in need through thankyou's giving back campaign. // thankyou.co

Farewell dry, sensitive and watery eyes, you’re off the 2018 list! This non-irritating mascara is for any mama longing for bold, pitch-black lashes without nasty synthetic chemicals or preservatives, which are often the main culprits when it comes to eye sensitivity. Now you can get your wand out and lash-up erry damn day! Your eyes are the windows to the soul, you know. // dustygirls.com.au

Recommended by make-up artists as the ultimate make-up removing face wipe, these babies swipe away dirt quickly and conveniently while also nourishing and conditioning skin. Oversized, luxurious and super-saturated with protective vitamin E, these wipes will prime your face for the day or night, leaving you refreshed, pampered and ready to take on the world. Cleanse your face, cleanse your soul. // maccosmetics.com.au

FOR MINI

GAIA NATURAL BABY HAIR + BODY WASH (200ML) $10.99 / (500ML) $17.95

JURLIQUE BABY'S CALMING MASSAGE OIL , $35

THANKYOU THICK + SOFT BABY WIPES, $6.49

This organic hair and body wash is gorgeous on skin, cutting in half the hectic bathtime routine. In two handy sizes of 500ml (with a pump), or a smaller 200ml which is perfect to throw into a bag for a post swimming wash down, this is a product you shouldn't be without. LOVE. // gaiaskinnaturals.com

If it’s your little one’s peepers you want to rest, you can’t go wrong with this gentle massage oil to calm, nurture and reinforce the mama-bub bond. Paediatrician and dermatologist tested, and specially formulated for babies, your bub will be catching some Zzzzzz in no time. // davidjones.com.au

These fragrance-free, thick and soft baby wipes are water-based and made up of 98% natural ingredients. Hypoallergenic, gentle on skin and free from nasty parabens, petrochemicals and sulphates, they’re so good, we use them for EVERYTHING! They're a non-negotiable mama staple. // thankyou.co

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MAMA YUM

THAI BEEF

SUNSHINE CHEF // Jodie Blight

SUMMER is here and it’s time for some SUNSHINE on a plate. This salad is QUICK, FRESH, TANGY, + effortlessly YUM on a BALMY NIGHT. MAIN SALAD 4 handfuls baby spinach leaves

1 Lebanese cucumber, julienned 1 red capsicum, sliced

2 handfuls bean shoots

4 spring onions, sliced thinly

1 handful mint leaves, chopped 1 handful coriander, chopped 600g roast beef

DIFFICULTY // Totes simple

1 long red chilli, deseeded, finely chopped (optional)

DRESSING 6 tbspn lime juice 2 tbspn soy sauce

2 tbspn fish sauce

2 tbspn sesame oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed ¼ tbspn grated ginger (optional)

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COOK // 0 minutes

METHOD 1. Toss the spinach leaves, cucumber, capsicum, bean shoots, spring onion, mint and coriander in a large salad bowl. Slice the meat into thin strips and scatter across the salad.

2. To make the dressing, shake the ingredients in a jar until combined. Taste and adjust to your liking. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss together. Sprinkle with chopped chilli and peanuts.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

SERVES // 4 VIBE // Asian Goddess

JODIE’S TIP

This is the perfect yummy and easy salad for a summer gathering.

CREDIT: RECIPE FROM SUMMER TABLE BY JODIE BLIGHT

1 handful chopped peanuts, roasted (optional)

PREP // 10 minutes

stylish bamboo dinnerware for kids

non toxic / bpa & phthalates free / biodegradable / dishwasher safe @boboandboo // available at boboandboo.com.au & retail stockists

BOOKS

What to

READ

(when you should be doing something else) TWO-MINUTE MOVES By Lizzy Williamson

This book had us at Wine Bottle Moves! Aiming to helping women get their bodies, energy and confidence back, fitness guru, Lizzy Williamson, offers an all-in-one real-girl guide to kicking ass. With more than 80 exercises presented as two minute bursts of movement (you can even do them whilst binge-watching Netflix), Two Minute Moves is refreshingly down-to-earth, including mindfulness techniques, meditations, mantras and easy recipes to nurture mind, body and soul. We LOVE.

$29.99, twominutemoves.com

TOP PICK

A MINDFULNESS GUIDE FOR THE FRAZZLED By Ruby Wax

WOMEN’S WELLNESS WISDOM By Dr Libby Weaver

penguin.com.au

drlibby.com

Five hundred years ago no-one died of stress, but now it’s a part of our everyday lives (and girl, motherhood can be stressful). Discover how to de-frazzle for good with this gem of a book by making some changes to allow time to breathe, reflect and live in the moment, and unleash a happier, healthier you.

136

Being a woman can sometimes be tough, with our body and mind difficult to understand. Enter Women’s Wellness Wisdom, a bible to creating exceptional health. With stepby-step guides, worksheets, quotes and real-life examples, this book will empower you to be your very best.

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PARENTING THE SH*T OUT OF LIFE By Mother Pukka

CHILD OF AFRICA By T. M. Clark

amazon.com

harlequinbooks.com.au

Dedicated to the flurry of guilt-inducing bum-guff that is often directed at modern parents, Parenting the Sh*t Out of Life fights back, raising many laughs along the way. Covering both the light and dark side of parenting, you won’t be able to put it down!

By the author that wrote Tears of the Cheetah, Child of Africa is a thrilling tale of a courageous fight to save Africa, set against a vivid political backdrop of corruption. The perfect beach novel, touching on themes of anger, forgiveness, loss and inequality, with a few twists along the way, you'll be gripped until the end.

ILLUSTRATION: HELLO MONDAY ILLUSTRATIONS

MAMA COLLECTIVE

ALPHABOARD CO

AV I D I VA

BELLE & CO. LIVING

The perfect felt board for quotes and messages, handcrafted in Australia. Available in a variety of frame sizes and colours, felt colours, letter sizes and accessories. Share your message with sass!

An easy, non-toxic way to shop gifts and goodies for baby showers and newborns, Avidiva offers a beautiful collection of stylish and natural baby products to treat little ones. #adore

Introducing next level storage! These stunning suitcases are available in five colours: pink, white, black, charcoal and grey with your choice of gold, silver or rose-gold hardware. From $129.

ALPHABOARDCO.COM.AU

AVIDIVA .COM.AU

BELLEANDCOLIVING.COM.AU

@ALPHABOARDCO

PEACH GALLERY

LIT TLE OLLIE DESIGNS

Peach Gallery has you covered for organic, sustainable and unisex kids' fashion and accessories from 0-11 years, delivered with fun + style + quality.

Little Ollie Designs creates modern handmade jewellery and accessories for the everyday woman. Feel stylish and beautiful no matter which outfit you are rocking. Use code MAMA at checkout to receive 15% OFF!

PEACHGALLERY.COM.AU

LIT TLEOLLIEDESIGNS.COM.AU

@PEACHGALLERY_STORE

138

@AVIDIVABABY

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

@LIT TLEOLLIEDESIGNS.COM.AU

@BELLEANDCOLIVING

TWENTY ONE MOORE Twenty One Moore stocks a range of home, gifts, baby and kids' products and is your online destination for the little things that make your house a home. TWENT YONEMOORE.COM @TWENT YONEMOORE

MAMA COLLECTIVE

R U BY R A B B I T

O R G A N I C A L LY B A R E

A fun + functional online lighting store offering handmade lighting in Melbourne using the highest quality opal acrylics, Livly creates modern designs with a total WOW factor that kids (and mamas) love!

Handmade with love on the Sunshine Coast, Organically Bare is a range of natural and organic skincare products. Refresh and recharge with a coffee scrub, then moisturise and nourish with body oil.

RUBYRABBIT.COM.AU

LIVLY.COM.AU

ORGANICALLYBARE.COM.AU

@RUBYRABBITPART Y

TOOTS + CO

L I V LY

Shop the latest on-trend party and event supplies, YAY! Ruby Rabbit loves birthday parties, baby showers, christenings, engagements, bridal showers, weddings and special celebrations.

@_LIVLY

P O LY A N D B E E

@ORGANICALLYBARE

LE PETIT CADRE

Luxe leather baby bags that are stunning to look at, yet instinctively practical, the Toots + Co range includes totes, backpacks and clutches. Designed for longevity for stylish mamas to adore well past the baby years.

A collection of handcrafted jewellery and accessories for the modern mama, Polly and Bee strives to make every woman feel fabulous. Use the code MAMAGIFT to receive 15% off your order.

With designer name frames and personalised home decor, Le Petit Cadre offers a diverse range of meaningful and stylish keepsakes for the modern family home. We LOVE their new toybox wagons!

TOOTSANDCO.COM

P OLYANDBEE.COM

LEPETITCADRE.COM

@TOOTSANDCO

@P OLYANDBEE

@LEPETITCADRE

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MAMA COLLECTIVE

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

LIT TLE WILLOW VINTAGE

S PA R R OW WATC H E S

Building confidence + nurturing a positive mindset in kids, this book is filled with affirmations and beautiful illustrations, where children can journal their emotions.

Influenced by simpler times, Little Willow Vintage is inspired by a love of textiles, quilt-making and creativity, with babywares + hand-stitched goods made in Australia.

High quality + stylish watches with "time teaching" features, Sparrow Watches are designed for children 5-15 years. Water resistant, with Swiss movement and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal face.

ENDLESSPOSSIBILITIES.BIGCARTEL.COM

LIT TLEWILLOWVINTAGE.COM

SPARROWWATCHES.COM

@LIT TLEWILLOWVINTAGE

@SPARROWWATCHES

@ENDLESS.POSSIBILITIESJOURNAL

SAGE DESIGNS

BUMP STYLE

Discover a contemporary carefree aesthetic at Ivy and Jess. Featuring a curated collection of on-trend fashion and homewares for the modern woman, you'll love. #supercool

Bump Style is a designer dress rental service dedicated to providing pregnant and nursing mamas with stylish options for special occasions at a fraction of the retail price. Yasss, mama!

SAGEDESIGNS.COM.AU

IVYANDJESS.COM.AU

BUMPST YLE.COM.AU

@SAGE_DESIGNS_CO

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IVY AND JESS

A bohemian, gypsy-inspired fashion label for mothers and babes, ethically made with care and quality fabrics, Sage Designs has got it goin' on! Use code MAMADISRUPT for 20% off.

MAMA DISRUPT // SUMMER 2017/18

@IVYANDJESS

@BUMP.ST YLE

MAMA COLLECTIVE

CHOOZE

A lifestyle brand that inspires children to be creative, confident, and unique, Chooze shoes are bright, flexible, breathable and well constructed, giving your kiddos healthy feet whilst also looking funky!

WE MIGHT BE TINY

We Might Be Tiny creates playful, simple, yet functional dinnerware that delights and inspires both the young and young at heart. Modern and on-trend, dinner time has never been more fun!

LITTLE HUMAN HOME

CHOOZESHOES.COM.AU

WEMIGHTBETINY.COM.AU

LIT TLEHUMANHOME.COM.AU

@CHOOZE_AU

COOPER'S CRIB

@WEMIGHTBETINY

THE GRACE FILES

With beautifully designed, stylish and practical baby products for you and your boo, Little Human Home even offers an effortless gift registry available for expecting parents. Too easy! @LIT TLEHUMANHOME

FINDING UNICORNS

A mecca of stylish baby accessories handpicked by a very picky mama, Cooper's Crib brings a little bit of modern-fun to a newborn's crib. Warning: you will want one of everything! Bring on the cuteness.

A bespoke journal and gift company, The Grace Files believes in keeping notes, preserving memories and creating beautiful gifts. You'll love the Love Letters to My Child journal. Treat yo' self, mama.

If you have a unicorn lover at home, look no further! Offering a selection of carefully curated unicorn gifts for children, with a focus on quality and style, Finding Unicorns brings you the cutest unicorns around.

COOPERSCRIB.COM

THEGRACEFILES.COM.AU

FINDINGUNICORNS.COM.AU

@COOPERSCRIB

@THE.GRACE.FILES

@FINDINGUNICORNS.SHOP

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MAMA COLLECTIVE

P I N K M O N D AY

TAILORING FOR M I S S P O L LY

Pink Monday is an Australian designed, 100% recycled funky tote bag big enough for the whole family. From the beach, to swimming lessons, to market shopping, you'll wonder how you lived without it.

The home of quality Australian handmade fashion for "Miniland" Dolls, tailoring for Miss Polly focuses on high quality designer fabrics, made with love and care.

PINKMONDAY.COM.AU

TAILORINGFORMISSP OLLY.COM.AU

@PINKMONDAY.AUSTRALIA

THE COMFORT MAMA

@TAILORINGFORMISSP OLLY

TINY HEARTS FIRST AID

CHICKAZ

An ethically-sourced online boutique featuring a collection of children's fashions made with premium fabrics and designed using gorgeous colourful prints, Chickaz is on point. Check their leather shoes, too. CHICK AZ.COM @CHICK AZ.OFFICIAL

ZULU ACTIVE

From pregnancy, nursing, labour and beyond, these rad modern house dresses are the perfect addition to your motherhood journey. Comfortable, nursingfriendly, casual mama-style perfection.

Australia's most trusted infant and child first aid training provider, enrol onto their life-saving course or shop their family first aid kit. Use code MAMA10 for $10 off.

Modern mamas will love Zulu Active's chic activewear for pregnancy and beyond, plus their stylish neoprene totes for mama essentials, and their sleek water bottles which keep water super cold!

THECOMFORTMAMA .COM.AU

TINYHEARTSFIRSTAID.COM

ZULUACTIVE.COM

@THE_COMFORTMAMA

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@TINYHEARTSFIRSTAID

@ZULUACTIVE_AU

MAMA COLLECTIVE

SQUID THREADS

H AY D E N + C H L O E

Australian accessory designer label, Spark of Wild is not your typical nappy bag brand. Their high-end premium pieces are a must-have in every modern mama's wardrobe.

With stylish clothing for newborns to 7 years, cool toys and beautiful decor pieces, Hayden + Chloe is your destination for everything baby and kids. Time to SHOP!

SQUIDTHREADS.COM

SPARKOFWILD.COM.AU

HAYDENANDCHLOE.COM.AU

@SQUIDTHREADS

N A M E LY C O

S PA R K O F W I L D

Squid Threads has attitude down to a "tee". A lifestyle tee brand, keeping it real with style and sass, this rad label screams rebel mama (and rebel kiddo) with cool understated badass vibes.

@SPARKOFWILD

BIRDIE + CO

@HAYDEN_AND_CHLOE

HARLEY + SOO

Namely Co is a modern knitwear brand that makes high quality baby and child personalised name blankets and cushions. All blankets are made to order and knitted with your little one's name. WANT!

Birdie and Co is the home of a unique and delightful collection of clothing, footwear, accessories, decor and toys for babies and tweens, + an offering of clothing, accessories and homewares for mamas.

Harley and Soo is the home of a carefully curated collection of clothing, footwear, accessories, decor and toys for babies to tweens. Fun and unique everyday style.

NAMELYCO.COM

BIRDIEANDCO.COM.AU

HARLEYANDSOO.COM.AU

@NAMELY_CO

@BIRDIEANDCOKIDS

@HARLEYANDSOO

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JJS

gratitude LIFE is a question of ATTITUDE, so why not make it one of GRATITUDE for how FAR you have come? (yo’ doin’ good girl ...) WORDS // Jessica Jane Sammut

s Oprah once said, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” As we celebrate our first birthday, this year has certainly been a time of being thankful. It has been a year of seeing the good that can come if we let it, if we are grateful for every step no matter how big or small. As I reminisce over how far we have travelled in our immense journey over the past 12 months, one thing sticks out. The fact that for every day we have made it forward, we, at MD® HQ, have been grateful. For every follower we have gained on social media, we have been excited. For every purchase made of our beautiful magazine, we have done a happy dance. For every letter, we have received, we have truly felt the love. We didn’t know what would happen when we launched Mama Disrupt®, so every day onward was a bonus in our book. Not once did we doubt ourselves, or feel dissatisfied with our progress. We were simply overjoyed to be here, with you. That’s not to say that we haven’t listened or evolved. We have. But we haven’t progressed as the result of our impatience. We have progressed as a result of our gratitude and our commitment to our cause. We haven’t chased, we have risen; we haven’t questioned, we have trusted. Our success so far has been about the ride as much as it has been about the destination. The race is long, and haste creates poor decisions. It is more important to be true. And the same goes for motherhood. When we mother with a thankful heart, it passes to our children, seeping into their psyches to become their inner voice. They watch our lead and follow our flow. They replicate our mindsets of acceptance and finding the joy in the every day. So, when you feel worn down by the daily grind of the mothering rollercoaster (and girl, we all do from time to time), congratulate yourself on the distance you have come. Be proud of the day you have made it through. Look forward to the cuddle you know you will receive after story time. Because it’s these tiny moments that are the ones that matter. Yes, there will always be more to do, and further to go, but forward is forward, and being present and mindful is the BEST way to get to where we want to be. Life is a question of attitude, so why not make it one of gratitude? FOLLOW JESS @JESSICAJANESAMMUT

“WE HAVEN’T CHASED, WE HAVE RISEN; WE HAVEN’T QUESTIONED, WE HAVE TRUSTED.”

PICTURE: MEL ANIE MCNIVEN // MAKE-UP: RB AESTHE TICS

An attitude of

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER EMPOWERING MOTHERS.

PERINATAL ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION Perinatal anxiety and depression does not discriminate. It affects around 100,000 families across Australia every year. Signs and symptoms include:  Constant sadness or crying  Panic attacks  Persistent generalised worry  Lethargy  Loss of confidence and self-esteem  Sleep problems unrelated to baby’s needs  Withdrawal from family and friends

Up to one in five expecting or new mums will experience it. It can happen to any expecting or new parent.

IF YOU CAN KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING, YOU CAN SEEK HELP. AND THE SOONER YOU SEEK HELP, THE SOONER YOU CAN RECOVER. FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.PANDA.ORG.AU PANDA’S NATIONAL PERINATAL ANXIETY & DEPRESSION HELPLINE 1300 726 306 9AM – 7.30PM (AEST/AEDT)