Absolutely Mama August 2019 PREVIEW

Mama AU G U S T 2 0 1 9 • I S S U E 3 1

MODEL MAMA The Magazine for Stylish Mums

Natalia Vodianova’s new business venture

FUN FOOD

Angellica Bell’s new cookbook

GET OUTSIDE NON-PLASTIC OUTDOOR TOYS

Mother MILK

BREASTFEEDING TIPS AND ADVICE

ISSUE 31 • AUGUST 2019 _MAMA_Aug19_Cover_CG.indd 2

Green FUTURE Helen Skelton on being more eco

THE MAGAZINE FOR ST YLISH MUMS 08/07/2019 14:19

SH.indd 1

08/07/2019 11:17

SH.indd 2

09/07/2019 09:08

BBB.indd 1

09/07/2019 09:18

mama WELCOME

contents 87 AUGUST 2019

26

72 20

56

AGENDA 12 What’s On

Arts and entertainment for the month ahead

14 New Books August’s best new releases

ESSENTIALS 20 Tot Gear

Key kit to make parenting easier

MAMAHOOD 26 Insta-Mama

Anastasia Yakhnina on sustainability

ON THE COVER: @ayakhnina ayakhnina.com

28 Woman in Work

Kim Palmer on launching a hypnotherapy app

8

30 Mama Interview

62 Mother Milk

FASHION 38 F resh Air

HOME & INTERIORS 72 Nursery Notes

Beautiful decor and furniture for

Natalia Vodianova on investing in Little Tummy

Mama and mini twinning from Bobo Choses

Breastfeeding tips from Henrietta Norton

your little one’s space

44 Kids Fashion Notes Th e best looks and launches for

74 Dreamy Decor Inside Coral Atkinson’s mid

46 Making A Garden Play-ready pieces for a summer

RESOURCES 89 Holiday Fun

Interactive activity books from

little ones

outside from Bobo Choses

WELLNESS 56 Fantastic Eats

Recipes from Angellica Bell’s new kids cookbook

century modern home

Agnes & Aubrey

92 Food Warriors Reducing food waste in London

schools

August 2019 | 5

MAMA_Aug19_CONTENTS_CG.indd 5

08/07/2019 17:20

BBHS.indd 1

08/07/2019 12:47

mama WELCOME INSTA MAMA P. 26

Editor’s

LETTER MAMA STYLE P. 36

INTERIORS TOUR P. 74

T

he thing that links the mamas in this issue is that they are all on a mission to do good. Whether it’s making the planet a better place for the future, or helping the sisterhood, they all have positive vibes by the bucket load. It was so inspiring speaking to every single one of them.

In my interview with model, entrepreneur and all round superwoman (read: mama of five!) Natalia Vodianova, she tells us about the philanthropic causes she supports. TV presenter Helen Skelton explains why she is on a mission to get the nation to be more energy efficient at home. Photographer (and our cover model) Anastasia Yakhnina talks to us about why she endeavours to work with eco brands.

Elsewhere, Henrietta Norton, founder of Wild Nutrition, gives her breastfeeding tips ahead of World Breastfeeding Week. We also round-up the best nonplastic outdoor toys for the sunshine.

And finally, our second annual Mama Awards is now open to the public to vote, so go to our website to support your favourite brands.

C a rly Gl e n di n n i n g

BOOKS P. 14

E DITOR

@carlyjglendinning carly@zest-media.com

Part of the

Mid-weight Designer: REBECCA NOONAN Account Manager: DONNA MCCAFFERTY

T h e M a g a z i n e Fo r S t y l i s h M u m s @ A B S O L U T E LY M A M A

absolutely-mama .co.uk Editor UK: CARLY GLENDINNING Features Editor: HELEN BARON Assistant Editor: FLORA THOMAS Social Media Editor: JESSICA SHALTOUT Marketing Manager: LUCIE PEARCE Art Director: PAWEL KUBA

Finance Director: JERRIE KOLECI Director: LEAH DAY

LON DON OFFICE : 50 - 52 Whar f Rd, The Angel, London N1 7EU

Managing Director: SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: carly@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please email: donna@zest-media.com For media partnership enquiries please email: lucie@zest-media.com

Absolutely Mama supports

ABU DHABI OFFICE: FACT M.E FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O Box 769328, Abu Dhabi UAE zest.london To read the latest issue of Absolutely Mama subscribe at gb.readly.com/absolutelymama

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

August 2019

MAMA_Aug19_EDS LETTER_CG.indd 7

|

7

08/07/2019 17:21

10 things we Absolutely

LOV E The products and brands getting our attention this month

Flower Power Justine Ta ba k Made entirely in the UK, we love Justine Tabak’s romantic collection of dresses. This floral version of her Primrose dress is crafted from leftover fabric from big fashion houses, with the aim of reducing waste.

H EY MAMA

Bobo Choses Perfect for mama and mini matching, the Bobo Choses womenswear collection is full of easy-to-wear pieces. We love that everything is made locally in Spain, where the brand is based. bobochoses.com

justinetabak.co.uk

or’s Editick P

Coasting Along

FELLOWSTE A D A new candle brand to add to our list of favourites. Fellowstead’s ‘Strand’ scent is inspired by a bracing walk along the Danish coastline with notes of sea salt, tidal grasses and seafoam. just.maison

8

|

FACE TIME Ma d o

Mado is the brainchild of two Copenhagen-based design companies, All the Way to Paris and Paper Collective.

Their playful ‘Zen’ print would make a cute addition to a playroom, nursery or even your living room. madomado.com

absolutely-mama.co.uk

_USE_MAMA_Aug19_Ten_Things_USE_CG.indd 8

08/07/2019 17:22

ma m a LOVES

Beach Ready Liewood If you’re headed to the beach this summer, Scandi brand Liewood has everything you need. Little ones will love their swimwear (covered in cute prints – from pandas to cats), and their beach toys, ponchos, and hooded towels are adorable too. scandiborn.com

WOOL GANG Fra n ces c a Ge ntil l i

With the trend for Beni Ourain rugs not going anywhere, it’s refreshing to see designs in brilliant shades. This one-off style is handwoven by the Berber Tribes of the Atlas Mountains. francescagentilli.com

FALLING ASLEEP Ho n n a

A new sleepwear brand, we’re already in love with Honna’s beautifully classic cotton pyjamas. Each style is made in a family-run factory and their fabric dyes are carefully selected to make sure they are safe. honnalondon.com

Little Rainbows

Hibou Hom e Hibou Home has launched a new rainbow-themed wallpaper. All of the brand’s designs are printed on paper that has been sustainably and ethically sourced from FSC and PEFC accredited suppliers. hibouhome.com

Palace Life

Le Toy Va n Launching exclusively at Harrods for the month of July, the Palace House from Le Toy Van is the grandest dollhouse the brand has ever designed. Hours of imaginative play to be had. harrods.com

FRESH S C E N TS

Abel Vita Odor We’re huge fans of 100% natural and vegan perfume brand Abel Vita Odor – created by a former winemaker. Their new scent is a radiant blend of iris (from the root of the plant), mixed with rose, jasmine, and natural musk. contentwellbeing.com

August 2019

_USE_MAMA_Aug19_Ten_Things_USE_CG.indd 9

|

9

08/07/2019 17:23

spin 360™ signature Welcome to a luxurious world of soft, textured, quilted fabrics; aged cognac leatherette touches in all of the most elegant of spaces; and beautifully tailored lines; all exquisitely crafted to make memories of each moment with baby last forever.

A SIMPLY TIMELESS GROUP 0+/1 SAFETY SYSTEM WITH A 360° SPINNING SEAT.

joiebaby.com/signature Available from Argos, Boots, Halfords, John Lewis, Mamas and Papas, Mothercare, Very and all good independent nursery retailers

JOIE.indd 1

09/07/2019 09:44

agenda AU G U ST ’ S AC T I V I T I E S & E V E N T S p . 1 2 • O U R M O N T H LY R E A D I N G R O U N D - U P p . 14

In Real Life • TATE MODERN •

Olafur Eliasson returns with an absolutely unmissable, sure to be unforgettable exhibition at Tate Modern. In a series of captivating installations you’re invited to consider your senses, the people around you and the world beyond. tate.org.uk

August 2019 | 11

Mama_Aug_19_Agend_Opener.indd 11

08/07/2019 17:25

W H AT ’S O N

The final fesitvals of summer and a giant bouncy castle keep us busy in August

Pandemonium August 26-29 Shrewsbury

Tucked away on a glorious riverside site in Shrewsbury is a little piece of heaven playing host to a children’s folk festival. Aptly named ‘Pandemonium’ this year’s theme is bees and the environment. There’ll be music, dance and crafts to keep little ones entertained while you dance under the stars to the UK’s finest musical acts. shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk

we love

Little GYM Ongoing • Various Locations

The Little Gym provides gymnastics classes to develop resilience in children. As summer stretches on and on, why not book your little one into a summer camp? Parents can choose half days, full days or full weeks and there’s a theme to suit everyone - including Pirate Party, Dinosaur Adventure and Superheroes. thelittlegym.com

Out In The Open 25 August Regents Park Open Air Theatre

The Luna Cinema returns to the Open Air Theatre with the long awaited sequel to Disney’s musical, Mary Poppins Returns. Rejoin the Banks family and wonder in the magic of the mysterious nanny making her mark on a new generation of children. openairtheatre.com

12 | absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_Aug19_Agenda_HB_USE_CG.indd 12

09/07/2019 09:59

agen d a

THE BIG FEAST

August 26-28 Alex James Farm, The Cotswolds

Little chefs are encouraged to cook at this mouthwateringly good weekend. Held in the picturesque Cotswolds, the Big Feastival is a guaranteed mix of fabulous food, high-end celebrity spotting and considerate child-sized portions. For the fussy eater, face painting, jam sessions and giant haystacks are also on offer. thebigfeastival.com

EVENTS

BEST IN SHOW

Underwear-loving aliens, suitcaseriffling puppets and fun for little monsters

S PAC E CAD ET

13 August - 1 September Troubadour White City

Straight from the West End, Aliens Love Underpants comes to the Troubadour for a limited season. Follow Timmy as he journeys to Planet Janet to discover that human underpants are revered by aliens. Expect magic and mischief in this excellent family show. troubadourtheatres.com

PO P U P PU PPET August 17 The Cockpit Theatre

Join Tee and Gee as they sort through the lost and forgotten suitcases of Sprinkle Dinkle International Airport.

This enthralling tale tells the magical stories hidden within each bag. Expect your imagination to run wild in this colourful puppet show for the family.

Peter Rabbit

thecockpit.org.uk

20 July - 1 September Theatre Royal Haymarket

ollowing a sell out run in April this year, the critically acclaimed Where is Peter Rabbit? returns to the West End by popular demand for a limited season.

The shows will feature - for the first time - the delectable voice of TV presenter Myleene Klass as the narrator, alongside Olivier Award-winning actor Griff Rhys Jones.

F

peterrabbitlive.com

JUMP UP 27- 28 August Alexandra Palace

t’s big, it’s bouncy and it’s back.

Following two sell-out years, the world’s biggest inflatable obstacle course and bouncy castle returns to the UK this month, with two days dedicated specifically to children and families. Food trucks are on standby so no one’s going hungry, and we particularly recommend a spin on the Inflatable Unicorn.

I

M O N STE R M AY H E M

Until 11 August Troubadour White City Theatre

Follow young inventor Monty as he creates incredible monsters and wacky inventions. But once he’s made them all, what is he going to do with them?

With plenty of opportunities for little monsters to get involved, the whole family will have a monstrous time. troubadourtheatres.com

themonsteruk.com

August 2019 | 13

MAMA_Aug19_Agenda_HB_USE_CG.indd 13

09/07/2019 10:00

We love

BOOKS

Monsters and Martians make for mysterious reading this month. Plus, some gorgeous gift ideas

Wo r d s F L O R A T H O M A S

PARTY POOPER B I L LY A N D T H E D R AG O N

By Nadia Shireen

Billy’s at a fancy-dress party when her loyal sidekick is kidnapped by a massive, fi re-breathing dragon! She embarks on a brave rescue mission along with her animal friends, but can they save the day – and the party? This is a sweet story with bright, colourful illustrations.

Perfect for reading out loud. £6.99  penguinrandomhouse.com

14

|

BED TIME

WHO’ S GOI NG TO B ED?

By Abie Longstaf f Illustrated by Eve Coy

A soothing story, brilliant for bedtime. Meet a cheeky baby who is adamantly NOT tired and watch as the baby wreaks havoc among the sleepy animals and pirates of a whimsical fairytale land. Is anybody going to get any rest? This atmospherically illustrated, rhythmically written story is the perfect read just before bed. £6.99, penguin.co.uk

absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_aug19_BOOKS_V2_CG.indd 14

08/07/2019 14:58

agen d a

BOOKS

BACK TO SCHOOL

CO LOU R M O N STE R GO E S TO SCH OO L

By Anna Llennas

The Colour Monster is back and this time he’s heading off to school. But what exactly does school look like? Is it a huge scary castle, or is it nestled in the sky among the rainbows and clouds? Take your little one on a journey of self-expression as Colour Monster navigates music lessons, lunchtime and forging friendships. £6.99, bonierbooks.co.uk

M A RTI A N M U D D LE LIFE ON MARS

By Jon Agee

THIRTIETH ANNIVERSARY THE LITTLE MOLE WHO KNEW I T WA S N O N E O F H I S B U S I N E S S

By Werner Holzwarthn and Wolf Erlbruch

The Little Mole turns 30! In a year full of picture-book anniversaries, this cult classic children’s tale is back. For those who don’t know, the hilarious story follows a little mole who wakes up to fi nd one of his animal friends has done its business on his head. The Little Mole embarks on a revenge-seeking mission. £6.99  pavilionbooks.com

A daring young astronaut lands on Mars in search of life. He has even brought cupcakes for whoever he finds. Alas, he doesn’t discover any new friends, and soon gives up… If he would only turn around, he’d discover the friendly Martian who’s been following him! £12.99  skallywaypress.com

BEAST IN WAITING

WA LK TH I S WAY

TH E BABY B EAST

WA L K T H I S U N D E R G R O U N D

By Chris Judge

WO R LD

By Kate Barker

What should Beast do when an egg arrives on his doorstep? Feed it?

Take it for a walk? According to the doctor, he should keep it warm and wait for an arrival… But what’s he waiting for? Children will laugh out loud while adults will recognise some of the fi rst-time childcare blunders in this hilarious story. £11.99  penguin.co.uk

This artful book invites you on a trip underground. Discover hidden worlds teeming with life, from ant cities to treasure-filled tombs. Each spread is packed full of details to explore. It is a worthy addition to any stylish nursery. £14.99  templarco.co.uk August 2019

MAMA_aug19_BOOKS_V2_CG.indd 15

|

15

08/07/2019 15:00

YOUNGSOLES.indd 1

17/05/2019 09:40

P L A ST I C F R E E TOYS FO R P L AY I N G O U T S I D E T H I S S U M M E R p . 18 TOT G E A R : I N S P I R E D K I T TO M A K E PA R E N T I N G E A S I E R p . 2 0

Softly Softly BINIBAMBA

Handmade in England, Binibamba’s merino pram liners keep babies cool in the summer (and toasty come winter). We love the beautifully dusky hues the range is available in. binibamba.com

August 2019 | 17

MAMA_August19_ESSENTIALS OPENER_CG.indd 17

08/07/2019 15:08

Outdoor

Play

Carly Glendinning rounds up the best non-plastic toys for getting out in the garden

Hide And Seek PLUM PLAY

Editor’s Pick

The most stylish of garden dens, Plum Play’s teepee can become whatever your little one wants to make it – from a playhouse to a fort. Crafted from FSC-certified wood and made with sustainability in mind. £399.95; scandiborn.com

It’s A Strike NOBODINOZ

A classic game that’s great for honing hand-eye coordination skills and perfect for encouraging them out into the garden this summer. Made from solid European beech wood. £44.95; nubie.co.uk

18

|

LET IT SLIDE ARTHUR AND FRIENDS

A beautifully simple design from young Belgian brand Arthur and Friends, this slide will provide hours of fun. Made in Europe from sustainable wood. £224.95; scandiborn.com

absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_Aug19_ OUTDOOR PLAY_CG.indd 18

08/07/2019 17:27

essentia ls OUTDOOR

Pull along OLLI ELLA

With vintage-flair, little ones will love carting their favourite toys around the garden in Olli Ella’s signature Luggy. Hand-woven from natural rattan. £49; cottagetoys.co.uk

SWING TIME SOLVEJ

Made from natural timber, rot proof canvas and using non-toxic paint, this stylish swing from Solvej can be happily used indoors or outdoors. Suitable for little ones up to six years. £159; beyondthestork.co.uk

Grow Up LE TOY VAN

These cute stacking veggies from Le Toy Van would make a fun addition to a sand pit or play area.

Made from solid rubberwood and finished with hand-sewn fabric leaves. £19.95; letoyvan.com

ROCK OUT FERMOB

From French outdoor furniture designers Fermob, this minimal rocking horse is a stylish twist on the traditional designs.

Available in an array of colours and made from aluminum. £178; smallable.com

Skip To It LES JOUETS LIBRE

A classic garden toy, we love this beautifully simple skipping rope from Les Jouets Libre. Made from wood from an ecological forest and comes with an organic cotton bag. £14; smallable.com August 2019

MAMA_Aug19_ OUTDOOR PLAY_CG.indd 19

|

19

09/07/2019 10:19

e s s ent i al s

TOT GE AR

ROLL ON SUMMER

ent d r a p rove app

M A M A S & PA PA S

Brand new for AW19, Mamas & Papas has just launched a tropical palm print version of their popular lightweight Acro buggy. At 4.9kg the design is their most compact lightweight fold – making it ideal for summer holidays. £199; mamasandpapas.com

TOT GEAR CLEAN MACHINE

Inspired kit to make parenting easier

V I TA L B A B Y

Using only UV light, the clever Nurture Pro UV Steriliser and Dryer from Vital Baby kills 99.9% of bacteria.

Perfect for bottles, teats and even make up brushes, it also has a drying mode so you can pop everything straight in after washing. vitalbaby.com

PRETTY PRINTS M A M A S & PA PA S

Lilybelle is a new nursery collection from Mamas & Papas. With lots of practical must-haves including this changing mattress, we love the nostalgic floral prints. mamasandpapas.com 20

|

LAWSON COTBE D Reviewed by Mirlah Richardson of the Mamas & Papas Parent Approved Panel

W

e were kindly sent a Lawson Cotbed from Mamas & Papas to complete our nursery furniture.

We already have the wardrobe and drawer/changing unit and now the cot is up the nursery really feels complete.

I absolutely love the Lawson collection.

Its simple Scandi vibe is right up our street and I feel the style will last for many years to come. It looks great in a baby’s nursery but this furniture will adapt and be ideal for Ellis as he grows to a toddler and beyond.

The cotbed was super easy to put together. There weren’t any fallings out between my husband and I – so that’s got to count for something.

The cot feels so sturdy and you can tell it’s a quality product and built to last.

When the time comes we’ll be able to take the sides off, and using a few other fixings we can turn it into a toddler bed.

Whilst I can’t say this new addition to the nursery has magically made Ellis sleep through the night (I’m still holding out for a miracle) it sure has made his bedtime cosy, comfortable and super stylish.

Thanks so much again Mamas & Papas, Ellis loves his nursery and it’s my favourite room in the house. themrsproject.com @themrsproject

absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_Aug19_TOT_GEAR_USE_CG.indd 20

08/07/2019 15:19

MH.indd 1

09/07/2019 10:22

MICRALITE.indd 1

04/06/2019 15:11

mamahood H E LE N S K E LTO N O N B E I N G M O R E ECO F R I E N D LY AT H O M E p . 2 4 N ATA LI A VO D I A N OVA O N M OT H E R H O O D A N D H E R N E W B U S I N E S S V E N T U R E p . 3 0

Good Vibes

IN THIS SECTION

This month it’s all about inspiring mamas who are making the world a better place. Model Natalia Vodianova talks about her philanthropic endeavours. And we talk to Insta mama Anastasia Yakhnina about working with eco brands. Enjoy!

August 2019 | 2 3

Mama_Aug19_MAMAHOOD_OPENER_CG.indd 23

08/07/2019 17:26

m am ahood INTERVIEW

Q &A

Green

FUTURE TV presenter Helen Skelton on why she’s backing the Smart Energy GB campaign

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q Do you think having a young family has made you feel differently about the environment and being more sustainable and energy efficient?

A Definitely. My children love being outside; they and I are better people after a run around the park. I spent my childhood ankle deep in mud, halfway up a tree or wading in water. It sounds very Famous Five and it was.

I want my children to have the chance to do that and quite simply if we don’t start looking after our planet, our kids won’t have a ‘great’ outdoors to explore.

Q Tell us about the Smart Energy GB campaign and how you got involved?

A I’m passionate about creating a sustainable future for our planet and encouraging people to appreciate the small steps that we can all take to achieve that. I’m delighted to be playing a role in celebrating those areas and communities around Great Britain who are taking their future into their own hands.

It’s nice to be involved in something that is recognising what people are doing right.

24

|

“If we don’t start looking after our planet, our kids won’t have a ‘great’ outdoors to explore”

I have two young children, I feel that it’s important to take responsibility, in our homes and communities, and show our children how to do the same. I particularly love this campaign because it’s celebrating the positive steps that people are taking – getting a smart meter installed and recycling.

Q What have you been doing to tackle energy efficiency and being more sustainable in your own home?

A Well, we had a smart meter installed, which helps us monitor our energy usage in nearreal time, which has prompted us to make small changes to be more energy efficient. For example, I LOVE a cup of tea. I probably drink

more than I should. But I’m now very mindful of not filling the kettle to the top if I’m making myself a cuppa. Our kettle is only ever filled for the amount of tea we’re drinking. I’ve started buying toilet paper, kitchen towels and pocket tissue made from bamboo and the packaging is recyclable. I also take shorter showers. When training for the marathon, after a long run it was really tempting to have a long shower, but shorter showers are so much more energy efficient and use less water (and turning down the temperature to make it cool was good for my muscles).

Q It’s been a year of good causes for you, between running the London Marathon and swimming the English Channel. What do your family think about your achievements?

A I don’t really go on about it, so they don’t say much! They like that my swimming means we go to the beach a lot – I swim for 30 minutes then we play in the sand for hours so they are happy about that! When I was running, I just used to run up and down hills with them in the park, they thought it was hilarious!

Helen Skelton, together with Smart Energy GB, is encouraging everyone to get a smart meter. Search: ‘I want a smart meter’ or call 0300 131 8000. By getting a smart meter, you’re taking a small step towards a more sustainable future for everyone smartenergygb.org

absolutely-mama.co.uk

Mama_Aug19_INTERVIEW HELEN SKELTON_CG.indd 24

08/07/2019 15:27

MM.indd 1

09/07/2019 10:17

“I believe sustainability is everything! The way you’re bringing up your kids should be sustainable!”

Q How did you get into photography and what do you love about it?

A I’ve been doing art direction and photography since graduating from London’s University of the Arts ten years ago. I love the magic of the shooting process, making a moment timeless, capturing realities that have never existed. Playing, even though I’m a big girl now.

INSTA MAMA

Photographer and creative director Anastasia Yakhnina ayakhnina.com • @ayakhnina

26

|

Q What’s it like working with eco-friendly brands and is sustainability something that’s important to your family?

A Working with eco-friendly brands and being a part of this conscious community came naturally. I’ve always been excited about truthful and natural things in fashion, trying to give them an edge which will inspire younger people too.

I believe sustainability is everything. The way you’re bringing up your kids should be sustainable! Not teaching them about consequences isn’t great whether it comes to the everyday relationships within the family or within our planet.

Q How important is Instagram to your work as a photographer and what do you like and dislike most about the platform?

A Instagram is obviously a great platform to find and connect to the brands and

absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_Aug19_Instamama_CG.indd 26

08/07/2019 15:30

mama h ood Q & A

creatives you love – but even more than that I appreciate the opportunity it’s giving us to share our imaginary universe and our unique personal vision of this world.

I’m really happy to have done some inspiring work with brands that I’ve met through Instagram – a lot of cool things are coming, so stay tuned!

Generally, when I see another girl-in-aflower-field image on top of my feed, I’m thinking that IG is getting quite repetitive.

However, every day the platform is teaching me how human perception works and what makes us tick – so that’s very interesting!

Q How is it raising a family in Portugal and what’s your lifestyle like there?

A Originally I’m Russian, but my daughter has grown up in Portugal and I believe this place is one of the best in the world to do so.

The ocean is always close, the beaches feel infinite and the whole pace of life is beautifully slowed down.

Q You travel a lot as a family. What has your greatest adventure been so far?

A We’re very young and adventurous as a family so we naturally felt settled moving to Bali this winter and it’s been great for me both as a photographer and as a model.

I guess the biggest adventure is happening now, when the only place we can call home is the world. This summer, I’m going to work in Germany, camp in Spain, dance in the Netherlands and then fly back to Bali – who knows how long for!

Q Favourite way to spend a day as a family?

A We love brunches and beaches and you cannot blame us for that!

Q And finally, best and worst bits about motherhood?

A Motherhood is incredible! It’s a constant study of human nature. It’s when you really learn to LOVE. Because you need to teach love.

Motherhood is a celebration of life in its continuity. It’s actually the most exciting journey I’ve ever been on so far. And I’m really inspired to be documenting and sharing it with you.

August 2019 | 27

MAMA_Aug19_Instamama_CG.indd 27

08/07/2019 15:31

“I wanted to help women with their everyday struggles with sleep, anxiety, confidence, and stress”

woman in

WORK Kim Palmer on launching her hypnotherapy app Clementine, aimed at helping women

I n t e r v i e w C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Q Tell us about how you came to build a hypnotherapy app…

A Well it’s a bit of a long story. But here’s the short and snappy version.

I am a recovering perfectionist, people pleaser, and workaholic, with massively high ambitions for what I should be achieving in life. I used to take all of my sense of self worth from work, which is incredibly unhealthy.

I spent my whole working career climbing the corporate ladder and never once being really pleased with what I had achieved. I was obsessed with work. It caught up with me five years ago when I had a panic attack at work, in front of my colleagues. This traumatised me. Then my confidence started to unravel.

I developed acute anxiety and panic attacks and basically stopped doing normal things like talking in front of friends and family.

2 8 | absolutely-mama.co.uk

MAMA_Aug19_WOMAN IN WORK_CG.indd 28

09/07/2019 10:11

mamah o o d

INTERVIEW

“It’s super simple which is why it’s so great for mums” Hypnotherapy was part of my journey to recovery. It made me feel lighter and helped me disconnect from the trauma of my first panic attack.

When I decided that it was time to start a business (I’d been thinking about it since I was very small), it became clear very quickly that I wanted to help women with their everyday struggles with sleep, anxiety, confidence, and stress.

Q How does the app work and what makes it so great for mums in particular?

A It’s super simple which is why it’s so great for mums. It has a range of hypnotherapy sessions designed to help women when they have a specific need.

So for example: when you can’t get to sleep, or you can’t get back to sleep, or you need a nap, or you’re really nervous before meeting some new people, or you’ve had a tough day with the kids and you need to reset. The sessions are different lengths so they can fit with whatever you can squeeze in. We strongly believe that hypnotherapy works better for mums because when you are tired, stressed, or feeling a bit low, it’s easy to listen to, relax and get a boost of energy, reassurance, or some calm.

Q How long did it take you to get Clementine up and running? And what were the biggest challenges?

A I decided to start a business in December 2016. I gave myself three months to decide on the idea and then I launched the app in November 2017. The biggest challenge whilst launching was trying to get everything done and learn all these new skills that I had no idea I needed to know. It was a bit overwhelming at times. I just had to chunk out the work in tasks so that I could cope.

Q How did your motherhood journey play into your decision to change career paths?

A This played a massive role. My husband and I have a family vision – part of this is that I can spend the school holidays with him and my two boys, as he is a teacher.

I knew that a traditional 9am – 5pm job was not going to fit with this vision. Plus I wanted to be financially independent. I also wanted to create multiple income streams.

And I just wasn’t interested in climbing the corporate ladder anymore.

Q What’s it like working in the fem and health tech industries?

A I’ve only really just started involving myself with the fem tech and health tech community and I’m so inspired and feel very supported. It’s amazing to see so many female entrepreneurs owning this space. Which they should. The downside is that investment is still very difficult to secure. The VC world is a man’s world. They fundamentally do not understand the female opportunity and what innovation looks like in this space.

Q Do you have any exciting plans coming up for the business?

A I am working solely on securing investment. For us to create a viable business model and to reach millions of women we need a huge wad of cash. So that’s my focus. If we get the money then we can evolve the product – I have some really great plans for how to help women more. And we can finally spend money on marketing.

clementineapp.co.uk @clementineappuk August 2019

MAMA_Aug19_WOMAN IN WORK_CG.indd 29

|

29

09/07/2019 10:11