Mini Magazine Holiday 2015, Tamera Mowry by Mini Magazine

L Mi E B ni R tu A rn T sf E ive W th I T is ye H U ar ! S

50 GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY PERSON ON YOUR LIST

TAMERA MOWRYHOUSLEY The Real co-host on learning to balance, holiday traditions and breastfeeding

WELCOME INâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; A PEEK INSIDE THE HOMES OF DESIGNER PARENTS

HO L I DAY M A G IC

Our favorite books to keep you busy on snow days stuck inside

HOLIDAY PAJAMAS SPARKLY ENSEMBLES THE BEST SNOW BOOTS HOW CHIC MOMS CELEBRATE THE SEASON, PLUS OUR FIFTH BIRTHDAY!

Taking you higher, bringing TM you closer. Stokke® Xplory® and Stokke® MyCarrier At Stokke®, we are committed to putting children first. Our products are designed specifically to encourage child development and to strengthen the bonds between parents and children. We believe it is in a child’s best interests to be as close as possible to its parents, and to be in an environment of genuine safety and security, free to learn and to grow. Our products are innovative, sustainable and child-centric, providing smart solutions for your baby’s needs and fitting easily into your home and life. Stokke® products are also designed to grow with your child.

www.stokke.com

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ON OUR RADAR

FROM OUR FRIENDS AT

Tinycottons comes a winter collection of sweet prints and pieces to keep your Mini cozy as the temperatures drop. This pinecone one-piece and coordinating bib tops our holiday wish list, both available in white and blue. tinycottons.com

( THIS JUST IN )

HIT THE TRAILZ Stokke® Trailz™, the amazing all-terrain stroller, is built for action and ready to tackle any road you take. Superior steering makes it easy to push, while the advanced tire suspension ensures a smooth ride for your baby. The perfect choice for outdoorloving families, Trailz™ also includes large air filled tires and a spacious waterproof shopping basket. —stokke.com

ON THE EDITOR’S LIST

◀ FESTIVE HOLIDAY DRESSES

With dozens of holiday parties on the calendar, the search for the perfect dress for your Minis can be exhausting. “The woven gold Rosie dress from LIVLY, as well as the red version, is one of my favorites this holiday season,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —livlyclothing.com

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

TUTUDUMONDE.COM

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◀ MINI MUST-HAVE

We’re launching a new website in the new year!

These cozy slippers are perfect for your Mini wild one! —gapkids.com

H O L I D AY Visit Eloise at the Plaza Hotel in New York City to decorate cookies for Santa on December 17th or a Rawther Fancy Tea through December 31st!

Visit the National Zoo in DC through January 2 for its annual (and free!) ZooLights display with over 500,000 environmentally-friendly LED lights!

LOG ON TO

MINI To find more winter launches and events this season!

The Infinity Mirrored Room at The Broad—the new contemporary art museum in downtown LA—offers a dazzling display! —thebroad.org

ON THE EDITOR’S LIST

ELF ON THE SHELF ▶

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

Pick up a new copy of The Super Adventures of Sophie and the City: One Suite Holiday and match your Mini to Sophie with this dress and coat designed by alice + olivia!

If you’re having fun setting up shenanigans for your Elf on the Shelf this year, you’ll love the new ensembles they can wear— like a robe and slippers, tuxedo jacket or sparkly dress!

SAFE KIDS, HAPPY HOME

See our full line of baby gates at munchkin.com

mini-magazine.com

Head to Mini for more interviews EDITORIAL

FOLLOW MINI WE’RE ON INSTAGRAM!

If you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow Mini! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new kids products and collections, our #minisays series and much more! Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine or visit www.instagram.com/ minimagazine.

with parents around the world, style and more

SHOP

LIFESTYLE

CURRENT ISSUE

KIDS HOLIDAY PAJAMAS Festive Mini jammies to welcome Santa while staying nice and warm! mini-magazine.com/category/lifestyle KIDS HOLIDAY SLIPPERS Your Minis will need something on those tiny toes this winter! mini-magazine.com/ category/lifestyle THE BEE AND THE FOX This lifestyle brand makes being Mama Bird look the coolest! mini-magazine.com/ category/lifestyle

GIFT GUIDE Our favorite picks for the holiday season, also found in this issue! minimagazine.com/category/ lifestyle

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MINI You can find all of this and more on our website!

Photos, left to right: Petunia Pickle Bottom, HATCH Collection, Gap, The Bee and the Fox, Gretchen Easton

available at Nordstrom

stroll on Whether it be an all day outing on cruise control or just a quick spin around the block, our MIXX is ready for the stroll ahead. With three riding modes, two crazily compact ways to fold, and one sweet, sleek sleeper seat, the MIXX is designed with all the little details in mind so your adventures in parenthood can be that much easier. Happy strolling â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in smart style.

learn all about it at nuna.eu

contents 02

12 16

44 48

5 0 56

46 | ON THE SCENE Take a

stroll with the best gear for the winter

16 | MEET THE TEAM The team that makes all the Mini magic possible

23 | THE STYLE SPOT The best of holiday pajamas, boots and ensembles

52 | BOOK CLUB The perfect stack of books for a snow day stuck inside

20 | EDITOR’S LIST A

30 | MOMMY CHIC It’s the

55 | DANIELLE WALKER We

carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season

style spot for our chic Mini moms

spend ten minutes with the grain-free guru

34 | TECH KIDS The latest and greatest from the Mini tech sphere

59 | ERIN HIEMSTRA The Apartment 34 founder shares how she balances motherhood and career

36 | DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE Celebrate the anniversary of Alice in Wonderland

contents

52 54

62 64 70

80 82 86

90 94 96 90

100 102

90 | FAMILY JEWELS Go

inside the home of edgy chic designer Maya Brenner 98 | WHAT A PAIR Meet the moms behind footwear brand Freda Salvador 106 | EVERYBODY KNOWS

64 | DAY IN THE LIFE Mini

70 | ALL THAT GLITTERS The

spends the day with mom of two Margherita Missoni

perfect sparkly looks for all of your holiday gatherings this year

66 | ELENI GIANOPULOS Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the gal in charge behind a popular New York City bakery

78 | COVER MOM Tamera Mowry-Housley on motherhood, breastfeeding and balance

FRIDA Mini catches up with Fridababy president Chelsea Hirschhorn at her Miami home

contents

54 56

72 74 78 82 84 86

96 98 102 106

116 | FUNNY MOM Mini laughs the day away with Bravoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flipping Out co-star Jenni Pulos 124 | TIS THE SEASON We deck the halls of a Malibu beach and show off true holiday style 148 | GIFT GUIDE

Our annual gift guide rounds up the best picks for every name on your list this year

116

120 132 140

F O R T H E M O D E R N PA R E N T

MINI Founder and Editor in Chief K aitlyn K irby Cover Photo grapher G retchen Easton Photo graphy A ssistant Abby Hall St ylist Jason B olden Hair K arim Odoms Make Up M otoko Honjo Clayton Editorial Team Editorial Pro duc tion A ssistant M ichael B enters Contributing Photo grapher M ichelle D rewes Contributing Photo grapher S orella Muse Contributing Photo grapher The G old Collec tive

M ini O ffices M ini M agazine Email | hello@mini-magazine.com Web | w w w.mini-magazine.com M ini M agazine is a digital lifest yle publication for the moder n parent available online at w w w.mini-magazine.com. All r ights reser ved. No par t of this publication may be reproduced, distr ibuted, or transmitted in any for m or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other elec tronic methods, without the pr ior wr itten per mission of the publisher, except in the case of br ief quotations embodied in digital and pr int reviews. Copyr ight ÂŠ 2015 M ini M agazine.

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FROM THE EDITOR

EDITOR’S NOTE

HOLIDAZE

very year at this time, I think about how Mini started. Me, boarding a plane to LA to shoot our very first cover, with no idea what the end result would be. We’ve grown so much since then (it’s been five years!), changed names, changed offices, changed in design and it’s hard to believe what was once a tiny, little idea now reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each issue. I’m so grateful to everyone who makes this thing tick each season, from the photographers to the behind-the-scenes crew to those of you scrolling through this right now! It’s because of you that we are able to publish our sixth issue this holiday season. That being said, let’s dive into it! There are so many cool parents featured in this holiday issue. Our cover mom Tamera Mowry-Housley dishes on her

daughter’s debut into their family (p. 78), the president of Fridababy gives us a tour of her uber chic Miami home (p. 106), we chat with jewelry designer Maya Brenner who shares a gem or two on running a successful brand with two kids in tow (p. 90) and much more! We know this time of year can get pretty hectic, but we hope all of the amazing shoots, interviews and of course, our holiday gift guide featured in this issue will give you something extra special to enjoy as you kick back with a mug of hot cocoa during your much needed “me time.” Happy holidays from the Mini team and we’ll see you next year!

Kaitlyn Kirby

TALK TO US!

Founder and Editor in Chief

kate@mini-magazine.com

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

MINI

e d i t o r ’s L I S T ◀

EDITOR’S SECRET

◀ SWING COAT

I’ll let you in on a secret—the cutest crib sheets come from Little Unicorn. $27; littleunicorn.com

The most versatile coat for winter moms-tobe that you will wear long after baby. $298; hatchcollection.com

◀ GIVING BACK

Designed by Mini fall cover mom Melissa Joan Hart’s son, Brady, this Yeti tee’s proceeds support Youth Villages, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to helping emotionally and behaviorally troubled children and their families. $22; kingofharts.com ◀ PLAY TIME

The makers of the Lollacup have just released a cushioned and colorful play mat! $150; lollaland.com

The Hello, World book series is a must-have! Your Minis will love London: A Book of Opposites!

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

SWADDLE COLLAB

◀

CHEERIO, MINI

Two of my favorite brands, Petunia Pickle Bottom and aden+anais have joined forces to create these silky soft swaddles. $50; adenandanais.com

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Jacket: Zara Dress: Hucklebones

stop!

The best of kids holiday pajamas— we just can’t

ST YLE SPOT

snow dance

Winter boots that will have you doing a

ST YLE SPOT

gatherings this year

Mini holiday ensembles for all of your

MOMMY CHIC

Mini’s latest Mommy Must-

Haves, like festive frocks, winter beauty staples and more! M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

PHOTO: GRETCHEN EASTON

ST YLE SPOT

STYLE

SPOT

H O L I D AY J A M S

Chilly nights cuddling with your Minis call for fun holiday pajamas! We’ve rounded up our favorites, from costume-inspired to seasonal prints.

ONE PIECE WONDERS

These holiday jammies are as comfy as it gets. Above: $34; Hanna Andersson; Below: $14.99; Target

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

HOLIDAY SCENERY

TIS THE SEASON

Don the sights of the season with this scenic set. $16; Carter’s.

A striped set in bright, holiday colors. $28; hannaandersson.com.

LET IT GLOW

LIGHTS ON

These special snowmen glow in the dark! $49.50; jcrew.com.

Dance around your dazzling tree in these dazzling pjs. $49.50; jcrew.com.

by FOR THE CLEARLY MODERN NURSERY

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NOW AVAILABLE IN THE US!

The Ubabub Pod Crib is for the clearly modern nursery, with clear sides, low height, advanced design with eco friendly material, and includes a custom mattress and junior bed conversion kit. ORDER NOW AT www.ubabub.us

.......

Nifty Clear + Timber arriving 2014

..................................................................... ..................................................................... www.themdbfamily.com

â&#x20AC;¢

www.ubabub.us

STYLE

SPOT

B O OT B ONA N Z A

It just wouldn’t be winter without Mini boots to go with those fluffy coats and wooly hats. Here you’ll find our picks for your Mini snow treks!

1. SNOW BOUND

3. MOCCASIN BOOTS

5. GLITTER GIRL

$84.95; Noel Bracken Boot, goplae.com

$120; Akid Moccasin Boot, alexandalexa.com

$29.99; Glitter Lace Up Snow Boots, target.com

2. CUDDLY CUTE

4. ALL-WEATHER WEAR

6. WARM AND FUZZY

$89.95; Lamb Deluxe Wool Boot, emuaustralia.com

$29.95; Tommy Hilfiger Lil Madison Boot, nordstrom.com

$130; Kids Butte II Boots, uggaustralia.com

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

STYLE

SPOT

H O L I D AY B E S T

As you’re headed over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house this holiday, make sure you’re donning your best!

MOVE OVER RUDOLPH

Rudolph’s nose won’t be the only red spotlight this holiday season. Above: $78; LIVLY; livlyclothing.com; Below: $132; Marie Chantal; mariechantal.com

SMALL YET STYLISH

SPARKLY CHIC

Green velvet for holiday fetes. Florence Eisemen; neimanmarcus.com.

This festive sequined skirt dress is perfect for the holidays. Les Princes; barneys.com.

HOLIDAZZLE

A jacquard print makes this frock fancy. Tartine et Chocolat; luisaviaroma.com.

TINY TARTAN

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

This tartan one-piece is ideal for new babes. $150; saksfifthavenue. com.

the ultimate shopping

destination for kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion

Sent straight from Paris and delivered to your doorstep in 72 hours: Armani Junior,

MINI

MOMMY CHIC

RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING

Rock a jumpsuit for the holidays instead of a dress! This Nomia Wide Leg Jumpsuit ($430) will quickly become the hit of the party and the most versatile item in your wardrobe. —barneys.com

NEW DRESS IN TOWN

THE LILY Dressing your growing bump during the holiday season can be stressful, but take a breath. We’ve got you covered! The Lily Dress from HATCH Collection conveys both elegance and refinement as it opens to a full shape with curved hem. Available in both black and red, Lily will take you through all of your seasonal events and into the new year! —hatchcollection.com

MOMMY CHIC INSPIRATION

“ Sonnet James makes the best dresses for busy moms and the Coco dress is perfect for this winter,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —sonnetjames.com

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

Life equals Style SHOP SPRING >

hatchcollection.com

Leather zipper pouch, $85, cuyana.com

MINI

MOMMY CHIC

TOOL KIT

We’re spilling our stash of winter beauty products for moms running low on time. While winter brings a blanket of fresh, white snow to many Mini moms doorsteps, it’s the warmer colors that take the beauty stage. Bright reds, deep emeralds and sparkly golds make up our holiday palette this year.

Essie Nail Polish in Stylenomics, $8.50 essie.com

2 7 5

bare it all

URBAN DECAY

Naked Smoky Eyeshadow Palette, $54 sephora.com 4.

luxe lips

NARS

Pure Matte Lipstick in Vesuvio, $27 sephora.com

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

mistletoe ready

STILA

Stay All Day® Liquid Lipstick in Fiery, $24 stilacosmetics.com 5.

they’re real

BENEFIT COSMETICS

They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara, $24 benefitcosmetics.com

rosy glow

JOSIE MARAN

Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelée in Getaway Red, $22 josiemarancosmetics.com 6.

lighten up

BECCA

Shimmering Skin Perfector® in Golden Opal Pearl, $38 beccacosmetics.com

The

Convertible Stroller

Bugaboo Donkey

Designed specifically to grow and flow with your family.

MINI

TECH KIDS

LOG ON TO

MINI RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING

Masterpiece from Osmo transforms any image placed in front of the iPad-connected mirror into easy-to-follow lines, helping your Minis create beautiful drawings! —playosmo.com

Click here to see more new products from Osmo!

MINI FAVORITE GADGET

OWLET CARE Waking up every five seconds to make sure your baby is breathing—you know you’ve been there (or are right now!). Enter Owlet. The Owlet Smart Sock monitors your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels while they sleep, alerting you if your baby stops breathing. Ah, yes. Peace of mind is the greatest gift there is. —owletcare.com

RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING

Gift cards galore for the holidays? Can’t remember how much is on the Starbucks card from Aunt Jo? The Gyft app is the easiest way to keep track of all of them and carry them with you all of the time! Available for both iOS and Android, Gyft also lets you instantly send e-gift cards to family and friends by text or email!

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

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M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

INSIDER SCOOP

down the rabbit hole To honor the 150th anniversary of the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classic Alice in Wonderland, Childrensalon (childrensalon.com) brought to life the iconic characters on this magical day in an enchanting English garden.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN SCUDAMORE

ART DIRECTION AND STYLING BY GEA PEREIRA

CHESHIRE CAT Hat: Little Marc Jacobs Top: Molo Skirt: Angel’s Face Shoes: Mini Melissa QUEEN Hat: Bandits Cape: Bandits Dress: Jessie & James Shoes: Moschino Socks: Dore Dore

WHITE RABBIT (previous page) Hat: Stylist’s own Bow tie: Hitch Hiker Blazer: Hitch Hiker Waistcoat: Trussardi Shirt: Sarabanda Trousers: Ralph Lauren Shoes: Children’s Classics

M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

MAD HATTER Hat: Stylist’s own Bow tie: Deux Par Deux Shirt: Sarabanda Waistcoat: Hitch Hiker Blazer: IDo Trousers: Hitch Hiker Shoes: Tod’s QUEEN Hat: Bandits Cape: Bandits Dress: Jessie & James Shoes: Moschino Socks: Dore Dore ALICE Dress: Nicki Macfarlane Shirt: Laranjinha Socks: Dore Dore Shoes: Il Gufo

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

MAD HATTER Hat: Stylist’s own Bow tie: Deux Par Deux Shirt: Sarabanda Waistcoat: Hitch Hiker Blazer: IDo Trousers: Hitch Hiker Shoes: Tod’s

M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

ALICE Dress: Nicki Macfarlane Shirt: Laranjinha Socks: Dore Dore Shoes: Il Gufo

MINI

on the scene

T H E SE NA

The chic Nuna® SENA™ easily pops open into a soft, sturdy dreamland then refolds with just one hand for a quick getaway the next day. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NUNA OUCH PROOF

SENA boasts padded edges that will prevent finger pinches.

CHIC DESIGN

Presents a chic look that won’t clutter the family room and comes in Mini size!

EASY FOLD

SENA is the only cot with a bassinet that folds with the frame.

ZIG ZAG LEGS

SNUG AS A BUG

HUSH LITTLE BABY

The unique zigzag legs pop the cot open both quickly and easily.

Keep baby cozy! The above-ground base keeps baby draft-proof.

No more waking up all night! Skid-proof feet keep sleep quiet and still.

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

one-click wonder Growth spurt alert? TAVO has it covered. Designed to provide tons of room for both the little ones (from both head-to-toe and side-to-side!) and you (the basket is spacious enough for your and their swag combined). All while providing a shade haven with its canopy’s incorporated dream drape and connecting to our oh-so-secure Nuna PIPA infant car seat with one-click—no adapters needed. From day one on, the TAVO is a ﬂattering ﬁt for both your lifestyle—and them.

learn all about it at nuna.eu

MINI

on the scene

THE FRESCO

The world’s highest baby chair, Fresco Chrome comes complete with a 3-position recline system and easy height adjustment for use from birth to school age. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BLOOM

ON THE TRAY KID-FRIENDLY

Removable harness straps allow conversion to a play seat for kids up to 8 years.

Comes with super-sized, scratch-resistant and anti-slip adjustable feeding tray, plus second smaller play tray!

EASY CLEAN

The nook and cranny free seat unit is easy to wipe clean. 3 POSITIONS

3 recline positions— Fully lie-flat newborn cradle, semi recline and upright seat.

EASY MOVEMENT GOES WITH YOU

Fresco Chrome allows for both up-to-the table and traditional tray high chair positions.

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

Large, scratch-free wheels are concealed in the base for easy movement.

The

Urban Stroller Bugaboo Bee3

Designed specifically for parents who live life on the fly.

MINI

on the scene

THE G3

One of the most versatile strollers available, the Orbit Baby G3 Stroller Base takes you from car to strolling, from one baby to three kids. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ORBIT BABY

JUST FOR YOU

Height-adjustable handles cater to parents of all heights! IT’S COMPATIBLE

Works with all generation-one, G2 and G3 Orbit Baby seats.

360 SWIVEL

The seat rotates on-the-go! No need to remove to change position. GROWS WITH YOU

The G3 Stroller converts to a Double Stroller with Orbit Baby’s Helix Plus Upgrade Kit.

SMOOTH SAILING

Foam-filled rubber tires and patented Quadshock™ suspension allow for a smooth ride.

RIDE ALONG

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

Add as many as two Sidekick Stroller Boards to your stroller for a 3 child solution.

MINI

B O OK C LU B

A stack of books (and a cup of hot cocoa!) is the best cure for a chilly winter day stuck inside with your Minis. Pick a title from this list of our current must-reads!

FOR SNOW DAYS

FLORA AND THE PENGUIN

FOR HISTORY

EDITOR’S PICK

LITTLE SANTA

by Jon Agee The funny, playful answer to what Santa was like as a child— as a picture book! FOR LAUGHS

I CAN PLAY

Illustrated by Betsy Snyder

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

FOR FRIENDS

BUSY BABY: FRIENDS

by Sara Gillingham Whatever Busy Baby does, the most important thing is to make some new friends along the way.

I AM MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

by Brad Meltzer This Mini heroes series shares an inspiring message.

by Molly Idle Ice-skating fans Flora and Penguin learn to work together in this cool tale.

baby & kids DWELLSTUDIO.COM

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to shop Margherita’s new children’s collection!

MINI

ELENI G IA NOP U LO S Mom to William and Sophia, Founder and Baker-in-Chief at Eleni’s Cookies, Manhattan dweller

photography by

JESSICA OZMENT

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

THROUGH A TWIST OF FATE

this former Life Magazine staffer with a passion for baking, began a small catering business in her New York City apartment. What began as a side business featuring her mother’s famous oatmeal-raisin cookies quickly grew into a full-fledged cookie empire.

WHY NUT-FREE As a mom, Eleni knows having access to nutfree desserts is important! That’s why all Eleni’s products are made in a tree nut and peanut free facility.

miliar, what types of cookies can you find at Eleni’s, especially during the holidays? We are so excited to offer our Conversation Cookies™, divine seasonal sugar cookies in many different shapes, with vibrant colors and designs. Eleni’s also provides very cris,p classic drop cookies, every child’s favorite chocolate chip, a wide variety of cupcakes in assorted flavors, birthday cakes and Picture Perfect™ custom photo cookies.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

We are such huge fans of Eleni’s Cookies! How have you seen the brand grow since it first started?

MINI |

Eleni’s New York has grown in the past 20 years from my tiny apartment kitchen in Manhattan to our Long Island City 20,000 square feet bakery. I started out by selling one cookie—my mom’s oatmeal raisin—to one store, Grace’s Marketplace on the Upper East Side. Today, we offer over 30 different flavors of cookies, cupcakes and cake, in 2,000 different stores nationally. My father used to make all of our customer cookie cutters in his workshop in our California basement. Today, we have over 1,000 different cookie cutters, each carefully measured and cataloged, and a Copper Cookie Cutter Specialist that can turn out requests for new dyes in just a few days.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

MINI |

For our readers who may not be fa-

Tell us about Eleni’s dedication to nutfree desserts.

MINI |

Many friends had suggested I take the bakery nut-free. With one of my best friends’ daughters allergic to peanuts and my son entering nursery school, every handout mentioned allergies! “You cannot bring in treats unless the bakery or homemade baked goods are from a vetted nut-free bakery.” It has been the smartest business decision to date. It allows all children and adults, with or without allergen concerns, to just enjoy dessert.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

You’re also a mom to two Minis yourself! How do you juggle running a successful bakery with motherhood? How do you make it all work?

MINI |

The balance of being a mom and having a demanding business will always be a challenge. What makes it easier is the fact that [both I and my children] love my job and I own the company and have the flexibility to work and still attend school events, soccer games or first dance recitals. If I know I will have a heavy work week, I make certain the weekend prior and after, I have a lot of one-on-one time with the kids.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

class straight to their Mom, but I can’t. Life is a trade-off. When I’m organized, I schedule a few pick up days, and I love it. Occasionally, I get “you were supposed to pack a lunch” or forget Crazy Sock Day and I tell my kids (which I’m certain is really annoying), “I am overwhelmed! I made a mistake and I’m so sorry!” Now that the holiday season is here, we have to know—what makes the perfect holiday cookie?

MINI |

As a working mom, what do you think is the biggest struggle?

MINI |

The biggest struggle or disappointment (and I think it is felt by my kids as much as it is me) is not being able to pick them up after school every day. I wish I could be the first person they see the minute the school bell rings and they run out the

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

The perfect cookie starts with quality ingredients. Well-baked, golden brown, melt-in-your-mouth delicious and then, it’s the frosting. It’s executed flawlessly with a steady hand. The final result is whimsical, colorful and delicious. The decorat-

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

ing team at Eleni’s always outlines the cookie first. We use stiff icing to make a border around the cookie so it “traps” the loose flood icing and makes the cookies look neat and presentable. Do you have a favorite holiday baking tradition?

MINI |

I always bake cookies with the children for Santa. I bring home lots of sheeted dough (That’s the benefit of owning a bakery— no rolling pin!). We all compete to make the most unique cookie in 3D form. Last year, William designed candlestick holders out of gingerbread cookies that I used as the centerpiece for the Christmas table.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

How are you getting your own kids involved with baking? Do they love it as much as you do?

MINI |

William and Sophia love baking. They might be more obsessed than I am. I bring home cookies and cakes ready for decorating or we bake from scratch and learn how to measure. Sophia wants me to start offering pies (they are one of her favorite things to make, especially pumpkin!) and William just wants everything to be 3D.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

What do you think is key for getting kids involved in the kitchen?

MINI |

While it makes you cringe, crazy, and scared, let them experiment and get them involved.

ELENI GIANOPULOS |

FA S T FA C T S COFFEE ORDER Black with a tiny bit of milk. MOMMY MANTRA Think, breathe, wait, react. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Dusty Springfield, The Verve and all Sinatra. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Movie and Chinese food. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Willy Wonka, That Darn Cat and Home Alone. MOM UNIFORM All things black, just love black.

Start small, measuring, cutting, dull knives to sharp knives. Know the correct tool and ingredient names and allow time to practice. I would take them to the grocery store and shop by color. And walk, don’t run to learn to work a toaster then an oven!

MINI

INSIDER SCOOP

All That Glitters

For all of your holiday gatherings and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrations, there is no better choice than sparkle. The Kardashian Kids holiday collection takes Mini glitz and gold to a whole new level, bringing the glamour to every event on your holiday calendar.

photography by

GRETCHEN EASTON

M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

RIGHT Dress: Kardashian Kids Drop Waist Dress (available at Nordstrom)

LEFT Top: Kardashian Kids Glitter Sweatshirt (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom) Bottoms: Kardashian Kids Metallic Leggings (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom)

RIGHT Dress: Kardashian Kids Drop Waist Dress (available at Nordstrom)

M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

LEFT Shirt: Kardashian Kids White Woven Shirt with Removable Bow Tie (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom) Vest: Kardashian Kids Grey Linen Blend Button Front Vest with Contrast Lining (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom) Pants: Kardashian Kids Grey Linen Blend Suit Pants (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom)

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

LEFT, left to right Top: Kardashian Kids Split Peplum Quilted Top (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom) Bottoms: Kardashian Kids Quilted Panel Leggings (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom) Top and Bottoms: Kardashian Kids Star Print Top and Leggings (available at Babies ‘R’ Us and Nordstrom)

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

MINI

COVER

Born to be Mom

Of all of the roles Tamera Mowry-Housley has assumed throughout her career as an actress, she tells Mini the one she feels was truly meant for her was Mom (“I feel like I was made for this!”).

photography

GRETCHEN EASTON

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

photo assistant ABBY HALL

stylist

JASON BOLDEN

hair

KARIM ODOMS

ON THE COVER Dress: Vince, Necklace and Boots: Lanvin

makeup

M O T O K O H O N J O C L AY T O N

interview by

K A I T LY N K I R B Y

We are so happy to have you as our holiday cover mom! And now as a new mom of two, tell us how your life has changed! How are things different now with two kids?

MINI |

It is SO busy. I don’t have enough time in the day to do all the things that I want to do. I put a lot of things on the backburner, so I have to be 100% organized with everything I do. I barely get time for myself and that’s something I’m struggling with and have to fight for.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

How did you decide on your daughter Ariah’s name? Did you and your husband agree from the beginning?

MINI |

We decided on it from the beginning! There was a store right in front of the bridal shop where I bought my wedding dress in Los Angeles called Arya and as I was walking out, I said to Adam that if we have a girl, we have to name her that. Ariah means “Lion of God.” [Also], I was looking up T names and found her middle name Talea, which means “Morning dew from heaven.”

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

What was your first thought when you found out you were having a girl? What are you excited to teach her, share with her, do with her?

MINI |

The initial thought was, “Yes! I finally have someone who will be on my side.” Not so much testosterone in the house. I was excited to dress her and teach her how I was raised. I feel like I was made for this—made to have a little girl.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

How did Aden react to having a baby sister? Did you do or say certain things to prepare him for the new baby? Does he love to help with her now?

MINI |

Aden’s first response [was] giving her a nickname. He saw her in this little glass basket at the hospital and he said, “Baby sister. That’s Ry-ry.” We thought that was the cutest nickname for her! When we brought her home, that’s when the jealousy began. It was a challenging three months, but once she turned four months old, he was fine as she started to take him in. Aden would make her laugh and she recognized him. They’re cool and he loves to give her kisses now.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

What do you think is the greatest challenge of motherhood?

MINI |

Making time for the things that mean a lot to you. Organization is huge. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I take it one day at a time.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

What do you think is the one thing about motherhood that no one really warns you about? Something that surprised you the most?

MINI |

Mommy Brain— it stems from the exhaustion you get. I knew I would be tired, but I didn’t know about the mommy fog. I like to be in control of my thoughts, my mind, my day. When you’re in a mommy fog, you can’t do that. I call it “blissfully exhausted” because you’re so tired, but you’re also happy. I have two beautiful, healthy children I’m grateful for and I’ve learned to work through it.

ers and I guess when I realize I need to take care of myself is when I have a break. My husband really helps me. When I’m at work, he tells me to check out and meditate for 10 minutes.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

As a working mom, how do you keep all of the plates spinning?

MINI |

Honestly, I’m still learning how to balance everything. There are moments when I do better than oth-

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

You’ve also been a big supporter of breastfeeding (we’re with you!)! Give us your take on the ever-popular topic of breastfeeding in public.

MINI |

I’m very happy that breastfeeding in public is becoming more accepted. We’re becoming a society that is aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and in turn, more public places are creating areas to breastfeed. Seeing nursing stations at amusement parks and malls makes me [happy] because it doesn’t feel good to nurse in a public bathroom stall. Breastfeeding is natural and normal and they have really amazing coverups for nursing these days.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

FAS T FAC T S MOM UNIFORM Sweatpants or pajamas, anything comfortable. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Be a nursing mom and make my own baby food. MOMMY MANTRA You can do this! FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL Pancakes and bacon. MUSIC I’M LOVING Justin Bieber. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Dr. Seuss’s ABC. BEDTIME ROUTINE Everyone gets a bath, read Aden a book, nurse Ariah. PREGNANCY CRAVING Cold milk.

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

RIGHT Dress: Lanvin

MOMMY BRAIN STEMS FROM THE EXHAUSTION YOU GET. I CALL IT

“ BLISSFULLY EXHAUSTED ”

I HAVE TWO HEALTHY, BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN AND I’VE LEARNED TO WORK THROUGH IT.

Since we’re here in your home, tell us about your inspiration for designing your children’s spaces. What are your favorite elements in both Aden and Ariah’s rooms?

MINI |

I love that the kids’ rooms reflect their personality, Aden’s in particular. He loves baseball, trains and planes and he’s very colorful, so his room embodies that. Aden loves to read and he has a bookshelf with books from top to bottom. He knows the titles of the books and knows what they look like. That makes me feel good as a mom.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

Let’s talk Mini style! What are your favorite pieces in Aden and Ariah’s wardrobes? What are they living in these days?

MINI |

Everything is about the headbands— I love putting them on Ariah’s head. I love the dresses they make for girls and also, faux fur vests.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

Since it is the holiday season, we’d love to know! What holiday family traditions do you have or are you excited to begin with your kids?

MINI |

I love doing the Christmas card. I love to take photos and send to family and friends. We take them seriously, but have a lot of fun with them.

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

And finally, with all of these fun TV reboots happening, would you be open to a Sister, Sister comeback?

MINI |

TAMERA MOWRY-HOUSLEY |

lutely!

Yes! Abso-

ORGANIZATION IS HUGE. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP.

“ I TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME. ”

I WAS EXCITED TO DRESS HER AND TEACH HER HOW I WAS RAISED.

“ I FEEL LIKE I WAS MADE FOR THIS. ” MADE TO HAVE A LITTLE GIRL.

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

FAS T FAC T S GUILTY PLEASURE Wine. SIGNATURE SCENT Vanilla. PERFECT DATE NIGHT Going out to dinner with my husband and having a glass of wine. FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP FOR THE KIDS Zara. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Monsters, Inc. IN MY BABY BAG Blankets with tags on them that help with sensory movement. They’re called “Taggies.”

FAMILY JEWELS After launching her eponymous jewelry collection nearly two decades ago, Maya Brenner has grown her list of accomplishments to include an exclusive J.Crew collection, the first fine jewelry at A Pea in the Pod, the debut of her Home collection and of course, mom to Jack and Sadie. photography by

MICHELLE DREWES

interview by

K A I T LY N K I R B Y

We are such big fans of your jewelry, especially the letter and number necklaces! Tell us how the successful Maya Brenner brand got started.

MINI |

Growing up, I used to make beaded jewelry as a hobby. I always loved beautiful beads and stones. After college, I moved to NYC and got my master’s degree in social work. It wasn’t until my career became stressful and I was struggling financially that I started selling my designs on the side. MAYA BRENNER |

You’re also a mom of two! How do you balance your busy company with motherhood?

MINI |

One of the best parts about running my own business is that I make my own schedule. I’ll typically go into the office in the morning so I’m back home when the kids get out of school. If I have to make calls or answer emails from home, my kids are really good about entertaining themselves. I credit my amazing household help and flexible family members for making it all work. I’m extremely lucky! MAYA BRENNER |

How has your career shifted to accommodate motherhood?

MINI |

I used to have a sales rep and we would do the wholesale shows in New York. After my second child was born (Sadie Love) I couldn’t manage the MAYA BRENNER |

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

travel schedule anymore with two little ones at home. I redirected my business from a traditional wholesale/retail model to focus on increasing the majority of our sales on my website. While we have great retail outlets that we work with (Bauble Bar, J.Crew, Neiman Marcus, Steven Alan and Mark & Graham), our online business continues to grow as well. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about your own style. How is your personal style reflected in your designs?

MINI |

I would describe my style as feminine with an edge. I grew up In Berkeley, California, but spent my twenMAYA BRENNER |

ties in Manhattan, so my style also tends to be a mix of hippie, bohemian and sophisticated. How can we see your style reflected in your home?

MINI |

I love an eclectic mix of style, prints and color. I would make everything gold metallic if I could, but since I share the house with two kids, a dog and my boyfriend (restaurateur Dustin Lancaster), I have to tone it down a bit. My favorite thing besides the people in it are my needlepoints by Lisa Borgnes and a metallic, woven wall hanging that my boyfriend gave me for Christmas. MAYA BRENNER |

MINI |

How has your home become more kid-friendly since Jack and Sadie came along?

MINI |

Everything is not so precious and needs to be both comfortable and livable. The materials we have in the house don’t show a lot of dirt, so we can hide all the stains that the kids leave behind. I also love having fun little things around the house for the kids to play with, like a Magic 8 Ball or a pin-point impression frame that I was so drawn to as a child.

I wanted their rooms to reflect who they are but also align with my personal style. In Sadie’s room, I love the Jenni Kayne for Pottery Barn rug and the Emily & Merrit for PBTeen bedding. In my son’s room, we went with a lot of IKEA that had a fun mix of color. I love the art piece of the comic book lion that I won at a school auction.

MAYA BRENNER |

What was the inspiration behind each of their rooms or what are some of your favorite elements in their rooms?

MAYA BRENNER |

As a working mom, what do you think is the greatest struggle?

MINI |

I once read that the greatest health risk facing mothers today is lack of sleep. And that struck me as very true to my situation! MAYA BRENNER |

What do you think is the most surprising thing about motherhood?

MINI |

How lonely and isolating it can be in the beginning. I am such a social person, but the exhaustion and newness of it all can make it very hard to get out the house. MAYA BRENNER |

How would you define your parenting style?

MINI |

I was much more strict and worried about trying to be consistent all the time when they were younger. Now, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put so much pressure on my myself. I try to be more flexibleÂ and always keep a sense of humor! MAYA BRENNER |

What are your kids living in these days, style-wise?

MINI |

My daughter loves Crewcuts, Zara and Target. My son who is 12 prefers to not shop in the kid section anymore and tries to fit into extra small men’s sizing at Urban Outfitters. And he has a serious sneaker obsession. Any sneaker! MAYA BRENNER |

Can you give us the rundown of a typical day in your house?

MINI |

I’m up at 6:45 AM to make coffee and get myself ready before I wake up the house for school. After school drop off at 8:30, I head downtown to my office or to my home studio to work. I’ll try to squeeze in an errand for the house or for myself like Pilates or lunch with a friend. MAYA BRENNER |

After school, it’s time for homework, my son’s basketball practice, dinner, maybe watch Blackish together, then bedtime and Harry Potter. My boyfriend gets home around 9:30 or 10 PM and that’s when we can catch up on the day and watch some Netflix before lights out to do it all over again the next day.

FA S T FA C T S MOMMY MANTRA Find the funny. And always take a shower. It will make you feel like you can do anything. TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Chai tea latte. IF I COULD GIVE MY KIDS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE What you think, you become. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The Princess Bride. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Brie cheese. FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL Tacos at my boyfriend’s Mexican restaurant in Silver Lake. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK The Giving Tree. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Drake. GUILTY PLEASURE Lemonheads and Hot Tamales. ULTIMATE MOMMY GETAWAY Weekend away in Ojai or a few hours at the Korean spa will do.

WHAT A PAIR

Megan Papay and Cristina Palomo-Nelson are the two moms behind Freda Salvadorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an artisan line of contemporary, cutting edge and infinitely walkable footwear produced in a family factory in Spain. This dynamic duo spends every day both refining their art to deliver the style of shoes they believe in and inspiring each other as mothers. photography by

SORELLA MUSE

We’re so happy to be in your studio! How would you describe the space?

MINI |

Our design studio is located in a marina in Sausalito. It was formerly a ship building warehouse, so it’s very lofty and deconstructed. We designed the space to have a balanced combination of tough and inviting, masculine and feminine touches. We feel like our shoes have the same vibe— tough on the outside, but forgiving inside. Our design aesthetic is to mix more industrial pieces, like a WWII stainless steel wardrobe (where we store our leather swatches) with an overly plush shag rug and comfy sofa. We lean towards furniture with history, so we often scour vintage, antique or consignment stores. We have a ton of leather hides, old wooden shoe lasts, piles of magazines, walls of inspiration and design boards, and of course, shelves full of shoe samples. MEGAN AND CRISTINA |

MINI |

Tell us how your partnership came about.

We met at another Bay Area based footwear company where we worked on the design team. The shoes we designed were beautifully handmade in Italy, but comfort was the focus. We worked closely with the factory and pattern makers, so we learned so much about how to make shoes that fit properly. We wanted to take that knowledge and apply it to a contemporary fashion focused line. We launched FREDA in Fall 2012 and our mission was to provide badass shoes for the cool, urban girl. Shoes to pound the pavement in every day.

MEGAN AND CRISTINA |

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

Where do you find inspiration for the collection?

MINI |

We find most of our inspiration when we travel! Our factory is in Spain and we get most of our leather in Italy, so we make frequent trips to Valencia and Milan. We love seeing what women are wearing in these cities. We feel like there is more of a no nonsense sensibility there. You will see this reflected in our category of shoes— our best sellers are our loafers, oxfords and ankle boots.

MEGAN AND CRISTINA |

You’re both moms to Minis of your own! How have your careers changed since you’ve become moms?

MINI |

We try really hard to prioritize the important things at work because we lost the luxury of “free time” once we became moms! Since we have own business, we are fortunate to be creative when and where we work. This has afforded us the ability to be heavily present in both aspects of our lives.

MEGAN AND CRISTINA |

M EG AN TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Philz drip in the morning, latte in the afternoon. ON MY HOLIDAY WISH LIST Stackable rings by Colleen Mauer. HOLIDAY TRADITION Making Swedish Christmas Cookies with Piper. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things that Go. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Champagne. MOM UNIFORM Denim on denim with fun accessories and shoes. BABY SPLURGE Marni Bubble Bag as my diaper bag. LOCAL RESTAURANT San Drino’s for brick oven pizza. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Tangled. SIGNATURE SCENT Custom scent that I made at the apothecary at the Ojai Inn and Spa.

MINI |

How do you both manage running a successful brand while also juggling the demands of motherhood?

MINI |

We are both obsessed with Go Task, so when we have fleeting thoughts at the park with our kids or as we are about to fall asleep we can quickly write down a note so we remember. Staying uber organized is the only way we can make it all work without both sides of our lives slipping down the cracks.

I love the DAME in black patent leather. It is a perfect boy-inspired round toe oxford in shiny patent. I wear them with everything from jeans to army pants.

MEGAN AND CRISTINA |

How are you helping each other to be better mothers?

MINI |

Cris has know Piper since she was two and at that time, she was just dating her now husband. She was so wise beyond her years and supportive of me as a working mom. She never made me feel badly when I had to leave work to be with Piper. She always encouraged “family first.” Just this week, Piper had a cold, so I was going to bring her into the office and let her watch movies and sleep there all day. Cris pretty much told me to stay home and just be a mom. I am so happy I listened. MEGAN |

Having my first baby in the middle of running a new business was nuts. I had no idea how hard being a new mom was going to be. Megan was so supportive and honest with me every step of the way. We both suffered from the baby blues [and] being able to call or text her in those first few months was so helpful. She told me to stop being so hard on myself and let the little things go.

Let’s talk style! What are some of your favorite shoes in the collection and what do you pair them with often?

MEGAN |

My favorite pair of shoes from Resort is the AIR, a high top lace-up ghillie. I love them with boyfriend jeans and big sweaters. They are the same height as an ankle boot, but open, which works for San Francisco winters.

CRISTINA |

What do you think is the biggest struggle of motherhood?

MINI |

Overthinking everything when it comes to decisions about Piper. Should she play a sport? Should she take ballet? We live in a place where there are so many opportunities for kids [and] I have a difficult time deciding whether we should take advantage of them or just send her outside to play in the yard with her friends. I feel like creativity is nurtured more at her age when she is simply free to play. MEGAN |

CRISTINA |

Trying to balance it all. I don’t want to miss anything at work and I don’t want to miss anything with Luca!

CRISTINA |

What is the best parenting advice you’ve received?

MINI |

MEGAN |

Everything will be OK.

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

CRISTINA TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Almond milk latte or London Fog with almond milk. ON MY HOLIDAY WISH LIST New furniture! HOLIDAY TRADITION Christmas movies, apple cider and lots of cozy nights. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK The Giving Tree. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Pickles, pepperoncinis and olives! MOM UNIFORM Denim and combat boots. BABY SPLURGE My Leader diaper bag. LOCAL RESTAURANT Molina and Mill Valley Beerworks. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Finding Nemo. SIGNATURE SCENT MCMC MOCIUN #1 perfume oil. LOCAL SHOP FOR KIDS Sprout San Francisco.

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M I N I h o l i d a y â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;15

photography by TA M I W I L K E S

interview by

K A I T LY N K I R B Y

Everybody Knows Frida I F YO U H AV E K I D S , C H A N C E S A R E YO U ’ V E H E A R D O F F R I D A B A BY— T H E G E N I U S B R A N D B E H I N D T H E N O S E F R I D A S N OT S U C K E R . M I N I S AT D O W N W I T H P R E S I D E N T A N D S O O N TO - B E M O M O F T W O C H E L S E A H I R S C H H O R N TO TA L K B A BY G E A R A N D M O R E !

We are big fans of Fridababy! But for those of our readers that may not be aware of these innovative products, give us an introduction to the brand.

MINI |

Fridababy provides parents with a smart toolkit for baby problems big and small. We specialize in smart, simple and effective solutions. NoseFrida, the original, 100% hygienic SnotSucker nasal aspirator started it all and now we have a full line of equally as effective and innovative solutions that include Windi, the only all-natural and instant solution to gas, Fridet the MomWasher, an ingeniously redesigned peri bottle for postpartum moms (you can now toss that ketchup bottle thing they gave you when you left the hospital), the NailFrida, the first nail clipper that allows parents to actually see what they’re

clipping (every parent’s worst nightmare) and the FeverFrida, the first FDA approved wearable Bluetooth thermometer that allows parents to remotely and accurately check baby’s temperature without waking them!

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

Which Fridababy products do you use most with your own little one?

MINI |

The NailFrida— those claws grow so quickly! With our safety spy hole, I can tackle that task in a matter of minutes without worrying about nicking his skin! The FeverFrida was a total lifesaver when I was at work last week and Hunter was at home with 104 fever! I was able to check in from my desk to watch his temperature break and remind our nanny when he was due for another dose of medicine!

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

a week around the corner from where I work, which is always the perfect way to sign offline and head home. Family meals are of paramount importance to us, so sitting together at dinner is a top priority. I’m usually right back on once he’s asleep until my to-do list for the day is done. You also have a baby on the way! How are you preparing your home and your family (especially your son, Hunter) for a new baby?

MINI |

I’m so looking forward to seeing Hunter step into his role as big brother! I’m the oldest of three, so imparting the joys (and responsibility) of that title will be a big priority for me! And, of course, having another source of inspiration for Fridababy is a huge plus— necessity is totally the motherhood of invention! As far as preparation, it looks a lot different the second time around. We have a lot of the basics, so it’s been fun decorating a “big boy” room for Hunter, trying to infuse his personality and passions into the space as much as possible.

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

As the President of Fridababy, you are a busy working mom! How do you manage the mom juggle?

MINI |

I try to dedicate my early mornings and post-work/pre-dinner time to my family. Some days I’m better at the juggle than others, and it’s absolutely never a perfect “balance” (I don’t think that really exists). But that time together is invaluable. I also get a post-soccer practice office visit from Hunter since he plays twice CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

What did you learn with your first baby that you think will help you with Baby #2?

MINI |

The importance of unplugging when I’m with my family. It’s challenging, but the

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

M I N I h o l i d a y ‘15

rewards are immeasurable. That time is so precious for me as a working mom and whatever it is can usually wait. I also don’t schedule anything between 6 and 8 PM. I like being home for dinner, bath and bedtime. Let’s talk style! What are your maternity wardrobe staples?

MINI |

Blazers, HATCH jumpsuits (the only real “maternity” clothes I purchased), long Helmut Lang jackets and cardigans and James Perse anything— particularly their long dresses that work in Miami with sandals or on the road with a jacket and boots.

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

What advice do you have for dressing the bump?

MINI |

Don’t go overboard with maternity wear. You need less than you think and can often just size up in regular favorites that will do double duty even after baby arrives. That J.Crew chambray button-down is perfect one size up for post-delivery nursing and still looks cute when you have to run out of the house.

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

One of the greatest challenges for working moms is lending equal time to both kids and career. Do you think there is such a thing as “having it all?”

MINI |

I tend to shy away from the word “balance” because I don’t think it ever exists in perfect equilibrium. Time for career and time for kids— life is just not compartmentalized like that anymore, mostly be-

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

cause of technology. But when I look at my life on a less granular level, I really do believe you can “have it all.” It’s a total juggle— some days, I’m a better President, and some, I’m a better mom. With a network of support from my husband, family and my team at work, I feel in any given year, I am blessed to have it all and missing either element (career or parenthood) would really feel incomplete. Women who aren’t afraid to ask for help truly can have it all, as long as they’re ready and willing to “lean in” when necessary professionally or draw on that network of support and stop searching for a perfect daily balance. It all evens out in the end. For our Mini readers visiting Miami, what top three places should they visit with the kids?

MINI |

South Point Park— a great mini water park and playground right on the ocean; Wynwood/Design District— the SoHo of Miami, [it is] the coolest neighborhood [with] restaurants and shops, graffiti art and the Wynwood Walls where kids can play in the huge tires surrounded by incredible art and galleries; Sunset Harbor— Depending on how old the kids are, there’s a playground right on the bay with an unrivaled view of the downtown Miami skyline and if the kids are a bit older you can rent paddle boards or kayaks by the half hour and drop right in to the water!

CHELSEA HIRSCHHORN |

FA S T FA C T S FAMILY MEAL Sriracha and lime salmon from Gwyneth’s “It’s All Good” book or the Turkey Pesto meatballs from Weelicious. BEDTIME ROUTINE Books, books and more books. GUILTY PLEASURE A glass of wine and stack of magazines by the pool with my husband while Hunter naps. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Oh, The Places You’ll Go! ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Pitchers of homemade smoothies and Bubbies mochi ice cream. SIGNATURE SCENT Le Labo Santal. MOMMY MANTRA Organized chaos and emotional flexibility! FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The Wizard of Oz. BABY BAG I just move my Roberta Roller Rabbit pouches from beach bag to tote.

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M U S T - H AV E S BABYZEN YOYO STROLLER We travel a lot and the portability plus the fact that it goes in the overhead compartment is unrivaled. ROBERTA ROLLER RABBIT WATERPROOF POUCHES I still use them for Hunter to keep all of his essentials in one place in my bag. If I switch bags, it’s easy to transfer knowing I haven’t left anything crucial behind. LOLLACUPS The black is our favorite. They’re the no-spill chic solution to the “which sippy cup?” conundrum. MD MOMS SUNSCREEN WIPES They are a total necessity in Miami where most of his days are spent outside. The application is so easy! DROPCAMS AND FACETIME I travel frequently so checking in for bedtime to read a book together or just see him sleeping peacefully makes being on the road or in the office much easier!

YOU KNOW HER AS THE

unforgettable Executive Assistant on Bravoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flipping Out or maybe youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve jammed to her rap album Old School Kids Beats, either way you know Jenni Pulos brings the laughs. We caught up with her to see how that sense of humor translates into motherhood and trust us, there is no shortage of smiles coming from daughter Alianna!

Funny Mom F L I P P I N G O U T S TA R J E N N I P U LO S I N V I T E S U S I N F O R A L AU G H T E R - F I L L E D D AY O F P L AY P LU S S H A R E S T H E G R E AT E S T J OY O F M OT H E R H O O D, R A P P I N G F O R K I D S A N D A N S W E R S T H E B I G Q U E S T I O N O F E X PA N D I N G H E R FA M I LY.

photography by THE GOLD COLLECTIVE

interview by K A I T LY N K I R B Y

We’ve been longtime fans of Flipping Out and are so excited to chat motherhood with you! What has been the greatest aspect of motherhood for you thus far?

MINI |

that my generation grew up with. I recorded this album before I became a mother. Stay tuned for enlightened album number two. We’re certain your daughter loves your music! What is her favorite tune?

MINI |

I have never loved something so much. It is exhilarating and scary to have someone who is completely dependent on you. Motherhood has been the greatest joy of my life because thankfully, it’s not “all about me.”

JENNI PULOS |

You’re a mom, an executive assistant, actress and rapper. How have you learned to juggle all of these roles in your life?

MINI |

Poo in the Potty and she loves the video which is currently on Mom.me.

JENNI PULOS |

You have a great sense of humor and creative side! How do you plan to instill that in your daughter or how are you sharing that with her now?

MINI |

I am encouraging her to appreciate all kinds of things. She loves princesses and reptiles. When I designed her room, we picked out many different animals to be on her wall. It seemed like they could not all fit together, but of course they did in the most amazing way. I really want to respect her thoughts, communicate with her constantly and support her to honor her best dreams.

JENNI PULOS |

You don’t. You just make it through one day at a time, laugh and remember to be grateful.

JENNI PULOS |

What do you perceive as the greatest struggle of parenting?

MINI |

Learning not to be bothered by other people’s judgement or criticism. Run your own race. It’s heartbreaking when another child is mean to Alianna. She’s two, so I can easily remove her from a negative atmosphere. I worry knowing that I will not be able to do that in the future and hope to successfully equip her with the skills to handle difficult situations.

JENNI PULOS |

Your Old School Kids Beats album is so fun! Tell us about your decision to take on rapping for kids.

MINI |

I really wanted to do something that could be great for children and not annoy the parents. I was inspired by the beats

JENNI PULOS |

Choosing a name for your first child can be overwhelming! Tell us how you arrived on Alianna’s name.

MINI |

I wanted to combine all of her grandmothers and kept trying to put them together. At one point, it was going to be Mary Alice, but then it hit me— Alianna. Her middle name is Marika after another grandmother. The only grandma that was left out was Trudy, [but] everywhere Alianna goes she brings her bunny named Trudy. We laugh that grandma Trudy was up in heaven saying, “Oh no, you don’t leave me behind.” So it all worked out.

JENNI PULOS |

Are you and your husband on the same page when it comes to parenting or do you foresee each of you playing different roles?

MINI |

I know we are on the same page. I’m married to an amazing man who is willing to wear my daughters princess backpack that lights up in public.

JENNI PULOS |

What do you hope Alianna inherits from yourself and your husband? Any quirks or traits you’ve noticed she’s already picked up?

MINI |

stand, she loves. She has both of our mannerisms and my laugh, but looks like my husband. She loves to dress up in costume. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out where that comes from. If you could give Alianna one piece of advice, what would it be?

MINI |

Pay attention to what God is doing, not what people are doing.

JENNI PULOS |

MINI |

She’s funny, bossy and kind. She has a happy heart and has actually taught me a whole new language of joy. Every food I can’t

Do you see more children in your future?

JENNI PULOS |

Yes, God willing.