At Babe we LIVE for bringing friends and family together around a table, and what better way to enjoy life than with an easy, no fail recipe (especially one that’ll trick people into thinking you’re a way better cook than you actually are??). While we’re usually all about the path of least resistance, when it comes to hosting guests or just adding an extra celebratory vibe to an otherwise low key Sunday – we like to pull out all the stops on occasion. So here with a feel good, good-for-you, easy AF brunch dish is our favorite gals from at-home chef program, The Culinistas.
Never met a frittata we didn’t love. Photo by Sylvie Rosokoff
The Culinistas’ Power Green Frittata
“We are huge proponents of the humble frittata. It’s simple to prepare and a great vehicle for any leftover veg, cheese, herbs, spices. Our Power Greens recipe calls for all the leafy greens, plus herbs and spices. This recipe in particular does great with substitutions. Use swiss chard or broccolini in place of kale, parsley or chives in place of basil and goat cheese in place of feta.”
In a large sauté pan, heat oil. Add kale, ½ tsp allspice, cumin, onion powder, and cayenne and sweat until soft, 5 to 7 minutes.
Add spinach to the pan and sauté until wilted, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off heat and stir in feta and basil. Set aside and let the veggies completely cool.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and remaining ½ tsp allspice. Stir in cooled veg mixture and season with salt and pepper.
In a greased cast iron skillet, add egg mixture and bake until center is set, 40 to 45 minutes.
Let the frittata cool for 10 to 15 minutes and then cut into 9 even squares.
Those Dishwasher Pods Are Probably Dangerous Welcome to baby-proofing 101.
By Babe Photo by | @SafeSleepOnly
It’s hard to imagine in those early days and weeks that your little newborn burrito slumped in a Baby Bjorn will ever have enough neck control to be a hazard to themselves. But alas, at some point they’ll be toddling around sticking nearly everything and anything into their sweet lil’ mouths or banging their heads on that steel sculpture you brought back from Japan.
When it comes to baby-proofing, we say better safe than sorry, but also don’t kill yourself–or turn the home you’ve so carefully cultivated into a padded psych ward. (Remember when you said you’d never be that mom?) So if the concept of baby-proofing feels overwhelming, check out our cheat sheet below.
All electrical cords should be hidden or taped against the wall
Cords connected to window treatments are major choking hazards, so they should be fastened to the wall
Never place an electronic item, ie a monitor or sleep machine in the crib with babe
All clutter (think paper clips, push pins, pens, batteries, pennies, your airpods) should be kept out of babes reach. Just remember, mama, if it can fit in a toilet paper roll, it’s a choking hazard!
All bookcases, chests, drawers and end tables that could tip over should be fastened securely to the wall
Place corner protectors on all sharp edges, ie coffee tables, dining room tables, consoles etc
Install gates near stairs and at the foot of the kitchen/master bathroom and anywhere else you don’t want these crazy babes going
Get oven locks and add locks to all kitchen drawers and cabinets (pots and pans, silverware, knives, blenders, basically all cooking utensils can be considered dangerous)
Those dishwasher pods are the perfect size to snack on. Stick to the liquids. (And keep them out of reach!)
Keep medicine securely stashed
Keep bathroom trash securely stashed
Keep cleaning products in a secure, hard-to-reach area and trade out any toxic solutions for all natural, organic options
Be sure to put pet food, water bowls or kitty litter in a safe place away from babe
Use door stoppers and door holders to avoid finger crushing. Add door knob covers to keep babe from escaping (they love to escape)
Avoid tablecloths or any table top covering that a baby can pull off (along with everything else on top of it). It may look cool when a magician does it, but ya know….
Everything You Need For the fourth trimester and beyond
Pregnancy dressing, for all it’s challenges can sometimes be easier (not to mention cuter) than post-pregnancy style. With tons of stylish maternity options for the ever-trending bump (arguably one of the hottest accessories in town), the post-birth sartorial situation can leave something to be desired.
From healing to breastfeeding and navigating your changing body, coming up with stellar outfits on the reg is often low on the list of priorities. However, having been there ourselves, we know that getting dressed in a way that makes you feel great, has the potential to change everything.
Here’s where we come in. Our go-to fourth trimester must-haves from essential pumping bra to seamless thong… because yes, at some point, you will want to wear pants again, trust.
Like a blur, those early days are spent “finding a rhythm,” aka surviving. Consider airy, relaxed pieces that reflect your style, yet are easy to throw on, allow for recovery, receiving a visitor (or two), and holding baby, of course.
Figuring out adorable tops and dresses that allow for quick access to breastfeed or pump is no easy feat, until now. Herein nursing bras, tops, leak pads, and the nipple salve (you need!) that doubles as a lip balm… ladies, I think that’s called thriving!
When you’re finally ready to hit the town (and by “town” we mean a walk around the block or a trip to the grocery store), reach for a cute but comfy dress or jumpsuit that’s both outside-chic and indoor-appros.
Black Mothers That Inspire Us And the powerful work they do.
As mothers and caregivers, we’re forever looking toward other inspiring mamas for guidance be it on how to change a diaper or educate ourselves on change. This week, as we’re learning, we wanted to surface a few of the most instrumental and influential Black mothers, thought-leaders, activists, experts, and educators in our community who are teaching and guiding us every day.
We encourage you to explore, engage in conversation, and feel encouraged by their efforts, and uplifting words, the same as we are.
With the belief that every step forward is a chance for change, Tylynn recently organized an impactful Digital Protest (with over 350 supporters) geared toward mothers who want to attend protests, but have children at home. Follow her efforts and stay up to date on details and future activations @tylynnnguyen.
Mother, Founder of Not So Private Parts, Co-Founder of Moms In Color + Doula
Focused on raising women up and removing any stigma or shame around women’s issues, Brandi, aka @bstereo, is an advocate for self-care. Discover the important work she does through her online resource platform Not So Private Parts and @momsincolor
Mother, Co-Founders of From Privilege To Progress + The #ShowUp Movement
This duo shows us the power of effectively working together through humility and curiosity. Follow @michellesaahene & @thewildsister efforts at @privtoprog and via #ShowUp
Mother, Founder of Phenomenal + Author of Kamala And Maya’s Big Idea
Knowing we’re raising the next generation of changemakers, @Meena, the founder of @phenomenal, a lifestyle brand bringing awareness to social causes, recently wrote and published her first children’s book Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea. Written to help shape the way our children see the world and their ability to create positive change in their communities, order a copy for your fam, in support, through your local indie bookshop.
Mother of one, with one on the way, Rachel is an advocate for maternal health for women of color and offers yoga and training practices to her clients. Available for one-on-one sessions and counseling. DM her at @rachelenicks to connect.
Author of Women Of Color, LaTonya is an advocate for dynamic change and the engaging our kids in critical, thought-provoking conversation. Follow her daily @latonyayvette for how she teaches her children to find joy amidst injustice and order her her book via your local bookstore.
Would You Give Birth In Your Living Room? Two moms talk home vs. hospitals births.
By Babe | Illustration by Ana Hard
In our series The Debate, our community of real moms tackle the pros and cons around the home and hospital births. The truth is, like so many decisions around child rearing, there is no right or wrong answer. At HATCH, our job is to give voice to both sides of any debate, peppering real mom wisdom with the necessary facts so that you can make the best decision for you and your family.
For some women, it’s a no brainer. They’re bringing their child into the world in the safest environment possible, even if it’s under the glare of harsh fluorescent lighting and a nurse waiting to go on break. For others, they’re giving birth in the comfort of their home – 500-thread count sheets be damned – surrounded by loved ones and the flicker of a Le Labo Tuberose candle wafting in the background.
“It’s important for newly pregnant moms to research which birth setting makes the most sense for them,” says Lauren Zielinski, a certified nurse midwife, registered nurse and founder of New Moon Rising. “This being said, if you choose to birth at home or in a birth center, your pregnancy should be considered healthy and low risk. It’s important you medically qualify to home birth and I don’t suggest pushing it if your birth provider recommends otherwise.”
Let’s hear from our community of mamas on birthing at home versus the hospital. They share their experiences, below:
Coming Home to Birth….
Heather Turk Conference planner and home organizer Simone, 8 + Ruben, 5
My reason for doing a home birth is tri-fold. For one, my friend and sister-in-law had done it, and I thought it sounded really nice. Also, I had emergency surgery in first grade, and I have certain opinions of hospitals. They’re a place you go with a problem, and birth didn’t feel like problem. I’m not scared of hospitals, they serve a great purpose, but you do what you do there and then you go. Lastly, after trying for over two years to get pregnant with my older daughter, I tried acupuncture and herbs and got pregnant after three months. So I felt like my journey on a less medical path had already been successful, and I wanted to continue on that path.
I was excited at the prospect of a home birth. I wasn’t nervous. We live two blocks from two major hospitals so I wasn’t worried about the danger, I was more worried about the mess! But my midwife does home births all the time, and she made me confident that I would never see a mess. And while my parents weren’t thrilled about it, I was siked.
There’s all this stuff you have to buy or rent for a home birth. I got a huge jacuzzi for the living room. I had to make my bed a certain way so there’s protection under it and the mattress doesn’t get ruined. When I finally went into labor, I called my doula and she was at another birth. So my midwife/doula came. I labored all over the apartment and eventually got in jacuzzi, which stalled my labor. So I wasn’t in there that long. You rent this crazy thing and it just sits there. I ended up having my son on our bed and my husband was right there. He caught him, he got to weigh him after. He got to measure him. It was a welcoming, close feeling.
Having a home birth doesn’t have to be a super hippy dippy experience. I did not have candles. There might have been a playlist. I don’t remember any of that. It was just nice to be home. We moved out of that apartment last January, and I thought, this is where Ruben was born. I remember looking out this window while I was laboring on the couch and getting lost in the view. There is a downside, though. After the baby came, I felt like I was home and I should be doing stuff. In a hospital, you don’t have any tasks in front of you, but in your home, you see the things that need to get done. But I’m happy I made my choice. I think it’s a great way to welcome a child into this world.
For me, having our baby in a hospital was never a question. I have older sisters, and they have several kids between them, all born at hospitals. I felt safest doing it in a hospital because if something were to go wrong, I’d never be able to forgive myself if I wasn’t able to get the help I needed because of the choice I made.
My water broke at 1:00 am in our apartment, so we found ourselves in the middle of the night on Third Avenue, normally a very busy street, with zero taxis. Finally we got one. I started having contractions very quickly and when we got in, the driver heard me breathing heavily and started driving really fast. We got to the hospital and I had expected a scene out of “Grey’s Anatomy,” where people are rushing in and out. It was dead. Someone in the lobby directed us up to the maternity wing, and we were able to reach my doctor, who happened to be on call that night. My doctor came in and let us know that we were in the same room where his son had been delivered, so that was an extra level of comfort we weren’t expecting. I remember at one point during my labor, my husband stepped out to go to the bathroom. One of the nurses said, “Now that your husband’s out of the room, can you confirm that you feel safe with him? Do you want him here? Is everything OK at home?” I said, “Yes, absolutely, but thank you for asking!”
Not that I ever doubted my desire to give birth in a hospital, but my doctor needed to use forceps to pull Henry out, so I was grateful to be there. I pushed for about 40 minutes but he wasn’t coming out. They gave me one more chance to push and said that they’ll try with forceps, and if it didn’t work, they’d need to do a c-section. That was all the motivation I needed. Also, after Henry was born, the doctors discovered that he had holes in his heart. They heard a heart murmur, so he got an EKG and an echocardiogram. The cardiologist said one hole would close in six months to a year, but then he uncovered another hole. This one was more unusual and they’ll have to monitor it over the next few years. If it doesn’t close by the time he’s two, he’ll have a small surgery.
The only thing about a hospital setting is that the changeover of nurses is tough. You get used to one person, and they know everything about your baby. Then new nurses come in and ask all these new questions. Of course, they’re just doing their job. Also, a lot of people told me to enjoy the hospital, that I’ll have all this help. The nurses were there and they helped with so much, but we were definitely left on our own with the baby more than I thought we’d be. If I were to give advice to anyone having a hospital birth, I’d say to practice swaddling in advance. Nurses are happy to do it, but when I was on my own in the middle of the night feeding every 40 minutes and so exhausted, I never did it right. Oh, and bring meals for your partner. They kept bringing me meals and my husband was starving.
WTF Am I Doing With My Kids All Summer? The founder of Summer 365 on how to achieve camp at home.
By Babe | Photo by @occasions.byshakira
Depending on how old your babes are, you might be keeping them in their current daycare or caregiving situation through summer. Or, if you have pre-schoolers, you’ve got those seemingly endless few weeks between “school” and “camp” (even though they’re like…the same?). Or, if you’re anything like us, you may have been caught googling “sleepaway camp for toddlers” from time to time. (no judgies). What we’re trying to say is, there will come at a time in the near future where you’re left wondering, WTF ARE WE GOING TO DO THIS SUMMER? Fortunately, Lauren Nearpass, founder of Summer 365, a camp consultancy that connects families with summer camps, is helping her clients navigate this crazy, unscheduled time. “Even as parents of very small children, we can all borrow from what camp offers to create fun, meaningful experiences at home,” Lauren says.
We got the goods from Lauren on how to recreate camp at home. We even coined a sample schedule on how to achieve it. Peep it below and break out the megaphone and clipboard.
“We can all borrow from what camp offers to create fun, meaningful experiences at home.” Photos by@occasions.byshakira
Your Camp At Home Schedule:
Morning Lineup: “This is a time to share announcements, so everyone knows what’s coming and what to expect in the day,” says Lauren. “In the younger age range, you can create visuals for the day.”
“Bunk” Inspection: “It’s just an important teaching moment for kids to be responsible for their items, like all their toys as well as to set up and clean up for whatever activities are happening that day.”
Daily Schedule: “This is a moment where you’re plotting the schedule for the day. It could be arts and crafts, like tie-dye, sports and activities, or swimming lessons. But don’t overdo it and over-program. Feel really good with two activities and set realistic goals in what to accomplish.”
Meal Time: You can plan some fun meals, like summer food or incorporating summer fruits. S’mores are appropriate at most meals for summer. This might be a good time to incorporate cooking into the daily schedule, think simple, easy recipes for toddler. Create snack time necklaces or schedule cooking as an activity.”
Rest Hour: “Super appropriate, obviously. This is one of the most beloved times at camp. It’s a time for kids and adults to rest. Young ones can take a nap or play quietly with an activity. Adults can take a mental break as well.
Canteen: This is basically snack time and your little ones will undoubtedly be raiding the pantry asking for treats and sweets.”
Choice Time: Depending on what is scheduled for the day, choice time is great for kids. Give them a few options and let them independently play with an activity of choice.”
Shower Hour: “This goes without saying. It’s time to bathe.”
Evening Activity: “It’s perhaps not realistic that you’ll have something every night of the week, but it might be fun to program an activity for the family. Give each person in the family a night to choose an activity. It could be movie night. It could be a fire and S’mores. It could be stories around the fire, or even a talent show.
Bedtime Stories: “Make sure you’re still reading books. Reading and literacy is always important, no matter the season.”
When They Ask if You're Coming Back After Maternity Leave This.
“Come up with a stock response for when people question if you’re coming back after maternity leave. Mine was, ‘I think you’re underestimating how much I like money.
House Dresses For All The Home Things Put away the sweatpants.
Weeks into what began as a disruption to our “normal” has fast become our new-now, where we spend our days working, reading, cooking, homeschooling, cleaning, care-taking, marathon running, and living in all its forms. As the weather shifts into warmer months, we’re stepping it up with a nod to eras past. Rather than reach for another pair of leggings, we’re suddenly feeling nostalgic for the house dress – those easy styles that look as beautiful out in the garden as they do padding around the house – and make getting dressed feel just as effortless, but so much more fun. Make room for the perfect addition to your stay-at-home summer wardrobe.
Let’s Talk Bumps, Caring for that (FABULOUS) Growing Belly
At around 12 weeks your bump might start showing…and growing fast. Here’s the play-by-play on what you could expect once that bump starts to POP!
Week 13: Enter Stretch Marks (Maybe)
What’s happening?
If your mama had stretch marks, you likely will too. And they’ll typically make their way to the stage some time between week 13 and 21. While genetics are the biggest driver, there are some things you can do to help prevent them before and reduce the appearance of them postpartum.
First, own them – they are your mama marks and a symbol of your journey. However, if you do want to work on preventing or reducing them: MOISTURIZE. MOISTURIZE. MOISTURIZE. Moisturizing helps keep the skin barrier elastic and protects against developing excess mama marks as you grow. Nutrient-rich botanical oils like jojoba, sweet almond, argan and olive oil will help. Even better, add in any antioxidant-rich citrus peel extract to help target stretch marks! And by chance, what has the combo of all of these? HATCH MAMA Belly Oil. Check it!
Why does moisturizing with oils help? They’re undiluted with water and other fillers + they’re deeply absorbed into the skin’s surface for optimal impact (especially jojoba, which is known for its quick-absorption!). More so, they’re typically rich with antioxidants, fatty acids + vitamins that help aid in cell renewal as you grow.
Week 19: Waddle it, Mama
What’s happening?
Believe it or not, your growing belly will actually shift your center of gravity and may throw your spinal alignment out of whack, which can cause backache and fatigue. It’s when your waddle will go full throttle.
What you can do:
At this stage, you’re going to have to get comfortable with slowing down a little. Keeping your exercise routine is important for maintaining balance, but now is the time to really listen to that cute bod of yours and focus on kicking your feet up with a good back support as you sink into some deep healing rest. Backache got you frustrated? Our Down, Girl cooling cream can actually be used beyond the limbs on the low back to help offer relief.
That little bebe is starting to move and shake, so you may start to feel a little fluttering or kicking inside.
What you can do:
Really use this time to start connecting with your little one. Their hearing starts to develop around Week 16 when you’re able to feel what is happening, so it is the perfect opportunity to slow down and reconnect. It’s also a great time to start using baths + massage to make that conscious connection to your baby and the magic of this process. Life moves fast, and so will these nine months.
Samantha Huggins, co-founder of Carriage House Birth + HATCH doula advisor, recommends bath time as a venue for you to get centered + reconnect with what is happening inside. Struggling with swelling? Throw some bath salts in the mix to help with bloated limbs. Fighting dry, itchy skin? Drop a few drops of Belly Oil to seal in moisture. Now go relax and reconnect, darling. You deserve it!
The Linea Negra (the dark line that forms between your belly button and your pubic bone) typically comes through at around this time. It’s totally normal, and it’s not permanent. What’s even more interesting? We ALWAYS have a line there that we just can’t see. When your hormones go on their preggo rollercoaster ride, they trigger more melanocyte stimulation in your skin which means more color on everything — nipples, lips, scars… and that line! EVEN COOLER? Newborns can’t see well when they are born, so the darker lines and areola actually help baby find the breasts. Science FTW.
What you can do:
Own it! However, if you’re concerned about it being too pronounced, ensure you’re covering your bump when in the sun so that you don’t add more pigment. It WILL go away on its own. If you want to try to accelerate its exit out the door, you can exfoliate away the darker skin cells using a GENTLE physical exfoliant scrub or brush. Our advice? Be patient with yourself. This time is precious and you may miss these marks one day…
Week 26: Here Comes the Outie
What is happening:
Got an innie? Get ready for an outie around this time. Got a SUPER innie? Then you may just see it slightly pushed forward.
What you can do:
Nothing. Just telling you for funsies.
Week 30-Birthday: Case of the Itchy Belly
What is happening:
In your third trimester, your bump starts growing quickly. Believe it or not, your baby will likely go from 2.5 pounds to 9 pounds or more. What might this rapid stretch of the skin mean? ITCHY BELLY. If you’re like many of us, you may have already started dousing your limbs in oils + lotions due to hormonal dryness. However, if you weren’t itchy then, you WILL be itchy now. Don’t worry – it won’t last too long!
What you can do:
Moisturize with clean, soothing ingredients. Our Belly Oil is rich in calendula extract that’s renowned for its ability to calm the skin. If you’re really feelin’ the itch, try a more targeted treatment like the Belly Mask, which is cooling to the touch and has aloe to help soothe + bee pollen to help promote skin renewal. Oatmeal baths can also help to bring it down a notch. Starting to see a rash or have itchy hands and feet as well? Then it’s time to go see the doctor.
So much is going to happen on its own within the first six weeks after baby comes — between your skin tightening up, you losing some of that pregnancy weight, and the uterus going back to its old home, you’re going to slowly see your stomach get tighter and flatter. You may be left behind with a few mama marks or a few L-B’s and that’s okay.
What you should do:
You’re going to be TIRED. WE FEEL YOU! But try to come up with ways to make time for movement + appropriate exercise (start with some stroller walks in the sunshine!). And please don’t stop moisturizing. Moisturizing is PROVEN to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks + scars and is a generous way to connect with your new body. So, if you’ve got some extra Belly Oil or Belly Masks from your pregnancy, keep using them postpartum. It’s tempting to put them down, but you’ll thank us later.
As always, if ANYTHING is feeling out-of-the-ordinary, please go consult your medical professional. Otherwise, enjoy the journey! xx
Meet The Mamas Of goop, Making magic in the workplace
As you might imagine, we love when moms are making magic in the workplace! Therefore, we headed to the new goop HQ (you know, THE destination for all things lifestyle) for an afternoon hang with a few of our fave mamas —some preggers, some not—who curate the beautiful world of goop — no big deal.
Check out these stellar ladies as they talk about managing mom-life and work-life @goop
Kate Wolfson
Kate Wolfson: Executive Editor of goop
Cute as can be and pregnant with her second, Kate shares life as a working mom, preparing for baby number two, and her pregnancy style. @kate_wolfson
Advice to your pre-mom self about becoming a mom?
I would tell her over and over that she’s not alone in this and the baby-related decision making doesn’t fall 100% on her. She has a partner who is a real partner, a tight circle of friends and family who are very comfortable with answering panicked phone calls at all hours, and a responsive, caring pediatrician. I would also tell her that the baby bit is the relatively easy part. And, if she wants to stress about something, it should be the stuff that happens later…like explaining why dinosaurs aren’t around anymore (and why certain animals might not be around much longer either). Or. coaxing him into eating something other than toast and cheesy pasta. And, helping him not be spooked by his poop. You know, things like that.
Fave way to unwind?
In bed, with snacks, re-binging one of my many favorite TV shows. So far I’ve watched all of Northern Exposure, Felicity, and now I’m on House.
Hacks for working during pregnancy?
I’m so lucky to work in a healthy environment surrounded by people who get it, many of whom are also parents. In other words, there are a lot of people that will listen to me complain. For some reason, just being able to verbalize if I’m feeling stressed, tired, worried, or particularly large is helpful.
Maternity leave and going back to work after you have the baby?
I am planning on taking the full 12 weeks offered by the company. I didn’t have a super hard time getting back to work the first time around, so hoping for the same this time. I really love what I do, it’s a big part of who I am, and I believe feeling accomplished at work helps me be a better parent.
Working-mom morning routine between the hours of 5:30 & 7:30 am?
Before 7 am, we’re sleeping! I know. How dare I?! Sonny is a champion sleeper (I give the bulk of the credit to Dr. Karp’s Snoo bassinet) and usually doesn’t wake up till 7 am…unless it’s garbage collection day and he hears the garbage truck, in which case, we’re all up to watch the action. This arrangement isn’t forever, though, things will change once his little sister is born.
After he’s up, we wouldn’t be able to get through the mornings without Daniel Tiger or Stinky & Dirty (if you know, you know). I realize screen-time is not ideal but having him climb into bed with me for a quick snuggle followed by 20 minutes to pull myself together before turning the focus back on him is invaluable — I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I stick to a somewhat skimpy school-lunch repertoire (Sunbutter sandwiches, ravioli, and quesadillas) but it makes the prep infinitely easier.
On your commute?
I listen to This American Life. There’s something about Ira Glass’s voice that soothes my soul.
Pregnancy style in one word?
Leggy. Lots of dresses and skirts paired with combat boots or sneakers.
Eileen & Jack
Eileen Hayes: Fashion and Market Editor of goop
Completely smitten, Eileen, mom to Jack, is as lovely as they come. Here, she shares her new mom thoughts, morning routine, and how she spends her commute.
Working-mom morning routine between the hours of 5:30 & 7:30 am?
We try our best to stay in bed until 6 am, if possible! Then, from 6 to 7 am, it’s a marathon to get out the door. Technically, my partner is on baby duty so I can make lattes for us and be ready to pull out of the driveway by 7:15 am, somedays this happens and other days not so much.
On your commute?
I religiously listen to The Daily and The goop Podcast. I also get a call into my mother—she loves my commute.
Go-to outfit?
Like most goop gals (and guys), I live in a jumpsuit.
What kind of mom are you?
A new one!
What’s it like to be part of a strong female-led team?
Inspiring.
Do every day (no matter what)?
Dry-brush.
Best advice you’ve received?
A mentor and great fashion editor once said, “Keep it simple, stupid.” I love that it can be applied to all aspects of life.
Love most about being a working mom?
I love how swiftly I can change hats— from current and creative one moment to maternal and nurturing the next.
And, the most challenging aspect?
Finding balance, but that is life.
Any advice to your pre-mom self about becoming a mom?
Chill. You can make yourself crazy with all the books, the websites, and the endless amounts of stuff that people say you must have.
Elise Loehnen
Elise Loehnen: Chief Content Officer of goop
Mom of two and total powerhouse, Elise shares her working-mom wisdom, the biggest misnomer of motherhood, and why she leads with curiosity when parenting. @eliseloehnen
Advice to your pre-mom self about becoming a mom?
Parenthood is an exercise in losing control, right at a moment when controlling everything feels essential. If you don’t relent and flow, the universe will continually remind you that it’s not all up to you.
Biggest misnomer of motherhood?
That there isn’t ambivalence: I love my children so much that I struggle not to smother them with affection, but there are times when I also really want to be by myself.
Working-mom morning routine between the hours of 5:30 & 7:30 am?
Before 7 am, I’m hopefully sleeping unless someone wakes me up! Once up, the fire drill starts. I make coffee, breakfast for the kids, shower, and answer emails.
Plus, short hair, don’t care! My routine in the morning is supremely stream-lined now, and my uniform is highly functional. Not a lot of dry-clean-only options in my wardrobe anymore. I don’t have time to be too fussy.
Your commute?
I drop my oldest son off on the way to the office. I’ve found we have the most intimate conversations when we’re both facing forward, so I treasure that time with him. We drive with the radio off, and I listen to what he has to say. Then from school to the office, I listen to NPR.
Go-to outfit?
Jeans, a buttondown with a sweater, and Stan Smiths.
Routine that helps you excel at your career and as a mom?
When I feel in flow at work—and sometimes at night or on the weekend—I submit. I can be wildly productive when I’m “on,” and so I maximize those periods of productivity to catch-up and get ahead. Somedays, I have meetings back-to-back and not much time to tend to my inbox, so I flag emails for follow-up and then let myself off the hook until I’m back in the flow and ready to go. If I don’t have the energy for work, I don’t push it.
What kind of mom are you?
I try to be curious, primarily. And, ask questions too! I don’t want my kids to think that adults are the sole source of truth and information in the world. I’m all around pretty chill and probably too permissive, but it’s challenging to be a hard-ass disciplinarian when my time with them isn’t as constant as I would like!
What’s it like to be part of a strong female-led team?
It’s rad – I love working with strong women who defy all the long-held stereotypes (which were probably never true, to begin with).
Are there barriers for working moms or is the perception of motherhood and the workplace changing?
I think it’s changing, minimally. It’s changing for people like me who are privileged to work for a primarily female and progressive brand. It’s not changing for all the women and families who do not have paid leave. It is criminal that in this wealthy country, we are one of only a couple of countries (including Papau New Guinea) that does not have federally mandated coverage and protection.
Do every day (no matter what)?
Coffee! I need the ritual.
Love most about being a working mom?
Representing and knowing that my boys will grow up to marry strong women (or men) since we’re setting an example for them.
And, the most challenging aspect?
Feeling like I’m never doing my best at anything. This is simply the unfortunate reality of being stretched across many things.
Best advice you’ve received?
“Encounters are planned by the soul.” My favorite Paul Coehlo quote.
Julie Jen: Design Director of goop
Mom to Maddie, Julie is one cool cookie. Here, she shares her number one time-saving hack, why she loves being part of a female-founded team, her (perhaps too lenient) style of momming, and why she’s fortunate to have the support of her mother.
Advice to your pre-mom self about becoming a mom?
Don’t be tied to any expectations you might have from listening to other people’s stories or advice. Inevitably, it’ll be different for you.
Working-mom morning routine between the hours of 5:30 & 7:30 am?
Wake up, check emails, get ready, and make breakfast for the fam.
Number one morning time-saving tip?
I leave a little later in the mornings so that I can miss rush hour. Otherwise, I get to work at the same time but sit in traffic for twice the amount of time.
Go-to outfit?
Simple. Jeans and a sweater.
What helps you excel at both your career and as a mom?
I’m very fortunate that my mom watches Maddie during the week and helps us out around the house. When I’m at work, I can focus because I know my daughter’s in good hands. Once I get home at night, I don’t check emails or do any work until after Maddie’s gone to bed so I can be present while I’m with her.
What kind of mom are you?
I think I’m pretty chill (maybe too lenient to be honest).
What’s it like to be part of a strong female-led team?
It’s so lovely to be part of a team that’s supportive, understanding, and roots for your success both career-wise and as a mom. It’s always challenging to balance the desire to be there for your family as well as work. It’s hard not to feel as if something is being sacrificed. But the workplace seems to be increasingly flexible in helping working moms strike that balance.
What do you love most about being a working mom?
I love my job, and I love being a mom, so I’m glad I didn’t have to choose between these two gratifying aspects of my life.
And, the most challenging aspect?
Finding the work-life balance and not feeling guilty.
Wendy Lauria: VP of Marketing & Brand Partnerships of goop
Mom to Beau, Wendy is a beacon of calm. Here, she shares life as a single working mom, hectic morning routines and her laid-back approach to parenting. @wendylauria
Fave way to unwind?
I’m a single mom, so getting out of the house for self-care isn’t always easy. Every so often, I treat myself to an in-home massage timed with Beau’s nap schedule. Apps like Soothe make it so easy.
Working-mom morning routine between the hours of 5:30 & 7:30 am?
My son is usually up around 6:30 am. He drinks his milk, I drink my coffee, and we have a little cuddle time before the day officially begins. Although, no matter how hard I try, most mornings, we’re running out the door a few minutes late.
Go-to outfit?
Thankfully, the goop office is pretty casual/California chic, so it’s easy to get dressed for work. I’ve embraced sneaker culture since moving to LA. I have a pair of silver Adidas sneakers that work with everything—dresses, jeans, and skirts.
What kind of mom are you?
I think I’m pretty laid-back as a mom! Kids feed off of your energy, so I try to keep it chill in our house.
What’s it like to be part of a strong female-led team?
Though I know it’s not the case in every workplace, I’m lucky to work in an office where it’s valued. GP herself has said it: Working moms will get things done.
Not-so-secret vice?
Glass (or two) of wine.
Do every day (no matter what)?
While this may sound a bit OCD, but making my bed. No matter how crazy the morning is, I have to make the bed to start the day off on the right foot.
Best advice you’ve received on life or career?
When my son arrived, one of my favorite bosses told me, “The days are long, but the years are short.” I try to remind myself of this whenever we’re having a particularly challenging day. It’s not always easy, but the time can fly by fast, so it’s essential to be in the moment.
Most challenging aspect?
The balancing act. I agree with the sentiment that it’s close to impossible to find the perfect balance: Some days I’m a great mom; some days I’m a great employee. However, trying to be both at the same time isn’t always possible.
