Mini Magazine Fall 2013

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

HOW TO TAKE A FALL STAYCATION

SOLEIL MOON FRYE

all grown up! with books, kids, a TV show— and a fun, new app

SCH OOL DAZE MELISSA JOAN HART ROSIE POPE MARIO LOPEZ NANCY O’DELL LAILA ALI PLUS THE BEST KIDS SCHOOL GEAR

3 NEW ALL-TERRAIN STROLLERS TO SNAG

LUNCHBOX IDEAS

Easy, peasy school lunch recipes low on time, high on yum factor!

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

MINI

ON OUR RADAR

FROM OUR FRIENDS AT Little Circus come these adorable Prince and Princess Manners Plates. In French, these plates remind little ones to Sit Up Straight, Eat with Your Mouth Closed, and Always Say Please and Thank You— s’il vous plaît. $14, little-circus.com.

THIS JUST IN

B E AT R I X NY + B2S

Head back to school with Beatrix New York and the fun animal-inspired iPad cases, lunch boxes, wheelie bags, and Mini favorite, backpacks for both little kids and big kids.

The sturdy backpacks hold everything a child needs for a busy day at school or action-packed day of travel. With options like Penelope the Octopus, Percival the Dinosaur, Dieter the Monkey, and Papar the Owl, your kids will be skipping and smiling through the front door on the first day of school. —beatrixny.com.

ON THE EDITOR’S LIST

◀ HELLO, MY NAME IS

Lunch boxes, water bottles, pencils, you name it— you want your Mini to tell their items apart from the rest. How do you do it? Mabel’s Labels, of course. “These custom labels are the answer to your organization woes this school season,” said Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. “Avoid scary lunch box mix-ups with these sweet stickers in a variety of sizes.” From $12, mabelslabels.com.

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MINI

MINI CAL

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FA L L

The season’s latest and greatest from around the world and the web

Out September 3, the new Weelicious Lunches book by Catherine McCord will keep school lunches fresh and fun this year. —weelicious.com.

Coming this September, the new Bugaboo Buffalo is the next great all-terrain stroller for you to haul both kids and cargo this fall. —bugaboo.com.

LOG ON TO

MINI To find more openings and events this fall!

Come fly a kite and watch it soar above the Manhattan skyline. On September 14, the Brooklyn Kite Festival will be the place to catch a fall breeze.

—brooklynbridgepark.org.

ON THE EDITOR’S LIST

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MEATBALL MATINEE ▶ M I N I f a l l ‘13

Celebrate a birthday, the start of a new season, and whatever else you like— our cover mom Soleil Moon Frye is dishing up a new app and DIY party book this fall.

—moonfrye.com.

Grab an umbrella! Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 hits theatres September 27.

the

mini micro

for children ages 3 to 5 The Mini Micro Kickboard is the quality 3-wheel kick scooter with an award-winning Swiss desig n. Ideal for children ages 3-5, the Mini Micros’s 3 wheels, low-to-the-ground deck, and gentle lean-and-steer handle bar all contribute to the stability that makes the Mini perfect for pre-schoolers and kindergarteners. The lean-and-steer desig n is what makes the mini unique and fun. Using their body weight to curve right and left, kids intuitively learn to ‘surf the sidewalk’, developing balance, coordination and motor skills.

kickboardUSA.com

MAKE PLAY PERSONAL

Pinhole Press helps you share your special moments through photos. Create custom memory games, books, puzzles and flash cards for your family and let the fun begin!

“Pinhole Press has always stood apart for their unique ideas and beautiful designs.�

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TECH KIDS THE LATEST AND GREATEST FROM THE MINI TECH SPHERE 28

WHAT’S IN THE BAG A PEEK INSIDE THE HANDBAG OF CHIC MOM KELLY WEARSTLER 30

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MEET THE MINI TEAM

THE STYLE SPOT

INSIDER SCOOP

THE TEAM THAT MAKES ALL THE MINI MAGIC POSSIBLE

FALL TRENDS FOR LITTLE ONES GOING BACK TO COOL

FOLLOW MINI TO WEST HOLLYWOOD FOR A PEEK INSIDE BEL BAMBINI

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EDITOR’S LIST

MOMMY CHIC

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A CAREFULLY-CURATED LIST OF KATE’S IT ITEMS

THE STYLE SPOT FOR OUR CHIC MINI MOMS

WITH ALL-TERRAINS

ON THE SCENE

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WEELICIOUS

STYLING SIMONE

ME AND THE MRS.

WARDEN MOM

EASY, PEASY LUNCH IDEAS ON LITTLE TIME, WITH BIG FLAVOR

A STYLIST TURNED DESIGNER AND A MINI WALL MURAL

MARIO LOPEZ ON HIS LATEST GIG RUNNING THE DAD CIRCUIT

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK’S ALYSIA REINER ON PARENTHOOD

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FRANCHISE MOM

ISABELLA OLIVER

KITCHEN REVELRY

SHAUNIE O’NEAL MANAGES A BIG BROOD AND A BUSTLING CAREER

MEET THE MOM BEHIND MATERNITY BRAND ISABELLA OLIVER

ACTRESS AND AUTHOR ALI LARTER IS COOKING UP SOMETHING SWEET

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MRS. MUXO

THE NEW MOON FRYE

CAMILA ALVES MCCONAUGHEY ON HER NEW HANDBAG LINE, MUXO

OUR COVER MOM SOLEIL MOON FRYE ON HER LOVELY LIFE AS OF LATE

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BABY + KIDS

d wellstudio.com

MINI MAGAZINE

Kaitlyn Kirby

founder and editor in chief

WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGn | cover PHOTOGRAPHY |

Scott Kisloski

Meeno Peluce

e d i t o r i a l p r o d u c t i o n a s s i s ta n t |

Michael Benters

P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S a n d e d i t o r i a l | P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S a n d e d i t o r i a l | P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S a n d m a r k e t i n g |

Caroline Bui

Danika Marcano Lauren Kendall

LO G O N TO

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

MINI V is it u s o n th e w e b fo r m o re M IN I m u si n g s!

HOW TO TAKE A FALL STAYCATION

SOLEIL MOON FRYE

all grown up! with books, kids, a TV show— and a fun, new app

MOM ON THE COVER

SCH OO L DAZE MELISSA JOAN HART ROSIE POPE MARIO LOPEZ NANCY O’DELL LAILA ALI PLUS THE BEST KIDS SCHOOL GEAR

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3 NEW ALL-TERRAIN STROLLERS TO SNAG

M I N I f a l l ‘13

LUNCHBOX IDEAS

Easy, peasy school lunch recipes low on time, high on yum factor!

SOLEIL MOON FRYE

Despite her busy schedule, we asked Soleil Moon Frye to name one thing she always makes time for. Her answer? “My family.” We could hang out with a mom like that. —moonfrye.com.

MINI

FROM THE EDITOR

Back to school, back to cool. That’s what we’re doing this issue— we’ve launched a new website, a new look, a new cover mom, and we have a brandnew, shiny award fresh from the Red Tricycle Totally Awesome Awards! We’re so excited you voted us Best Parenting and Baby Magazine in a category of many great publications and we hope our new fall issue lives up to that fabulous title!

In this issue, you will find back to school traditions and new ventures from your favorite celebrity parents like Melissa Joan Hart of ABC Family’s Melissa and Joey, Nancy O’ Dell, Ali Larter, Camila Alves, Natalie Morales, and so many more. We’ve even tossed two great dads, Brad Wollack and Mario Lopez, into the mix. We’ve included the latest and greatest in school gear like backpacks from Madpax, Beatrix NY, and Lassig— and a stack of school-inspired reads to get your little ones ready for their busy days of learning ahead.

And what better way to kick off a new season and new look than with our cover mom Soleil Moon Frye? This busy mama has written two books— her latest Let’s Get This Party Started is a Mini favorite— is hosting new show Home Made Simple on OWN, has a baby on the way, and just launched fun, crafty app, Moonfrye. Busy schedules, busy parents— what’s in store for you this fall?

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LEFT PHOTO Meeno Photo RIGHT Stoffer Photography

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INTRODUCING NOOK’S NEWEST COLOR...

“Best Overall” Infant Mattress Babble’s Best Picks 2010-2012

The Difference is Breathability.

Nook uses breathable, organic and non-toxic materials desgined to enhance air flow, while drawing heat and moisture away from your baby to promote a full night’s sleep.

Our ultra soft fluid-resistant fabrics and exclusive removable & washable cover make night time cleanups easy; even for the groggiest Mom or Dad.

Nook Pebble Pure Mattress

Find a Nook retailer near you at www.nooksleep.com

Available Exclusively at NessaLee Baby (US) www.nessaleebaby.com and West Coast Kids (Canada) www.westcoastkids.ca Hawthorne, CA - info@nooksleep.com

editor‘s LIST

SWADDLE AWAY

Swaddle blankets are all the rage right now and the prints on these from Munchkin are so chic. $49.99/2pk; munchkin.com.

OOBR COOL ◀ ONE LOVE ORGANICS

This multi-purpose beauty oil was recently given the 2013 Eco-Excellence Award Best Skincare for Moms. $49; oneloveorganics.com.

LOG ON TO

MINI

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

Click here to enter to win your ver y own Clek Oobr!

◀

Dress up: Rachel Pally jersey fabrics and looks are perfect for mamas and mamas- to-be. $229; rachelpally.com.

These colorful necklaces are great for mom and teething babies alike. $27.89; chewbeads.com.

◀

BEAUTY AND THE BABE

◀

MINI

First class seating for the Mini crowd. $299.99; clekinc.com.

TM

mommy chic, baby safe

www.chewbeads.com

MINI

style spot

PA C K I T U P

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School is in session! And you know what that means— snagging the coolest backpacks around! Here’s a peek at our favorite bags for the school year, with every style from modern and edgy to sweet and simple.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MADPAX

◀ MAD COOL PAX

Spiky is in— at least in backpacks. We can’t get enough of these cool bags from Madpax, especially the Spiketus Rex style. $60; madpaxcom.

SLY STUDENT ▶

These Zoo Packs from SkipHop boast whimsical faces and durable materials for little student explorers. $20; skiphop.com.

BAGS BY BEATRIX ▶

WILDLIFE WEAR

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Made to hold everything your Mini needs for a busy day, Beatrix New York has options for every animal in the zoo. $42; beatrixny.com.

TRIED AND TRUE

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A Mini backpack offering a variety of wildlife animals— does it get any better? $25; lassigusa.com.

The same look and feel as the Heritage Backpack but now in a Mini size. $39.99; herschelsupply.com.

ECO SNACKING ▶

Practical, versatile, and leak-proof, this aluminum box from SIGG is perfect for small lunches. $31.99; mysigg.com.

◀ SIPS IN SPACE

With a glow-in-the-dark cap and draw-on-me exterior, this water bottle doubles as a fun, creative toy. $20.99; mysigg.com.

A MOVEABLE FEAST ▶

This striped lunch tote from Milkdot also folds flat for easy storage after use— it’s a great lunchtime companion. $27; milkdot.com.

◀ DINOSAUR DINER

This cotton dinosaur insulated lunch box is the latest from DwellStudio® for Thermos®. $18; thermos.com.

LUNCH WITH LEGO ▶

Your little one loves LEGO®, so bring them to lunch! $14.99; containerstore.com.

LU NC H T I M E

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When the time comes for lunch— don’t brown bag it. These lunch boxes make carrying your afternoon snacks almost as much fun as eating them.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

Itzy Ritzy Reusable Snack Bags, $9.99; itzyritzy.com

GET THE BAG

CHAMBRAY DAY ▶

A pint-sized toothpick ankle jean that balances comfy and cool— with pockets and zippers. $69.50; jcrew.com.

◀

TRY ON TiE-DYE

MINI MOTO

spot

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style

Chambray is an essential fabric for fall and we’re loving this tunic paired with printed leggings. $49.50; jcrew.com.

A denim rosette headband is the perfect complement to a colorful school ensemble. $5; oldnavy.com.

MINI MARY JANES

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JUST ADD BOW

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A new spin on tie-dye, this Stella McCartney denim dress looks great with Mary Janes. $82; melijoe.com.

Seriously, there’s nothing cuter.

These tiny Toms are proof. $32; toms.com.

BA B Y B LU E S

There’s no better time to wear your favorite, worn-in denim than Back to School season. Here’s a round-up of our favorite pieces to don in the crisp, fall air.

MINI

MOMMY CHIC

WE’RE OBSESSED WITH

ONE LOVE ORGANICS

Our friends at One Love Organics® have designed some of the best products for busy moms and moms-to-be. This Essentials To-Go Bag includes a handful of their popualr products to get you through a hectic schedule or day of travel.

—oneloveorganics.com.

THIS JUST IN

LONDON

Our friends at Madderson London are injecting maternity wear with glamour and excitement this fall. Their latest collection features go-to dresses, both long and short, in pretty prints and classic colors to last the whole season long. Our mouths dropped when we saw these beautiful catalog photos shot at London’s iconic Savoy Hotel and Madderson’s F/W 2013 collection offers as much, if not more, luxury and sophistication as the quintessential UK locale. So, browse the line, your wardrobe needs Madderson London.

—maddersonlondon.com.

RIGHT NOW WE LOVE

MARIO BADESCU SKINCARE

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Hailed by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Martha Stewart, and Natalie Portman, Mario Badescu has rolled out new Peptide Renewal products to keep skin smooth, firm, and ageless. We’re loving the Peptide Renewal Cream and Serum to fight the effects of (gasp!) aging and keep skin looking fabulous. —mariobadescu.com.

www.maddersonlondon.com

mommy

chic

WE’RE OBSESSED WITH

HATCH COLLECTION

You guys. HATCH Collection just keeps getting better every season. Their F/W 2013 collection recently launched and we’re loving the Blazer, Cape, Swing Coat, Afternoon Dress, and Boyfriend Sweater. OK, fine. We love it all!

—hatchcollection.com.

THIS JUST IN

POLOS Meet the Maclanes. Husband and wife duo, Jared Maclane and Katherine Petty Maclane, teamed up to create a brand built upon timeless elements, flawless design, and serious attention to detail. What came next? Luxury label KP Maclane, specializing in tailored polos made in New York and sourced in France. This Back to School season, grownups can splurge on the classics too. And what could be more classic than a well-made polo shirt? Hint— we’re particularly fond of the Putting Green hue. —kpmaclane.com.

RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING

ALL LEOPARD, ALL THE TIME

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Be bold this fall. Spring for leopard flats, loafers, clutches, belts, and even pants. Don’t be afraid to mix prints, pair leopard with leopard or a dash of polka dots— we can’t get enough of the animal-inspired pattern and we’re wearing it with everything, on everything, all the time.

—mini-magazine.com.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

MINI

TECH KIDS

FROM OUR FRIENDS

BEATS FOR BABY

Did you know a baby’s hearing is fully developed in utero at 20 weeks? Studies have also shown that memories begin at 30 weeks.

Now you can play your baby music, whether it be your favorite tunes, soothing sounds, or loving messages, Bellybuds allow you to play audio to the womb— and the baby gives it two thumbs up.

—bellybuds.com.

THIS JUST IN

M E M O RY GAME With a wide variety of premium products ranging from wedding suites to home decor, Pinhole Press is the modern parent’s photo and paper source. This Back to School season, keep your child on their toes and their brain sharp with a photo memory game or flash cards.

Simply choose your favorite people, pets, and personal pics to upload, customize the alphabet, and let the games begin! —Pinholepress.com.

LOG ON TO

MINI Use code MINI for 20% off the memor y game until Sept. 31!

WE’RE OBSESSED WITH

DUCK DUCK MOOSE APPS

Back to School is here and that means more reading, math, and spelling. Duck Duck Moose has the best (and cutest!) educational apps for kids like Moose Math, Moose Reading, and Peek-a-Zoo for the tiny bunch. —duckduckmoose.com.

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MINI

WHAT’S IN THE BAG CHANTECAILLE LIP CHIC “I prefer natural, understated make up” $35; nordstrom.com

W H AT ’ S I N T H E B A G Kelly W e a rs t l e r ?

WANT LES ESSENTIELS DE LA VIE WALLET, barneys.com

Swanky sophisticate designer, Kelly Wearstler manages a busy schedule as a world-reknowned tastemaker in addition to chasing after her two young sons. Mini took a peek in the chic mom’s handbag to find an assortment of glam goodies: Auction catalogues (“I’m constantly flagging auction catalogues and magazines for interiors project finds”), Want Les Essentiels De La Vie Wallet to organize an on-the-go parent’s clutter (“Chic and amazingly spacious. It fits all the business cards I collect from vendors on the go”), and a Samsung Galaxy Camera (“Inspiration is everywhere. My camera comes with me everywhere to capture it on the fly. The Galaxy connects to WiFi so I can upload seamlessly to social media of my blog MYVIBEMYLIFE”). For more Mommy Musings, follow Kelly on Twitter: @KellyWearstler.

“THESE ARE HANDY AFTER A HOT YOGA CLASS OR JUST TO FRESHEN UP.” Hand towelettes, amazon.com

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“My collections are designed to layer. I always have on rows and rows of bracelets.” $225; kellywearstler.com

THIS JUST IN

W E WON !

Thanks to everyone who voted for us in this installment of the Red Tricycle Totally Awesome Awards presented by Zulily. We were chosen among greats like Parenting, Kiwi Magazine, Family Circle, and Babiekins to win the coveted award of Most Awesome Parenting and Baby Magazine! We couldn’t have done it without all of our wonderful readers and we hope you continue to enjoy every issue of Mini. Thanks for deciding we’re Totally Awesome— we totally agree!

—redtri.com.

MINI

insider scoop

MORE FROM

MINI

BABES IN H O L LY W O O D

Click here to shop Bel Bambini’s fab fall finds!

With locations in West Hollywood and Costa Mesa and regulars like Jessica Alba, Jamie King, and Adele, Bel Bambini is highly-regarded as Southern California’s premiere luxury baby and children’s boutique.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RILEY JAMISON PHOTOGRAPHY

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Italian for “beautiful babies,” Bel Bambini opened to address a void in the infant, toddler, and maternity market: the need for a complete collection of luxury baby items combined with first-class service.

Filled with the very best in baby gear, designer clothing, nursery furniture, and baby essentials, these essential stores are a favorite among expectant and new celebrity parents.

Think Busy Phillips, Selma Blair, Charlize Theron, and of course, Kim and Kourtney Kardashian. Bel Bambini stores pride themselves on having a staff of extremely knowledgeable individuals, ready to help customers pick the very best products that fit their individual lifestyles.

The West Hollywood store, located on famed Robertson Blvd, is the largest of its kind in Los Angeles, boasting two floors of the finest items for baby. On the first floor alone, you can find chic ensembles from Little Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, Fendi, and Junior Gaultier, among others. The sprawling second floor, hav-

MINI SAYS

ONE STOP MINI SHOP

The store’s first floor alone houses Mini ensembles from Stella McCartney, Little Marc Jacobs, Fendi, and Junior Gaultier.

ing just been recently remodeled, features the very best in nursery furnishings and a wide variety of high-end strollers— adding to the grand total of a whopping 7,000 square feet of Mini goodness. Sidenote— this Mini destination is also the only kids store on the TMZ bus tour. ■

MINI

insider scoop

TURN UP THE TECHNO Leading fitness industry favorite Technogym has just rolled out their new Wellness Ball to revolutionize the mommy workout regimen and active sitting.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TECHNOGYM

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The world’s first covered excercise ball, Wellness Ball offers a new take on active sitting, allowing you to both sit and work muscles at the same time. The exercise ball was recently dubbed the best mommy workout and what’s more, we’ve asked wellness guru and celebrity trainer Josh Holland— whose client roster has included Madonna for the past five years— to give us his best tips for busy moms.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

DO WHAT YOU KNOW

Holland suggests to focus on what he calls “functional training” or what you can do to strengthen and improve upon what you are already doing. Functional training is about turning the things you do in life into exercise, not just to survive, but to thrive.

THE MOMMY REGIMEN

“Moms in particular already get a ton of exercise by holding children, carrying bags, and chasing after toddlers, so the Wellness Ball is a great tool for functional training [as] it enhances everyday life, increasing stability and strength in the core.”

BOUNCE INTO CREATIVITY

Moms often have trouble finding time to exercise— which is why the Wellness Ball is great. “It allows you to do two things at once: sit and workout.” Here are some ideas Holland suggests for incorporating the Wellness Ball into your every day life: ROCK-A-BYE BALL

Try rocking your baby to sleep on the Ball to engage your core.

NAP TIME SESSION

While the kids are napping, squeeze in a 10-minute workout.

HAVE A BALL AT DINNER

Invite your friends over for dinner and use the Wellness Ball as seating.

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MY FUTURE’S SO BRIGHT

Click here to read more on The Shade’s features!

The latest in infant seat sun protection, The Shade from Imagine Baby boasts a UPF 50+ rating and also offers a comfortable, shady spot for uninterupted napping while on the go.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF IMAGINE BABY

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Imagine walking through the park with a blanket draped over your infant seat.

You’re seemingly protecting your baby from the elements, when a gust of wind comes along and blows your cover— useless. What do you do next? Enter Imagine Baby. The brand’s innovative infant seat cover, The Shade, offers true infant protection from harmful rays, bugs, and even unwanted touch.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

INSIDER

Imagine Baby was founded by the mother of two boys, who while she thought she had all the right accessories, struggled with the proper protection for her babies while on the go in their infant car seats. And so she threw away the blanket and clips and traded them in for her version of true infant protection— The Shade.

Imagine Baby sought out to transform the simple gesture of clipping a blanket to your infant seat— it may be functional, but certainly was not fashionable. Thus, The Shade was born.

The Shade is a new and innovative way to protect baby while in an infant car seat from the outside elements such as sun, wind, rain, snow and bugs, as well as unwanted touch. This great new product in the baby gear space also doubles as a shady spot for undisturbed napping while on the go. Made from a Micropoly/Lycra blend, The Shade’s

SCOOP

fabric is soft to the touch, with water wicking capabilities that allow it to dry quickly. What’s more, The Shade has an excellent rating of UPF 50+, protecting baby from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.

Here at Mini, we’re all about innovative products that carry out an essential function while maintaining the chic factor— The Shade does just that. The Shade is Imagine Baby’s first product in what, we’re certain, will grow to be a line of many more functional, innovative and responsible products for babies and children. Your baby’s future is bright, so snag yourself The Shade. ■

MINI

SCHOOL IN THE CITI

New York City family club Citibabes offers a warm, welcoming community and world-class amenities, in addition to a wealth of fall classes.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CITIBABES

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Citibabes is the only family membership club that offers best-in-class education, amenities, services and activities for both children and adults. Take a fitness class or grab lunch in the cafe with friends while your child enjoys one of Citibabes signature classes or is watched by an expert childminder. This fall, little ones can enroll in CitiSchool, the club’s preschool program, and parents, you can learn too!

M I N I f a l l ‘13

Citibabes is modern and cool as well as childfriendly; a place that is pleasing to parents and creative and fun for kids. The club provides a community where children and adults may grow and flourish together which makes your job as a parent that much easier— join in the fun and learn along with your little one by attending one of the parenting seminars or other monthly events.

Citibabes hosts a variety of events from baby showers to birthday parties, dinner parties, spa parties, an annual prenatal event, book and product launches, trunk shows, television tapings and charity events. This fall, take advantage of the club’s preschool program that your Mini is sure to love.

Are your bigger kids going off to school this season? So often, even the tiniest of tots cannot wait to step inside a school and begin to learn. With CitiSchool, they have the chance— and a very fun one at that!

Citibabes offers little members 0-5 years a rich spectrum of children’s programming including preschool program CitiSchool (for ages 12 months - 5 years). Citibabes offers the following CitiSchool programs: CitiSchool Early Jr. ( 12 months-18 months), CitiSchool Jr. (18 months-24 months), CitiSchool 2s, CitiSchool 3s, and CitiSchool 4s.

Citibabes takes an integrative approach to teaching and learning as it combines the best theories/practices from both traditional and more progressive teaching methodologies. The club understands that each child is

unique and learns in different ways, thus the classes are designed to provide experiential learning experiences carefully planned and guided by professionals in the field of early childhood education.

Citibabes teachers all possess strong backgrounds in early childhood education and the arts, bringing a uniquely creative and artistic aptitude to their classroom practices. Promoting the cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth and well-being of young children is the popular NYC family spot’s primary goal, thus they encourage children to engage in meaningful learning through play, real-world experiences, and childcentered activities that are both fun and educational.

CitiSchool offerings include: CITISCHOOL EARLY JR.

In CitiSchool Early Jr, children ages 12-18 months and their grown ups will participate in age appropriate sensory art activities, music and movement, storytime, snack, and structured free play! This is the perfect introduction to any preschool program.

CITISCHOOL JR.

This preschool readiness program meets twice a week and provides children the opportunity to familiarize themselves with a set routine and individual expression.

Each class consists of the major elements of preschool: free play, art, snack, story and circle time.

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CITISCHOOL 2S PROGRAM

CitiSchool 2s offers an innovative and dynamic approach to early childhood education.

While stressing the importance of the arts, our focus is on the development of the whole child.

CITISCHOOL 3S PROGRAM

Building on the 2s program, CitiSchool 3s expands upon the learning and socialization of the previous year to create critical thinkers.

CitiSchool 3s exposes students to family and community; global, cultural and environmental exploration.

CITISCHOOL 4S PROGRAM

This penultimate program picks up where CitiSchool 3s leaves off, delving deeper into our well-rounded curriculum of language, fine arts, math, science, social studies, physical fitness and environmental awareness. â–

MINI

FROM OUR FRIENDS

SCHOOL DAZE

Back to School season means back to busy for both parents and kids, Celebrity Baby Scoop asked some of our favorite celebrity moms how they beat the chaos.

STORY BY CELEBRITYBABYSCOOP

From Melissa Joan Hart’s school shopping, to Courtney Lopez’s labeling, to Brooke Anderson’s early school day routines, read through our list of tips and tricks for beating the Back to School madness.

BROOKE ANDERSON, MOM TO KATE, 4

“Leave extra time to get ready and out the door in the morning so there’s no added stress of running late. Your child may already be anxious and dragging her feet a little bit. Rushing her will do nothing to calm the nerves. Make the routine fun and as stress free as possible— for everyone, including yourself!”

NATALIE MORALES, MOM TO JOSH, 9, AND LUKE, 5

“Create a calendar of activities for each kid early on so they can see each day what they

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have and need. And label everything! I love Mabel’s Labels, as they stay on longer than the clothes lasts.”

MELISSA JOAN HART, MOM TO MASON, 7, BRADY, 5, AND TUCKER, 12 MONTHS

“I always try to get the boys a new backpack and a new pair of sneakers to get them excited about going back to school. We talk for a few weeks leading up to it about the teachers names and who a couple of classmates will be to help ease some of those first day jitters.”

COURTNEY LOPEZ, MOM TO GIA, 3

“In order to avoid losing her stuff at school, we label all of Gia’s school supplies and clothes with Mabel’s Labels.”

NANCY O’DELL, MOM TO ASHBY, 6, AND STEPMOM TO TYLER AND CARSON

“Over the summer when it gets close to the time for Back to School, sit down with your child and make an album or a scrapbook of the previous year in school. It will remind him or her of all the good times they had in school and it will get them excited about going back! It is a great bonding project to do together and you have a wonderful keepsake for the family as a result.”

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MINI Click here to shop celebrity fave Mabel’s Labels!

MINI

on the scene

CHIC STROLL

The all-new, all-terrain Bugaboo Buffalo offers a chic facade on a versatile, robust, and spacious stroller that’s ready to get down to business.

SIT UP STRAIGHT

The self-standing seat and bassinet can each sit on their own.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BUGABOO

SHADY DAYS

The extendable sun canopy provides extra protection from sun, wind, and rain.

EASY FOLD

The Buffalo folds flat for easy storage at home or in the car.

STOW AWAYS

Store the essentials in the underseat basket or on the bag hooks on the handlebar.

SMOOTH SAILING

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

The new Bugaboo Buffalo is suitable for any surface with four large wheels.

Discover

The all-new, all-terrain Bugaboo Buffalo

MINI

GET THE LOOK Indie Footmuff $69.99; bumbleride.com

INDIE BABY

An all-terrain stroller combining the off-road capability of multi-terrain strollers, the Bumbleride Indie has the agility of a lightweight, urban jogger.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BUMBLERIDE

SPF CANOPY

The Indie’s large, SPF 45 sun canopy extends to protect baby from the sun’s harmful rays.

SMART FABRICS

Made of soft and durable blended bamboo to regulate temperature and absorb moisture.

SIT TIGHT

The 5-point breakaway harness keeps baby safe and secure without tangling up tiny arms.

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MINI Great for city parents— The Indie weighs just 20 lbs!

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

URBAN JOGGER

Lock Indie’s front wheel and take the chic stroller for a jog.

Select Innovation Select the Original

CITY SELECT The award-winning City Select allows you to mix and match seats, car seats and bassinets to customize your stroller into 16 unique combinations to suit your family’s needs.

www.babyjogger.com

twitter.com/babyjogger facebook.com/babyjogger

MINI

GEAR GUIDE

BIG KID BOOST The mother of all car seats from Clek protects your child while protecting the environment and your peace of mind.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CLEK

BY DANIKA MARCANO

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MINI Click here to enter our Clek booster giveaway!

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

Finding the perfect car seat to keep your infant or toddler safe can be a headache in it of itself. You want convenience and simplicity, but most convertible car seats aren’t actually suitable for infants. You end up adding your own pseudo cushioning and support just to feel at ease. Or, you buy a few different car seats until your child is old enough not to need one, which can be an annoying and costly hassle. Then, if you have more than one child to fit in the backseat, it can be nearly impossible to squeeze in more than 2 car seats or have room for other passengers. Not to mention, car seats can be bulky and unattractive to an otherwise stylish car.

Clek solves all of these challenging, yet critical, concerns with a series of comfortable, safe, and stylish seats to make each ride and experience enjoyable without any compromise – starting from picking out the perfect seat. Foonf is Clek’s newest and arguably most attractive addition to the convertible child seat. Leading the pack with sophisticated safety technology, convenience features, and a productrecycling program – it’s easy to fearlessly take on any family adventure!

The sleek & slim Foonf design allows for fitting three car seats in your backseat. So, there are no worries in bringing along the entire family, including the dog, for any fun-filled ride. The assortment of 9 chic & fun colors are must-

haves, from shadow, to dragonfly, to snowberry, plus 3 adorable Paul Frank® designs.

From 6 months to 6 years, Foonf provides a sturdy support system for your family – both mentally and physically.

Similar to that of your big car, reinforced by steel and magnesium, this shrunken sub-structure provides a cushiony comfort for your bambino. Energy-absorbing foam-lined headrests, plus foam layers on both the inside and outside of the frame protect your child while adding plush luxury.

Foonf utilizes an Anti-Rebound bar for improved stability and extended RearFacing use to accommodate children until their 4th birthday. As your child grows, Foonf offers the easiest Forward-Facing installation in its class for an effortless transition to a big-kid seat.

You can maintain a green household not only with all the recyclable plastic and metal components of Foonf, but also with Crypton® Super Fabrics, which are GREENGUARD Select Certified and deliver a permanent shield against stains, moisture and odor-causing bacteria. This ensures your car is not only clean, but also your child is germ free!

So, if you’re ready to Foonf along for the ride, whether in a car or a plane, because Foonf is aircraft certified too, then Clek is definitely the car seat guru for you!

—clekinc.com/foonf.

MINI

ON E ST E P WON DE R This portable play yard from renowned brand 4moms resolves parenting woes with its easy, breezy set-up and takedown.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF 4MOMS

Baby playtime can be a hassle for parents using playards.

While these pens are the perfect solution for parents who need a safe place for their children to play at home, they aren’t always the most efficient. Not only are play yards clunky in the home, but they also prove to be a hassle for compact travel.

How many parents have had difficulty remembering the steps in folding down the legs of their toddler’s play yard?

4moms, known for its innovative products that make life easier for parents, realized the complexity of play yards and created a playard of their own: the Breeze. Unlike hard-to-use pens, the Breeze is easy. With the press of a button, 4moms’ full-size play yard pops up or compacts with ease. There is no sequence of steps—just a simple touch of your hand.

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BY LAUREN KENDALL

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to shop more of Mini’s favorite 4moms gear!

The Breeze is packed with a variety of playard must-haves, including an infant bassinet, a leak proof portable changing pad, and a travel bag for babies on the go. 4moms also sells a line of waterproof sheets for both the play yard and the bassinet to provide little ones with a comfortable and clean place to rest and play.

Being able to open and close the Breeze in one step provides parents with more flexibility than others on the market. Moving this great piece of baby gear around the home is as simple as pressing a button to open and close it, allowing parents to move their little ones from room to room with ease.

Not only does the Breeze’s simplicity give parents the ease and freedom of roaming from room to room, it also provides easy, breezy travel options for little ones. When upright, the Breeze measures 45.5 x 32 x 29 inches (LWH). After folding it, the Breeze—with mattress—measures 12.5 x 12.5 x 31 inches (LWH) and slides into its handled travel bag. Swing the product over your shoulder and you’re ready to bring the comfort of home to your little one wherever you go.

4moms has revolutionized the market for portable play yards. The simple, sleek design of the Breeze will surely impress parents looking for a solution to their clunky travel play yard woes. This

easy-to-use product is perfect for children 35 inches and under.

So when your busy schedules call for travel this fall, especially as we move toward the holiday season, or you’re looking for a simple solution to a portable naptime locale, think of 4moms. The innovative products from this industry expert and trusted brand are always a Mini favorite— the Origami and mamaRoo® are life changers— and were truly created to make your parenting experience a breeze.

—4moms.com.

MINI

how-to

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MINI Click here to view photos from our FS staycation!

TA K E A S TAY C AT I O N With busy, fall school schedules looming, taking a staycation may be the perfect option for your family. And where better than the Four Seasons?

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS HOTELS

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BY KAITLYN KIRBY

MORE FROM MINI The Four Seasons Chicago pool was featured in Home Alone; fourseasons.com/chicagofs

When school schedules set in and many families begin to fall back into routines— back to bedtimes, early rising, and less sleepovers— it can be hard to find time to take one last vacation. The solution? A staycation!

We recently took a staycation at the Four Seasons Chicago and could not have had a better time. From the very minute we stepped foot in the lobby, we spied kid-friendly services, smiles, and amenities all around us. We giggled at the display of rubber duckies playing in the restaurant’s fountain, and watched as the fresh-faced, happy concierge greeted each child by name and just how excited the children were to be recognized. The Four Seasons Chicago, while a treat for both mom and dad alike, is also an excellent choice of hotel for those with kids from zero to big kid.

Think about it— how often do you find hotels with a playroom fullyoutfitted in Land of Nod gear, a play tent, wide array of toys, foosball, air hockey, and two TVs with Wii systems?

The Four Seasons Chicago offers its littlest guests the option to play to their heart’s content and with all of the hotel’s fun activities, we’re certain there will never be a time to hear the words, “I’m bored.”

Aside from the playroom, the Four Seasons Chicago offers an inhouse Ice Cream Man. Yes, you read that correctly.

The Ice Cream Man, ours with a sunny smile to brighten any child’s hotel stay, parks his cart outside your door and gives kids many choices for creating the perfect ice cream sundae. Don’t believe us? Just consult our Instagram feed. We chose sprinkles, Oreos, chocolate sauce, and gummy bears.

Next on the agenda is the pool— you know, the one featured in everyone’s favorite flick, Home Alone. The Four Seasons Chicago provides Mini robes to lounge around or wear down to the pool and jump in for a quick dip— although, we’re not suggesting you go for a canonball a la Kevin McAllister. The pool is equally as luxurious for parents as there is ample seating and refreshments available to enjoy while you watch your little ones swim.

Inside the room, the staff at the beautiful hotel has truly thought of everything— they might even tuck a pint-sized pop-up tent inside for a fun sleeping arrangement.

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MINI Click here to book a stay at the Four Seasons Chicago!

We particularly enjoyed the welcome gift of a cute cow cookie and the best chocolate milk we’ve ever had (no, seriously) served in a spotted shaker. There was a Mini Four Seasons shirt and hat for little guests, a step stool in the bathroom, and a ready and willing staff to make every wish come true. The Four Seasons Chicago truly has some of the best kid-friendly details we’ve ever seen in a hotel.

Hungry? No problem. Kids can ask their parents to sign up for the Pizza Making Class available every day or take a stroll to the restaurant where the menu also has tiny appetites in mind. In every category, the Four

Seasons Chicago wins our badge of approval for Best Kid-Friendly Hotel. From the time your little ones wake up, we can guarantee they will be entertained, treated to tasty goodies, and tucked into a comfy, cozy bed (or tent) after taking advantage of the kids DVD collection available at the concierge desk.

The Four Seasons Chicago is the perfect place to take a staycation this fall, if we do say so ourselves. Start your vacation in your very own city, experience all the local hot spots, and turn in for a restful night of sleep in one of our very favorite hotels. ■

MINI

book club

THE GHASTLY DANDIES They’re

big, they’re monstrous. They’ll teach you the classics while donning knickers and neckties. $17.95; us.penguingroup. com.

BLANKET AND BEAR They really are a remarkable pair.

From the grandson of the great Roald Dahl comes this charming story. $16.99; us.penguingroup.com.

THE SASSY SERIES A series of four board books to inspire baby’s senses and help her learn and grow. $6.99; us.penguingroup.com.

EVERY COWGIRL Fancy Nancy readers will love the classroom antics in this cute cowgirl tale. $16.99; us.penguingroup.com.

THE DAY THE CRAYONS QUIT Ever wonder what it would be like if your crayons refused to work? This hilarious book will entertain your little scribblers. $17.99; us.penguingroup.com.

HIT THE BOOKS

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Mini students everywhere are leaping to learn this fall, ready to hit the books. Here’s a selection of some of our favorite Penguin titles for back to school and beyond.

by FOR THE CLEARLY MODERN NURSERY

.....................................................................

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

•

www.ubabub.us

MINI

CLOSER LOOK

B A B Y S AY S RELAX Readers beware: this story may not be appropriate for bedtime. The Honest Toddler provides a hilariously detailed instruction manual for “volunteer caregivers” with some supervision

by Bunmi Laditan.

BY DANIKA MARCANO PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HONEST TODDLER

Mom of 3, Bunmi Laditan, absolutely masters the ability to laugh in the toughest of moments as she embraces motherhood in its most ironic and witty form.

Originally creating a Twitter feed (@ HonestTodder), then a blog (thehonesttoddler.com), plus acting as a contributing writer to a number of other sites you may recognize (The Huffington Post, iVillage, Parenting.com), Laditan has gained enormous success as a writer and entrepreneur with her first book— The Honest Toddler: A Child’s Guide to Parenting.

If you’ve ever wondered what your toddler is actually thinking while you cradle them to sleep, ignore their tantrums, or deny them their birthright for ice cream— then your curiosity will be relinquished in this hysterical satire from

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the perspective of your tiny tot. Based on her youngest child Tali, Bunmi Laditan takes us on a journey through parenting from a toddler’s point of view. Although extremely biased toward the child’s mind, it offers a refreshing sense of comic relief to real-life matters, like “spending fortysix hours shopping” at a linens store.

(Okay, maybe the perception is a little bit off).

Not to be taken too literally, the HT actually allows moms and dads to better understand their children while maintaining a light-hearted nature. It teaches an important lesson of empathy to all, putting parents in their toddler’s shoes. We’ve all been there once; now it’s just time to remember! Although it may appear to be fun and games, Laditan explains in an interview with CNN:

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“I get that there has to be an authority source. I’ve been in that mode, too, when writing. I think it’s about trying to regain control and trying to help people feel as if there is a how-to. Even though at this point we all know there really isn’t any one way.”

Luckily, this parent’s manual to toddlerworld provides a how-to for every aspect of life: from general hygiene, to effective and brief communication, to green snot.

“Toddlers are... people without filters.

They’re exactly like us but they don’t have all the etiquette and social norms.”

Toddler etiquette is perfectly presented in this book, so hopefully parents can learn a thing or two from their offspring. The HT cuddles a positive outlook on life and parenthood. Readers should remember, never be too strict or distracted to laugh, and always be at the attention of your toddler’s important demands. The Honest Toddler: A Child’s Guide to Parenting is a definite Mini-Must Read for fall! We promise, you will laugh so hard you just might pee your pants— which is totally fine according to the Honest Toddler.

MINI Click here to buy a copy of The Honest Toddler book!

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE HONEST TODDLER TWEETS

“Adult Tip: Never pick up a toddler without asking. We’re people not loose change.”

“Don’t say you love someone then six hours later make them quinoa.”

“Are beachy waves a snack or activity?”

“Now she’s making soup or “liquid anger” as it is known in the toddler world.”

“Right before naptime the park looks like a cross between a rave and a political protest.”

“So I guess when you said “C is for Cookie, that’s good enough for me” it was just words to you.”

MINI

CLOSER LOOK

MORE FROM

MINI

WEELICIOUS LU NC H E S

Click here to browse more of McCord’s Weelicious recipes.

Mom of two Catherine McCord understands the lives of busy parents, with no time to be a short order cook. Her new book Weelicious Lunches focuses on healthy, quick, and easy recipes for the school year that your kids will love.

INTERVIEW BY DANIKA MARCANO

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WEELICIOUS

MINI: Congrats on your enormous blog-

ging success and new book! How did you come up with the idea for Weelicious? What inspired the name?

CATHERINE MCCORD: When I first had my son, Kenya, I knew I wanted to make homemade baby food. After years of buying foods at our local farmers markets, I wanted to figure out a way to make kids great eaters from day one! As for the name Weelicious, I spent all day online trying to figure out a name that represented what I wanted to do. When I thought about it and figured out that the URL was available, I was thrilled!

MINI: What has motivated you most on your journey of healthy eating for both you and your kids?

CM: Watching my kids get excited about such a variety of foods is really cool.

I hear from people all the time that they’re kids won’t try certain things. To me, it is so important to educate kids on a variety of nutritious foods and allow them to understand which foods are good for their bodies and which aren’t.

MINI: Which recipes do you make most often for your own children, Kenya and Chloe?

CM: We eat seasonally, so our meals are based on the foods at our local farmers market. I get them involved by letting them pick some of the foods we eat. We tend to eat salmon or some type of fish on Sundays, chicken on Mondays, pasta on Tuesdays, a rice dish on Wednesdays, and so on. Variety really is the spice of life!

Catherine and company all love the Roast Chicken with Carmelized Lemons, Cherry Tomatoes and Olives. BOTTOM McCord jokes her kids would eat whole wheat pancakes or waffles 24/7 if they could.

TOP

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MINI For these recipes and more, pick up a copy of Weelicious Lunches!

PINEAPPLE FRUIT LEATHER

I’ve become a bit obsessed with fruit leather and all the different fruits that lend themselves to making this chewy, sweet treat. Whenever I make a sheet my kids will start grabbing at it as soon as it’s done. I do my best to make a few sheets at a time, lest they leave me with nothing to roll up and put in their lunches. When pineapple is a good bargain, buy it up and make a bunch of this leather. It won’t go to waste, as it stays fresh for months!

Makes: 7 long strips Tip: If you have a dehydrator, this is the perfect time to use it!

1 Pineapple peeled, cored, and cut into chunks 1. Preheat the oven to 175 F (135 F if using a dehydrator).

2. Place the pineapple chunks in a blender and puree until smooth.

3. Pour the pineapple puree onto a Silpat-lined or parchment lined baking sheet and use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it into a very even large rectangle, about 14 x 15 inches.

4. Bake for 4 to 5 hours, or until the fruit leather is dry and slightly sticky to the touch, but not mushy. Remember, baking times will vary depending on how thick you spread your mixture and how much water (juice) is naturally in the fruit. (If using a dehydrator, count on 5 hours.)

5. Cool at room temperature. It takes several hours for the fruit to soften up (when you first take the leather out of the oven, the edges will be a bit dry and crispy, but if you allow it to sit overnight it softens up nicely).

6. Using a knife, pizza cutter, or scissors, cut the leather into seven 2-inch wide by 14-inch long strips, keeping the paper on. Roll the leather into roll-ups.

VEGGIE TORTILLA ROLL-UPS

With one of my kids already leaning toward becoming vegetarian, these tortilla roll ups are a protein-packed, tasty lunchtime life saver. ½ cup hummus 4 whole wheat tortillas 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated (about 1 cup) 1 avocado, sliced 1. Spread 2 tablespoons of hummus on each tortilla, taking care to cover the edges, since the hummus will act as a glue to hold the wrap together.

2. Sprinkle ¼ cup of the grated carrots along the closest edge of each tortilla, and lay ¼ of the avocado slices on top of the carrots.

3. Roll up, slice in half diagonally and serve.

MINI

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SILKY TOMATO SOUP WITH GRILLED CHEESE CROUTON BITES

Growing up, my family’s pantry could have been a standing advertisement for Campbell’s Soup. While those are fond memories for me, it’s fairly simple to make classic tomato soup homemade. My own personal twist for this recipe—which I’m pretty darn proud of—are minigrilled cheese crouton bites. How delicious do those sound to dip in your bowl of warm, rich soup? Pretty good, if you ask the little girl in me!

Makes: 4 cups Note: If you do not have fresh tomatoes, you can use one 28-ounce can diced tomatoes and decrease the stock to 1 cup.

2 teaspoons olive oil 1 small onion, peeled and diced 1 large carrot, peeled and diced 2 garlic cloves, peeled and diced 2 large tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups) 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt 1. Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 2 minutes, or until translucent. Add the carrots and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes more.

2. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and stir to combine.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

4. Carefully move the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. You can also use an immersion blender to blend the soup in the pot.

GRILLED CHEESE CROUTONS

Makes: 24 croutons Butter, for the pan 4 slices bread (any type you prefer: whole wheat sandwich, French baguette) 4 packaged slices Cheddar cheese 1. Butter a skillet and heat it over medium heat.

2. Sandwich 2 slices of cheese between 2 slices of bread and place in the hot skillet. Cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until the bread is browned and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining bread and cheese.

3. Cut each sandwich into 12 pieces and serve with the Tomato Soup.

MINI

CLOSER LOOK

FA B COLLAB Star of Bravo TV’s Pregnant in Heels and maven of MomPrep and Rosie Pope Maternity, Rosie Pope and Belly Bandit® have teamed up with a great new, organic product to support moms before, during and after delivery.

INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROSIE POPE MATERNITY

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With “the Organic by Rosie Pope,” Belly Bandit has committed to supporting moms everywhere— this limited edition, organic, pink band supports women dealing with breast cancer while also supporting postpartum bellies. Belly Bandit and Rosie Pope are proud to donate a portion of proceeds to the Shades of Pink Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing temporary financial assistance to women with breast cancer. Aside from this fab collab, Pope is keeping busy this fall with MomPrep, Rosie Pope Maternity, and is expecting Baby No. 4!

MINI: What inspired you to start your name-

sake Maternity clothing store and lifestyle brand?

ROSIE POPE: When I started unofficially in

2007 and then officially in 2008, it was a really different landscape in maternity and prenatal/post partum education. There was sort of this void in the market and I decided to go for it. I started with maternity clothing. I made really expensive dresses because that’s all that I could make at the time. I was a one woman show in NYC, so you have to make everything by hand. I immediately started taking classes and at the same time I started bringing people in.

Whether it was an OBGYN’s or prenatal fitness trainers, just getting knowledge for myself and for the client. From that it kind of emerged.

MINI: What maternity style trends are you

seeing right now?

RP: More than anything else, what’s fashion-

able for non-pregnant women is being replicated in maternity wear. There’s no longer an area where you have to wear something completely different. I’ve seen a lot of Kelly green, a lot of eyelets, a lot of stripes. Even stripes in maxi dresses, and that’s a lot of stripes but people are really pulling it off and looking great.

MINI: What fashionable pieces do you rec-

ommend to your expectant clients for the cool weather?

RP: In the cool weather, layering pieces are

really important. I think most pregnant women go through temperature changes through the day. It’s hard to get right. Some people invest in a great dress, with a blazer; you can keep wearing a non-maternity blazer. It just really makes it that much more put together.

MINI: How has life changed for you since

having kids?

RP: I don’t even remember a time before we

had kids! I always say to my husband I can’t even remember what we did on Sundays; we must have been so lazy!

MINI: What questions are you asked most

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MINI Click to purchase the new Belly Bandit Organic band!

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MINI Click here to shop the Rosie Pope Maternity collection!

closer

loOk

frequently by moms?

RP: Bringing up the baby. People are so nervous and anxious

on my mind

EVERY MOM NEEDS TO KNOW . . .

How difficult the first two weeks are.

THE TOY MY CHILDREN LOVE THE MOST . . .

Legos.

MY FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR IS . . .

Mint chocolate chip.

MY PROUDEST PARENTING MOMENT TO DATE WAS . . .

When my son said “I love you mommy, I love my brother, sister, and I love myself.”

about the experience. There are very opinionated people that [can] make you feel very bad about your choices. I think people feel much safer with me and willing to ask anything— the number one question is about sleep training and vaccinations.

MINI: Have your children started to develop their own sense of

style?

RP: I don’t know if they have or if I project onto them. I would

like to think that they have. They all want to wear comfortable clothes. Wearing a pair of jeans is virtually impossible; I practically have to bribe them! I describe [my oldest] as having a west coast surfer, skateboarder style. My little guy is very preppy and right now my baby girl has absolutely no choice in what she wears. She tends to be in very girly stuff with big bows on her head.

MINI: As a maternity concierge, what was the craziest request

you’ve received?

RP: I don’t know if there is a craziest. I’ll tell you one thing that

THE MOST LAVISH SHOWER GIFT WOULD BE . . .

I heard recently that really just blew me away, a woman that gave birth with dolphins! That was not a client of mine but, when I heard that, I was like now that is crazy!

A Swarovski crystal encrusted high chair.

MINI: What advice will you give to your daughter when she

becomes a mother?

RP: To have confidence. I definitely suffer from lack of confi-

dence sometimes and I think it affects your parenting. When two people are able to love and share with confidence it’s very powerful and very reassuring to children. I want to teach her to have enough sense of self and security in her own choices, in her instincts, and to be able to do that. ■

MINI

AT HOME

THE HOST AT H O M E Nancy O’Dell lives a glamorous life, rubbing elbows with Hollywood’s best as the host of Entertainment Tonight. But when it’s time to head home, this TV host has another role to play— mom to 6-year-old Ashby.

INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ULRICA WIHLBORG

MINI: Happy Fall! Let’s get started talking

about your glamorous, busy life! How do you balance career and motherhood?

NO: I want my daughter to see a strong

don’t know if life ever feels totally balanced. I’d probably describe it as a juggling act instead of balancing! However, one thing I have learned to do which I think helps me to feel more balanced is to live in the moment. My husband told me to always try to think about that. Because if I am with my daughter and I am stressing about something at work, then the stress is taking over that precious moment. I really try to enjoy the moment and actually turn my brain off to whatever is adding the stress. It’s helpful when I tell myself, “I’ll think about that later (borrowed from Scarlett O’Hara),” so I can enjoy what is happening right then.

woman as an example growing up. I want her to know that she too can go after her dreams and pursue a career that makes her happy. I also take my kids on every work trip I can, as I think experiences are such great teachers in life. I had to go to New York City [recently] for some interviews and brought the whole family. We went to see landmarks, museums, and a Broadway play. We had such a great time and they were learning via the experiences. The hardest part is not being able to do all the every day, regular things. I want to go on all field trips, be at every little class party. I get to take my daughter to school most days— but she informed me the other day, NOT to wear curlers at her school anymore!

MINI: What do you think are the benefits

MINI: What has been your most memora-

NANCY O’DELL: To be honest with you, I

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the hardest part for you?

of being a working mom? What has been

M I N I f a l l ‘13

ble interview you’ve conducted thus far?

on my mind

BREAKFAST THIS MORNING WAS . . .

Usana breakfast shake. It’s a 5-day reset. The Emmy’s are coming up!

THE BEST PARENTING ADVICE I’VE RECEIVED WAS . . .

Live in the moment.

MY MOM UNIFORM IS . . .

A Juicy sweatsuit.

THE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM . . .

Clean Well wipes. Got to keep little hands clean!

MY DAUGHTER’S FAVORITE THINGS ARE . . .

MORE FROM

MINI Click to read our whole inter view with Nancy O’Dell!

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Her puppy Buttercup, unicorns, Spongebob, stuffed animals, the tickle monster.

MY ADVICE TO MY NEW PARENT SELF WOULD BE . . .

Relax. Babies are not as fragile as you think they are, so relax. But it’s hard.

NO: One of my favorite interviews I did

was with Madonna. She had recently adopted her son, David, and I was only eight weeks pregnant with my daughter at the time. I whispered that I was pregnant because I wanted to take a photo with her for my pregnancy scrapbook (I took a photo with every celebrity my daughter met while in my belly). After I told Madonna I was pregnant and she started talking about David, the interview went totally different than expected. [She] was so soft and sweet—you don’t really picture Madonna as soft, eh? She seems like such a tough, strong woman and she is, but that day, I saw a completely different side of her. I think it was because we were both going through such a “mama” time.

her clothes? She is very picky about what she will and will not wear and definitely has her own sense of style. She loves to wear anything colorful. The more colors she can wear, the better. It may not always look the most put together, but I don’t want to inhibit her kid style!

MINI: How has your life shifted to accom-

modate parenthood?

NO: The biggest change has been in my

social life. We like to keep on our kids’ bedtime schedule, so that means bedtime is around 8:30 most nights. It’s so funny— when people schedule dinners at 8 (which happens often in L.A.), I am like “What?

That’s like eating at midnight!”

MINI: Has your style changed at all since

MINI: Talk to us about your parenting

NO: My skirts may be a little longer now

NO: I’ve written two parenting books.

motherhood? What were your style staples during pregnancy? that I am a mama. Don’t get me wrong, I still like my skirts short. When you are pregnant, you just want to feel comfortable. I loved soft, jersey type dresses and Juicy sweatsuits, for sure— Juicy had maternity [sweatsuits]! In fact, I have one that I wore so often I can’t bring myself to give it away. It reminds me so much of my pregnancy.

MINI: Do you think Ashby will grow up to

be a fashionista just like you?

NO: Yes, I definitely think so. Who knew

a 6-year-old could be so particular about

book. What prompted you to write this book and what can we find inside?

FULL OF LIFE: Mom-to-Mom Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me When I Was Pregnant is about pregnancy. There were so many things that took me by surprise when I was pregnant and when I would ask my [mom friends] about them, they would reply “Oh, yes, that happens!” I would always reply, “I wish you had told me about that!” My second parenting book is called FULL OF LOVE and it discusses the importance of keeping memories for children and ideas on how to do it. Children who see photos with family members have this great sense of self and belonging and are more secure. ■

MINI

FRANCHISE MOM

Once married to NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, Basketball Wives creator, star, and executive producer Shaunie O’Neal is now expanding her career and hit franchise television show, all while maintaining her busy family of five children.

INTERVIEW BY LAUREN KENDALL

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SHAUNIE O’NEAL

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to watch full episodes of Basketball Wives!

Mother of five, Shaunie O’Neal has stepped out of the shadow of former husband Shaquille O’Neal as the creator, star, and executive producer of hit franchise show Basketball Wives on VH1. The show is now in its fifth season and has focused on both LA and Miami cast members.

But O’Neal is no longer just a basketball wife, as her show is aptly named, she’s found her path as a television mogul and most of all, a mom.

MINI: Congratulations on starting Basket-

ball Wives’ fifth season! How does it feel to be the executive producer of such a popular show?

SHAUNIE O’NEAL: It feels AWESOME! I am

so proud of the success of the show. I hope that it continues. It’s been 5 seasons and I’m going for 5 more!

MINI: You hold one of the show’s lead-

ing roles. How does starring in the show differ from producing it? Which do you prefer?

SO: I honestly enjoy both— they are two

very different roles. It can be a little difficult at times to do both, but I make it happen.

SO: When I was married [to NBA star

Shaquille O’Neal] people would always ask me what it was like to be married to an NBA player. What I did everyday, who I hung out with, etc. [Creating the show] was organic.

MINI: We know reality television can

sometimes skew the public’s perception of celebrities. How does your reality TV life differ from your everyday life?

SO: [I am in] mommy mode everyday, all

day. My free time is usually while the kids are at school or very planned, so hanging out with the girls like I do on the show is not nearly as often as it is in my everyday life.

MINI: How do you feel about your children

in the limelight? Has it been hard to raise them outside of it?

SO: It hasn’t been hard at all. I try my

best to keep my kids grounded. I am so blessed to have some awesome kids.

BASKETBALL WIVES ON VH1

MINI: What inspired you to create the hit

series, Basketball Wives on VH1?

Watch mogul mom Shaunie O’Neal on Basketball Wives— the show airs Mondays on VH1 at 8/7c.

Everything else has to fall in line or it ain’t happening.

MINI: Talk to us about your daily rou-

tine. How do you begin each morning and end each night?

SO: My morning starts with waking the

kids up. Then making a quick breakfast and lunches for school. [Next] dropping them off at school— that’s when I start my day, be it meetings, calls, office work, whatever. [After] I’m back on school pick-ups, homework, dinner, and bed for the kids, [before] I’m back on work mode. I am such a night owl. I’m up emailing and finishing any work I didn’t finish during the day at midnight.

MINI: You have five children. Have you

always wanted a big family? What do you love most about having a big family?

SO: I never planned on having 5 kids—

we just kept going. I’m so happy I did because I love all of the love! [There is] never a dull moment. Holidays are the best!

MINI: Being a mom, producer, and actress must

be hard! Tell us how you’ve learned to juggle multiple roles. What is the key to keeping the focus?

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SO: I keep my kids first at all times, nothing

comes before them.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

MINI: Finally, we have to ask. Do you

think it’s possible for women to have it all?

SO: Of course, a woman can have it

all. I believe everybody has a different definition of what “all” is. ■

MINI

TASTEMAKERS

THE MRS. BEHIND MUXO Brazilian beauty Camila Alves McConaughey has the style factor mastered. Turning her talents (and the fashion know-how of her mother) to handbags, she created an uber chic collection of handcrafted leather pieces under the label, MUXO. INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAMILA ALVES/FULL PICTURE

MINI: We’re in love with your handbag line.

How did the creation of the MUXO collection come about?

CAMILA ALVES: I was always on the look-

out for a great bag that could be practical enough for all my traveling, yet fashionable at the same time. So I joined forces with my mom (who has 3 degrees in design and 30 years of experience) and we created MUXO. The collection truly fits my lifestyle, as well as other working women and mothers who want to look chic while on the go!

MINI: What influences would I find in your

current handbag collection?

CA: You can definitely find a lot of bohe-

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mian influences— I love fringe! But there are also more structured, classic bags in the collection. Each bag is detailed and well-crafted, so you feel like you’re wearing something that’s one of a kind. We

M I N I f a l l ‘13

aim for all our bags to have quality, practicality, and style.

MINI: What’s it like designing handbags

with your mother, Fatima?

CA: It is truly an enjoyable collaboration.

Our strengths really complement one another.

MINI: How does she inspire you creatively

and as a mother?

CA: I am always inspired by my mom’s

artistic talent. As a mother, she is the ultimate role-model.

MINI: How would you describe your per-

sonal style?

CA: I definitely gravitate toward boho-chic

looks, but like to add playful accessories.

MINI: Has becoming a mother changed the

MINI way you dress?

greatest joys of motherhood?

CA: With less time to get ready, I have

CA: My children surprise me every day.

become much more low-maintenance. I will never completely sacrifice comfort for style, but I still like to experiment with trends every now and then.

They constantly keep me on my feet and it is so interesting how different each of their personalities are! I get such joy out of watching them grow.

MINI: When did you first become interested

MINI: What Brazilian traditions do you

in fashion?

share with your children?

CA: I grew up watching my mom work in

CA: I share a lot of Brazilian traditions

fashion and while modeling, I was inspired to work on the design side.

MINI: What’s a typical day like at home for

you and your family?

CA: There is no typical day in the McCo-

MINI: Do you think that your children

might one day share in you and your mothers passion for design?

naughey household! The common thread is that whether with traveling or camping, we always do it together!

CA: My daughter is already really into art,

MINI: You’ve had three children before the

MINI: What fun fall activities will your fam-

age of thirty, from your prospective what’s it like being a young mother? What are the benefits or challenges?

CA: I always knew I wanted to have kids

at an early age. Balancing life, especially when you are a working woman, is a challenge— but the benefits of being young and energetic when your children are young outweigh the obstacles!

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with my children. The most important is a respect for elders and the wisdom they’ve passed down.

MINI: What do you find to be one of the

M I N I f a l l ‘13

so maybe…

ily participate in?

CA: We love spending quality time out-

doors. We look forward to camping this fall! ■

MORE FROM

MINI The McConaughey family loves camping in the fall!

MINI

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TASTEMAKERS

MORE FROM

MINI

STYLING SIMONE

Click here to shop the Skins fall collection!

Throughout her career as a wardrobe stylist, Simone Harouche has assembled an array of antique textiles and clothing. Today, she is a new mom and designer behind Simone Camille— a collection of one-of-a-kind carryalls, shoulder bags and hobos.

INTERVIEW BY LAUREN KENDALL

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SIMONE HAROUCHE

MINI: Happy Fall! Let’s talk about your

Skins Fall 2013 collection. What inspired you in designing this new line?

SIMONE HAROUCHE: As always with Simone

Camille, I am inspired by traveling, exotic places and a bohemian spirit. All with the touch of an eclectic, chic eye.

MINI: Which bag do you think is the ul-

timate fall must-have? How would you style it this season?

SH: I think the backpack is the ultimate

fall must have. It’s versatile and can work with many different styles and looks. My favorite bag is the jaguar backpack. I love the print and think it goes with almost everything. I love it!

MINI: How is your personal style found in

this collection/in your line? What are the staple/trademark features of your pieces?

SH: My personal style is a mix of classic,

mixed with a bit of rock and roll and a little hippie at heart. I think the styles in the Simone Camille collection appeal to my various aesthetic tastes. The vintage moon bag will always be my go to beach vacation bag. The carpet bag is my go-to work bag, and the backpack appeals to me the most right now. It’s fashionable, but utilitarian MINI: You’re now a mom to Dashiel! Has

your style changed at all since motherhood?

SH: My style hasn’t changed that much

since becoming a mom. The only difference is that now I find myself carrying multiple bags— a diaper bag, work bag and a purse— rather than just one. I was told that my style would likely change after my baby was born but truthfully, I still have the same pleasure getting dressed each morning. I never imagined that I

MINI would only wear tent dresses or something far from my pre-pregnancy taste.

My clothes are still part of my work, and because of that— a big part of my identity.

MINI: What were your style staples dur-

ing pregnancy? What do you think every mom-to-be should have in her wardrobe?

SH: When I was pregnant, I didn’t want

to wear anything tight around my thighs or waist, so I wore comfortable, jersey dresses. It was perfect, because the jersey fabric had stretch, so things never felt too tight, or like I was busting out at the seams. I highly recommend them!

MINI: What do you think is the biggest

misconception for staying chic after kids?

SH: I think that as a mom, you just

get better about managing your time.

There’s so much to do in a day and so little time— especially with a newborn!

So I have become more time conscious, so what used to take me an hour to get ready to go out, now takes me 15 minutes.

MINI: What is important to you in rais-

ing your son? How would you describe

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

your parenting style?

SH: My philosophy is that I’m raising a boy who will

one day become a man and hopefully a husband and parent. So it’s important that he learns to be caring and strong, to have manners, and to be compassionate.

MINI: How would you describe Dashiel’s style

right now? What are some of your favorite pieces to dress him in?

SH: Dashiel is all about comfort with a little

rock ‘n’ roll spirit (What can I say— I dress him!). I dress him for how I would want to look if I were a baby boy, which is so much fun. I love Niconico, Zef, Shampoodle, Fith, Bonton and Bonpoint.

on my mind

MY BIGGEST BABY SPLURGE WAS . . .

MINI: How has your life shifted to accommo-

Having a mural painted on my son’s wall.

SH: It all changes so much and all for the bet-

THE ULTIMATE MOMMY MUST HAVE IS . . .

date motherhood?

ter, of course. It’s harder to see my friends, but I make sure to find the time because those friendships are so important to me.

MINI: What went into designing your son’s

room? What style or design features might we find in his space?

SH: I wanted a space that he could grow into

that didn’t scream baby. We worked with an incredible artist collective called clamdiggin on a mural in my son’s room. In the planning stages, I threw all sorts of reference points at [them] and they incorporated everything into the final product. Dash loves all the horses, airplanes, owls, hieroglyphics on his wall. They did such a beautiful job of weaving it all together so you always notice something new. In fact, I was so happy with the result, that we are working on a Simone Camille x clamdiggin collaboration for Holiday. So stay tuned for that! ■

A great diaper bag.

MY GUILTY PLEASURE IS . . .

A nice glass of sancerre, once Dashiel goes to bed.

THE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM . . .

Hand sanitzer.

MY MOMMY MANTRA IS . . .

Trust your instincts.

IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD . . .

Sleep.

MINI

TASTEMAKERS

ISABELLA OLIVER With her child’s name in the title, Baukjen de Swaan Arons set out to create a quality line for women that embraced shape and flattered all the way through pregnancy— and in looking at the fall line, we think she did a pretty good job.

INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ISABELLA OLIVER

MINI: What do you think sets Isabella Oli-

ver apart from other maternity brands?

BAUKJEN: Right from the start, I wanted Is-

84

MINI: What are some of your favorite

pieces from the current Isabella Oliver collection?

abella Oliver to be a brand that is a friend, somebody you can trust. There is a lot going on when you’re pregnant. I wanted Isabella Oliver to be a brand that designs clothes that flatter all the way through the pregnancy, has excellent quality, delivers great service and also listens. Today, we’re 10 years on and those principles haven’t changed. It’s still at the heart of what we do.

B: I love the Alma Coat this season. It’s a

MINI: How is your personal style reflected

in the Isabella Oliver line?

most often? What are your go-to pieces, colors, etc?

B: I go for styles that I feel comfortable

B: Leather trousers, a beautifully tailored

and confident in. Isabella Oliver focuses on dressing women who like style, comfort, quality and ease. We design our clothes for the same woman, [just] new curves.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

real modern classic that will stand the test of time. The Lexington Silk Maxi dress is a real investment piece that is so elegant and makes a real statement. This season we’ve also launched a leather ponte legging which I would wear all the time if I was pregnant now— a real wardrobe essential that can be dressed up or down.

MINI: What do you find yourself wearing

blazer and heels. I wear black a lot but in the past two years I’ve injected color back in. It’s like a statement accessory that gives a pop to your look.

MINI: Describe your children’s style. What

style quirks or loves have they inherited from you?

B: I have three children, aged 11, 9 and 7. The

eldest, Oliver, has a classic timeless style. My middle child, Sebastian, is a natural born stylist who puts very cool outfits together.

My youngest child, Pippa, loves trends and is currently crazy about jumpsuits.

MINI: What is your advice for designing a

great fall wardrobe?

B: Invest in pieces that are versatile and will

see you through the season. A great winter coat, heavy and light weight knits as well as basic tees for layering. Our F/W 2013 collection caters for all maternity fashion essentials this season.

MINI: What do you think is the biggest mis-

conception about dressing when you’re pregnant?

B: Most women tend to go for oversized or

bigger clothes to hide their bumps rather

MINI

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

MINI

TASTEMAKERS

on my mind

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD . . .

Be able to spend hours with my husband talking about our kids.

MY BEST KEPT PREGNANCY SECRET WAS . . .

than embracing their new curves. While oversized clothes may fit the bump, they sag around other parts of the body making you look quite a bit bigger than you are— a mistake I made in my first pregnancy. Maternity clothes can be equally as stylish and flattering as everyday clothes and that’s what we do. Our designs make pregnant women feel good and stylish with their changing bodies.

MINI: How do you balance work and motherhood?

Do you think there are any keys to keeping the balance?

B: It’s a balancing act. My husband and co-founder

A flattering jersey dress.

Geoff and I (and the kids) are really fortunate in that my mother and step-father live five minutes away and Geoff ’s parents come over a lot too from Holland. So we have lots of support. It’s also an added benefit that I work ten minutes away from home.

ONE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM . . .

MINI: How has your life changed since becoming a

Wear your pregnancy curves with confidence. Pregnant women are beautiful.

EVERY MOM’S WARDROBE SHOULD INCLUDE . . .

Little notes from my kids.

mom?

MY PARENTING BOOK WOULD BE CALLED . . .

B: Life has changed completely since becoming a

Do It Your Way. Because so many friends have told me they feel overwhelmed with all the advice others give them that I think it’s good to encourage parents to trust their gut instinct.

mother. Not just because I’m now a mum, but also because I’m older, run a business, and life is generally just a lot busier. The past ten years have been the happiest years of my life. I often think about how special these years are and how I will look back at them with fond memories. The kids still love to spend time with us, our parents are still healthy and active, and workwise we love what we do.

MINI: If you could give your children one piece of

style advice, what would it be?

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

B: Wear what makes you feel happy and confident

and feel like you. ■

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to shop Isabella Oliver ’s fall collection!

MINI

COVER MOM

THE NEW M O O N F RY E The child star formerly known as Punky Brewster has grown up— the new Soleil Moon Frye has two children (and one on the way!), is hosting new show Home Made Simple on OWN, has written two books, and launched a new app!

Mini has the details in this cover exclusive.

INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEENO PHOTO

MINI: Let’s get started talking about your

new Moonfrye app and brand. What was your inspiration for creating the fun new app?

SOLEIL MOON FRYE: I love playing with my

little ones, I love my kids, and they are everything to me. We still love reading a real book and flipping through the pages but we also love technology— I think it’s in their DNA. My business partner Kara Nortman and I wanted to create something that was incredibly engaging and fun for families to do together. The great part about this app is that it’s something that a parent can do with their kids over their shoulder. My girls and I are constantly creating fun collages, we print them out and put them around our house. We also love that craft ideas come up through the app and then it sends you to the site where there’s fun, real world experience.

MINI: We can imagine your children love

the app! What else have they inspired you to do or what do you love creating together?

SM: They inspire me everyday. They truly

are my inspiration and we’re constantly coming up with fun craft ideas. I was a mom looking at different blogs and magazines and things looked so difficult.

I really wanted to do crafts that were easy for me and for other people to do as well. We’ve done everything from creating fairy dust, painting mason jars to

planting succulents. We do it all and the kids are so hands on with me.

MINI: Have you always been into crafting

and creating? Where did your crafty side come from?

SM: Yeah absolutely! My kids started

growing up and I wanted to do fun and creative projects with them. They always want to be innovative and do things that are unique and inspire their own creativity.

MINI: You also have a new book coming

out— Let’s Get This Party Started. Tell us about the inspiration behind that.

SM: My girls and I love to put together

parties, it’s our favorite thing to do. Family coming together has always been a part of my life. We’re always coming up with fun innovative themes and ideas to do together. We thought “wouldn’t it be fun to share it with everyone else”?

Every chapter has different craft ideas, it has recipes and it’s got a fun theme to it.

It’s really a guide for parents to pick up and say, “I want to throw a fun affordable party. How can I do it”? There’s just tons of ideas inside of it.

MINI: What is your favorite feature of the

book?

SM: Last year Poet wanted to do a rain-

bow party, so we did a rainbow party.

That was really fun. Her birthday was [recently] so we did a spa party inspired

MINI on my mind

by the book. I’m constantly coming up with ideas and the book is a huge array of fun concepts.

BREAKFAST THIS MORNING WAS . . .

The girls and I had bagels and cream cheese.

MY ULTIMATE MOMMY GETAWAY WOULD BE . . .

Anywhere around the world with my kids. We went to India for Thanksgiving and that was incredible.

MY PROUDEST PARENTING MOMENT HAS BEEN . . .

It’s the entire journey. When they tell me that they love me and that I am the best mommy in the world. I know they are my kids, but you feel proud because they love you.

MINI: Your other book was titled Happy Chaos.

Tell us about the Happy Chaos in your life.

SM: It’s constant chaos and I like to call it “Hap-

py Chaos” because it is! It’s the joy in-between.

I find joy in the painted handprints all over the place, the sharpies on the wall, and the syrup everywhere. I’m pregnant right now, which is totally crazy and exciting so balancing that with my two beautiful girls has been a total adventure.

MINI: How do you balance career and mother-

hood? Do you think there are any keys to keeping the balance or managing the Happy Chaos?

SM: I think you just try your best. I know how

grateful I am and lucky to be able to do so much of my work with my little ones. When I write, I love to have them around.

MINI: You’re now expecting a new baby— your

third child! What are you most looking forward to with having a new little one again?

SM: I just can’t wait to those early days of holdMORE FROM

MINI Click here to buy Soleil’s Moon Fr ye’s new book!

ing a little baby, how scrumptious they are, how amazing they smell and just everything about it. I’m most excited about how excited the girls are and for them to interact and be big sisters.

COVER

MINI: Are your kids so excited to have a new

sibling? How are you preparing them for a new baby in the house? What are you teaching or telling them?

SM: They are really aware of it and I really don’t

have to tell them much. They’re putting it upon themselves to kiss the belly and talk to the belly. They are total nurturers so they’re 100 percent behind it and excited. They are doing it by nature.

MINI: How are you and your husband preparing

for the new baby? Are you making changes in your home/preparing the nursery?

SM: I am totally not prepared right now. I have

MOM

MINI: How about your personal style? What can

we find you wearing most often— colors, pieces, and ensembles?

SM: Right now anything that fits! I think from

being pregnant with my third, your body immediately knows what it was before and it goes right back. Lots of big dresses right now and lots of stretchy pants. I have given up on jeans right about now.

MINI: How might we see your personal style car-

ried over into your home? What might we find in your home space and your children’s spaces?

SM: My kids’ space is super bright. They are col-

style? What’s most important to you in raising your kids?

orful kids. We love books and we have a rainbow theme with lots of crafts and kids paint and jewelry making. I like a lot of calmness, so we have a lot of Bali chic. We love eastern philosophy, so I would say there are eastern influences and Moroccan influences. We love different cultures and we certainly pull from those cultures in our home and it’s a fun lively space.

SM: Most importantly, I try to listen to my kids

MINI: If you could give your children one piece

been working all summer and when I am not working I am with my little ones, enjoying them and cherishing the moments with them. I need to start figuring that out.

MINI: How would you define your parenting

and not talk at them, to really communicate with them and constantly get on their level, to be able to share, talk and discuss and to hear them. To be a present parent and to listen to their needs, their fears, their dreams, and what they’re excited about, what they’re afraid of.

Also let them know that parents make mistakes too.

of advice, what would it be?

SM: To constantly believe in themselves, to be

self confident, to be kind to others, to encourage and teach compassion.

MINI: OK, weird pregnancy cravings right now?

SM: I’ve been really into spices.

■

MINI

MOTHER OF INVENTION

GUEST OF A GUEST This tech savvy girl from Nebraska blazed a new media trail through New York City, founded the ever-popular Guest of a Guest, and continues to manage the media mayhem— with a new little one in tow.

INTERVIEW BY DANIKA MARCANO

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RACHELLE HRUSKA

MINI: Let’s take it from the top. How did

MINI: What do you think has made Guest

RACHELLE HRUSKA: Guest of a Guest started

RH: I think it was a combination of many

the idea of Guest of a Guest first blossom?

96

off as my own personal blog back in 2006.

I was working in finance and wrote an anonymous blog mostly about the downtown NYC scene. I was personally fascinated with it, having just moved from Nebraska a few years prior. I had a couple friends help me with posts. We started breaking stories and getting covered in major outlets like the New York Times.

Soon, my friend (and co-founder), Cameron Winklevoss encouraged me to quit my day job and my business school search and start doing GofG fulltime. So, I decided to take his advice and leap into the unknown. It was the wild wild west back then for online media and it was so much fun.

M I N I f a l l ‘13

of a Guest such a huge success?

things, but a lot of it was the right people and the right timing. Having the opportunity to find and work with such incredibly smart, talented, hard working individuals from all over the world has been one of the things I love most about this job. They have left their footprints on the site.

MINI: How would you describe the Guest

of a Guest team and dynamic?

RH: Our team dynamic is, I hope, one of

mutual respect and commitment. Our office environment is very laid back. We are still a small team— every individual that steps in our doors has a major responsibility, which is a factor that keeps us all motivated and committed to each other.

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to check out Rachelle’s Guest of a Guest!

MINI: So besides founding a successful busi-

ness, you’re also a mom! How do you manage the chaos?

MINI: How has your career changed to accom-

modate your son?

Besides moving our office closer to my home and not going out as much at night, my career hasn’t really changed much. If anything, [my career] has flourished as I have something to ground me and put it all in perspective. No career for me would be “successful” without balance.

RH:

I think you have to try to put day-to-day petty disturbances in perspective. I am constantly reminding myself that most every problem that arises is temporary and not the end of the world. I also credit my husband for setting a good example. For me, one of the most important things is being present and in the moment whenever I get a chance. Fifteen minutes of uninterrupted play time (no iPhone), can be equivalent to hours of semithere time.

RH:

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MINI: What has been most surprising to you

about motherhood?

RH: How much fun it is! Honestly I could have

never imagined how crazy fun it was going to be, and it’s just getting better.

MINI: What do you think are the benefits of being a work-

on my mind

ing mom?

RH: For me, I think being a working mom has made me a

much more focused businesswoman. I hopefully spend more time on what really matters and less time on trivial things.

THE BEST PARTIES ALWAYS INCLUDE . . .

Wine and good conversation.

MINI: Describe your personal style in terms of fashion. Has

your style changed at all since motherhood?

MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER IS . . .

Black.

RH: I have tried to step up my style since becoming a

mother. However, now that I’m pregnant, it’s back to shirtdresses and a lot of James Perse mixed with blazers and jewelry. I generally think that when you look good, you feel better, so I try to step it up a bit during the work day.

MY MOMMY MOTTO IS . . .

Live fast, ‘cause it don’t last!

THE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM . . .

My son’s sippy cup.

MINI: What are you dressing your son in now— or how are

you helping to mold his style?

RH: My husband prefers our son in punk rock/skater

clothing. I lean towards preppy. Our son— God love him— manages to pull off both at the same time. You can typically find him in a polo with the sleeves cut off mixed with some weird skater shorts or, just as likely, a rock and roll t-shirt with J.Crew chinos.

MINI: What’s most important to you in parenting your son?

RH: One of the most important things I can give my son

is the opportunity to become whoever he is supposed to be. That and to strive to be the best version of myself, in the hopes that he will follow my lead. My greatest wish for him is, of course, to be happy and fulfilled. ■

MY GUILTY PLEASURE IS . . .

Wine and sugar.

ON MY NIGHTSTAND, YOU WILL FIND . . .

Books.

MORE FROM

MINI Hruska’s son rocks a mix of punk with J.Crew prep!

MINI

MOTHER OF INVENTION

MORE FROM

MINI

STELLA AND DOT

Click here to shop Stella & Dot’s current collection!

With a background in jewelry design and impressive education credentials, Blythe Harris is the fearless innovator and inspirated collaborator who puts the style in beloved jewelry brand Stella & Dot.

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INTERVIEW BY LAUREN KENDALL

M I N I f a l l ‘13

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BLYTHE HARRIS

GET THE LOOK Kahlo Bib Necklace $228; stelladot.com

MINI: Let’s take it from the top. We’re huge

Stella & Dot fans! How did you and Jessica Herrin— Stella & Dot’s other founder— first meet?

BLYTHE HARRIS: Jessica and I met through

a Stanford alumni event and she told me about her vision and the company she had founded then known as Luxe Jewels. I was working at Banana Republic building their jewelry business and it was there that I saw what a huge opportunity mid-level costume jewelry represents.

Several months later, we re-launched the brand as Stella & Dot, named after our grandmas, and I began repositioning the product line as mid-level boutique style costume jewelry, opening a design studio in NYC and focusing our manufacturing overseas.

MINI: Now that it’s fall, let’s look into Stella

& Dot’s Fall 2013 Collection— Where did you find inspiration for your latest pieces?

BH: I travel to Europe twice a year with

my design director to gather inspiration from a range of people, places, and fashion. For the fall ’13 collection, I was very inspired by the artist Frida Kahlo as well as Matisse’s cut out paintings from the mid-20th century. The architecture of Paris had a big influence on the line this year. I was so inspired by all the different levels of texture found throughout Paris and incorporated that into both our new scarves and handbags, in addition to our

jewelry line.

MINI: In this collection, what do you think

is the ultimate mommy must-have or the piece everyone should add to their jewelry repertoire?

BH: The Trinity Pendant is a real favorite

of mine right now because it is so versatile. It can be worn as a long pendant or doubled up or as two separate layered necklaces. As a designer and mom, I am always trying to create something that is easy to wear, makes you feel good, and can be an instant outfit update.

MINI: How would you style this piece?

How do you often style the pieces of Stella & Dot jewelry that you wear?

BH: If I’m just heading into our design

studio in Sausalito, I would wear the Trinity Pendant long with a simple white tee, tailored blazer, boyfriend jeans, and cute booties. If I’m heading out for a girls night out, I would wear our Kahlo bib necklace over a leather dress or leather peplum top.

MINI: Talk to us about how Stella & Dot is

helpful to busy parents everywhere.

BH: Our vision is to provide an entrepre-

neurial vehicle that means a busy mom doesn’t have to sacrifice picking the kids up at school with providing for her family. The beauty of Stella & Dot is you can devote as many hours to your business

MINI as you want. For example, I know tons of stylists who are moms who take August off because they really want to be able to spend that time with their kids. School starts, they have a bit more time on their calendar, and these stylists then can go right back to where they left off with their business.

MINI: What do you find as the most reward-

ing aspect of your career?

BH: Empowering women every day to live

their lives they’ve always wanted to have whether that means paying for their kid’s braces or buying those cute heels they’ve always wanted.

MINI: You have two children. Do they take

after your love for accessories?

BH: YES. My daughter Olive loves to come

into our design studio and make beaded necklaces and she also creates her own little mood boards. My son Freddie is also obsessed with shoes and wearing my jewelry!

MINI: How would you describe your children’s

style? Do you see a lot of your style in them or have they started to develop their own?

BH: They both have their own individual style

and have been picking out their outfits from a very young age. Olive loves to mix patterns and layer our Stella & Dot Girls’ jewelry and Freddie usually gravitates towards sports gear!

MINI: How would you describe your style?

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BH: [My style is] casual, boho chic. I have

less time in the mornings now that I have kids so I really have adopted some staples in my wardrobe that I have in multiple colors and I usually let my jewelry stand out. I wear a version of the same thing almost every day to the office— jeans, Isabel marant booties, motorcycle jacket or fitted IRO jackets with a new statement necklace.

MINI: What do you think is the biggest chal-

lenge of staying chic with kids?

BH: When I’m with my kids, I just want to be

comfortable and they are still pretty young so being able to run around and keep up with them is big. It’s all about being comfortable and, of course, accessorizing! A t-shirt and jeans is my go-to when I’m with the kids and adding a statement necklace or great arm party immediately transforms any casual outfit into something unique.

MINI: We always ask, because moms must

learn to juggle. What are the keys to balancing the chaos of motherhood and career?

BH: I think it is possible for women to have a

very rewarding career and be a great mom if we release the standards of perfection which we hold ourselves to. I find it is about being very strategic with my time and knowing what will matter most to my kids. I do all my shopping online at night after the kids are in bed and use my entire commute time for phone calls with my team. I also make sure that the minute I get home I am 100% focused on my kids until they go to bed. ■

5 essentials for your baby, delivered monthly visit bluum.com for more details

MINI

FATHER OF INVENTION

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FUNNY BUSINESS

Click here to read our full inter view with Brad!

Funny dad, comedian, and round table regular on E! Network’s Chelsea Lately, Brad Wollack gave Mini some hilarious parenting advice, details on raising son Spencer, and a knock knock joke to make your sides ache.

INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF E! ENTERTAINMENT

We know you as funny comedian and Chelsea Lately favorite, but talk to us about being a dad. How do you make your son laugh?

MINI:

I play my guitar, dance around like an idiot, use exaggerated and silly voices, tickle him furiously, and light rough-housing. It’s always interesting to see what new thing he’ll find funny or respond to.

BRAD WOLLACK:

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

MINI: Do you think he has your sense of hu-

mor?

BW: Too early to tell.

Don’t think he’s as dark and demented as i am yet— at least I hope not— but he is definitely mischievous and a bit of a prankster. He likes to push the limit.

He laughs a ton which is really great.

MINI: What surprised you most about parent-

ing? What does no one warn you about?

MINI: Just for future reference, what are your

coolest suggestions for kids names? We know you have some great ones up your sleeve.

BW: My mom was asking me about potential

names for when we eventually have a second kid and she couldn’t believe we didn’t have any. Spencer was actually the name of my parents’ old dog, so maybe we’ll just borrow another family pet’s name... like Gizmo. ■

BW: I wish people had been more honest

about the challenges of breastfeeding and that it really is a two-man operation with the father helping the mother. Also, no one warns you how often the theme song to Mickey Mouse Clubhouse will get stuck in your head. On the positive side, no one can ever prepare you for how much you truly fall head over heels for this little being.

MINI: How is your son’s upbringing different

from your own?

BW: For starters, his parents are generally

cooler people. We have traveled a lot more with him than I ever did in my first two years.

MINI: If you could give your son one piece of

advice, what would it be?

BW: Don’t tell people i’m your father! Be who

you are and always speak your mind. Most of the time, your mother and I are making up this parenting stuff on the fly, so don’t take everything we say and do so literally.

We will make mistakes.

on my mind

THE SONG I CAN’T GET OUT OF MY HEAD IS . . .

HOT DOG HOT DOG HOT DIGGITY DOG. MY SON CANNOT GET ENOUGH OF . . .

HOT DOG HOT DOG HOT DIGGITY DOG. GIVE US YOUR BEST KNOCK KNOCK JOKE . . .

KNOCK KNOCK. WHO’S THERE? HOT DOG HOT DOG HOT DIGGITY DOG. Now it’ll be stuck in your head too!

AS A PARENT, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD . . .

Have to discipline my son.

Still not great at it, but we have to do it sometimes.

MINI

FATHER OF INVENTION

THE DAD CIRCUIT Mario Lopez graced screens as the hunky A.C. Slater in TV’s Saved by the Bell through the ‘90s. He now plays host of The X Factor and Extra, as well as dad to daughter Gia and one on the way.

INTERVIEW BY CAROLINE BUI

MINI: Let’s get started talking about your

glamorous, busy life! How do you balance career and fatherhood?

MARIO LOPEZ: Every minute seems to be

packed during the day. A ton of miles and running [around] but I like to be busy like that. I always have breakfast with my family and usually I’m home in time for dinner.

MINI: What has been the hardest part for

you, juggling a busy career and making time for your family?

ML: The hardest part is that the schedule is

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EXTRA

ML: It [has] complimented every aspect

of [my life] and makes me want to work that much harder and take on even more responsibility. I love being a dad. It’s my favorite role. I’ve always been a family guy so having one of my own is special.

MINI: Have you seen changes in your

home, your style, your social life?

ML: There’s a lot of pink at the house be-

cause I have a daughter. There’s ballet recitals now and gymnastics recitals and there’s a lot more stuff that I’m into that I didn’t think would be in my life.

unpredictable and fluid so making plans, sometimes you have to adjust.

MINI: Let’s talk about your work life. What

MINI: How has your life shifted to accom-

ML: I like all the jobs that I’ve been work-

modate parenthood?

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

do you love most about your many hats? ing on. I have a good time with all of them. I like that it’s different all the

on my mind

THE ULTIMATE DADDY GETAWAY WOULD BE . . .

Anywhere I could sleep for long periods of time.

MY PROUDEST PARENTING MOMENT WAS . . .

Seeing my daughter perform her first dance recital.

MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER IS . . .

A large black iced coffee, a little bit of skim milk and one Splenda. I get it everyday.

MY ONE PIECE OF ADVICE FOR MY DAUGHTER WOULD BE . . .

Start your sentences with a please and end with a thank you. Manners go a long way.

time— I like hosting, I like people.

Whether it’s game night or barbeques at my house or national TV shows, radio shows, it’s always fun. It’s totally different, that’s why.

that. I think I’m strict but not overbearing.

MINI: You’re a dad to Gia and one on the

ML: Finding out what it is, we’re waiting

way! What surprised you most about becoming a dad?

ML: The sort of love you have now for this

person. Just all these wonderful feelings and how you start looking at life different again.

MINI: What quirks or traits do you think

Gia inherited from yourself or your wife?

ML: She got a very funny personality. She’s

a little character. She loves to entertain.

She’s a performer— that could be from either one of us. She’s the best!

MINI: For you, what is the greatest aspect

of parenthood? What do you love most about being a dad?

ML: I love everything, everything about

it! The best feeling is when I come home and she hears the door open and my dog and my daughter run to the door and give me a hug and say ”Daddy!” No matter what kind of day I’m having, that makes me feel better.

MINI: Describe your parenting style for us.

ML: I try to come from place of love. I

don’t think you can go wrong if you do

MINI: What are you most looking forward

to with having a new little one? to find out what we’re having.

MINI: How do you think you’ll transition

into having two children in your house?

ML: I’m going to love it! It’s going to be

more chaotic. I don’t mind ‘cause I like all the chaos. I look forward to expanding the family.

MINI: Give us a sneak peek into your life.

How do you begin each morning and end each day? Do you have a routine?

ML: I get up, get ready, have breakfast with

my daughter and my wife. After that I go to work and it’s one hundred miles and running. I work on a radio show, then I do Extra and The X Factor— in between sometimes I’ll box and go squeeze in a workout. Usually I’m home for dinner and then I study for what I’ve got to do the next day, put my daughter down. A little time for my wife and then, I do it all over again.

MINI: Looking back to your very first days

as a parent, what would you tell yourself?

ML: You did a pretty good job kid!

■

MINI

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

L E G E N DA RY FITNESS As the daughter of boxing great Muhammad Ali, Laila Ali knows the importance of staying fit and eating healthy— it’s a legend and tradition she’s passed down to her own two children.

INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAILA ALI

MINI

in motion

MINI: As the daughter of a boxing great and a

boxer yourself, talk to us about the current fitness in your life. Do you follow a specific regimen daily or have activities that you do regularly?

LAILA ALI: Fitness is important to me and will

always be apart of my daily routine. I get bored with doing the same workout so I like to mix it up often.

MINI: Now let’s talk diet. As a mom and fit-

ness expert, what does healthy eating mean to you?

LA: To me, healthy eating is clean eating. Eat-

ing foods that have been unprocessed or genetically modified. Lean meats and fish, fresh organic fruits and veggies, whole grains, beans and legumes.

MINI: Are there certain foods you are sur-

prised your children love?

LA: My daughter will try more foods than my

son. I was very surprised when she didn’t fight me on eating broccoli and asparagus like my son does. They are still young, so instead of directly teaching them about food, I lead by example and provide them with healthy options.

MINI: Are you into healthy cooking as well?

What is one of your favorite dishes to make?

LA:

Of course! I like to make easy meals that

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

my whole family will love. A favorite at my house is my oven fried chicken. It looks and tastes fried but is cooked in the oven. Crispy and full of flavor without the fat!

MINI: With your busy schedule, what do you

always make time for? Do you have a routine that you try to stick to with your kids?

LA: I always make time for my children,

working out and cooking fresh meals. Oh, and a mani-pedi every two weeks!

MINI: How would you describe your parenting

style?

LA: I am a very affectionate and loving par-

ent. What is most important to me is that my children are happy, healthy and treat others kindly. That’s the foundation that will make everything else fall in place.

MINI: What quirks or traits do you think your

kids have inherited from yourself?

LA: My son is very competitive and a bit of a

perfectionist. My daughter is strong minded and full of fire! They are both athletic so I can see them playing sports for sure.

MINI: Looking back on your first days as a

mom, what is one piece of advice you would give yourself?

LA: Get all the sleep you can and travel more

before you have children. ■

on my mind

IN THE FRIDGE, I ALWAYS HAVE . . .

Milk and fruit.

MY GUILTY PLEASURE IS . . .

Glazed doughnuts.

MY MOM UNIFORM IS . . .

Skinny Jeans and Tory Burch flip flops. I am a jeans and flip flops type of woman!

DINNER LAST NIGHT WAS . . .

Oven roasted snapper, sautéed green beans and brown rice.

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD . . .

Become so dependent on my coffee!

MY KIDS ARE ALWAYS WEARING . . .

Target, GAP Kids, H&M. If it’s cute and reasonably priced, I will buy it!

MINI MORE FROM

MINI Click here to buy Ali Lar ter ’s Kitchen Revelr y!

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

MORE FROM MINI Find more revelry on Ali’s website; kitchenrevelry.com

KITCHEN R EV E L RY Having just authored a new book all about throwing fun, festive parties, without sweating the small stuff, Ali Larter sat down to have a revelrous time and talk her new cookbook, Kitchen Revelry, in this Mini exclusive.

INTERVIEW BY LAUREN KENDALL AND DANIKA MARCANO PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALI LARTER

MINI: Tell us how the idea for Kitchen Revelry

came to be.

ALI LARTER: Kitchen Revelry is inspired by a

disastrous dinner party! When I first started as a hostess, I put so much pressure on myself. I was just trying to be perfect and tried overly ambitious menus, I tried to talk to everyone, and it just didn’t create a relaxing environment. Over the years, I really developed my go-to recipes. Then after my son was born, I really found what inspires me.

MINI: You organize your cookbook by month

instead of by course. Tell us more about Kitchen Revelry’s unique features.

AL: [Organizing by season], you know you’ll

be able to get an ingredient at its least expensive and at its most flavorful. First, it’s a full menu and then I give you scenes for each party. Mother’s Day Brunch or dinner for two if you want a romantic night with your husband. I shot the book in my home with my friends, so you really get to see how I entertain.

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to read our full inter view with Ali!

THE IT

LIST

MINI: Many of our readers are busy parents on

the go. What simple recipe staples do you have in your repertoire that you think every parent should too?

AL: I make homemade granola, it’s really easy

and it’s really healthy. Cereals are so filled with sugar that I prefer using agave as a sweetener or maple syrup— something a little bit healthier, more natural. Also, I have a Roasted Tomato Linguini that takes only 15 minutes to make, start to finish. Right now I’m really into making popsicles. I just use milk, then I throw in an avocado, a banana, some cocoa powder, a little sweetener, and they make great popsicles!

MINI: What is your son, Teddy, into eating

now?

AL: Teddy is super excited for the popsicles

because he likes to be able to push the blender.

He also loves to whisk so we make pancakes in the morning. He’ll eat cinnamon, any kind of turkey burger, meatballs, peas, and we make little broccoli trees.

MINI: What recipe is found inside your new

book that you think is a must-try?

AL: The meatballs are so good! You can do

spaghetti with them, but for me, just a plate of meatballs is amazing! I also have German Chocolate Mini Cupcakes that are so good and they’re really fun for kids to take to school.

MINI: What quirks, loves or traits has Teddy

inherited from you or your husband?

AL: He’s definitely fiery, like me! I’m instinc-

tual and jump before I think it through, and I think he has that, which terrifies me. He’s just really fearless right now, he’ll jump in the pool and think he can swim. He’s all boy!

MINI: How do you find balance being a mom,

an actress, and now an author?

AL: I try to really enjoy my life as a parent, but

I’m also a wife and a friend. I think you need to remember to take time for yourself and I do try to do that, without the guilt, which is hard to do.

MINI: You wear many hats— and now you’ve

checked author off of your list! If there were more hours in the day, what would you do?

AL: A dream of mine is to learn how to speak

French! Whether that will ever happen in this lifetime, I do not know, I’ve started before and it hasn’t worked out well.

MINI: Looking back to your first days as a mom,

what advice would you give yourself?

AL: I think all new moms are on an episode

of 24. I think the biggest thing as a mom is remembering that you’re not going to fit it all in, that this time is precious, and to just take the pressure off yourself. I hope that when we have more children that I will be able to do that. ■

MINI

THE IT LIST

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK As the feisty and domineering Assistant Warden Fig on the popular Netflix original series Orange is the New Black, Alysia Reiner assures Mini that when it comes to her role as a mom, the tables are turned— especially at bedtime.

INTERVIEW BY DANIKA MARCANO

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M I N I f a l l ‘13

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALYSIA REINER

MORE FROM MINI Alysia is mom to almost 5-year-old Livia; alysiareiner.com

MINI: You play a very powerful character on

the show, Fig, the assistant warden— she is definitely one tough cookie! How do you think Fig’s tough persona would take to balancing your busy career as actress and mom?

ALYSIA REINER: She would have a tight sched-

ule. Probably use one of those organizing apps on her iPhone that I am always so curious about, but don’t have time to use.

But let’s be honest, she would make a pretty scary mother.

MINI: Fig is great at getting things done— all

by her own rules. What types of tactics do you have to use to get Livia to bed or listen to Mommy?

AR: One of my best tactics is say yes when-

ever you can. Yes we can read 12 books, 2 tonight, the rest in the morning. Yes we can wear pajamas all day— will it really hurt anyone? I think her favorite book would have to be a kids book I wrote called I LOVE YOU WHEN... She also wants a Livia story every night that we make up together.

MINI: How do you maintain a balanced life-

style with your daughter while both parents are filming? Are there benefits?

AR: We have been so lucky and so far we

shoot our shows on different schedules (David is on a show called The Exes on TV Land). This fall we will both be shooting, so he will fly home for weekends. You make it work. Also, being actors, we do really good voices for stories.

MINI: Working moms always learn to juggle.

How has your career shifted to accommodate motherhood?

AR: I think the best thing about being an

actress is a level of surrender you hopefully learn early on that serves you well in motherhood. [I mean] I am so powerless over so much, I [have to] skip sweating the small stuff, have a little faith, and enjoy the ride.

As an actress, sometimes you work a lot, sometimes you work less in a year. You have to trust the big picture and as a mama you learn to love the times you are not working and to spend it with your family.

MINI: What surprised you most about becom-

ing a parent?

AR: The love triangle. All of a sudden my

husband was madly in love with another girl and she was living in my house! I did a show called Listen To Your Mother and actually performed my own words for the first time in my life over this issue.

MORE FROM

MINI Click here to read our full inter view with Alysia!

THE IT

LIST

MINI: How would you describe your parent-

ing style? Do you and your husband play good cop, bad cop— or rather, good warden, bad warden?

AR: I am definitely a softie— especially com-

pared to Fig! David is an amazing father; I couldn’t ask for anything better. I hate titles about parenthood— like Tiger Mom, Attachement Parent— we are all just doing the best we can, trying to learn from the mistakes our parents made, making our own.

MINI: Would you say your daughter is more

like mom or dad?

AR: I think she definitely has David’s sense of

humor and I praise the lord for that because he can crack me up like no one else on the planet; she is a close second. I hope she picks up my curiosity about the world, and my quest for knowledge without judgment.

MINI: Tell us about your dream home’s unique

transformation.

AR: I love our home so much. When we were

building, we wrote a mission statement:

“To Build a long-lasting, sustainable, ecofriendly home that is an expression of our love: Love of environment, earth, nature, each other, family, friends, entertaining, neighborhood, art and creativity. Make a difference, have fun.”

MINI: What might we expect to find in your

daughter’s room? How are you helping to mold her personal style in terms of design and fashion?

AR: Girlfriend already has her own style! In

her room, you will find everything from a homemade Buddah snowglobe that we made together, to a beautiful flower crown made by a castmate, to a batman costume. I have no desire to mold her at all. I hope she has her own style and I get to learn from it. OK, maybe clean underwear— I would like that.

MINI: As a humanitarian and environmental-

ist, what values are most important for you to instill as a mom?

BH: Love and respect for all beings and the

planet. ■

MORE FROM MINI The family has a home on Fire Island where they enjoy spending time.

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