MINI FO R T H E M O D E R N PA R E N T
M U S T- R E A D BOOKS FOR TINY FEMINISTS
#MUSTMAKE
PUMPKIN DONUTS WITH HIDDEN VEGGIES
MOM OF T WO JENNY MOLLEN O N M A K I N G LU N C H E S , M O R N I N G C H AO S , A N D RAISING GOOD KIDS
WHY TO BUY ORGANIC FOR BABY THE STROLLER THAT MORPHS INTO LUGGAGE
S T AY COZY 20 MINI S W E AT E R S A N D BOOTS
P LU S ! THE BEST SIPPY CUPS FOR TO D D L E R S
RADAR
4
MINI
O N N OV E M B E R 4 , DAY L I G H T S AV I N G S T I M E E N D S, M E A N I N G O N E E X T R A H O U R O F S L E E P !
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
The temperatures have started to dip— it’s time to break out your cozy socks! “Hansel from Basel is one of my go-to brands for the cutest kids knee socks, or any sock for that matter! Who can resist a good knee sock in Mini form?” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —hanselfrombasel.com
THIS JUST IN
LITTLE FRENCH
“THE MOST UNIQUE KIDS BEDS!” - K AT E K I R BY
If you’re searching for that missing piece in designing a stand-out kids room, Little French is the golden ticket. Sourcing unique, beautifully-crafted children’s beds, this Australia-based brand promises high quality, where no two are exactly alike. The best news? These beds won’t need updating as your child grows and will remain an heirloom treasure for years to come. —littlefrench.com.au
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT
Milton & Goose comes this one-of-a-kind play kitchen fully decked with handles, knobs, a sink, and oven! Your Minis can cook to their heart’s content on the set’s four burners and center grill, that doubles as a cutting board, of course. Look out, Ina Garten! —miltonandgoose.com
M I N I f a l l ‘18
SPECIAL EVENTS TO AT T E N D T H I S SEASON
Cal
D AY O F T H E D E A D B O O AT T H E ZO O D I S N E Y H A L LO W E E N
MINI MUST-HAVE ▶
This Hello Simone sweater is perfect for chilly fall weather!
From October 26-28, Mexican Culture Without Borders hosts the largest Day of the Dead celebration in New York City!
Warby Parker just opened shop in Madison, WI complete with the brand’s newly launched kids collection available in-store.
Take the kids to Disneyland or Disney World through October 31 for spooky touches at every turn— including costumed Cars and meeting Disney’s Vampirina!
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
THE GRINCH ▶
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Every day in October is Boo at the Zoo at the LA Zoo! Enjoy Halloween fun, entertainment, and activities for the whole family!
It’s been 18 years since How the Grinch Stole Christmas with Jim Carrey made our hearts grow a few sizes, but the nation’s favorite holiday green guy will be back on November 9 in this animated remake!
NI NE I NTH E M I R R O R .CO M
mini-magazine.com
Head to Mini for more interviews F E AT U R E S
FOLLOW MINI WE’RE ON INSTAGRAM!
If you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow Mini! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new kids products and collections, our #minisays series and much more! Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine or visit www.instagram.com/ minimagazine.
with parents around the world, style, and more
LIVING
BABY+KIDS
THE MAGAZINE
BOARD BOOKS THAT WILL TEACH YOUR BABY CODE Just for your Mini genius. mini-magazine.com/babycode-kids-books FALL BABY NAMES INSPIRED BY NATURE Think trees and changing leaves. mini-magazine.com/fall-baby-names-nature HOW FIVE MOMS CHOSE THEIR KIDS’ NAMES From Daphne Oz to Caitlin Crosby, get the inside scoop. mini-magazine.com/how-tochoose-baby-names
16 KIDS BACKPACKS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW Pack your Mini things in style with these. mini-magazine.com/ kids-backpacks-back-toschool-shopping
minisclusives LOG ON TO
MINI Find all of this and more on our website!
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21 | THE STYLE SPOT The best of cozy sweaters, boots, and leopard prints
36 | SCOOP The latest collab-
14 | MEET THE TEAM The team that makes all the Mini magic possible
29 | MOM It’s the style spot for all of you chic Mini moms from bump to beyond
38 | TURTLE POWER J.Crew’s Crewcuts is introducing old school Nickelodeon pals this fall
18 | EDITOR’S LIST A carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season
32 | TECH KIDS The latest and greatest from the Mini tech sphere 34 | BOOK CLUB A selection of new reads to snuggle up with this fall
oration with Disney and your favorite shoes
40 | EARTH MAMA The
all-natural brand gives us the 411 on the importance of buying organic for baby
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in t r oc u d ing
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a paci fie r f o r t ime - s t r a p pe d par e n t s w it h t a s t e. ww w.doddleandco.com @doddleandcom pany #becausebabies
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64 | BEAUTY BOSS Beauty-
Bio founder Jamie O’Banion talks balance, business, and motherhood
74 | CITY KID Designer mama Rebecca Minkoff shows us around her Brooklyn neighborhood
42 | SIP AND SEE These sippy
54 | DONUT MIND IF I DO
cups will keep your Minis hydrated in style
Make Foodstirs’ pumpkin carrot donuts with the kids this season
47 | ON THE SCENE The newest baby gear models including a stroller that morphs into luggage
56 | GUIDING LIGHT Sakara co-founder Danielle DuBoise on eating clean and welcoming her first baby
82 | MOM MAGIC Art director and twin mom Elaina Bellis opens up her LA home and shares on learning to let go
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92 | MAMA SAID Cover mom
and author Jenny Mollen gives it to us straight on the up’s and down’s of mom life 100 | PLACE OF LOVE Wellness guru Sophie Jaffe explains how she does all things—from work to cooking—with passion
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THE PATHWAY PACK IN BIRCH/OLIVE
BAGS AND ACCESSORIES FOR MODERN MOTHERHOOD
PETUNIA.COM
MINI Founder and Editor in Chief K aitlyn K irby Cover Photo graphy Charlie Juliet Photography Hair Bradley I rion Makeup Natasha Leibel Editorial Team Contributing Photo grapher Jennifer Lavelle Contributing Photo grapher Chelsea R aleigh Contributing Photo grapher I v y R eynolds Contributing Photo grapher Julie Shuford Contributing Photo grapher Stephanie Sunderland
M ini O ffices M ini M agazine Email | hello@mini-magazine.com Web | w w w.mini-magazine.com M ini M agazine is a digital lifest yle publication for the moder n parent available online at w w w.mini-magazine.com. All r ights reser ved. No par t of this publication may be reproduced, distr ibuted, or transmitted in any for m or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other elec tronic methods, without the pr ior wr itten per mission of the publisher, except in the case of br ief quotations embodied in digital and pr int reviews. Copyr ight Š 2018 M ini M agazine.
Discover
The all-new, all-terrain Bugaboo Buffalo
Editor
INSIDE LOOK: (On Right) A peek at our fall cover shoot with Jenny Mollen. (From Top) My daughter Penelope’s red gingham dress is a favorite this season. Tis the season to layer! I’m loving these Tiny Tags necklaces, one with my daughter’s name and the other says “Mama!”
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Fall is without a doubt my favorite time of year! The changing colors, pumpkin everything, and of course, Mini’s fall issue! I love following funny mom Jenny Mollen on Instagram, so you can only imagine my excitement to have her as our cover mom! She laid it all out in our interview, talking how she chose her kids names, why she’s making those elaborate lunches for son Sid, and one particular challenge of motherhood (“I used to be hotter.”). We also get a sneak peek inside the lives of powerhouse mamas like Jamie O’Banion, Sophie Jaffe, Danielle
A LETTER FROM MINI’S FOUNDER K AT E K I R BY
DuBoise, Rebecca Minkoff, and Elaina Bellis. There’s also a delicious pumpkin carrot donut recipe from Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Foodstirs that you’ll want to make with the kids! Grab a cozy sweater (page 22), a fuzzy pair of boots (page 25), a mug of cider, and settle in! The holidays are coming up fast, friends, so now is the time to slow down a bit and enjoy every page of this fantastic fall issue!
E M A I L M I N I ’ S F O U N D E R A N D E D I T O R I N C H I E F AT K AT E @ M I N I - M A G A Z I N E . C O M
hatchcollection.com
EDITOR’S LIST
FALL FAVES
◀
MINI
MASKING MOM
This A+ mask comes with a tiny brush to make applying messfree! —sandandsky.com
◀ BABY BLISS
◀ BATH BUDS
Bath time is our favorite right now, so fun toys like this one are a must! —sunnylife.com
◀
The Baby Bjorn Mini carrier is perfect for newborns—easy to use and the softest! —babybjorn.com
◀ CAPSULE COOL
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I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t still living in my Storq pencil skirt. —storq.com
◀
Yearling by Doen is the loveliest kids collection, filled with fall hues and pieces like this Senna top. —shopdoen.com
THE MEDIFRIDA
Skip spit-ups with this paci that will give bebe a full medicine dosage. —fridababy.com
The VISTA’s intuitive design allows for multiple configurations, making transporting a second and third child a breeze – all while strolling like a single.
SAME RIDE. NEW TAILOR. Whether you always roll with neutrals or prefer a pop of color, there’s a VISTA to fit your style. Choose from a wide range of colors, including new innovative textile options with stylish 100% premium leather accents.
uppababy.com
T H E S P OT TO SHOP FOR THEIR M I N I WA R D R O B E
Style
CO Z Y S W E AT E R S F U Z Z Y F O OT W E A R L E O PA R D P R I N T S
◀ ALICE A PARIS
It’s true— we’re Francophiles. Our affinity for all things French knows no bounds. So when we came across online shop Alice a Paris, we couldn’t get over their beautiful interpretation of classics like rompers, cardigans, pajamas, and even kneehigh socks! The brand’s gauzy fabrics are perfect for use throughout the year, while remaining comfortable and cool for little ones on the go. What’s even better? The options for matching your family—baby totween—are endless! —aliceaparis.nyc
N E W G O -TO FOR AFFORDABLE FRENCH CLASSICS!
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C O Z Y C LU B
When the temperatures start to dip, it’s time to bust out the toasty warm knits.
ONE PIECE WONDER
A knit one-piece is ideal to protect baby from the chilly fall air. Above: $24.99; Fine Knit Overall; hm.com Below: $39.95; Organic Knit Henley One-Piece; burtsbeesbaby.com
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CARDIGAN CREW
RAINBOW BRIGHT
This brand’s knits have quite a following—and for good reason. $113; babaa.es
These colored stripes will keep your Minis warm. $48; bodenusa.com.
CARAMEL CREAM
DO THE POLKA
This fall-hued sweater will be a staple through winter. $34.99; hm.com
This polka dot sweater by Miles Baby is so snuggly soft. $59; nordstrom.com.
W W W. N I N E I N TH E M I RRO R. CO M 3 .1 P HILLIP LI M • AL E X AN D E R WAN G • M ARN I • M I SSO N I • VAL E N TI N O • AN D M AN Y MOR E
int roducing
ÂŽ
a pacifier for time-strapped parents with taste. www.doddleandco.com
@doddleandcom pany
#becausebabies
FUZZY FEET
Grab a pair of these perfectly plush kicks whether you’re headed out for a brisk fall walk or dashing off to school!
1
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1. LACE ‘EM UP
3. TOP DOG
5. SQUEAKY SHOES
$80; Yoot Pac Leather Boots, bloomingdales.com
$26.99; Faux Suede Sherpa Trim High Tops, oldnavy.com
$7.99; Fuzzy Mouse Sneakers, gymboree.com
2. MONSTER MASH
4. FAUX REAL
6. GLOW, GIRL
$38.95; Glow in the Dark Fuzzy Monster Slip-Ons, toms.com
$165; Monnalisa Leopard Faux Fur Rubber Boots, luisaviaroma.com
$54.95; Keelan Glitter Shearling Boot, nordstrom. com M I N I f a l l ‘18
MEOW!
Leopard prints are all the rage right now, so why not pick up a few Mini versions to add to your little one’s wardrobe?
FELINE FEET
There is no better way to accessorize. Top: $60; Leopard Moccasins; freshlypicked.com; Above: $45; Stuart Weitzman Leopard Mary Jane Flats; therealreal.com; Below: $55; Hunter Leopard Rain Boot; nordstrom.com
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QUEEN OF THE JUNGLE
SPIT SPOT
A great foundation piece to any Mini fall ensemble. $16; carters.com
Felted leopard spots trickle down this button-up. $95; nordstrom.com.
ON THE EDGE
HEAR ME ROAR
A soft sweatshirt with a wild flare from Scamp & Dude. $49; harrods.com.
This Mini Rodini velour dress is fun for play and holiday. $105; childrensalon.com.
The
Convertible Stroller
Bugaboo Donkey
Designed specifically to grow and flow with your family.
J U S T F O R YO U MAMA, FROM B U M P TO B E YO N D
Mom
LU M I E R E LO C K E T S B U M P FA S H I O N T H E I T FAC E M A S K
◀ LUMIERE LOCKETS
Rooted in the idea that every woman has a story to tell, the new Lumière Lockets by powerhouse mom duo Ariel Gordon and Taylor Sterling were born out of a shared love for vintage jewelry and a decade-long friendship. The 14k solid gold lockets are handmade in LA, come in hearts and circles in two sizes, and range in price from $995 to $1595 with the option for hand engraving on the back. Available October 18th. —arielgordonjewelry.com
M I N I f a l l ‘18
THIS JUST IN
BUMP ST YLE Zara is forever a trove of chic essentials at even better price points, so it was only a matter of time before they brought the same style philosophy to maternity. The new Mom x Zara maternity line covers every wardrobe base for a mom-to-be with stunning knits, cozy sweaters, standout outerwear, and dresses. You can find Mom tucked under the Corner Shops category, so get ready to click Add to Cart. —zara.com
G E T YO U R HANDS ON THE IT MASK OF THE SEASON!
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
Everything may be coming up pumpkin spice right now, but this is one fall must-have that isn’t so basic. The new Summer Fridays Overtime Mask—the sequel to the Jet Lag Mask in the Insta-famous beauty line from Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Gores Ireland—just launched and it’s on a mission to bring you brighter, clearer skin. —summerfridays.com
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sway on Sway left. Then right. Then left again. Relaxing—right? That same calming motion can now be a continuous one, thanks to the newest member of our Nuna family the LEAF wind. Creating a soft, steady breeze as it connects with just a click to your LEAF or LEAF curv*, with 6 speed settings sure to soothe your little one straight on into newborn dreamland. Here’s to swaying on...and on. *compatible with models SE-10-xxx & SE-30-xxx
learn all about it at nuna.eu
T H E L AT E S T F R O M THE MINI TECH SPHERE
Tech
MINI MUST HAVE
SMART BABY
Meet the only baby monitor on the market that captures both sleep and respiration data. Raybaby is more than just a video baby monitor— it connects to your smartphone or tablet and uses radar technology and artificial intelligence to track vitals, sleep, and monitor respiration with 98% accuracy. What’s more, raybaby’s non-invasive technology ensures no potentially harmful rays or signals are directed at the baby. —raybaby.us
RIGHT NOW IN TECH KIDS
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Wolf + Friends, the inclusive, modern lifestyle platform for families, just released a new community app specifically for moms raising children with special needs. Designed to connect moms with other locals who are also raising children with special needs such as autism, ADHD, sensory processing issues, developmental delays, mental health issues, down syndrome, and other learning differences, the app opens a much-needed judgement-free space to find support and friendship. —wolfandfriends.com
M I N I f a l l ‘18
THE BEST NEW SMART B A BY M O N I TO R WOLF + FRIENDS APP
B O OK C LU B
Fall calls for a heap of fluffy blankets, hot apple cider, and a stack of new books to cuddle up with when the weather turns cold!
FOR CULTURE
ALL ARE WELCOME
by Alexandra Penfold
FOR LEARNING EDITOR’S PICK
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOOD
Illustrations by Emma Randall make the pages of this Thanksgiving book fun to flip! FOR HISTORY
BABY FEMINISTS
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by Libby BabbottKlein
M I N I f a l l ‘18
FOR DREAMERS
DREAM BIG, LITTLE ONE
by Vashti Harrison Inspire big dreams as you teach your Minis about trailblazing women like Bessie Coleman, Mae Jemison, and Katherine Johnson.
MEET THE LATKES
by Alan Silberberg Meet Lucy Latke’s potato pancake family and learn the story of Hanukkah.
Follow a group of kids through their school day where all are welcomed, no matter their background.
From Diaper Rash to Relief, FAST. e
Touch-Fre
Spray
The brand moms and pediatricians trust to gently help treat irritated baby bottoms, fast. Find out why moms love Dr. Smith’s®
@DoctorSmiths
Visit DoctorSmiths.com for retail locations near you. Copyright ©2015 Mission Pharmacal Company. All Rights Reserved. DSO-P156003-2
THIS JUST IN IN THE MINI WORLD
Scoop
D I S N E Y X TO M S CREWCUTS X N I C K E LO D E O N MEET EARTH MAMA
THE DISNEY X TO M S CO L L E C T I O N I S AVA I LABLE NOW!
◀ DISNEY X TOMS
Inspired by original character sketches from classic Disney films, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Snow Whit have now made their way onto your favorite TOMS shoes. The collection features never-before-seen artwork created by the all-female Ink and Paint department of Disney in the mid1900s in both womens and kids sizes. —toms.com
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TURTLE POWER The latest collection from J.Crew’s Crewcuts brings your favorite pizza-loving Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to tees, sweats, and more!
J U S T F O R YO U R NINJA TURTLE LO V I N G L I T T L E ONES!
◀ CREWCUTS COLLAB
If you’ve got a Mini ninja turtle living under your roof, you’ll want to snap up everything in this new collection from J.Crew x Nickelodeon. Graphic tees emblazoned with Pizza Power and Cowabunga Dude make getting dressed fun and the super soft sweats decked in turtle print take lounging to the next level. —jcrew.com
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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
EARTH MAMA We went straight to the source—Earth Mama Organics—for the answers to our organic questions and to learn what’s best for baby delicate skin.
ORGANIC, N O N -TOX I C , MADE FOR YO U R B A BY !
We’re excited about your baby line! What sets Earth Mama Organics apart from other baby products on the market? EARTH MAMA ORGANICS
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Earth Mama was founded by Melinda Olson, a nurse, mother and herbalist. Well, first she was a nurse, then she
M I N I f a l l ‘18
was a mother, and then, she followed her curiosity about the healing power of medicinal herbs. As a nurse, she had seen what traditional medicine could do; but what about plant medicine? Because as humans, we have the opportunity to live long and healthy lives, as long as we avoid harming ourselves—and the earth—in the
process. Why not heal and support our bodies with what nature has readily available, that’s been in use for thousands of years? And furthermore, why not start with taking care of the most vulnerable members of our population: pregnant women, newborns and babies? This fierce, protective mother’s instinct is at the heart of Earth Mama Organics. Our line of baby care products is carefully and thoughtfully formulated with love, and grounded in ancient herbal knowledge and wisdom of the earth. Each product we produce is as safe and organic as possible. Which is why our line of baby products is trusted by doctors, midwives, neonatal intensive care units, lactation consultants and mamas worldwide. What should moms be on the lookout for when choosing products to use on their baby’s skin? EARTH MAMA ORGANICS
If there’s anything we wish to impart to mothers, it is this: learn how to read ingredient labels. It’s as important with skin care products as it is with food or household cleaning products. So, read the label, and make sure the ingredients are organic and approved by the following organizations if possible: USDA National Organic Program, NSF/ANSI 305 (the globally-recognized organic standard for personal care), and the Non-GMO Project Verified. At Earth Mama, we place great value on transparency, which is why
we go to great lengths to have our products verified by a third party. In our case, Oregon Tilth makes sure our products meet not only the above organization’s standards, but ours as well. Keep an eye out for marketing buzzwords, like “gentle”, “hypoallergenic”, “pure” and “natural.” These words are empty and mean little, unless they’re verifiable by a third party certifier. If it reads like a sneaky politician trying to get out of answering a question, it shouldn’t pass your sniff test. For instance, “made using organic farming methods” is unverifiable, and isn’t the same as USDA Certified Organic. Also, look for generic terms. It’s always best to avoid anything that lists plain old “fragrance” on the label. Around here, we call it the “F” word since fragrance is considered a trade secret, it can be listed as an ingredient without disclosing a dozen or more chemical components. It could be anything. Some things are more innocent sounding than others, so if you don’t know, be sure to look it up in the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database. You’re all about the calendula! Tell us about the benefits of using this in so many of your products? EARTH MAMA ORGANICS
If there’s such a thing as a signature herb ingredient, ours would be calendula. Calendula— AKA Pot Marigold, or Mary’s Gold—is this sunny little
same as the plain old marigold flower that is planted next to a picket fence. Maybe it has a similar color, but that’s it. Moms swear by your diaper balm! Can you tell us what makes this balm the best for baby? EARTH MAMA ORGANICS
orange flower that happens to be one of the most reliable, trustworthy and safe herbs used for soothing infusions, extracts and ointments. True story— because it literally looks like the sun, the original herbalists used to say calendula brought sunshine to wounds. But it’s got real chops! Studies have shown that calendula has antiseptic and wound-healing properties. It’s been traditionally used as an external styptic to slow bleeding, and to soothe eczema, psoriasis, burns, scrapes and sunburn. It’s such a versatile little herb — it’s in all of Earth Mama’s topical products: deodorants, balms, lotions and even the organic Castile soaps. Also, this is important: calendula is NOT the
We believe in the healing power of nature! Earth Mama’s Organic Diaper Balm is 100% organic and therefore non-toxic, with NO petroleum, parabens or artificial fragrance. It’s made with organic olive oil infused with a blend of organic herbs, shea butter and essential oils, thoughtfully formulated using evidence-based. And here’s the thing: it works. And not just for tiny babes suffering from angry diaper dermatitis: it’s also good for your family’s first aid kit. In fact, it’s safe for even the most fragile newborns: those in the neonatal intensive care units. We have a hospital partner program with healthcare practitioners to provide effective alternatives to conventional baby prod-
ucts, and our NICU nurse partners say that diaper dermatitis in drug dependent infants is now nearly non-existent since they began using Organic Diaper Balm and Sweet Orange Baby Wash in their NICUs. Mother Earth is pretty great, isn’t she? If an ingredient is available organic, you use it! Why is that so important in baby products? EARTH MAMA ORGANICS
We want to clarify something: some people think the word organic is a marketing term, instead of a verifiable claim. On that note, we spend a lot of time proving the veracity of our ingredient lists, because transparency is important to us. But, why organic? Because babies and newborns—and while we’re at it, pregnant mothers—are the most at-risk and vulnerable members of our population. They’re experiencing rapid and dynamic growth and development at the molecular, cellular, organ and systemic levels. When products are organic, those potentially harmful chemicals are not allowed to be used. We have a saying at Earth Mama: Much of what goes on, goes in— and that’s why we work very hard to make
sure our ingredients are as safe and effective as possible. Because we know that every single person who uses our products has a real baby, just like ours. It’s a sobering fact we never forget.
MINI M U S T- H AV E ALERT!
SWEET ORANGE BABY WASH Gentle liquid soap for mama and baby
SIP AND SEE
3
Keep your Minis hydrated with these sweet sippy cups, featuring click-lock tops, spill-proof lids, and easy-to-use straws. 6 4
1. M I R A C L E C U P Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup
($6; munchkin.com) This award-winner allows drinking from all sides!
5. M R . P E N G O O Joovy Pengoo Straw Cup
($14.99; joovy.com) Kids will love this whimsical cup with flip-out straw!
2. S P I L L - B E - G O N E
5
Re-Play No Spill Sippy Cup
($4.50; re-play. com) No mess thanks to the onepiece easy-clean silicone valve!
6. G R O W N U P Adjustable Stainless Steel Sippy Cup
($18.99; petittresor. com) Transitions with your child from sippy to cup!
3. T O O T H FA I R Y Smilo Sippy Cup 1
($11.99; smilobaby. com) Developed with a pediatric dentist for better lip posture! 4. L O L L A L A N D Lollacup Straw Sippy
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2
($16; lollaland. com) Flexible straw sans valve makes it simple for tiny sippers!
B A BY G E A R E V E R Y PA R E N T NEEDS NOW
on the
Scene
S I LV E R C R O S S J E T DIONO RAINIER 2 B A BY Z E N YOYO +
TRANSFORMS I N TO C A B I N - A P PROVED HAND LU G G AG E !
M I N I f a l l ‘18
THE JET
This ultra-lightweight, compact travel stroller from Silver Cross transforms into a cabin-approved piece of hand luggage. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SILVER CROSS RAY SAFE UPF 50+ sun hood
Equipped with a fully-extendable hood and pop-out sun visor.
PICK-ME-UP Lightweight feel
Weighs in at just 13 pounds and 2 feet long.
COMFY COZY Soft padded seat for newborns and toddlers
Lie-flat seat is suitable for newborns and toddlers up to 40 pounds.
THE BEST T R AV E L STROLLER OF 2018!
SMOOTH SAILING Spring suspension
Dynamic spring suspension system ensures a smooth ride for baby.
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the ultimate shopping
destination for kid’s fashion
Sent straight from Paris and delivered to your doorstep in 72 hours: Armani Junior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Kenzo, Little Marc Jacobs, Monnalisa, Oscar de la Renta, Petit Bateau, Rykiel Enfant, Scotch & Soda‌ and many more
RAINIER 2
Luxury meets lifestyle in the new Diono Rainier 2 car seat collection, delivering enhanced style and safety for your Minis as they grow. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DIONO
GROWS UP Use from birth
Use rear-facing up to 50 pounds and forward-facing up to 120 pounds.
LUXURIOUS Fine fabrics
SAFE BABY Strong build
Deep super side impact protection and aluminum reinforcement keeps baby safe.
USE THIS CAR S E AT F R O M B I R T H TO 1 2 YEARS OLD!
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Made from soft suiting fabrics in a tailored cut and a memory foam seat.
TRAVEL FRIENDLY Seat folds flat
FAA approved for use on any aircraft and folds flat for easy transport!
The
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Designed specifically for parents who live life on the fly.
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T H E YOYO +
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TRAVEL BUDDY Small footprint
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Use the BABYZEN iZi Go ModularTM by BeSafe® to click your car seat onto the stroller!
Use Yoyo from birth in parent-facing position and well after 6 months!
ONE HANDED Smooth operator
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Yoyo can be easily driven with one hand, parents!
With its travel strap, Yoyo can be carried as a bag when on the go!
M I N I f a l l ‘18
DONUT MIND IF I DO These Organic Pumpkin Chocolate Chippy Carrot Doughnuts from Foodstirs are a sweet way to welcome the fall season with your Mini chefs. recipe and photography FOODSTIRS
CLICK FOR MORE RECIPES FROM FOODSTIRS!
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FOR THE DOUGHNUTS Preheat the oven to 325*F. Generously coat a Doughnut Mold with non-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk Eggs, Milk, and Oil together until incorporated. Add in the Foodstirs Organic Pumpkin Chocolate Chippy Bread Mix and stir until batter is smooth. Grate the Imperfect Produce Carrots and gently squeeze to remove excess liquid. Add the 1/2 Cup of grated Carrots into the Pumpkin Chippy batter and stir until incorporated. Next, pour about 1/4 Cup of batter into the Doughnut Molds and bake for 30 minutes.
YOU NEED Foodstirs Organic Pumpkin Chocolate Chippy Bread Mix 2 Eggs 1/2 Cup Oil 2/3 Cup Milk 1/2 Cup Imperfect Produce Carrots (grated) For Chocolate Ganache: 1/2 Cup Fair Trade Chocolate Chips 1 Tbsp Coconut Oil
FOR THE GANACHE FOR ASSEMBLY While the Doughnuts are baking, begin preparing the Ganache! Pour the Fair Trade Chocolate Chips and Coconut Oil into a microwave-safe bowl. Begin microwaving at 15 second intervals and stir in-between until Chocolate is smooth.
Once the Doughnuts are finished baking and have cooled, begin dipping the tops in the Chocolate Ganache. Serve warm, Enjoy!
Guiding t h g Li
photography by
J E N N I F E R L AV E L L E
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Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Sakara Life, a 100% plant-based, organic, meal program delivered to your door, Danielle DuBoise has played a major role in the rebirth of clean eating. But that’s not all— the NYC-based wellness guru just welcomed her first child and opens up to Mini about her pregnancy diet and the light force that literally radiates from within her.
What are some of your favorite elements in your home?
MINI |
Our sofa is divine. It feels like you’re reclining on a million clouds— also from Shabby Chic. I also love my plants; they help keep the space alive and breathing.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
Tell us about your daughter’s room. What inspired you when creating the space?
MINI |
We had to get creative because we live in NYC, so we only picked the essentials. I kept with the white theme but pulled in some elephant energy for strength and grace, as well as pink roses for love and sweetness.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
You’ve just welcomed your first baby! Let’s talk pregnancy. How would you describe this pregnancy?
MINI |
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place! How would you describe your home?
MINI |
White and airy with earthy, desert-inspired details. All my furniture is from Shabby Chic, as I love the way her pieces look and feel. They’re the perfect mix of chic and comfort.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
It’s a journey of emotions! I felt incredibly sexy as a pregnant woman and that was unexpected. But overall—it’s just like parenthood—full of the highest highs and some of the hardest days too. It’s the biggest physical change my body has and ever will go through, so it’s wondrous but also emotional.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
What did your diet look like during your pregnancy?
Do you have a favorite room in your home? Why do you love it?
MINI |
Our living room is so serene. There’s not a TV, and no computers; just sunlight, books, and music. It’s where we connect with dear friends, find stillness for meditations and live our quietest moments.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
MINI |
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
I ate Sakara for most of my pregnancy. The first trimester was difficult, as I was quite nauseous. Eating a diet rich in organic plants helped me feel my best. I’d add different things when I felt ex-
tra hungry like more hemp seeds, avocado, wild salmon etc. It’s a time to really tune in and listen to what you want and need and say yes to everything you’re craving! Did your birth unfold the way you thought it would? What was your birth plan?
MINI |
I had originally planned for a home birth but risked out my third trimester. The first lesson in parenthood is your child has his or her own path. You cannot dictate it, you can only help to guide it.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
What has surprised you most about motherhood thus far?
MINI |
How well I know what she wants and needs just by virtue of being her mother. You don’t need the books and the methods because you will know best if you choose to tune in. Not every mother has that option or wants to, so books and methods can be super useful. For us, though, I found that listening to my own voice and getting on her rhythm was the most powerful thing I could do.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
What is most important to you in raising your daughter?
MINI |
I want her to be kind and to always find the light in any situation.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
Tell us how you decided on your daughter’s name.
MINI |
My husband has always called me his star. I love the way the word star sounds coming out of his mouth— the word is always filled with such love when he says it. We wanted
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
How do you plan to manage motherhood and career?
MINI |
I’m not sure I have one; you just do it. You do your best. That’s all I have to offer. Sometimes something has to give and I can’t do it all and I’ve decided that’s OK. My friend Dr. Aviva Romm told me that I should be as kind to myself as I am to her.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
For our readers who may not know, what is Sakara and how did the brand come to be?
MINI |
Sakara is a nutritionally designed meal program. We deliver meals, snacks, and supplements nationwide. Eating this way saved my life and for my co-founder Whitney, it cleared her acne that she’d been battling for 10+ years. We made it our mission to help others understand and feel the transformative power of food as medicine.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
to give her a temporary name while I was pregnant so we could feel more connected to her. We chose “Star” and it just stuck. She’s such a bright light, we knew it was a fit. What are you looking forward to most about raising your daughter in NYC?
MINI |
New Yorkers are incredibly wise, savvy and accepting of things that are “different,” by nature of being surrounded by so many ways of life. I want her exposed to all of that.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
What does the workday entail for you as the co-founder of Sakara?
MINI |
Lots of meetings these days as there are a ton of things to know, understand, think about and act on. A lot of big projects as well that we’re excited to announce soon! Since having Star,
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
mornings are my time to get work done and the rest of the day is spent meeting with my different teams.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
What is the most important thing our readers should know about clean eating? Are there misconceptions you come across often surrounding plant-based diets?
MINI |
MINI |
Sakara! This morning I had a Superseed Meusli with blue Majik mylk.
We have to ask! What is your beauty routine like? Clean and simple. I love Vintner’s Daughter, True Botanicals, and Biologique Recherche. Also, Sakara Probiotic is a must every morning as part of a beauty routine.
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
That there isn’t enough protein in plants. That healthy food means it won’t be tasty. In order to lose weight you have to count calories and eat a low-calorie diet. Bottom line: NONE of these are true.
MINI |
What is a typical breakfast, lunch, dinner for you right now?
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
DANIELLE DUBOISE |
If you could give your daughter one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
in everything.
Be kind and find the light
FA S T FA C T S IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Spend more time in bed with my family every morning. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Hello Sacred Life. FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Jajaja on East Broadway. LAST BOOK I READ Bringing Up Bebe. SHOWS I’M WATCHING One Strange Rock. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP CAP Beauty. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Snatam Kuar (Anand Bliss). ON MY NIGHTSTAND Dome white noise machine, Sakara Detox Water concentrates and Marianne Williamson, “A Return to Love”. BABY GEAR I’M USING Artipoppe carriers (we live in them), the Snoo, Joolz stroller and Primary onesies. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Sakara! Getting your daily greens—6-8 cups— is the #1 thing you can do to change your life, microbiome, and body.
As the co-founder and CEO of Beauty Bioscience—the uber-popular line of skincare products including at-home microneedling device, GloPRO—Jamie O’Banion spends her days making industry waves and selling millions. But that’s not the only important title on this Dallas-based boss lady’s resume! She’s also a mother of three to kids Benton, Aubrey, and Gracie. photography by
CHELSEA RALEIGH
BEAUT Y BOSS
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CLICK HERE TO S H O P THE ENTIRE B E AU T Y B I O LINE!
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place!
MINI |
Airy, light and minimal. With the chaos of each day, it was really important to me that our home was a place of zen with light color palettes and minimal décor while still feeling cozy. I turned to Caitlin Wilson to help execute the vision and she did a beautiful job.
JAMIE O’BANION |
Do you have a favorite room in your home?
wrap up email after getting the littles to bed, but nonetheless feeling completely comfy as I type away. Crisp white Matouk monogrammed linens on the bed, always fresh white blooms (usually hydrangea, roses, and peonies when in season), a candle lit and enjoying my favorite time to catch up while the house is silent. What are some of your favorite elements in your home?
MINI |
MINI |
Yes! My bedroom. I am curled up on a soft white velvet settee, still in my work clothes at 11:15 PM trying to
JAMIE O’BANION |
I love all of the natural light in our home. I opted to only add draperies to a few rooms in the front of the home to allow for a beautiful airiness to the space. I like to incorporate iconic modern pieces such as our original production Eames
JAMIE O’BANION |
chair in the office or a pair of Knoll Barcelona chairs in the family room with clean but comfy pieces we can live in. Tell us about your daughters’ rooms. What are some of your favorite elements in their room?
MINI |
I love their canopy beds. When I was a little girl, I used to dream of having one and I love closing the curtains when reading a magical story together. Those beds have turned into boats lost at sea and ridden down rainbows! We’ve also had such fun decorating each room in their dollhouse they got for Christmas last year. I think a few rooms have now have several layers of wallpaper from redecorating each month!
JAMIE O’BANION |
Let’s talk motherhood! What has surprised you most about motherhood?
MINI |
Great question. I don’t think you’re ever really prepared for how deeply you will love and how tired you will be. Motherhood personifies the most tender of emotions. You’ve never felt unconditional love until you stare at your child for the first time. I anticipated the caretaking piece of
JAMIE O’BANION |
motherhood but don’t think I appreciated how much I would genuinely enjoy watching and interacting with them. There is no one else I would prefer being with any night of the week than my little family. MINI |
What is your greatest parenting worry or fear?
My greatest parenting fear is that somewhere along the line one of my children will lose that fearless confidence they now have that anything is possible. When we stop believing in ourselves at any age, failure is certain. My kids could probably finish this sentence for me, but I tell them regularly that they
JAMIE O’BANION |
Watching your children love each other, those around them, and doing the right thing— especially when you aren’t watching. Our entire purpose as parents is to launch capable, contributing, kind humans into adulthood. There’s nothing I find deeper joy in than watching your child’s joy when they accomplish something they set out to do, standing up for the underdog and then of course the ultimate joy when they love and protect each other. No words to describe that feeling. And selfishly, there is nothing better than being loved completely by your little ones in a way that no one else can ever love you. Early morning snuggles, watching them sleep, the screams, and smiles when you walk in the door after a long day. Nothing beats that.
JAMIE O’BANION |
can do anything they want in life if they work hard and stay close to God. What is most important to you in raising your girls?
MINI |
There’s a saying that states ‘if you want to change the world, educate a girl’. It’s most important to me that my girls feel empowered and expected to go out and do great things in the world. Whether that’s staying home as a full-time mom, having a passionate career, racing horses, becoming an author— the ‘what’ is far less important to me than the ‘how.’ I hope they each do something they are deeply passionate about and do it to the absolute best of their ability. Knowing and believing that they can achieve anything they set their mind to do is the greatest gift I could hope to give them. JAMIE O’BANION |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
What have you found to be hardest aspect of motherhood thus far?
MINI |
Self-inflicted mommy guilt. Whenever I’m having one of those moments, I step back and think ‘wait a second, I would be over the moon if any of my children ends up getting to have a career they are deeply passionate about.’ I hope they each do something they are so excited about that working hard doesn’t feel like
JAMIE O’BANION |
IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN T H E D AY. . . I WOULD CUDDLE THE KIDS!
work. I’m reminded of this when I am on a flight and I will find a sweet note from one of the girls in my work bag with something along the lines of ‘I love you and thank you for working so hard for us! You can do it!’ All children of working mamas are so proud of what you are doing and know that you are working hard for them. What helps you to juggle motherhood and career?
MINI |
An amazing assistant, strict calendar, and discipline carving out time with the family. I’ve learned to say no more than I say yes and lean on my team more. I literally schedule time in my calendar for
JAMIE O’BANION |
the family and stick to it as if it’s a client meeting. Discipline is key and making some sacrifices that might seem crazy to others but make sense for you. If I can make it a day trip, I always do. I try not to be gone more than two nights in a row and ideally one if at all possible. Family time is precious and putting phones and electronics away to have it is critical. I make sure important school dates are on the calendar from the Valentine’s Day party to Meet the Teacher night immediately when they are published and protect those times when it’s important for your child to be there with them. It’s not a perfect science but it’s possible to make it happen. MINI |
What does a typical work day look
like for you? It’s go go go! As soon as my eyes open I do a quick scan of my email and get a few last minute snuggles in with the kids. We make breakfast together every morning, usually some form of healthy breakfast tacos, pancakes, or a smoothie. Then it’s school dropoff and at my desk by 8:30 am! My workday consists of back to back meetings, conference calls, photoshoots, really anything that needs to get done to make it happen! I always try to pick up the kids from school two to three times a week and drop them off at activities. Sometimes I pop back by the office to cover a few more items with the team. Then it’s homework, dinner and bed time! Once the littles are asleep and the house is quiet, that’s when emails get answered! I am very productive after 10 pm!
JAMIE O’BANION |
Talk to us about BeautyBio. How did the brand come to be?
MINI |
Beauty is in my blood! My father became an owner in one of the top skincare
JAMIE O’BANION |
R&D labs in the US when I was a young girl, and I grew up going to the lab, testing products, and asking a million questions! I started traveling to Asia and Europe at a young age as new raw materials were being developed. I have always been fascinated by the cause and effect reaction great technology can have on our skin. It’s still magical to me watching someone’s skin visibly transform after using GloPRO and our BeautyBio topicals. BeautyBio is all about providing truth in beauty. Part of why I wanted to start BeautyBio is to help share my inside knowledge to take the beauty blinders off for consumers. For years, I
FA S T FA C T S BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Have to take a last-minute conference call hiding out in my car. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP Hadleighs. My dear friend Gable is the most talented designer and I live for her timeless pieces. FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Probably Le Bilboquet. Food is consistent, it’s close and I end up hosting most of my dinners or luncheons there. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK The Kissing Hand (great for working mamas) ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Kize almond bars! Great on the go if no time for breakfast. Lots of good fat which enables brain function. FAVORITE KID-FRIENDLY DALLAS LOCALES Arboretum, Dallas Zoo, and Klyde Warren! TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER I’m a tea girl. Love a good floral tea or jasmine. ON MY NIGHTSTAND Notepad, pen, bottle of water (always drink a glass of water before bed and first thing in AM), bible, book, family pictures, a note from Gracie.
would see my father’s lab develop an incredible new raw material and then sell it to one of the big four to only have them use fairy dust amounts in the finished formula just to make an ingredient claim. Every product in the BeautyBio line is clinically tested to ensure clinical trial participants see visible improvement in their skin. This sounds basic but unfortunately it is rarely done in our industry. Coming from R&D roots, a formula has to prove itself to me first via the in vitro data before it ever even makes it to a clinical trial and then into the hands of our BeautyBio Babes. Do you ever experience self doubt with running such a successful brand? How do you get past it?
MINI |
I believe discouragement is the number one cause of failure. We doubt ourselves, we get discouraged, and pretty soon that fleeting thought of fear grows until it becomes self-fulfilling prophecy. I have moments, like the first time I walked on set at QVC and thought, ‘What if NO ONE buys a single product when we go live?’ But I always think immediately after that, ‘So what? If no one does, what’s the worst thing that can happen?’ And you know what, the worst thing is never actually the worst thing. Rejiggering a sales plan, or moving a launch date or a partnership, is it unfortunate? Sure, but it’s not a crisis. It will all work out. You just have to pivot, plan and proceed.
JAMIE O’BANION |
If you could give your girls one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
I had a sign I made taped to the back of my bedroom door growing up my sister just reminded me of for our Sephora launch. It read “Reach for the moon, if you fall short, you just might land on a star.” In a nutshell, that’s what I would remind them to do. Dream big, work hard, and make it happen.
JAMIE O’BANION |
C A N ’ T S TO P LISTENING TO. . . TAY LO R S W I F T !
CITY KID photography by
STEPHANIE SUNDERLAND
M E E T N I CO, M I N KO F F ’ S ADORABLE 8-MONTH-OLD SON!
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Designer and mom of three Rebecca Minkoff shows us around her neighborhood and talks how she’s shifted her priorities (and schedule!) since becoming a mom, her favorite place to take the kids in NYC, and her recent launch of a new network of women-led businesses.
As a busy working mama, tell us what a typical work day looks like for you.
MINI |
There is no typical day for me! An average day starts at around 7:15 AM when I wake up and get my kids ready. During the week, it’s always hard work to get them up, but for some reason, they wake up on the weekends at 7 AM (always when I want to sleep in) like clockwork; I wish the weekdays could be that easy. My husband and I make them breakfast, drink our coffee (much needed), and pack their lunches. We generally divide and conquer, while I’m getting them dressed, he is doing the cooking and prepping. I also have to pump during this time and keep our newly crawling 8-monthold out of harm’s way. We each take one kid to school and then off to the office I go. I get into the office around 9:15 AM - 9:30 AM, so the in between I like to fill with catching up on emails and inspiration hunting. Once I get into the office, I hit the ground running. I have been invested with the launch of my podcast, Superwomen with Rebecca Minkoff (it’s a must download!), speaking engagements, and panels at AdWeek or Create Cultivate, so preparation, research, recording and editing take up a large chunk of time. Add design meetings and touchbases and that’s a wrap! I get home around 6:45 PM, and put my phone away. I love the end of the day time with my kids, making dinner, and just being together before they head off to bed. I aim for an 8:15 PM bedtime, and with so much traveling lately, I’ve been lights out at 9:30 PM.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
How have you seen your brand evolve and where would you like to see it go in the future?
MINI |
REBECCA MINKOFF |
It’s been an amazing evolution
from a single category into a global lifestyle brand. As a female entrepreneur, I have an innate desire to help support and empower other women to be successful and confident in their aspirations. In the future, I would like the brand to not only offer amazing products, but make an impact on women and equality. Most recently, we announced The Female Founder Collective (or FFC), which is a network of businesses led by women, supporting women. Our mission is to enable and empower female owned and led businesses to positively impact our communities, both socially and economically. I look forward to sharing more on the launch in 2019! MINI |
What has been your proudest career
moment to date? There isn’t one moment. It’s a series of peaks and valleys with each peak growing in size. It’s those times when you get your first major award, or open your first store, or see your bag being worn around. All these moments feel just as big each time they happen.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
What would you say is the greatest challenge of being a working mom?
MINI |
Being present— getting home, trying to take work-related needs off my mind, being more present with my kids. It’s constantly something I am working on.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
How do you manage to keep all of the plates spinning?
MINI |
I feel that women often view balance negatively. For me, it is more about knowing what you’re comfortable with, staying aware of your boundaries, and trusting your intuition. The goal is to find the ebbs and flows about how your life goes and make your own journey. For me, I always want to walk my kids to school every morning, or if I need to travel for work, I will limit it to five days, otherwise they are coming with me! It allows me to feel that “even” sense between work and spending quality time with my kids. It’s the give and takes that are unique to each mother that she must explore for herself.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom of three?
MINI |
Prior to having children, I worked until midnight every night and I didn’t think anything of it. I worked weekends, traveled constantly, etc. The minute I had Luca (my first), it was so important to me that I shift those priorities and re-focus my energy on him and raising our family. It was about finding my new boundaries and empowering my team to work hard and support them through any hurdles. Having a team you can depend on and trust, is my sure fire advice for any woman (or mom) starting (or running) a business.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
MINI |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
Watching my kids grow up and develop their own personalities is both exciting and rewarding. Seeing how innocent they view the world always inspires me and keeps me grounded.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
What do you think is the one thing no one really warns you about?
MINI |
REBECCA MINKOFF | MINI |
fear?
How fast your kids grow up!
What is your greatest parenting worry or
MY PERSONAL STYLE... L AT E LY I T ’ S A B O U T C A S UA L CO O L .
Just relax a little bit and try to raise them as tiny adults. I want to set an example for them and inspire them to always follow their dreams.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
I think it goes without saying that a mother’s biggest fear would be losing her child. I think about it every day!
REBECCA MINKOFF |
Tell us how you decided on your kids’ names.
MINI |
We have always loved Italian names . When Luca was born, it was between Luca and Nico, but when he arrived I knew right away Luca fit his personality. When I was pregnant with my second, Bowie, Luca was obsessed with listening to David Bowie vinyls. For about three solid weeks, all we listened to was David Bowie; the name just felt right. For our third, we were leaning towards a family name but always had Nico in our back pocket. When he arrived, we felt really good about bringing it back. It’s short for Nicolai, which I love.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
MINI |
Favorite places to take the kids in NYC?
Brooklyn Bridge Park. It’s right in front of our apartment building, so it’s perfect! There is always something to do. The park is enormous. Plenty of playgrounds, and bike paths, and it sits right on the water, so it’s great for a picnic.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
Looking back to your first days as a mom, what advice would you give yourself?
MINI |
Sleep when the baby is sleeping and be present in the time you spend with them— those moments go by so quickly and you don’t get them back!
REBECCA MINKOFF |
If you could give your kids one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
To learn to work hard and to be problem solving extraordinaires.
REBECCA MINKOFF |
What is most important to you in raising your kids?
MINI |
FA S T FA C T S IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Bike, nap, and eat out for every meal. TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER I’m really into matcha lattes right now with oat milk (it’s everything!). CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Taylor Swift ‘Delicate.’ I can’t help myself! ON MY NIGHTSTAND A book I keep meaning to read. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The Greatest Showman. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Half and half milk and various bottles of breast milk. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Be this tired! IDEAL DATE NIGHT Wine and a view, and maybe a bike ride (before the wine!). FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT The Dez. GUILTY PLEASURE Baguettes, croissants, and hot chocolate with extra whip— always! SIGNATURE SCENT After having my third (Nico), I couldn’t do fragrances anymore!
M Y M U S T- H AV E B A BY G E A R . . . YOYO S T R O L L E R , HONEST DIAPERS
Growing up, art director and mother of three Elaina Bellis didn’t dream of her wedding day, but of having children and the opportunity to create magical spaces for them. Now the LA lady invites Mini inside her beautiful, new light-filled home, and chats mother’s intuition, the most drastic changes, and learning to let go.
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MOM MAGIC photography by
IVY REYNOLDS
My bedroom! All of the walls in our bedroom are windows from floor to ceiling, and we look out on our beautiful yard. It’s truly magical to wake up to! ELAINA BELLIS |
What are some of your favorite elements in your home?
MINI |
I love all the details in our kitchen. The tiling and all the wood cabinets are so beautifully done. There’s a lot of character in there. ELAINA BELLIS |
Tell us about your daughters’ room. What inspired you when creating the space?
MINI |
I feel like every little girl dreams of their wedding day, but I didn’t. I dreamt more of having children and making their space as magical as possible. I was inspired by their imaginations. They love critters, and the outdoors. My girls aren’t pink fanatics, although they do love themselves some pink from time to time. They love books, and their “guys” aka all their stuffed animals. ELAINA BELLIS |
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place!
MINI |
I love our house! We just moved in three months ago, and are still unpacking and setting up (our guest room is still filled with boxes). Our house is the perfect family home. Big enough for us, but not terribly big that it feels unmanageable! I’ve loved decorating our home. James, my husband, is a big fan of color, where I’m more of a neutral queen. Our home is a happy combo of the two! ELAINA BELLIS |
Do you have a favorite room in your home? Why do you love it?
What are some of your favorite elements in their room?
MINI |
Their bookshelf and their closet. Their room is small and having both of those storage areas really helps in their room and gives it way more character. ELAINA BELLIS |
MINI |
Let’s talk motherhood! What has surprised you most about motherhood
MINI |
thus far? That I can handle twins on my own! James travels a lot for work, and I can manage them both! I’m most surprised that I have all this energy! ELAINA BELLIS |
What were your first thoughts when you learned you were pregnant with twins?
MINI |
I knew I was pregnant with twins before they told me I was. My pregnancy with the girls was so different from Lincoln’s pregnancy. I was so sick, and was showing by week eight! Also, I swore I could feel movement. I kept saying, “What if there are two!” I remember saying to James, “For sure this is a girl, and I’m pretty ELAINA BELLIS |
sure there are two in there.” Sure enough, at our 14 week appointment (our first appointment since finding out we were pregnant again), the doctor looked at me in disbelief and said, “Guys! Is this your first appointment?” and we just shook our heads yes. Then she said “Guys, guys, guys! There’s TWO!” I started uncontrollably laughing, while James was in complete disbelief. What is your greatest parenting worry or fear?
MINI |
I worry about how they’ll view themselves growing up in LA. Will they love their bodies just the way they are? Will they be confident with their talents? Will they be kind humans? Am I giving ELAINA BELLIS |
FAV O R I T E L A P L AC E S W I T H KIDS... WILL RODGERS S TAT E PA R K
them all the tools they need to stand up for themselves, and be proud of who they are as women? So many! What is most important to you in raising your girls?
MINI |
That they love and accept themselves with all of their flaws, and can speak their minds exactly the way they intend to. ELAINA BELLIS |
What is your greatest joy of motherhood?
MINI |
Watching the bond between twins, especially because they’re identical— it’s pretty wild! They are the best of friends. ELAINA BELLIS |
What have you found to be hardest aspect of motherhood thus far?
MINI |
Letting go. After losing our son, I learned I should have no expectation as to what motherhood has in store for me. Lincoln is, and will always be, my greatest teacher. ELAINA BELLIS |
Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
My social life. Having twins and being confined to my home for the first two years I found to be incredibly isolating. I am a social person, and being stuck at home felt really hard. I love my babies obviously, but because of the nature of twins and really needing to stick to a routine with them, I was often alone. I didn’t have hired help for the first two years. Just recently we have a babysitter twice a week for three hours a day! Having that time to hike or do yoga has made me a better, more centered mom! ELAINA BELLIS |
Tell us how you decided on your daughters’ names.
MINI |
I have no idea how Rowe’s name came about. I must have seen someone’s last name (Rowe is typically a last name) and remembered it [because] since the day we found out we were having twins, I knew I was naming one Rowe. James got to pick the second name and picked Quincy, after a great aunt of his and ironically, the name of my hometown, Quincy, Il. ELAINA BELLIS |
What are you looking forward to most about raising your girls in LA?
MINI |
That they have an abundance of activities they can do! There’s so much ELAINA BELLIS |
nature in and around LA to explore. What helps you to juggle motherhood and career?
MINI |
When I’m doing one thing, either working or [being] home with the girls, I am 100% present. ELAINA BELLIS |
If you could give your girls one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
To keep trusting. Life can really be challenging at times, and throw some major wrenches your way, but I know from experience that through those hard times come the most beautiful lessons and open doors within yourself that you never knew before. ELAINA BELLIS |
FA S T FA C T S ON MY NIGHTSTAND If I had one, The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. If you can take one thing away from reading this, READ THIS BOOK. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Hike, and take a dairy free, no refined sugar cooking class. TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Iced coffee with oat milk. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Super Soul Sunday podcast. OPRAH! She’s my Queen. FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Mh Zh for dinner, and Honey Hi for lunch. FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP Midland Shop. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Kite Hill anything. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK In My Heart. IDEAL DATE NIGHT Hike, followed by dinner, and then foot massage! FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Not a movie, but I love Tumble Leaf on Amazon.
FAV O R I T E L A P L AC E S W I T H KIDS.. L AC M A , P I T FIRE PIZZA
a m a M Said Cover mom Jenny Mollen gives it to us straight—from her chaotic morning routine, to son Sid’s elaborate lunches, and everything moms put up with in the name of love.
photography by
CHARLIE JULIET PHOTOGRAPHY
hair by
BRADLEY IRION USING RPZL
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makeup by
N ATA S H A L E I B E L
We’re thrilled to have you on our fall cover! Let’s dive right into your life as a mom. What does your morning routine look like?
a second child, who knows what he’s up to.
My normal morning routine consists of my son screaming at me to wake up and carry him on my back like a mother koala bear to the kitchen. Once there, I am told that I “always make oatmeal” and that he wants something else. We compromise on one frozen waffle with a side of oats and fruit and move on to the drama of clothing. After going through five to six pant options, Sid commits to the same outfit he wears every day and is forced out of the house often without brushing his teeth. I also have
Be prepared to give your second child a quarter of the attention you give your first child. Know that this is healthy and that your second kid is likely going to be better adjusted because of it.
MINI |
JENNY MOLLEN |
What advice would you give to moms about to go from one to two kids?
MINI |
JENNY MOLLEN |
MINI |
How has motherhood changed you?
JENNY MOLLEN |
I used to be hotter.
What do you think is the greatest challenge of motherhood?
MINI |
ignored my requests for respect, I’d be out the door in a second. But for some reason, I’m still “dating” this guy because LOVE. What is most important to you in raising your sons?
MINI |
I want to raise men who do not see people in terms of their sex. I want sons who respect women but also value their voices and contributions as much as they do those of men. I’m also raising kids in Manhattan so I am very conscious of not letting them turn into little privileged, white, coke heads.
JENNY MOLLEN |
Tell us how you decided on your sons’ names.
MINI |
Sid came out looking like an old Jew who went to the races everyday to play the ponies so we had deviate from our original list of names and find him one more fitting. Lazlo, we wanted to name Sid 2 because we couldn’t think of anything cuter. But then a kid came into Sid’s school one day with Laszlo written on his backpack. The bag belonged to his big brother and we just sort of couldn’t get the name out of our heads. We dropped the “s” which is the Hungarian spelling because we didn’t want him to have to deal with people misspelling his name all the time.
JENNY MOLLEN |
JENNY MOLLEN |
Accepting not being hotter.
What has surprised you most about motherhood thus far?
MINI |
I am always surprised by how much I am willing to take in the name of love. I would run into a burning building for my children, obviously. But I mean this more in terms of day to day. As a mom, you get the best and the worst of your children. If I were dating a guy who smacked me in the face, peed on me, ransacked my house, tortured my dog, verbally assaulted me and blatantly JENNY MOLLEN |
OK, we have to ask! We’ve all seen your Instagram and the lunches! What sparked you to get so creative with your son’s lunch?
MINI |
We had a live-in nanny for the first three years of Sid’s life so I really didn’t spend much time doing his lunches. Then one day, I think when I was pregnant and nesting, I just found myself compelled to make the extra effort. I was probably feeling guilty. Now I think I do it because I’m making up for my own childhood deficit where I never had anyone doing that kind of thing for me. JENNY MOLLEN |
MINI |
What is Sid’s feedback on the super
fun lunches? Sid likes to come home and then like a Roman Emperor give either a thumbs up or thumbs down based on what he thought of the lunch. He rarely eats everything but often he comes close. JENNY MOLLEN |
Do you have a food philosophy when it comes to feeding your kids?
MINI |
Fuck with them. Don’t make it so easy. Too many parents underestimate their children’s palates when there is really no reason. Don’t dumb it down for them and they will typically rise to the challenge. JENNY MOLLEN |
FA S T FA C T S BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT The Wheels on the Bus would be in such heavy rotation on my workout mix. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK What is short and will make my son fall asleep the fastest? TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER Machiatto wIth almond milk and virgin tears. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Finally get a manicure. FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP FOR KIDS My sister’s garage. CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Bibi Blocksberg in Amerika. FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Charlie Bird. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE PETS and anything Brian Lynch writes because he is a true comedic genius. GUILTY PLEASURE Pretending to go to the bathroom but really being on my phone staring at pictures of avocado toast.
makes it easy. The guilt that comes with being a mom is there when you are with them and when you aren’t. I don’t think there is ever one perfect balance. MINI |
What are you looking forward to most about raising your boys in NYC?
If you could give your boys one piece of advice, what would it be?
I just think New York makes confident people. Like the song says, if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.
Failing at something is the first step in mastering it. I never want my sons to shy away from hardship or not getting something on the first try. I want them to know that they can do anything it is they want to do and that nothing makes victory sweeter than having to work for it. I want them to take “no” as a challenge EXCEPT WHEN I SAY IT!
JENNY MOLLEN |
What helps you to juggle motherhood and career?
MINI |
My husband and my nanny help me juggle but at the end of the day, nothing JENNY MOLLEN |
MINI |
JENNY MOLLEN |
Wellness expert and raw food chef Sophie Jaffe has dedicated herself to making it easier, more inspiring, and more delicious to achieve optimal health. Now as a mother of three, the Philosophie founder continues to show her children (Leo, Kai, and Noa) how to eat, move, and breathe from a place of love.
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PLACE OF LOVE photography by
JULIE SHUFORD
Thank you for inviting us into your home! Tell us about the place!
MINI |
I’m so honored to have you join me! I LOVE our home. It took a while to get it to the place it’s at now, but it’s truly what I’ve always envisioned my home to contain. The aesthetic and energy are cultivated from our family values, my personal style, and the place I want to raise children. I love the openness of the space especially the kitchen and living room. They flow effortlessly with each other, making it easy to move from yoga flow in the living room to cooking and creating in the kitchen. What I was originally most excited about with this house was the blank page it offered. I embraced the opportunity to change the space to reflect the new journey my family had taken together. We are in love with the home we have created. The clean, sleek modern approach with design pieces really embodies the kind of person I am. Everything is functional and kid-friendly, but it also truly inspires me to create and manifest. SOPHIE JAFFE |
kitchen. It acts as my office/workspace and truly holds such special moments with family and friends. It’s where we host gatherings, create, share conversation and play. What are some of your favorite elements in your home?
MINI |
Do you have a favorite room in your home?
MINI |
I honestly love every room in the house. I mean, Noa’s nursery? Come on! Too cute. I would sleep there every night if I could. My room with Adi has the best bed and we’re always snuggling in it as a family almost every morning. As I mentioned, I really love our living room and
I found a beautiful Frances Loom vintage rug for the living room that complemented the sleek, mid-century modern aesthetic. Adi found the most perfect dining room table at Rove Concepts and everything exploded from there. We found a gray/navy couch for the living room that matched our counter
SOPHIE JAFFE |
SOPHIE JAFFE |
stools offering an easy flow from the kitchen to the living room. We added a lot of greenery and hung up Adi’s guitars— it adds character to the space. What are some of your favorite elements in your kids’ rooms?
MINI |
I’m obsessed with Noa’s nursery. It’s everything I wanted for her. It’s very nurturing and super functional. The crib will transform into her toddler bed and everything is made from sustainable and safe material. SOPHIE JAFFE |
Let’s talk motherhood! What has surprised you most about motherhood thus far?
MINI |
SOPHIE JAFFE |
Motherhood is a constant challenge
and surprise. It’s easily been the hardest job I ever faced, but also the most blissful and rewarding.I love the way the kids echo what I do, from the good to the bad and everything in between. It helps act as a mirror for me. It helps me every single day to be a better person, and I learn so many lessons from them on the daily. I’m constantly surprised by their talent and ability to tap into the environment around them. The boys are easily able to pick up on situations and understand what’s going on in the world. I’ve had very honest and real conversations with them; it truly fills me up. Experiencing this new life again with Noa has been incredibly wonderful. I can already see her learning and evolving. I can’t wait to see what she conquers in this life. You’ve often said that you manifested your daughter, Noa. Tell us about that!
MINI |
FA S T FA C T S ON MY NIGHTSTAND Salt lamp, Palo Santo, a few books like The Book of Awakening. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK Have You Filled A Bucket Today? BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Want to be asleep before 10 pm. IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY, I WOULD Treat myself! Maybe a massage or a facial. IDEAL DATE NIGHT A walk on the beach followed by a Malibu dinner and wine, connecting and dreaming together. FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Cafe Gratitude or Make Out. ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Nut mylk, fruits, veggies, kombucha, chocolate (always, always, always). FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE The Little Mermaid.
I’ve talked about having a little girl for YEARS. Ever since Leo, I imagined a baby girl coming into our family and completing our little tribe. I dreamed about her. I put in all the work I could to manifest her. Adi and I did research on the Shettles Method and put in serious work on our relationship. We had to be absolutely sure we were ready to bring in another human soul and completely disrupt our lives. I then turned to my own self and worked out all I needed to physically, mentally, and emotionally before bring our little angel into this world. It took years and years of deep work, but I truly believe I brought this little girl into reality. Our family feels whole and complete. SOPHIE JAFFE |
Was your pregnancy with your daughter similar or different to your previous pregnancies?
MINI |
SO different. I don’t know if it was because I was younger when I had the boys or because it was a girl and my hormones were flowing like crazy but this pregnancy was a challenge. The most intense change were my cravings. Everything I love on a daily basis like coffee and smoothie bowls suddenly disgusted me. Instead, I was craving donuts and snacks. It was a challenge, especially being a face in the wellness community. My mood levels were off as well. I turned down a lot more social outings and events, I rarely left the house, and dramatically cut back on yoga or my usual SOPHIE JAFFE |
workout routines/classes. I think that was how it was meant to be. Noa has been such a change to the life Adi and I created with the boys. The challenge of the pregnancy only solidified the huge transition we were about to undergo. What is your greatest parenting worry or fear?
MINI |
That they grow up too quickly. It’s hard to undo traumatic events. I pray every day that they don’t have to live through any of that. SOPHIE JAFFE |
What is most important to you in raising your kids?
MINI |
Honestly, it’s keeping them pure, curious and above all, feeling satisfied and loved. SOPHIE JAFFE |
What have you found to be hardest aspect of motherhood thus far?
MINI |
It’s challenging trying to balance it all— my work, social life, the boys, being a wife and now, raising a newborn. I’m constantly being pulled in a million directions SOPHIE JAFFE |
so it’s all about figuring out what I need to focus on in each moment and what will serve me the best. I show my kids how to eat, move, and breathe from a place of love: love for themselves, their communities, and their larger world. And the same goes for me! I do everything from a place of love— which means working out because I actually love the movements that I’m having my body do, or eating because I love how the food tastes and how it makes me feel.
What is your food philosophy when it comes to feeding your kids?
MINI |
Where have you seen the biggest changes in your life since becoming a mom?
MINI |
Friendships. Boundaries. As a mom, I’m clear on my energy levels and what I just don’t have time for anymore (aka BS). It’s recognizing when I need to say no and being completely okay with it. SOPHIE JAFFE |
As a raw food chef and wellness guru, tell about your wellness philosophy. What does your diet look like?
MINI |
Instead of creating a “healthy diet” based on limitations and rules, I cook from a place of love— love for myself, my family, and my world. I eat because I love how the food tastes and how it makes me feel. The moment you do something that’s “good for you” without having any passion for it is the moment that it loses some of its power. So it’s simple: I find recipes for nourishing dishes I can’t wait to make, buy organic fruits and veggies from local farmers who pour their passion into their food, and savor each bite for the gift of vitality that it is. SOPHIE JAFFE |
I’ve passed on healthy eating habits and wellness practices to my kids by teaching them the value of food and the importance of their health. SOPHIE JAFFE |
We love your new podcast with your husband! How has your relationship changed since you’ve become parents? MINI |
Our relationship has essentially been nonstop parenting so I don’t really remember a time before being parents. I suppose we could party more pre-parents and also travel whenever we felt inspired to. It takes way more planning now and it’s far less fun. SOPHIE JAFFE |
We know how tricky it can be, so tell us your secret! How do you two keep such a strong bond while managing busy careers and parenthood?
really listen to each other and understand each other’s moods. We know when we’re in it and ready to connect and when we need to back off and give each other space. We schedule date nights and weekends away with each other even if it’s just a hotel in LA. It’s important to take time away with your partner and truly give the space to connect. What helps you to juggle motherhood and career? MINI |
MINI |
SOPHIE JAFFE |
It’s tough! We’ve learned to
The hardest challenge is balancing it all. I used to feel so stressed about making sure that everything in Philosophie was moving forward while also being the best mother and wife I could. One day, it hit SOPHIE JAFFE |
in the power of balance, I think everyone should be able to. me— as long as my kids are safe, happy, and healthy, that’s all that truly matters. Everything else is an added bonus in life. There’s never going to be enough time in a day. There’s so much, too much to be done. And I really want to do everything that I can; I want to share wellness with as many people as I can around the world, but I also want to feel free, like I can hike, dance, and play with my kids without being chained to my laptop all the time. I want to stop and smell the roses, and as a huge believer
If you could give your kids one piece of advice, what would it be? MINI |
Embrace this life. Never stop being ambitious, strong, and compassionate. Ask questions, seek guidance, and don’t see this as a weakness. Build a strong group of people around you and be there to support one another. Success and happiness is not a finite resource, there’s more than enough for everyone. SOPHIE JAFFE |
