Mini Magazine Winter 2023, Chriselle Lim

CONSIDER THIS WHEN YOU’RE OVER THE FRIGID TEMPS. WINTER ON THE PLANET URANUS LASTS 21 YEARS.

SWEET BABY BUNNY

If the long winter has you dreaming of sunny days spent in the garden, the adorable Peter Rabbit x MORI collection is just the attire you need to step out in style. Award-winning sustainable baby and toddler brand MORI has added a sweet little assortment of bunny-printed pieces to their line-up including the coziest Peter Rabbit pajamas, sweater, blanket, pramsuit, hooded jumpsuit, and quilted jacket, complete with a set of soft rabbit ears! —babymori.com

FROM OUR FRIENDS AT Cassarokids comes a play table that’s one step ahead of the rest. The solid oak Ruben Play Table is a versatile and practical piece designed to enhance playtime while keeping toys and essentials organized with its central storage. Choose from pink, marigold, navy, and black. Available now at cassarokids.com.

ON THE EDITOR’S LIST

If you love the Heelers, you’ll adore Bluey Book Reads— the brand-new digital storytelling channel on YouTube that has famous faces reading pages twice per month. “Seeing who comes on next is a fun surprise,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. “I can’t wait to see Eva Mendes, Bindi Irwin, and Jenna Fischer join in.” —youtube.com

THIS JUST IN

Winter boredom cured! Complete with a co-working space for parents, Big & Tiny offers a place for kids to play and learn in both Los Angeles and now NYC!

Plan a sweet family adventure to enjoy Maple Sugaring Season! Watch a tree tapping demo and taste all of the maple sugar treats!

MINI MUST-HAVE ▶ Tea Collection debuted a Wild Nairobi Edit that has us ready to head out on safari!

Visit the Sloomoo Institute interactive slime museum in Chicago to experience little hands-on, sensory fun without any of the mess or clean-up at home!

Need an indoor activity this winter? KidZania Dallas is open to welcome your Minis into their real-life city built to inspire and educate.

Jack Black returns for another round as Po, the unlikely “Dragon Warrior,” in the upcoming Kung Fu Panda 4 , out March 8! Black also revealed his band, Tenacious D, is doing a song for the film’s credits— which is great news if you loved his Peaches melody in The Super Mario Bros. Movie !

mini-magazine.com

Head to Mini for more interviews with parents around the world, style, and more

FEATURES

LIVING BABY+KIDS THE MAGAZINE

FOLLOW MINI

Be sure to follow Mini on Instagram and TikTok! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new kids products, nursery tours, and much more!

Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine

THE BABY NAME ERA— TAYLOR SWIFT INSPIRED NAMES If you’re a self-proclaimed Swiftie, you’ll want to save these for your Minis.

HOW TO CHOOSE NURSERY WINDOW TREATMENTS

Planning a spring refresh? Read this guide from the founder of Wovn Home.

TRAVELING WITH BABY?

BRING THESE 6 THINGS Winter break is here, but don’t leave home without these items to simplify family travel time.

THE 5 BEST MATERNITY LEGGINGS FOR THE BUMP

It’s the Season of Comfy, so pick up a few pairs of these Mini-approved maternity essentials.

minisclusives

contents

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

18 | EDITOR’S LIST

A carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season

winter

21 | THE STYLE SPOT Winter boots to last the rest of the season and a trip to space!

27 | MOM It’s the style spot for all of you chic Mini moms from bump to beyond

30 | IN THE BAG Meaghan Cox shows us what’s inside her Hermes Picotin handbag

32 | TECH KIDS Discover the latest and greatest from the Mini tech sphere

35 | BOOK CLUB Grab a few of these new Mini titles and prepare to get cozy

36 | ON THE CLOCK Mom of two and Vera Wang SVP Priya Shukla gives us the details on all of her faves

41 | ON THE SCENE We introduce you to the next best lightweight travel stroller— plus a new must-have car seat from Nuna!

46 | ON THE CLOCK Fashion Director Marissa Galante Frank’s ideal date night, wardrobe staples, and more!

50 | SCOOP A pint-sized jewelry subscription just for the Minis? We’re exploring the new Stud Club

52 | CALM AND NOURISH

Winter skin doesn’t stand a chance against these new wipes made to clean, soothe, and hydrate

54 | ALLERGY FRIENDLY

Worried about allergies? Start with these safe snacks that provide exposure to the top 9 food allergens

56 | FAMILY AND FUNCTION

Designer dad Gideon Mendelson shares how to create timeless spaces that play to your Minis’ interests

64 | SAFE IN THE SEAT We asked an expert all about the safest ways to buckle Minis into car seats during the colder months

winter

66 | BREAST MILK SCIENCE

It’s a thing! ByHeart founder Mia Funt on how she’s changing the formula industry

70 | FRIENDS FUR EVER

These tips will help make sure your baby and fur baby stay besties for life

72 | HEALTH IS WEALTH

Cymbiotika COO and mom of two Durana Elmi knows the importance of self care and it starts early

80 | WHAT’S IN A NAME

Mom of two Hart Hagerty started eponymous jewelry label HART and continues her expansion with two brick and mortar stores

86 | FLYING SOLO Cover mom

Chriselle Lim has emerged on the other side of divorce with a new perspective and a deep respect for community

winter

MINI

Founder and Editor in Chief

Kaitlyn Kirby

Cover Photography

Kimberly Genevieve

Cover Hair and Makeup

Archangela Chelsea

Mini Offices

Mini Magazine

Email | hello@mini-magazine.com

Web | www.mini-magazine.com

Mini Magazine is a digital lifestyle publication for the modern parent available online at www.mini-magazine.com. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in digital and print reviews.

Copyright © 2024 Mini Magazine.

Editor

INSIDE LOOK:

(On Right) I’ve admired our cover mom Chriselle Lim for years and am so grateful she’s sharing her story with us about life after divorce.

As the mama of a six-monthold currently working through that super fun sleep regression stage, it’s so hard to see through the lack of z’s, but with two older girls, I have to remind myself that will all change very soon (I hope!). And that’s what this issue is all about, Mini friends— change.

This is an issue unlike anything we’ve done before and I’m so thankful to have cover mom Chriselle Lim leading the way with her story on navigating life after divorce. I think you’ll find it incredibly inspiring, especially if you’re in a similar situation. As

the Bümo (which means ‘parent’ in Korean) founder tells us, it’s all about finding a community that’s been in your shoes.

In this issue, you’ll find expert tips like how to design kids spaces with the future in mind, winter car seat safety, and how to make sure your baby and fur baby become lifelong besties!

I’m also thrilled to share an interview with the founder of the science-backed formula brand that’s literally changing the industry. Enjoy, Mini friends!

(Below) A peek inside our cover shoot for this issue, complete with spotlight!

Use code XOMINIMAG for 20% off your first Sakara Meal Program or 10-Day Reset.

BUMP FAVES

Bumpsuit teamed up with Miranda Kerr to launch a box of her pregnancy faves, including body oil! bumpsuit.co

THE PERFECT PJS

The LoveShackFancy x Roller Rabbit collab sold out in seconds— see if you can catch the restock!

rollerrabbit.com

LOVE ALWAYS

It doesn’t need to be Valentine Season to add a heart to your daily jewels. monicavinader.com

SO CHARMING I’m obsessed with charm bracelets right now and HART (in this issue!) makes the absolute best. shophart.com

Pottery Barn Kids joined forces with tastemaker Aerin Lauder and the collection is just beautiful. potterybarnkids.com

AERIN X PBK

Style

MINI SUPERHEROES

The limited edition DC x Lola and the Boys collection is the perfect match for Minis who dream of patrolling Gotham City or taking to the skies with cape in tow. The cozy capsule includes sweat sets, jackets, and tees with the likes of Wonder Woman, Flash, Superman, Spiderman, and of course, Batman. These fits are the perfect way to show your superhero love. Prices start at $36. lolaandtheboys.com

THE SPOT TO SHOP FOR THEIR MINI WARDROBE

DC X LOLA AND THE BOYS IN THE STARS WARM UP CREW

CLICK TO SHOP THE DC X LOLA AND THE BOYS COLLAB!

Let them dream of moonwalking in these sweet sets. Above : $30 ; Short Pajama Set in Universe on Ecru, hannaandersson. com; Below : $45 ; Goodnight Pajama Set in Space Walk, teacollection.com

IN THE STARS

Fire up the rocket, we’re going to space! These Mini ensembles pack a celestial punch to inspire creativity.

Aspiring astronauts will appreciate the graphics on this tee. $25; bodenusa.com

ASTRO ALPHABET

This pocket dress is the perfect attire for play. $44; hannaandersson.com

UNIVERSAL STYLE

This soft zip-up hoodie is totally out of this world. $33; maisonette.com

PLANET POWER

A great layering piece for Mini explorers on the go. $40; maisonette.com

ROCKET MAN

SPACE MISSION

WARM UP CREW

The cold weather isn’t finished yet! Grab a pair of these adorable Mini boots before your little ones head out to play this season.

$72; Nike Flex Advance in Sea Glass, nike.com

1. WINTER WONDER

$38; Sherpa Boot for Baby and Toddler , bananarepublic.com

2. TEDDY BEAR

$36; Furry High Top in Power Purple, tenlittle.com

3. FURRY FRIENDS

$77; Youth Explorer Cozy Boot in Canoe and Chalk, sorel.com

4. SOFT TOUCH

$36; Saltwater Junior Duck Boot in Navy, sperry.com

5. CHECK MATE

$95; Intrepid Strap Boucle Snow Boot in Tan/White, zappos.com

6. VERIFIED VEGAN

JUST FOR YOU MAMA, FROM BUMP TO BEYOND

Mom

FREEZE DRIED BREAST MILK

KATE MCLEOD BODY STONE

FRIDA ANTI-NAUSEA BANDS

FREEZE, MAMA

◀

Ever wish you could freeze time? Well, now you may be able to— at least, a portion of it. Leche, a freeze-drying breast milk service, offers moms a way to store their breast milk for up to three years! By turning your breast milk into powder, you can preserve key nutrients and retain the bioactive properties of the milk, all while freeing up more freezer space! Moms simply pump their breast milk and send it to Leche where they will freeze dry it and send it back. The process is safe and efficient and turns that liquid gold into a shelf-stable powder that can be stored at room temperature and easily reconstituted.

—itsmyleche.com

CLICK TO READ MORE ABOUT FREEZE DRYING YOUR MILK!

The new Anti-Nausea Bands from Frida will have your morning sickness taking a hike. These neutral, discreet bands use wearable pressure point therapy (a button on the inside of the band applies pressure and stimulates the P6, or Nei-Kuan, acupressure point) which is shown to relieve nausea and morning sickness, morning or night. They even come with a carrying case to take on the go! “The design of these is genius,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. “They don’t draw much attention, so you can wear them even before you announce you’re pregnant.” frida.com

THE BODY STONE

Kate McLeod has the answer to your dry, winter skin and it’s not your typical lotion or cream. Meet the Body Stone. Handmade in their own Hudson Valley workshop, the plant-based solid moisturizer is completely waterless, sustainable, vegan, and plastic-free. Each stone (there’s even a Mama Stone formulated for pregnancy and postpartum skin!) melts in your hands and glides across skin, ideally after a bath or shower. You will love adding this magic moment of self care into your routine. Available now KateMcLeod.com.

RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING

DAILY JEWELS

“I typically keep this necklace in a pouch in my purse so I have it whenever I need it. It’s my daily go-to and it elevates any outfit!” Dorsey James Bezel Necklace, $570; shopdorsey.com

CASHMERE BEANIE $75; jennikayne.com

LIP TINT

“I can’t live without this tinted lip treatment lately. It feels so good on your lips and the color is perfect.”

Rhode Peptide Lip Tint in Toast , $16; rhodeskin.com

WHAT’S IN THE BAG

Meaghan Cox

The new mom (to Baby Henri) and Chief Brand Officer at Jenni Kayne her Hermes Picotin 18 handbag.

HAND CREAM

EXTRA PACIS

“Truly nothing smells better! And I can’t stand when my hands are dry.” Le Labo Hinoki Hand Pomade, $33; lelabofragrances.com

“Henri spits out anything else so I keep extras of these everywhere in case we lose one!” $9 ; ecopiggy.com

FAVE SUNNIES

“They go with everything and I am in love with how they highlight your face shape!” Saint Laurent Oval Acetate Sunglasses, $525; mytheresa.com

HERMES TAURILLON CLEMENCE PICOTIN LOCK 18 PM hermes.com

MINI

PARENT ASSISTANT

Allow us to introduce you to the first-ever Parent Assistant, the Aura Monitor from Nanobebe. Not only does the Aura detect breathing motion without wearables, but it also provides real-time waking and sleeping notifications, soothes baby with a library of calming soundscapes and two-way talk, allows you to log diaper changes and feedings, and features remarkable HD clarity that allows you to see if baby’s eyes are open— even in pitch black. nanobebe.com CLICK TO

RIGHT NOW IN TECH KIDS

Clinical psychologist and mom of three Dr. Becky Kennedy tackles tough parenting questions and delivers actionable guidance in bite- sized episodes of her weekly podcast, Good Inside with Dr. Becky. The Instagram sensation’s helpful tips will give you the tools to develop a stronger parent-child connection and become the parent you want to be. —spotify.com

For life at home.

Book Club

When the cold weather has you stuck indoors, grab a few of these new Mini titles like the latest from Sleepy Sheepy and the ever-popular Crayons series!

EDITOR’S PICK

THE CRAYONS LOVE OUR PLANET

by Drew Daywalt

A humorous story about the beauty of our planet and why it needs all of us!

FOR GIGGLES

BUFFALO FLUFFALO

by Bess Kalb

A hysterical tale of realizing it’s OK to just be yourself.

FOR MUSIC

FOR FEELINGS

SLEEPY SHEEPY AND THE SHEEPOVER

by Lucy Ruth Cummins

The perfect bedtime read aloud— Minis everywhere will relate to Sleepy Sheepy’s feelings of missing home (and his parents!) during his first sleepover with Grammy and Grampy!

HAVE YOU HEARD OF HARRY STYLES? Introduce your Mini musicians to the dynamic Harry Styles! This fun, interactive book will have your littles excited to turn the pages and lift the flaps, learning to make the world a better place by just being themselves.

FOR FOODIES

P IS FOR PASTRAMI: THE ABCS OF JEWISH FOOD

by Alan Silberberg

From apples and honey all the way to zhug, learn about the alphabet through Jewish food in the author’s silly, wacky way.

PRIYA SHUKLA

MINI SPENT TEN MINUTES WITH THE mom of two (to Belle, 8, and Blair, 3) and Senior Vice President of Global Communications at Vera Wang to get to know her through her signature scent (thinking spring!), coffee order, ideal date night (favorite restaurants!), and what she wanted to be growing up!

ON MY NIGHTSTAND Aquaphor and books that I hope to read, but never will because I am too tired!

CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Taylor Swift. I have an 8-year-old Swiftie on my hands and Taylor Swift is her life.

NOW WATCHING I’m obsessed with The Gilded Age.

ON THE CLOCK

GUILTY PLEASURE Dark chocolate, ice cream, and shopping.

FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Enchanted.

IF I HAD MORE TIME I would read, cook more.

IDEAL DATE NIGHT Dressing up and going to Caviar Kaspia or the Polo Bar. My husband loves to go to Benihana, so we do that too.

LAST BOOK I READ

Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy. Parenting is hard, we need all the help we can get.

FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL South of France. We do a family trip there every summer.

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT We go to Paola’s a lot. We love it there.

FAVORITE KIDS BOOK For toddlers, it’s Don’t Push the Button by Bill Cotter. For girls a little older, I love Claris in Paris by Meghan Hess.

FAVE LOCAL SHOPS Pink Chicken, LoveShackFancy (the store is gorgeous, pink, and girly) and The Corner Bookstore (the kids love to pick out books there).

MY COFFEE ORDER I drink copious amounts of Americano during winter. In summer, I switch to iced coffee. This winter, we have been obsessed with the hot chocolate at Glace by No glu. There’s a line all the way down the block. It’s totally worth it!

APPS I USE MOST Brightwheel—it’s a Parent/ School communication app—Calm meditation app, and Instagram.

ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Chocolate for the kids, wine for me, tons of fruits and veggies for all of us. Also, I lied, the chocolate is really for me.

SIGNATURE SCENT Chanel, Gardenia.

GROWING UP, I WANTED TO BE A Lawyer. I was good at arguing. Still am.

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Throw a parade for someone successfully going to the bathroom, yet here I am.

LIGHT AND LUXE

Premium baby gear brand Nuna is rolling out their newest, most stylish, and full featured car seat yet— the PIPA aire rx! The latest addition to the PIPA series, the lightweight aire rx weighs approximately 6.2 pounds (sans canopy and inserts) and securely installs with a vehicle seat belt and no base, perfect for city living families! With one look, it’s clear the PIPA aire rx prioritize hassle-free adventures without compromising on style and comfort with its premium fabrics and luxe leatherette carry handle for secure gripping. Available for pre-order now at nunababy.com.

Scene

MOCKINGBIRD 2.0

With a fan club of their award-winning strollers, Mockingbird releases their Single-to-Double Stroller 2.0 with a list of A+ updates.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MOCKINGBIRD

ADD A SEAT Grows With You

Pair with the 2nd Seat Kit or make room for three with the Riding Board!

EASY FOLD New Stroller Lock

The spring-load ed hinge design facilitates an easier and more intuitive unfolding.

EXTRA MILE

New Frame Design

The Mockingbird Single-toDouble 2.0 features an all-new frame design for a smoother, more comfortable stroll.

SHADY BABE

Expanded Sun Coverage

The Mockingbird

Single-to-Double 2.0 includes an expanded UPF 50+ canopy with a built-in pop-out visor for added shade.

EASY ADJUST

Easier Harness

The updated strap harness design makes 15% longer shoulder straps easy to adjust with just 1 pull.

Capturing the beauty, simplicity and magic of childhood.

CYBEX COYA

The latest, ultra-compact travel stroller from award-winning baby gear brand Cybex promises luxury from departure to arrival.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CYBEX

CLICK TO CHOOSE YOUR UNIQUE COYA COLORS AND FABRICS!

LEAN BACK

One Hand Recline Recline the backrest to an ergonomic near-flat position with just one hand. Coupled with the integrated adjustable leg rest? Max comfort for baby.

TRAVEL BFF

Totally Totable Sling the folded Coya over your shoulder with the padded carry strap.

FREQUENT

FLIER Carry-On Ready Fold within seconds and easily stow in an overhead compartment, so you can relax and enjoy your flight.

SIRONA M WITH

Theonlysmart-techconvertiblecarseatthat providesessentialalertstokeepbabysafe whileyoudriveandwhenyouarrive.

MARISSA GALANTE FRANK

MINI SPENT TEN MINUTES WITH THE mom of two (to Rose, 3.5, and John, 6 months) and Fashion Director of Accessories and Beauty at Bloomingdales to get the details on her current playlist, what’s on her nightstand, favorite restaurant (very exclusive!), and what she would do with more free time!

ON MY NIGHTSTAND Water, my cell phone, By Terry Baume de Rose, Nodpod sleep mask, and a small figurine from one of my daughter’s bath bombs.

NOW WATCHING The Morning Show on Apple TV, All the Light We Cannot See on Netflix, The Real Housewives, and RuPaul’s Drag Race.

APPS I USE MOST Instagram and Nanit.

IDEAL DATE NIGHT Chic restaurant, no cell phones, dirty martinis, and a good outfit.

LAST BOOK I READ I started listening to audio books once I had kids. I love them for walks. I’m currently listening to Signs: the Secret Language of the Universe by Laura Lynne Jackson.

ON THE CLOCK

GROWING UP, I WANTED TO BE A Broadway actress.

FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Elemental.

PREGNANCY CRAVINGS I ate Shake Shack 1x a week with my daughter. Chocolate Twizzlers with my son.

FAVORITE KIDS BOOK We’re Different, We’re the Same (Sesame Street) by Bobbi Kates and The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister.

IF THERE WERE MORE HOURS IN THE DAY I would go to sleep, go to pilates, cook, have a glass of wine with my husband, snuggle for longer in the morning with my kids... the possibilities could be endless!

CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO Barbra Streisand’s Broadway album. It is what it is!

WARDROBE STAPLES Cashmere sweaters, a striped shirt, Chanel ballet flats, relaxed straight leg denim, an oversized wool top coat, Manolo kitten heel mules. A lot of navy, grey, and camel.

GUILTY PLEASURE Bravo, cult documentaries, ice cream, and heated eye masks.

FAVORITE PLACE TO TRAVEL Italy! Whether I am there for work or personal, I always love Italy because it makes me feel close to my grandparents who I miss dearly. The food and style cannot be topped.

FAVORITE LOCAL SHOP Bloomingdales.

ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE Blueberries, iced coffee, and skincare.

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Move to the suburbs.

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Home. My husband is an awesome

Scoop

There’s nothing better than jewelry arriving at your door each month— especially if it’s curated for the littles you love! The Stud Club subscription was founded as means to help parents and children build a jewelry collection with durable and stylish earrings! Each month, subscribers receive a pair of 14-karat solid gold, hypoallergenic studs in fun styles featuring gemstones, cubic zirconia, or enamel designs. The best part? Subscribers will never get the same pair through the Stud Club. shoplemel.com

LE MEL STUD CLUB

LEMEL STUD CLUB

Keep Calm And...

Diaper on! Huggies debuts two new wipes with cleaning, hydrating, and nourishing baby’s delicate skin in mind.

CALM AND NOURISH

Adults spend oodles of time (and money!) choosing the right skincare products to keep our skin looking and feeling its best— but what about your baby? Huggies took baby’s delicate skin to heart and released two new products: the Calm Wipes and Nourish Wipes, both with 4-in-1 sensitive skincare benefits to clean, hydrate, soothe, and replenish baby’s skin all in a single wipe. “These wipes add in the good stuff like oat and aloe and leave the bad stuff like alcohol and parabens,” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. “They even have the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance for sensitive skin!” huggies.com

Allergy Friendly

Complete early allergen introduction system Ready. Set. Food! teams up with Daniel Tiger for a new snacktime favorite.

DOUBLE DUTY

Recommended for babies eight months and up, the new Ready. Set. Food! x Daniel Tiger Peanut Butter Berry Organic Puffs will have your Minis snacking happily while also providing exposure to 9 top food allergens: peanut, egg, milk, cashew, almond, walnut, sesame, soy and wheat. These Organic Puffs are a safe, easy, and delicious solution to help parents follow the latest leading medical guidelines that recommend introducing allergens early and often while giving your child nutritious and healthy foods. You’ll also love the Organic Oatmeal and Organic Oat & Fruit Bars. readysetfood.com

Rugs that take mess and chaos in stride. From

Home

DESIGNER DAD GIDEON MENDELSON ON SPACES THAT GROW WITH YOU

FAMILY AND FUNCTION

Gideon Mendelson, Founder and Creative Director of NY-based interior design firm Mendelson Group , shares five ways to create meaningful spaces with family at the forefront.

Be Flexible

Aim for flexible furniture layouts for when your child inevitably wants to move things around. Younger kids tend to need more space for play and older kids tend to want more privacy.

Let Them Decide

Let your kids share their opinions and participate in designing their room. Allow them to feel like they are their own little artists that can communicate their valuable ideas. This will also help make them more excited about their space!

Stay Tidy

Use durable fabrics that are easy to clean and build in tons of storage space!

Plan Ahead

Make sure these rooms can grow with your children. For example, for the more expensive textiles that require expert installation curtain panels, shades, and fabrics on the furniture we select patterns and colors that children can’t “age out of.” Then, items like throw pillows, lampshades, and linens which are (potentially) less expensive and easier to swap out can be changed as children get older.

Customize It

I like to design spaces that are beautiful and also support kids’ needs. My oldest son has ADHD. He needs a calm space without clutter that is super comfortable. My younger son loves building things and wants to be a comedian. He needs a space to create and lots of storage for his Legos. My daughter loves to hang out with her friends and wants to be a doctor. We’ve made sure that she has lots of space to spend time with her friends and plenty of bookshelves for her growing junior medical library.

Travel

SAFE

WINTER CAR SEAT TIPS TO REMEMBER AS YOU TRAVEL THIS SEASON

SEAT

IN THE

Transporting Minis in car seats during the winter months requires special considerations for their safety and comfort. Here are some tips caregivers should consider.

DDRESS IN THIN, WARM LAYERS. Bulky winter clothing, like heavy coats and snowsuits, can prevent a snug fit of the car seat harness. Instead, dress your child in thin, warm layers.

CHECK HARNESS

TIGHTNESS. Thick winter clothing and coats can compress in a crash, potentially leading to a loose harness. Regularly check the tightness of the car seat harness to ensure it remains snug enough – you should not be able to pinch any excess webbing between your fingers at the shoulder.

PRE-HEAT THE VEHICLE. If possible, warm up the car before buckling your child up in their car seat. This reduces the need for heavy clothing, making it easier to get a proper harness fit.

ADD WARMTH WITH A BLANKET OR BACKWARDS COAT. After securing your child in the car seat’s harness system, place a blanket over them for additional warmth. A backward winter coat works just as well. This keeps them cozy without compromising the effectiveness of the harness.

AVOID OVERHEATING. While it’s important to keep children warm, overheating can be a risk. If the car becomes too warm, remove extra layers or blankets to help ensure your child is comfortable.

BE PREPARED. Prepare for unexpected delays and road closures during winter travel by keeping an emergen-

- cy kit in your vehicle. This should include items like extra blankets, warm clothing, water, and snacks.

By keeping these tips in mind, caregivers can help ensure that their little passengers stay safe, warm, and comfortable in their car seats during the winter months.

ABOUT THE EXPERT

Sarah Tilton is a renowned authority in child passenger safety (CPS), with an extensive career spanning over two decades. She stands as an unwavering advocate for the advancement of child safety, as an active CPS Technician since 2002 and a dedicated Instructor since 2004. Her journey has been one of commitment and progress within this vital field, and her role as a Britax Americas safety spokesperson provides the opportunity for her helpful knowledge to reach caregivers.

BREAST MILK SCIENCE

HOW TO MAKE YOUR BABY AND FUR BABY BESTIES

BREAST MILK SCIENCE

ByHeart formula is the only new brand with a closest-tobreast-milk patented protein blend. We had to know more, so we asked founder Mia Funt to break it down.

WWHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START BYHEART?

As a new mom, I felt discouraged (and guilty) when considering formula options for my first daughter. After researching a wide range of products, I learned that many infant formulas available on the shelf featured recipes based on outdated science and data, and included ingredients like corn syrup, soy, and even GMOs. At the time, my brother (and co-founder!) Ron had been working in the life sciences space and was similarly frustrated by the lack of innovation and progress within the formula industry as a whole. The two of us committed to developing a new formula— one that was based on the most up-to-date breast milk science and research, and didn’t make parents choose between clean, high-quality ingredients and clinically proven benefits.

We knew that cutting corners wouldn’t lead to substantive change, so we spent five years developing ByHeart’s recipe from scratch. We worked closely with breast milk scientists (yes, that’s a thing!) and discovered that a common shortfall of many formulas lay in its protein makeup. We created a patented pro-

tein blend that gets closest to breast milk by including two of breast milk’s most abundant proteins, alpha-lactalbumin and lactoferrin, along with broken down proteins. This specialty blend supports immune and gut health and easier digestion, which were priorities for ByHeart.

WHY DOES BYHEART EMPHASIZE THE USE OF ORGANIC, GRASS-FED WHOLE MILK?

We intentionally formulated the ByHeart recipe to include lactose as its primary carbohydrate because lactose is the primary carbohydrate in breast milk— nature’s gold standard for infant nutrition. Whole milk, as opposed to skim, is chock-full of healthy fats (such as naturally occurring MFGM) that support baby’s cognitive development and growth. And we’re proud to be the only US-made infant formula to use organic grass-fed whole milk, not skim!

CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF USING WHOLE MILK, NOT SKIM, IN BYHEART?

Breast milk doesn’t skim its fats, so neither does ByHeart. “Skim” or “nonfat” milk, commonly used in many infant formulas on shelves today, is put through a skimming process that removes key fats otherwise naturally present in milk. ByHeart uses organic, grass-fed whole milk, and we’re the only US-made infant formula company to do so. As a

result, our Whole Nutrition Infant Formula provides babies with the nutrients that support brain development and promotes growth.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CLINICAL TRIAL?

We ran the largest clinical trial by a new infant formula brand in over 25 years, including 311 babies over the course of 6 months! Results showed that infants fed ByHeart experienced easier digestion, less spit-up, softer poops, better nutrient absorption, more efficient weight

gain, and longer stretches between nighttime feeds* vs. those fed a leading infant formula. To better understand ByHeart’s closeness to breast milk, we also included a reference arm of breast-fed babies— we’re the only new infant formula brand to have done so!

WHAT STEPS DOES BYHEART TAKE TO ENSURE THE PURITY OF ITS FORMULA?

As the first and only U.S. infant formula to receive all three awards from The Clean Label Project (the Purity Award, Pesticide Free Award, and First 1,000 Day Promise Certification), ByHeart meets stringent requirements to protect infants from toxins. Alongside clinically-proven benefits*, these assurances further validate ByHeart’s commitment to providing the best quality nutrition to growing babies. ByHeart is also fully-integrated, owning all aspects of its manufacturing. This means that from the first to last step in the production process, ByHeart adheres to rigorous hygiene and quality standards, which formula brands that outsource to third parties cannot oversee to the same degree. In our mission to provide the best quality nutrition to babies, ByHeart continuously pushes to raise industry standards.

HAVING BUILT BYHEART, WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF AS A BUSINESS OWNER?

I’m deeply passionate about bringing high-quality nutrition to as many babies as possible, and I know the search for the perfect formula is a personal one. I founded ByHeart when my first child, Neve, was just one year old. One of my proudest moments was when—after over five years of building the company—I was able to feed my third child, Simone, ByHeart! All parents deserve to feel confident in their feeding choices, and I’m extremely proud that ByHeart is that choice for so many.

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO CONTINUE ADVANCING THE FORMULA INDUSTRY?

By pushing the envelope on modern nutri-

tion science and breast milk research, our innovations are laying the groundwork for setting higher standards across the formula industry— something our team is incredibly passionate about. We’re always having conversations with our customers to better understand the needs of parents and their babies; this includes making our formula accessible to families wherever they shop. ByHeart’s vision is to build a future where all parents can feel amazing about feeding, no matter how they do it.

FOOTNOTES

*at 4 months of age

FRIENDS EVER

FUR

Welcoming a new baby and worried about how your fur baby will react? Animal communicator and behaviorist Ellie Laks shares how you can make sure your babies will be besties.

MAKE A GOOD MATCH. The most important way to help your baby and your pet be BFF’s is to make a good match right from the start. Not all animals like babies. Some animals are afraid of children and not all animals will be safe for your baby. Having two babies who both have needs—sometimes conflicting needs—is hard to navigate. The best match for a small child may be an older, more patient, more mature animal who can keep you company, but be content to rest when you and your child are busy. An older animal will also be less active and less likely to jump on or push your child down. A larger animal will do better than a smaller, more vulnerable animal who could feel threatened by a toddler and feel the need to protect themselves. Getting the right animal for your child will always result in them getting along and growing up together harmoniously.

indoor pets get your undivided attention each day, perhaps when your child is sleeping. Make sure your dog gets out for walks or hikes. If you can’t juggle both the dog’s exercise and your childs, hire a dog walker or put your dog in doggy day care— but make a plan. A tired dog is a happy dog. A dog who is not getting enough exercise can wreak havoc on your home and your sanity, but can be easily avoided with planning and scheduling.

“Once you have an animal and a child, it is all about setting them up for success. ”

PLAY REFEREE. Just like you would play referee between two children, you are going to have to play referee between your child and pet. Make sure your child is always gentle to your animal, respecting their wishes and listening to their needs and wants. Make sure the animal is safe for your child, not jumping up on them, pushing them down, or stealing their food. Get a trainer if need be. A short time investment can mean a lifetime of happiness and peace.

PROTECT BOTH BABIES. Once you have an animal and a child, it is all about setting them up for success. Watch them closely. Don’t allow small children to be alone with your pet. The child needs protecting, but so does the pet. When you are there, you make them both feel protected and supported.

GIVE PROPER ATTENTION. Both the child and the pet will need stimulation, exercise, play time, and fun. Make sure that small

GET THEM A FRIEND. Getting another animal companion for your already existing animal can prevent a lot of issues. When you are busy with your child, knowing your animal has a friend will bring peace of mind, and coming home to an animal who has played with their friend while you were gone will be much less responsibility and more peaceful than coming home to an animal who has been alone and is now full of energy and demands.

is HEALTH

WEALTH

Having co-founded wellness brand Cymbiotika , mother of two Durana Elmi knows the importance of practicing self-care and instilling healthy habits from an early age.

photography by

LAURA BRAVO MERTZ

Morning Routine

“My mornings are anchored in a mindful routine that sets the tone for the busy day ahead. Rising early, I start with a meditation session, focusing on gratitude to cultivate a positive mindset. Following this practice, I shift my attention to my children and help wake them up and prepare them for the day ahead. I deliberately carve out moments for self-connection with myself, my family, and with nature. These intentional practices empower me to maintain balance amid my chotic schedule. This holistic approach to mornings ensures that I am both mentally prepared for the challenges of overseeing Cymbiotika and emotionally attuned to the joys and demands of motherhood.”

synergy between personal and professional life, mixed with the understanding that imperfection is inherent, that allows me to navigate these different roles.”

Birth of Cymbiotika

“Balancing is a continuous journey and it’s notperfect.always ”

Balancing Professional and Personal

“Balancing life as a COO and Founder with motherhood is a continuous journey and it’s not always perfect. I’ve learned to give myself grace, understanding that I am a mother and wife before anything else. With the support from my team and the amazing women around me, I can navigate the different roles and responsibilities. It’s the

“The brand’s creation started with a single SKU— a humble beginning that has blossomed into a diverse product line of over 40 SKUs today. This expansion is not only a testament to our commitment to innovation but also reflects the dynamic responses of our team to an ever-changing wellness landscape. Our team has expanded and evolved which is a direct reflection of the passion and dedication each member brings to the table. It’s truly inspiring to witness the collective effort that has propelled Cymbiotika from its early days to a flourishing brand that continues to redefine and elevate standards in the realm of health and wellness.”

Self Care Rituals

“I prioritize personal well-being through intentional practices incorporated into my daily routine. Manifestation is a cornerstone of my approach, fostering a positive mindset that permeates both my professional and personal life. Daily workouts are non-negotiable, as they not only help my physical health but also serve as a mental reset. Meditation is another huge compo-

nent, providing a centered space for mindfulness and reflection. Balancing these practices—manifestation, daily exercise, meditation, and family time—allows me to cultivate holistic wellness and maintain a sense of balance during a busy schedule.”

Mini Wellness

“When it comes to the wellness lineup for my Minis, especially during this time of year, we take a comprehensive approach. This includes supplements such

as our Cymbiotika Kids D3, ensuring they receive vital nutrients for their growth and immunity. Elderberry is another staple in our wellness rituals, providing additional support to bolster their immune systems naturally. Complementing these supplements, we emphasize the importance of nutritious meals. By incorporating all of these different things, we aim to instill healthy habits and robust immune support in my children’s daily routines to promote their overall well-being.”

Cymbiotika Kids

“The expansion of Cymbiotika into the kids’ space is driven by my passionate commitment as a mother of two to bring optimal health to new markets. I recognize the significance of instilling healthy habits early in life and this fuels my dedication to developing products that cater specifically to children’s well-being.”

Persuing a Clean Lifestyle

“The key lies in making both the time and commitment to yourself. Start by carving out dedicated moments in your day, even if they’re brief, for self-care practices. This could be incorporating short meditation sessions, preparing nourishing meals for yourself, and gradually introducing clean, whole foods into your diet. Prioritize regular physical activity with any form of exercise that brings you joy. Begin by swapping out one or two conventional products in your household for cleaner, eco-friendly alternatives. The journey towards a holistic lifestyle is about progress, not perfection, so embrace small changes and build from there.”

Proudest Career Moment

“Receiving the prestigious title of Business Woman of the Year from the San Diego Business Journal stands as the pinnacle of my career achievements. This accolade is more than just a personal milestone; it symbolizes the collaborative dedication of the exceptional team at Cymbiotika and the transformative journey we’ve navigated together. What makes this moment even more special is the opportunity to accept the award in the presence of my family and daughters. It underscores the importance of shared triumphs and the unwavering support that propels both personal and professional success.”

Greatest Business Lesson

“The greatest lesson I’ve learned in business is that one cannot be afraid to fail. Embracing failure as an inherent part of the entrepreneurial journey has been transformative. Every setback, challenge, or misstep is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and ultimately grow.”

Starting a Business

“Starting and growing a business requires a combination of resilience, support, and strategic decision-making. Personally, what has been instrumental for me is surrounding myself with a network of trusted women. The advice I would impart to other mothers contemplat-

ing starting a business is to cultivate a community of like-minded women who share similar aspirations and values. Establishing this network not only provides a source of invaluable advice and insights, but also creates a supportive environment where experiences can be shared, challenges discussed, and successes celebrated.”

Support System

“My family serves as the cornerstone of my personal support system. Their support goes beyond the challenges of owning a business which provides a solid foundation for me to thrive personally and professionally. Whether it’s celebrating achievements, offering advice, or simply being a source of comfort during tough times, my family’s presence is invaluable.”

Raising Daughters

“I aim to pass on the values of authenticity, hard work, and resilience. I encourage them to be true to themselves, to embrace authenticity in their pursuits, and to understand the power of their unique voices. Resilience is a quality I want the women in my life to cultivate, teaching them to navigate challenges with strength and grace. By weaving these values into both my personal and professional life, I hope to inspire my daughters to embrace leadership roles with confidence, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose.”

DURANA ON THE CLOCK

in a WHAT’S NAME

After a series of fashion internships in NYC and time spent in Shanghai, China as a trend forecaster, Hart Hagerty kickstarted her own eponymous brand, HART, and moved back to her hometown of Charleston, South Carolina where her jewelry quickly attracted a following. Now with two kids and two brick-and-mortar stores, the designer muses on how life has changed.

FOUNDING HART “The brand comes from a desire to make beautiful jewelry that is not only lovely, but incredibly personable and meaningful. We are always inspired by the challenge of making the highest quality jewelry that is made to last (like fine jewelry) but at more accessible price points.”

AN EVOLVING BRAND “We started with simple tassel earrings, beaded bracelets, and coin necklaces. We have been doing our full suite of custom charm jewelry since 2019. Since putting most of our focus on personalization and quality service, our brand has blossomed. Our goals are to open more stores and expand on the personalization aspects of the brand. And, always, we strive for continually optimizing for quality, longevity, and integrity of the designs and product.”

store has blossomed, our new Boston store, our incredible corporate team, our growing retail team. I am beyond proud each day of the company my sister and I have built.”

“It’s a reminder that this one precious life is not a dress rehearsal.”

QUALITY TIME “I will admit, mom guilt is very real. I do not spend enough time with my young girls (ages 3.5 and 2 years old) during the week as I am traveling and working a lot. That said, during the time I have with them in the mornings, evenings, and weekends, I am extremely present and shower them with my attention and affection. And because I work so much, my time spent with them is centered around just having fun and unplugging. I do not multitask when I’m with my girls. I think they can truly feel my presence and gratitude. They can feel the love and appreciation when I am with them, even if the time spent is shorter. Quality, over quantity, I guess!”

DAILY JEWELS “Right now, I love the 26” long Chunky Chain, because it’s easy to toss on over a tee shirt or sweater. I have our new Memento Mori Skull Pendant on it, along with my daughters’ initials. It’s a reminder that this one precious life is not a dress rehearsal. We must do everything we can to make our mark and live an authentic, compassionate existence.”

PROUDEST CAREER MOMENT “Each day, I take a moment to pause and soak in where we are. I look at how our beautiful flagship

GREATEST CHALLENGE “Scheduling time for myself is hard. It’s cliche, but I need to prioritize more alone time and self-care. Whenever there is a free moment, I usually dedicate it to a house project, chores, exercise, or family activity.”

BABY NAMES “Huguet—pronounced Huegette—is an old French name that is my middle name. I chose Huguet and my husband chose our youngest’s name. Close is the maiden name of my husband’s mother who passed away.”

MOM TRANSITION “The transition to two kids was very difficult for me. Our youngest didn’t sleep well for the first 18 months, and she arrived when my oldest was just 17 months old. The lack of sleep on top of a headstrong toddler took its toll, despite trying every method and book. I was very burned out and probably had postpartum depression. But, today, they are sleeping well and now I see the light. We are grateful we have two healthy, happy girls!”

HAVING IT ALL “Having it all is a moving target. It’s human nature to want more once you have more. The grass is always greener. Instead, I think the key for me is to just be still and present as much as possible. At the

end of the day, the quality of your health, relationships, and safety are the most important things. I try to refocus on that when I get caught up in the rat race of financial and material success. I find that deleting Instagram for periods of time—which can be so toxic—is essential to staying grounded.”

MORNING ROUTINE “I wake up around 6:30 a.m., before my family does. I drink a cup of coffee and take my dog on a walk for 30 minutes in the park near my house. After the school drop-off routine, I usually spend between 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. either working out, walking with a friend, or catching up with someone over coffee before heading into the office.”

PERSONAL STYLE “My style has matured. I am into more structured pieces like blazers and more high-quality fabrics from natural fibers. I hardly ever shop fast-fashion anymore. Most of my wardrobe is designer pieces from The RealReal. I am also investing more into quality shoes and bags that will last my lifetime. Sometimes I ask myself, ‘Will my girls fight over this when I’m older?’ as a test for whether to buy something. I want to buy fewer, finer pieces and funk it up with jewelry and accessories instead of disposable fashion.”

RAISING KIDS “Compassion, curiosity, creativity, kindness, and manners are what matters most to me in raising my kids.”

FAVORITE PART OF RAISING KIDS IN CHARLESTON “Being in nature! We are fortunate to have access to the water, marsh, and beach. My entire family is also from Charleston (seven generations!) so we have strong community here.”

COMING UP NEXT “We just dropped our newest charm collection, which I adore. To me, the collection embodies our brand’s spirit: a balance between striving for mindfulness and spirituality (Memento Mori Charm), but also relishing in earthly delights like dirty martinis (martini charm!).”

HART ON THE CLOCK

The jewelry designer mom shares fast facts.

1

MY

Coffee with heavy cream. The more fattening, the better.

COFFEE ORDER

GUILTY PLEASURE My spray tan membership.

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT Renzo.

CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO War on Drugs.

FAVE KIDS MOVIE The Parent Trap.

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Enjoy hot dogs.

7

SHOWS I’M WATCHING RIGHT NOW

Alison Roman’s cooking channel on YouTube.

8

FAVE KIDS SHOPS Pink Chicken and Boden.

FLYING SOLO

Having forged her own path in her career as a renowned digital influencer and entrepreneur, Chriselle Lim is blazing a new trail once again, this time changing the narrative on what a single mother looks like . The Co-founder of Bümo and Owner/Creative Director of PHLUR opens up to Mini about her rebirth post-divorce and how she’s now blending the two roles of mother and father.

photography

by

KIMBERLY GENEVIEVE

hair and makeup by

ARCHANGELA CHELSEA

FLYING SOLO

CCHRISELLE LIM wakes each morning at 6 a.m. and from the moment her feet touch the floor, the busy mom of two is in Go Mode. “As the girls are getting ready, I’m downstairs cooking breakfasts and packing their lunches,” Lim tells Mini. “I drop them both off at school, and then depending on my schedule, I’ll either go back home and do a 30 minute Peloton session or go for a Pilates class. I’ll have my breakfast and get started with work around 9:30 a.m.” Lim is doing it all—and now she’s doing it solo. The influencer and entrepreneur gets real with Mini about how life has changed post-divorce and why she feels more empowered than ever to raise independent girls and uplift those going through a similar experience.

“I think single mothers in the past were

typically a taboo thing and have had a negative connotation,” Lim tells Mini. “Now being a single parent myself, I feel nothing but proud. I’m proud to change the narrative of what a single mother looks like. Yes, it could be isolating, but it is also incredibly empowering. I’ve never felt so empowered to uplift other women that are in

similar situations.” After her divorce, Lim also notes how the needle has moved in terms of what she sees as her greatest motherhood challenge.

“Because I am a co-parent, one of the greatest challenges is being able to raise independent girls without doing everything for them. It’s in my nature to want to coddle and do everything for my kids, but ever since I’ve been

co-parenting, I have been making sure that I’m raising independent girls. They gain a level of confidence when you teach them how they can do it instead of you doing it for them.” As the Bümo founder tells us, you cannot begin to change how one views divorce until you share your own experience and we think a lot of moms out there can relate. Here are the other words of wisdom Lim gave us:

Being a single parent is about community.

“First and foremost, community. It’s important that you have a community of people that understands and gets you. It’s easy to feel isolated and be alone on this journey, but when you have other people that have gone before you and you can hear their stories and you can share yours, there’s something so healing about that. I personally didn’t know many people that were divorced around me, but as I con-

tinued to openly share my stories with others, they started to open up about theirs. I’ve made some incredible new friends during this period in my life and I will be forever grateful for them. Also, don’t forget to have fun along the way. Divorce and separation is not only tough, but it’s a LONG journey. You have to find moments where you can go out there and have fun. Learn to park your situation aside for a few hours so you feel energized and don’t burn out from the process. [And remember], the kids will be OKAY. They will be better than okay. It might be hard at first, but there is no one more resilient and adaptable than kids.”

You will emerge as a totally new person.

“I lost myself somewhere along the way of building out this ‘perfect family’ life and image. I thought I had to be the perfect wife and mother, so I got lost in that. During my divorce, a part of me died, but I was reborn with brand new skin. There were things that I used to care so much about— the validation of others and pleasing people. Well, that version of me no longer exists. I learned that no matter what decision I decide to make, someone won’t be happy with it and that’s OK. I’ve learned to take others’ opinions and thoughts with a grain of salt and not let it take such a toll on me. I also learned—the hard way— about the importance of prenups!”

You will learn to channel both energies.

“ During my divorce, a part of me died, but I was reborn with brand new skin.”

“I’ve had to roll up my sleeves and really provide both qualities of a mother and father. Of course, the girls still have a great relationship with their dad, but when I have them, I’m typically alone and have had to channel both sides. As a mother, leaning into my feminine as the nurturer and caretaker, making sure they are feeling loved, heard, and seen, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Being sensitive to their needs and always providing a safe place for them. As a father, leaning into my masculine by taking charge, being assertive, and leading the family. I feel grateful I get to channel both sides and be fluid with the roles I have to play. It is challenging, but I feel very proud that I have this opportunity to provide for my children in a big way.”

Owning your power is about getting to know yourself.

“To own your power you have to have a good sense of self. You have to understand who you are and what makes you happy. As simple as that sounds, most people do not know what makes them happy. My #1 thing I would teach the girls is to get to know yourself and that will be from making mistakes and having some failures because

that is the best way, allowing them to embrace failure. I call it falling forward and not blaming yourself, learning from your mistakes and getting better from them. Also, not caring so much what others say or think. As long as you feel good about it in your heart, that is all that matters.”

Motherhood teaches you the importance of being present.

“My love and heart expanded tenfold. It has made me a softer and more empathetic and patient human. I like to joke and say I was kind of a cold b*tch before I had kids. I’ve learned to listen with an open heart and truly understand [them]. What breaks them breaks me and what brings them joy brings me joy. They have taught me the importance of being present.”

on. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without their support. Scheduling is something that we’ve had to really figure out to maximize my efforts. Investing into people is, hands down, the thing I believe in the most. When you have solid people besides you, you can make anything happen!”

Fathering takes on a whole new meaning.

“ The amount of sh*t women can get done is incredible.”

Motherhood only sharpens your focus.

“The amount of sh*t women can get done is [incredible]. I think I do 10x what I used to do when I had no kids and more time. I’m more laser focused, efficient, and effective at work because I have only a window of time that I can get things done.”

Investing in people is always worth it.

“I have an incredible team that I can lean

“Father Figure is a really special scent to me. The majority of my PHLUR scents are inspired by my own personal stories and experiences and I was really inspired by the person I have become. Father Figure really reflects these feelings of owning my power— being in charge, making those hard decisions, and taking those risks. Whether it’s at home or sitting at the head of a boardroom table, it’s about owning every element of my life which allows me to embrace both my feminine and masculine side. It’s about the merging of femininity and masculinity. It’s modern, chic, and all gender inspired. Father Figure is an all gender inclusive fragrance because it’s reflective on who we are today. As an entrepreneur, a single parent, and an ambitious woman, you have to draw on [both] your feminine traits and your masculine traits.”

Reliable childcare is not easy to find.

“Bümo was created out of need for me. I simply needed more options for reliable childcare as a working mother and I couldn’t find it, so my co-founder and I went out to find a solution. What started off with one location at Westfield Century City evolved into creating a platform where parents can book quality, vetted childcare as quickly as booking a restaurant reservation.

Bümo understands that parents often need access to back-up care [and] that can be booked instantly. You can schedule childcare by the half day or full day, when you need it, as much as you need it, through Bümo’s network of trusted childcare centers. We have over 2000 searchable locations on Bümo.”

if it was the right moment as I was going through a huge life transition, but the more I thought about it, the more it got me excited. I’ve always been a huge fragrance lover, but did I ever think I would be the owner of a fragrance company? No. Ben told me, ‘PHLUR is going on its second life, similar to you, and I feel like there’s a lot of synergy here.’ I saw it as an opportunity to storytell through each scent and at the end of the day, I’m a storyteller.”

Representation is everything.

Risks are worth taking.

“It was the early stages of my divorce and my business partner Ben Bennett told me he was acquiring a fragrance company called PHLUR and he wanted to acquire it with me. I wasn’t sure

“My proudest career moment was probably being recognized by Forbes as one of the top creators of the world, but also when Mattel made a Chriselle Lim Barbie and they made my daughters into real life Barbies. That was a major moment for me as I grew up with Barbies, but I never identified with the dolls because there was never an Asian Barbie. Knowing that little girls around the world were able to get access to my Barbie and say, ‘I look like her’ is everything. Representation is everything. When people are properly represented, people see opportunity, they see hope.”

It’s never too late to do something new.

“It’s never too late to start your own brand! Make sure you have a very clear picture of what you want to achieve in the next three years, two years, one year, six months. I always like to start backwards and think of the big picture and then scale it back to what can I do right now to hit that six month goal. Moms are busy, so you really have to carve out time in your schedule to work on your business daily!”

Fire is the word of the year.

“The Dragon is a sign of power and energy, so 2024 will be a year of prosperity! Also, I believe that all of us women have that fire within us. Sometimes that flame is so small and it disappears at some point, but it’s always in there. It just needs to be activated!”

CHRISELLE ON THE CLOCK

MY COFFEE ORDER

Chai latte with almond milk.

2

GUILTY PLEASURE

Aimlessly scrolling on TikTok.

3

ALWAYS IN MY FRIDGE

Coconut yogurt and berries.

4

CAN’T STOP LISTENING TO ‘90s hip hop.

FAVE KIDS BOOKS

The Giving Tree and Harry Potter.

FAVE KIDS SHOPS

Target.

BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD

Wake up at 6 a.m. to cook pancakes every morning and pack lunches every day.

FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Up!