Baby April 2019

MEGHAN’S GLAMOROUS PREGNANCY JOURNEY Soothe your baby’s

TEETHING PROBLEMS

Rachel

Weisz

ON MOTHERHOOD IN HER LATE FORTIES

HOW TO CONTINUE BREASTFEEDING AND RETURN TO WORK

PA R E N TI N G M AGA Z I N E

by Ba AL al

Make like MARKLE

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baby T H E LUXU RY P R EG N A N C Y &

APRIL 2019 • BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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CONTENTS APRIL 2019

42 s like to be reveals what it’ Rachel Weisz rties (p.56) fo te la r he eds in back on 3am fe

Taylor and Omari wear rompers, £50, Liilu. Jute rug, £23, Smallable Home.

Woven rug, Miniknots at Edit58.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN MALPASS

FEATURES

50 MAKE LIKE MEGHAN Kate Nicholl uncovers how the Duchess of Sussex is already making her mark on royal motherhood 56 WEISZ WORDS Actress Rachel Weisz opens up about becoming a mother again at 48 65 PARTY TIME: EASTER FUN AND GAMES Carole Middleton reveals her tips for throwing the ultimate eggs-travaganza 66 BEHIND THE BRAND: IL GUFO Natalie Keeler meets the CEO of the luxury Italian childrenswear label 74 TEETHING PROBLEMS How do you cope with a teething baby? Georgina Blaskey investigates 84 NOW AND THEN Hot picks for contemporaryinspired and traditionallystyled nurseries

65

STYLE

42 WEAVE MAGIC Key wardrobe staples to see your baby into the new season

SHOPPING

25 BABY LOVES This seriously stylish Sabine Getty and La Coqueta collaboration is packed with vibrant patterns and pops of colour 27 SHOP THE THEMES Whatever your nursery style, say hello to spring with this season’s latest offerings 54 ROYAL DELIVERY Regally-inspired gifts fit for any little prince or princess

FOOD & TRAVEL 87 FOOD NEWS The latest and greatest treats for babies, children and parents Carole Middleton shares her top springtime décor ideas

88 EASTER TREATS Infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham shares her favourite seasonal recipes for little ones 93 TRAVEL NEWS Fancy heading somewhere warm and sunny? Check out the newest escapes and products for families 94 POSTCARD FROM CORSICA Rowena Carr-Allinson heads to the stylish Mediterranean island with her two young children in tow

27

REGULARS

17

21

BABY NEWS Keeping you in the know with all things great and small WIN! A BOORI COT BED Worth £549, this Scandi-style Pioneer Expandable cot from Boori could be yours to keep

baby-magazine.co.uk | 7

93 Editorial Director Maxine Briggs Acting Editor Rebecca Moore Online Editor Jennifer Read-Dominguez Sub Editors Laura Sutherland, Natalie Keeler Editorial Assistant Annie Quinton Digital Content Producer Ruby Norris Creative Director Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Natalie Dourado Freelance Designer Matt Bookman Contributing Editors Clare Byam-Cook, Emma Cannon, Georgina Cohen, Marina Fogle, Chiara Hunt, Carole Middleton, Jade Parfitt, Natalie Pinkham, Kate Silverton, Zita West Publishing Director Paul Rayner Director of Media James Dobson

22 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this April 35 MY ESSENTIALS Classical singer Katherine Jenkins discusses kids’ interiors and motherhood 38 EASTER READS Emma O’Donovan rounds up her favourite reads for this most eggs-cellent time of year 40 INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION Author of the Honestly Healthy cook books Natasha Corrett talks feeding babies and finding motherhood support 49 LEO’S LITTLE LUXURIES Leonora Bamford shares her favourite things this month 61 DIARY OF A MUM In her latest instalment, Joanna Ellner opens up about her relationship with her post-baby body 62 TOT GEAR NEWS What’s new in baby kit, plus we put the Thule Sleek pushchair to the test

84

Advertisement Director Lyndal Beeton Head of Market Julie Price Senior Sales Executive Miranda Gyamfi Ma Sales Executive Emma Cain Digital and Creative Solutions Manager Ben Leek

Katherine Jenk ins explains w hy she won’t pu sh her kids in to musical care ers (p.35)

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HEALTH & BEAUTY NEWS From skincare to baby tech, we reveal the latest products and innovations in the world of wellbeing Q&A WITH ZITA WEST The fertility expert talks through the importance of a healthy, balanced diet during early pregnancy THE BREASTFEEDING CAFÉ Returning to work while you’re still breastfeeding? Professor Amy Brown offers her expert advice TIME TO TALK Marina Fogle and Dr Chiara Hunt address the myths and facts around pelvic floor exercises after birth THE REVIEW Want to keep baby stimulated? Laura Mason puts five of the very best play mats and gyms to the test INTERIOR NEWS From ulimate slumber pads to musical soothers, these are the stylish nursery updates we’re coveting this month BOUTIQUES Our pick of the most beautiful baby boutiques nationwide INSPIRE We chat to Angela Spencer, founder of Babyopathy, about healthy pregnancies, sensory stimulation, and balancing work and family life

Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Chief Financial Officer Vicki Gavin Baby is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Web: baby-magazine.co.uk Tel: 020 7349 3700 Email: baby@chelseamagazines.com BABY (print) ISSN 2516-5178 BABY (online) ISSN 2517-813X | Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT | Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001 | Production All Points Media Printed in England by William Gibbons ©The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2019 All rights reserved

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PHOTOGRAPHER: JONATHAN MALPASS MODEL: ARTHUR Arthur wears cashmere hat, £35, Pio Pio London.

Cashmere cardigan, £65, Pio Pio London. Cotton muslin romper, £24.50, Farmyard The Label.

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These rainbow-adorned pieces are sure to brighten yours and baby’s day From a selection at joules.com Cotton-mix romper £27.45, thebonniemob.com

EDITORS

LETTER

REBECCA MOORE, ACTING EDITOR

@BabyMagazineUK

@baby_mag_insta

VISIT •

Baby bubble bath £4, childsfarm.com

@BabyMagazineUK

E,

Cotton T-shirt from £54, ilgufo.com

AG

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#babymagishere

P-TO-DAT

K

• B A B Y-

We’d love to see pics of you and your bump, or baby, with our current issue

PU

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Deluxe+ pod ¤170, sleepyheadofsweden.com

A Z I N E .C

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Activity toy £16, mamasandpapas.com

And of course a new arrival sees a wealth of celebratory gifts. We’ve searched high and low for some of the most regal delights that’ll have gift-givers – and recipients – weak at the knees. See it for yourself on page 54.

For me, Easter is celebrated by a family gathering around the dining table, tucking into a delicious Sunday roast, followed by an unruly, all-ages egg hunt in the garden. This year I’m going to whip up infant nutritionist Alice Fotheringham’s Honey Almond Butter Granola Cups (p.88), in a (perhaps futile) attempt to balance out the chocolate intake.

Last but not least, we’ve teamed up with Bonnie & Betty to offer one little angel a modelling contract with the agency. Simply put your beautiful babe forward for Baby of the Month, all the details on page 14.

Happy spring to one and all!

KEE

Baby Carrier Mini £79, babybjorn.co.uk

As the daffodils perched on my coffee table shine bright, I can say with great pleasure that spring has sprung, which I’m sure has come as a relief to many, especially those looking after an energetic little one. The days of being confined to your house and countless softplay visits are over; it’s time to dust off your stroller, don your baby carrier and venture out.

This April is even more special than usual, and that’s down to the most talked about bump being due to pop any day now.

Meghan’s pregnancy has been one of the most deliberated over ever, and I have to say I’m pretty excited myself; so much so, we’ve dedicated an issue to it. From the get-go there’s been an eagle eye on Markle and at every sighting she’s oozed effortless glamour.

Royal author Katie Nicholl talks us through Meghan’s stylish pregnancy and how the Duchess is already making her mark on royal motherhood on page 50.

With talk of a gender neutral nursery for Baby Sussex, interiors guru Ali Howard shares her fave fit-for-a-royal finds for both classic and modern baby rooms. Check it on page 84.

@baby_magazine_uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 11

Y LL, RO AL AUT

NI

KATIE

CHAR LO

Where were you born?

Billinge hospital. Up north!

Any fun easter plans?

I’d like to book a holiday, but so far I’ve signed my four-year-old daughter up to an Annie workshop, which I’m actually quite jealous of.

The best thing about motherhood?

Cuddles and pure, unconditional love. Thank god for that part as the rest can be hard work!

Check out Charlotte’s styling skills in our baby fashion shoot on p.42

O CH

R HO

Where were you born?

I’m a Brussel sprout.

Any fun easter plans?

We’re now based in the Algarve, Portugal. We have some friends coming to stay with us and plans for an Easter egg hunt, of course.

The best thing about motherhood?

Seeing the kids happy and discovering new things. And their cuddles and kisses!

Rowena Carr-Allinson and family head to Corsica, read all about it out on p.94

EWLEY, STYL EK IS T T

T

LLINSO RR-A N, T CA

WRITER VEL RA

ROW EN A

CONTRIBUTORS

Where were you born?

Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading.

Any fun easter plans?

At Easter I’m likely to be outside a London hospital waiting for Baby Sussex to arrive! My latest book Harry and Meghan Life Loss and Love comes out in April too, which is exciting.

The best thing about motherhood?

Someone once told me being a parent is like having Christmas every day, and it’s true.

Katie discusses Meghan’s pregnancy on p.50

When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment

-DATE, VI S -TO

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KEEP U P

BABY ONLINE

B

YM A G A ZI N

We talk about all things pregnancy and parenting

Expert advice from medical professionals to keep parents in the know Head online to check out our fabulous selection of competitions

O F TH E MO NTH

Sidney

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LILY’S LENS PHOTOGRAPHY

Adorable South East London resident Sidney lives with mummy, Charlotte, and Daddy, Mike. His favourite toys are anything car- train- or truck-shaped.

Dancing to Baby Shark SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! The winner of our May Baby of the Month will not only feature here, but WIN a contract with renowned baby and children’s model agency Bonnie & Betty. Opening their books only twice a year, and applicants in the thousands, this is a unique opportunity to earn your adorable baby a modelling contract.

WANT TO SEE YOUR BABY HERE? UPLOAD YOUR FAVOURITE SNAP AT BABY-MAGAZINE.CO.UK/BABY-OF-THE-MONTH Entries close at 11:59pm on 6 March 2019. For more information see bonnieandbetty.com.

14 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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NEWS

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-DATE, VI S -TO

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KEEP U P

Nathalie Lété, the Paris-based artist best known for her whimsical depictions of animals and nature, has collaborated with H&M on a collection for both baby and child. Clothing, shoes and accessories have been brought to life through fantasy jungle prints, featuring chameleons, tigers, birds and cat characters hiding amongst colourful flower and foliage patterns. Sizes range from four months up to 10 years old. Available from 7 March, hm.com

B

YM A G A ZI N

TACKLE THE CHALLENGES OF PARENTHOOD HEAD-ON WITH ANNA WILLIAMSON’S LATEST BOOK, BREAKING MUM & DAD: THE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO PARENTING ANXIETY. HELPFUL, HUMOROUS AND HONEST, IT OFFERS ADVICE TO ALL NEW MUMS AND DADS. FROM STRUGGLING TO LOVE YOUR BABY TO RELATIONSHIP CHANGES, NO TOPIC IS TOO TABOO. £8.99, BLOOMSBURY

baby-magazine.co.uk | 17

NEWS

Time for a change

The Choose Gentle campaign from Johnson’s Baby has seen it reformulate all of its existing products, alongside the launch of up to 50 new ones, which have been designed to fit into four age categories, with parent-friendly pumps rather than fiddly caps, and pop-open lids rather than film seals. Cottontouch – its latest newborn line – is blended with real cotton and has the perfect pH balance for baby’s sensitive skin. johnsonsbaby.co.uk

HOME GROWN

Boden’s latest British-inspired collection has arrived just in time for the new royal baby.

The nostalgic pieces feature embroidered corgis, London bus motifs and ruffle details on cardigans, rompers, leggings and bonnets, all cast in unisex shades of ivory, dove grey, mint and navy. There are some gorgeous cashmere pieces too, which happen to be entirely machine washable – now that’s practical luxury! boden.co.uk

MONKEYING AROUND Loveable teething character Matchstick Monkey now stars in his first book. Matchstick Monkey Colours sees him on a jungle adventure, teaching little readers about colour, while following the glittery finger-trails to help develop hand-eye coordination. £6.99, matchstickmonkey.com

THE LATEST ADEN + ANAIS RANGE FEATURES GORGEOUS DESIGNS FOR EVERY KIND OF BABY. MUSLIN SQUARES, BANDANA BIBS, SLEEPING BAGS AND SWADDLES ARE CAST IN NEW PATTERNS, RANGING FROM TIGERS AND FLAMINGOS TO THE MOON. AND IF YOU CAN’T DECIDE ON ONE STYLE, THE DREAM BLANKETS FEATURE A DIFFERENT PRINT ON EACH SIDE. ADENANDANAIS.CO.UK

WIN A STYLISH MELOTOTE CHANGING BAG WITH METANIUM When you’re out with your little one, you need all your nappy changing essentials in one bag, so you can just pick it up and go. Metanium is giving away two MELOBABY Luxe Noir Twill Melotote Changing Bags (RRP £75) plus a Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion (ideal to keep in your changing bag to use when you’re away from home). Double action Metanium Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion protects and moisturises the skin to help prevent nappy rash. If nappy rash does strike, Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is licensed specifically to treat nappy rash. Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine, always read the label. metanium.co.uk

Enter online at baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions 18 | baby-magazine.co.uk

NEWS

BUMPING AROUND JoJo Maman Bébé has teamed up with personal trainer, influential vlogger and new mum Carly Rowena to design a workout line for expectant and breastfeeding mums. The pieces feature fast-wicking fabrics with antibacterial properties, as well as supportive belly bands and tops with nursing clips.

Shop the looks in store and online from March. From £25, jojomamanbebe.co.uk Leoma shares tips on how to style up kids’ bedrooms, inspired by her own children

BEST OF THE BLOGS

The internet is awash with information but these brilliant bloggers cut to the chase with honest and practical advice

STYLE THE CLUTTER

PHOTOGRAPHY: PETE COX PHOTOGRAPHY; ISTOCK

Home comforts

Bbhugme, creator of the awardwinning pregnancy and nursing pillows, has unveiled a new range of covers inspired by the brand’s Norwegian roots. Designed to complement stylish homes, options include ocean blue and forest green shades for the larger pregnancy pillow, and marble and leaf prints for the nursing version. Each super-soft cotton cover is toxin free.

From £25, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

SLEEP SCANDI

Danish furniture brand Leander has designed a stylish bedside cot for baby’s first months. The Linea Side-by-Side bed is height adjustable, sits on two wheels for easy transportation and has a mesh door that clicks down so you can easily check on your sleeping babe. Choose from oak, white and beech. From £309, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Interior obsessive Leoma Harper set up her blog and design service, Style The Clutter, after completing a course in subject. Through her posts, she helps readers transform their homes into stylish, functional spaces by identifying simple changes. There’s some great ideas for children’s spaces too, with posts on how she’s chosen to style her own two kids’ bedrooms. She’s also a dab hand with flowers, and runs her own floristry business, Harpers Bloom. styletheclutter.com

FREE FROM FAIRY Vicky Montague is a scientist, mum of two, freelance recipe developer and blogger who specialises in free-from food. After her daughter was diagnosed as coeliac at the age of three, Vicky set up the blog to share her quick and simple freefrom recipes with others who might be dealing with the condition. As well as gluten-free recipes, you’ll find ideas for dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free and soya-free dishes, from main meals and snacks to sweet treats and bread. freefromfairy.com

AMBLE & ASH Emma lives in the Northern Irish countryside with her husband, three kids and miniature dachshund, Ernie. She set up her lifestyle blog in 2013 to document the process of building their ‘forever home’, Little Wood. On the interiors tab, you’ll find room tours, as well as ideas for updating your own spaces. Her posting now includes travel – from local must-sees to farflung destinations. Be sure to check out her picture-perfect Instagram account, too. ambleandash.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 19

BABY’S SOCIAL EDIT When you’re on the go or grabbing a coffee with a moment to spare dip i a d et our dai

Top tweets

@baby_mag_insta @ANTIPODREAM

@soundstrue: Looking for some inspiration for the little yogi in your life? @sarahjanehinder’s ‘Yoga Whale’ is the perfect solution! Check out the new @BabyMagazineUK to see for yourself!

@MINNAPARIKKASHOES

@BiliaBabyUK: We’ve been featured! @BabyMagazineUK has got us feeling all warm and fuzzy! Our beautiful Bilia Moses Baskets have been featured in one of its baby photo shoots

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@LittleTigerUK: #HappyPublicationDay to @chapmanandwarnes! ‘With Your Paw In Mine’ is in shops today! Thanks to @BabyMagazineUK for the review

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parenting news and reviews, as well as honest and intimate conversations with experts about parenting.

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COMPETITION

WIN!

A BOORI COT BED C

hoosing the perfect cot for your new bundle of joy is no easy task – as you weigh up different styles, functionalities and cost. So perhaps this issue’s competition prize might help?!

For over 25 years Australian furniture brand Boori has stood for quality and innovation, with many of its hand-crafted range using the most natural resources available with many products made of premium, solid wood.

With its appealing two-tone Scandi-style design, the Pioneer Expandable cot bed makes a beautiful focal point for any nursery. Lovingly created and built with innovative technology that ensures a longer lifespan, when the time is right, the Pioneer Expandable can be easily transformed into a full-size single bed, using the easystore conversion kit included – meaning it can be used from birth up to around five years old. The dropside is safe and sturdy, while the adjustable base height allows parents easy access.

The Pioneer Expandable’s unique cot-totoddler-bed conversion method means the end result is the strongest and most stable bed for your budding child. Good luck!

Its attractive Scandinavianinspired, two-tone design makes for a stylish slumber spot

T&C’S: COMPETITION CLOSES AT 11:59PM ON 26 MARCH 2019.

boori.com

WORTH £549

To enter, visit baby-magazine.co.uk/competitions baby-magazine.co.uk | 21

In the Night Garden UK theatre tour

APRIL

21 APRIL

Happy Easter

1 RAINY DAYS

How do you plan to spend this weekend? Search for goodies at Daylesford Farm’s egg hunt at 10am. There’ll also be the chance to meet newborn lambs, decorate eggs and make floral crowns. £5, daylesford.com

April showers are the perfect excuse to update baby’s wet weather gear. Check out Frugi’s new Puddle Busters range for one-to-10-year-olds; this cute puffin print is sure to brighten up damp days. welovefrugi.com

dates for your

2 IN NATURE

Ideal for under-fives, Little Acorns: Toddle and Explore at Lyveden invites kids to explore this historic estate in Northamptonshire. Expect storytelling and plenty of crafts activities. £2, nationaltrust.org.uk

Puddle Buster suit £35, welovefrugi.com

3 LET’S LOL

Enjoy grownup laughs without booking childcare at Bring Your Own Baby at Earlsfield’s Tara Arts. Comics will be using adult material, so only tots aged 12 months and under will be admitted. Ha! £12.50, byobcomedy.com

BESPOKE NECKLACE MERCI MAMAN Win AFROM If you’re looking for an extra-special gift for baby, Merci Maman’s beautiful personalised jewellery is something she can treasure for years to come.

Perfect for a boy or a girl, this precious necklace includes a birthstone of your choice, a disc charm that can be engraved with baby’s name, and a boy or a girl charm to give it an extra bespoke touch.

Worth £149, mercimamanboutique.com.

Enter online at baby-magazine.co.uk/ competitions.

22 | baby-magazine.co.uk

DIARY

Pens at the ready – we have a few suggestions to keep you and baby busy this month

7 BUST A MOVE

Mummy and daddy ravers, rejoice! Big Fish Little Fish has partnered up with Camp Festival to host a superherothemed bash that’s fun for adults as well as kids. Taking place at Bristol’s Trinity Centre today, watch out for glitter cannons, giant bubbles and a super-cool multisensory dancefloor. From £8, bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk

12 SHOP SMART

The Baby and Toddler Show at Sandown Park in Surrey opens its doors, with plenty of big brands and boutique offerings exhibiting. There’ll also be experts providing free advice workshops on birth, feeding and finance. From £11, babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

13 PLAY TIME

Head to Birmingham NEC for Kidtropolis, a fun-packed event that’s filled with live shows, entertainment and special guest appearances.

Let your tots enjoy the vast soft play areas while older ones get stuck into obstacle courses, bumper cars and roller discos. Tickets from £10, kidtropolis.co.uk

20 TO GEORGE!

Get the patriotic celebrations started at the Feast of St George at London’s Trafalgar Square. Free to enter, there’ll be games, brass bands and a banqueting area.

26

CATCH A PINKY PONK In the Night Garden fans will love that the show’s going on its first ever UK theatre tour. Igglepiggle and co will come to life on stage from today, starting at Edinburgh’s King’s Theatre. From £17, nightgardenlive.com

28 KEEP CALM

Relax at the Calm Mamas Club event at Gilwell Park.

Designed for mums in need of self-care, it’ll include yoga, makeup tutorials and exclusive goody bags. £55, calm mamasclub. co.uk Chirping chick soft toy £9, johnlewis.com

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am Cam Copenhagen is an award-winning Danish high-end organic children’s interior brand creating delicate and poetic design for little loved ones.With a signature aesthetic combining contemporary Scandinavian minimalism with a classic architectural heritage and a subdued color palette, Cam Cam Copenhagen designs calm and harmonious environments that encourage peaceful and contemplative moments for babies and children. Cam Cam Copenhagen offers a wide range of quality products, simultaneously functional and beautiful, and always meeting the strictest safety standards. Incorporating tactile design and sensory stimulation, the collections support the child´s development, creativity and well-being. Sustainable thinking and organic production, enduring high-quality materials and timeless silhouettes are quintessential to the brand’s heartfelt philosophy of designing not only for the here and now, but for generations to come.

Find Cam Cam Copenhagen here: Liberty London, Regent Street London libertylondon.com, Pure Baby, 208 Fulham Road, London, Scandiborn scandiborn.co.uk, The Modern Nursery themodernnursery.com, Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly London, Natural Baby Shower naturalbabyshower.co.uk, Nubie nubie.co.uk Please visit camcamcopenhagen.com to find more retailers near you.

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LOVE S The colourful capsule collection includes traditional dresses, shorts sets and rompers

TRUE COLOURS

Following the success of its seriously stylish collaborations with House of Hackney and Muzunga Sisters, Spanish childrenswear label La Coqueta has partnered up with Sabine Getty. Taking inspiration from the jewellery designer’s expressive style and The Memphis Group’s vibrant patterns, the collection – which comes out in April – marries La Coqueta’s classic silhouettes with bold pops of red, yellow, green and blue. Perfect for standing out at the playground!

Sabine Getty x La Coqueta collection, from £49, lacoquetakids.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 25

SHOPPING

Bobo Choses dress £52, alexandalexa.com

Traverze stroller £199, uk.diono.com From a selection at merimeri.co.uk

SPRING FORWARD

Maileg pram £29, bijoulifestyle.co.uk

With Easter just round the corner, take colour inspiration from baby chicks, min-egg pastels and frolicking lambs

Meri Meri rattle £16.50, thismodernlife.co.uk

LEM

ON FR

ESH Cotton top from £12, next.co.uk

Water-resistant coat from £38, boden.co.uk

Tocoto Vintage bloomers £25, bodieandthenomad.com

Two-piece cotton set £59, lacoquetakids.com

Brambly Hedge – Spring Story £6.99, annaliv.co.uk

Linen-blend dress £65, caramel-shop.com

Kalon Studios cot £1,130, cuckooland.com

Babiators sunglasses £22.50, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 27

SHOPPING

NG BLU

FEELI

E

Mielasiela wooden teething toy £17, tulululittleone.com

Dress and bloomers set £69, lacoquetakids.com

Cotton T-shirt £12, jojomamanbebe.co.uk

Bone china table lamp £175, uk.originalbtc.com

Coco Go 3-in-1 bouncer £139.99, bloombaby.co.uk

Babidu playsuit £36, childrensalon.com From a selection at camcamcopenhagen.com

Cotton sleepsuit £16, thewhitecompany.com

Denim dungarees from £97, bonpoint.com

28 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Wrap baby up against those spring chills in the softest shades of sea foam, cerulean, cornflower and powder blue

Adapt carrier £119.90, ergobaby.co.uk

Cotton-blend sweatshirt £22, littlekitt.com

Nobodinoz sleeping bag £39.10, frenchblossom.com

Grimm’s stacking tower £13.96, babipur.co.uk

H T A B E H T N I S H G U A L E R MO

sm iles better . be d ul o sh es m ti th W e be li ev e ba

ll o f nat ur ally fu ed ck pa is th ba ou r baby bu bble ve lo ped to care de y ll ia ec sp d an s de ri ved ingr ed ie nt litt le o n es. fo r n ew bo rn s an d su itable fo r en ev ’s it , le nt ge d It ’s so m ild an m ay safe fo r peo ple w ho d an IN SK ve ti si n se be pr o n e to ecze m a.

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Hand - engraved Jeweery

M A D E B Y MUMS, FOR MUMS mercimamanboutique.com Free shipping worldwide

SHOPPING

J

ITE

UST WH

Dandelion-print baby nest £94.95, camcamcopenhagen.com

Plan Toys sheep £20, kidly.co.uk

Cotton dress from £148, bonpoint.com

Fiona Walker wall decoration £63, hurnandhurn.com

Sheepskin pram liner £95, binibamba.com

Cashmere bonnet £30, boden.co.uk

Rattan crib £695.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Merino romper £65, shirleybredal.com

Freshen up your little one’s wardrobe with rich wools and cottons in shades of alabaster, ivory and cream

Merino onesie £59.95, smallsmerino.co.uk

Early Days shoes £29, childrensalon.com

From a selection at belleenfant-boutique.co.uk

Organic cotton T-shirt £15.90, frombabieswithlove.org

Organic Zoo bodysuit £28, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 31

SHOPPING

P

REIGN

URPLE

Kuling jacket £33, alexandalexa.com

Molo dress £40, childrensalon.com

From a selection at yellowpelota.com

New Balance trainers £49, melijoe.com

This season, why not sweeten up the nursery with pretty shades of lilac, lavender and violet?

Knitted set £25, riverisland.com

Lifefactory bottle £18, kidly.co.uk

Knitted rattle £6.50, pebblechild.com

Cotton trousers £59, caramel-shop.co.uk

Xplory pushchair £979, stokke.com

Woven Moses basket £141, plumandsparrow.com

Little People, Big Dreams: Emmeline Pankhurst £10, themodernnursery.com

Verity Jones clip £6, libertylondon.com

Tulle tutu dress £105, tutudumonde.com

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!

D L I M E B O BORN T

H E RE ’S A W IL D ID E A.

at ’s packed fu ll th R SE RI U ST OI M a t How abou gr ed ie nts an d in d ve ri de ly al ur at of n to care fo r sp ec ially deve lo ped es? n ew bo rn s an d babi se n siti ve skin AN D r fo le ab it su en ev it ’s BE PRON E TO ecze m a.

AY M HO W E PL O PE r safe fo ch ilds farm .co M

INTERVIEW

Katherine’s thrilled when she ds ra ds that she ikes to dress baby Xander in Cotton printed sweatpants £12, newbiestore.com The jump from a family of th ree to family of four was a big – but wel come – chan ge Daughter Aaliyah is a real girly girl

Husband Andrew is a brilliant co-parenting partner

MY ESSENTIALS You’re mum to Aaliyah, three, and Xander, who turns one in April. How did you find the jump from one to two children?

I think it was harder going from one to two than from nought to one! The instant connection and love between them is amazing though. It doesn’t matter what’s happening in the day, seeing them interact and kiss each other is just the best thing ever. It’s made us feel complete and I know that Aaliyah has got her friend for life.

Would you like any more?

I’ve enjoyed becoming a mum more than I ever thought possible, so in that respect I’d like to have enough for a choir but I think, because both my husband and I work, two’s probably a good number for us – I want to have time to properly give myself to them. Xander has been such a good baby that it makes me wonder if I could do it again, but when I think about it logically, we’re done.

KATHERINE JENKINS

from Lifetime Beds, which is made to grow with her, and put a canopy over it, with fairy lights and butterflies, so it’s very sweet.

When I was pregnant with Xander I didn’t want to design his nursery until I knew who he was; in the end we went for pastels and lots easier, so I’m thrilled when I find of animals in the hope that he’d designers that I like for boys. follow in our footsteps, as my husband and I are really And what about their Lion wall decoration into conservation. bedrooms? £74.95, fionawalkerengland.com Aaliyah’s is very Is music a big girly, like her. part of your We recently kids’ lives, bought her a given your big-girl bed career?

It’s a massive part of their lives.

I was on extensive tours when they were both in my tummy, so they’ve got so much experience already!

They enjoy music – when I’m home, I sing to them at bedtime and we sit at the piano, but I’m very much of the mind that I don’t want to push them in any

The classical singer talks motherhood, kids’ interiors and why she’ll never push her children into musical careers Where do you like to shop for your little ones’ clothes?

I’m quite old fashioned in how I like them to look. We have a good friend who makes old-school tea dresses, so I love to put Aaliyah in those for parties. I also like Trotters and Zara, as well as Baby Ralph Lauren and Newbie for Xander. I find dressing a girl a lot The London Palladium will host one night of Katherine’s 2019 tour

baby-magazine.co.uk | 35

INTERVIEW Katherine now pushes Aaliyah and Xander together in this double stroller Bugaboo Donkey2 Twin pushchair £1,430, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Her two little ones had an instant love and connection

Katherine says motherhood has made her a better person

How do you go about achieving a work-life balance?

It’s a learning curve! My husband and I co-parent and he’s brilliant in that respect. With our jobs we plan quite far in advance, so when one of us is working the other’s parenting and vice versa.

36 | baby-magazine.co.uk

How did you find pregnancy?

I was lucky that both pregnancies were good; I didn’t have mood swings or sickness. I got tired like everybody else, but thank goodness I was able to continue with my work – I really feel for women who have acute sickness.

I didn’t love pregnancy, but it is really good for your voice – it relaxes the vocal chord muscles and makes you sing Katherine and Andrew love a date night at the theatre

in a completely different way; everything’s richer, fuller, louder.

What do you do for date night?

My husband’s great – he’s a good cook so he might make me a special meal. We usually go into London, try new restaurants and go to the theatre or an exhibition.

Has parenting been everything you’d hope it would be?

It’s been more than I hoped it would be! When you’re pregnant, some people like to share their horror stories, and I remember feeling really overwhelmed. I now make a point of telling pregnant friends the good stuff. It’s hard to put into words, but the love you’ll feel is off the scale. It’s made me a better version of myself; I’m more patient, understanding and thoughtful.

Katherine Jenkins’ tour, An Evening with Katherine Jenkins will be at The London Palladium on 18 May. Her new album Guiding Light is out now

INTERVIEW: ANNIE QUINTON. PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK; INSTAGRAM.COM/REALKATHJENKINS

What are your parenting Confiture dress essentials? £52, trotters.co.uk Books are perfect when they get bored in the car and I have audio books on Do they come on my phone. I’ve got the Bugaboo tour with you?

Donkey2, and the Babyzen Yoyo, They don’t because I think it which is a lifesaver at the airport. disrupts their schedule too much, but they come to shows that are closer to home. During rehearsals, Aaliyah walks around the orchestra like it’s normal – I didn’t see an orchestra until I was in my teens, so it’s amazing that she can see these live instruments up close! I get a lot of joy out of sharing it with her. direction. My parents supported me by not pushing me, so I want to do the same with them. I don’t mind if they’re musical or not.

C

am Cam Copenhagen is an award-winning Danish high-end organic children’s interior brand creating delicate and poetic design for little loved ones.With a signature aesthetic combining contemporary Scandinavian minimalism with a classic architectural heritage and a subdued color palette, Cam Cam Copenhagen designs calm and harmonious environments that encourage peaceful and contemplative moments for babies and children. Cam Cam Copenhagen offers a wide range of quality products, simultaneously functional and beautiful, and always meeting the strictest safety standards. Incorporating tactile design and sensory stimulation, the collections support the child´s development, creativity and well-being. Sustainable thinking and organic production, enduring high-quality materials and timeless silhouettes are quintessential to the brand’s heartfelt philosophy of designing not only for the here and now, but for generations to come.

Find Cam Cam Copenhagen here: Liberty London, Regent Street London libertylondon.com, Pure Baby, 208 Fulham Road, London, Scandiborn scandiborn.co.uk, The Modern Nursery themodernnursery.com, Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly London, Natural Baby Shower naturalbabyshower.co.uk, Nubie nubie.co.uk Please visit camcamcopenhagen.com to find more retailers near you.

w w w. c a m c a m c o penha g en. c o m @camcam_cph

/camcamcopenhagen

EASTER READS Emma O’Donovan ROU N DS U P H ER FAVOU RITE R E ADS FOR THIS EGGS- CELLENT TIM E OF YE AR

EGG

By Jonathan Litton and Fhiona Galloway This is early learning delivered in the most delicious package: a jolly rhyming story about Bunny and friends is brought to life with a host friendly faces and fun finger holes. £5.99, Little Tiger Press

BOOKS

This egg-shaped read will ou a d our itt e o e with the o s o spri

THE FIRST EGG HUNT

By Adam Guillain, Charlotte Guillain and Pippa Curnick Easter Bunny steals the glory when Chick organises the first ever egg hunt. Serious teamwork is deployed in this hilarious story that’s perfect for any time of year. £6.99, Egmont

WE’RE GOING ON AN EGG HUNT ILLUSTRATION: FHIONA GALLOWAY

By Laura Hughes

With robust flaps and delicate illustrations, this delightful board book is the perfect gift for baby’s first Easter. £6.99, Bloomsbury

HAT TRICKS

By Satoshi Kitamura

Super-stylish and utterly charming, this beautifully illustrated tale introduces us to Hattie, a magical star of the stage.

What on earth will she pull out of her hat next? £11.99, Scallywag Press

HUG ME LITTLE BUNNY Little bunnies will be squealing with delight as this finger-puppet book will provide hours of cuddlesome entertainment. A really comforting and fun read for the very young. £6.99, Chronicle Books

I LOVE YOU, LITTLE CHICK

By Róisín Hahessy The perfect egg-shaped addition

to any bookshelf, this sturdy board read celebrates the wonders of spring. A book filled to the brim with sunshine and joy. £6.99, Little Tiger Press

Swedish homeware designer, Ingela P Arrhenius. £6.99, Nosy Crow

MY FUNNY BUNNY

By Alex T Smith

By Christine Roussey

When a boy receives an unusual looking bunny as a gift, he learns to accept its differences. A sweet simple story about love, kindness and embracing imperfections. £11.99, Abrams Books

WHERE’S MR DUCK?

By Ingela P Arrhenius

Bright bold felt flaps reveal a myriad of friendly creatures. This book is part of an award-winning series created by the renowned

CLAUDE: ALL ABOUT KEITH Will Claude be able to save the day by reuniting Keith the duckling with his family? A hilarious read from start to finish. £6.99, Hodder Children’s Books

A LITTLE BIT BRAVE

By Nicola Kinnear

In this beautifully illustrated story, Logan takes big steps in order to explore the magical forest and brave all of the amazing adventures it has to offer. £6.99, Scholastic

baby-magazine.co.uk | 39

PROFILE

GET THE LOOK Babyzen YoYo £389, johnlewis.com

Little Dish toddler meals £2.35, waitrose.com

Make My Day bib £14.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk

INSTAGRAM INSPIRATION

Tripp Trapp chair £178, stokke.com

@NATASHACORRETT

Bamboo suction plate £14.99, bamboobamboo.co

Author of the Honestly Healthy cook books and mum to Rudy, Why did you start blogging?

During my maternity leave, I turned to online mum communities for advice and inspiration. However, I found the only support in the weaning process was an Instagram feed of fellow mums, so I created a dedicated platform. Mumsknowbest.com is for parents who love to nourish their families with delicious food.

We all have great recipes to share, so why not share them in a space where everyone can enjoy them?

Who do you like to follow on Instagram?

A few of my favourites are @happypear, @babyledfeeding and @naturedockids What do you love about the platform?

I love the fact you can collaborate with like-minded people and brands on projects you’re passionate

40 | baby-magazine.co.uk

about. I’m excited to be working with Little Dish (@LittleDishUK), which makes quick, fresh toddler meals packed with lovely tastes and goodness. Rudy’s delighted – he loves the Macaroni Cheese with spinach and grated courgette stirred through it.

Speaking of food, what’s Rudy’s favourite meal?

Rudy loves strong tastes like sardines and smoked mackerel paté and hates sweet food. His favourite recipe of mine is Green Patties, which is on my blog.

What advice do you have for parents of fussy eaters?

Let babies learn to feed themselves. And if they don’t want to eat, don’t worry they will when they’re hungry.

Toddler food behaviour is all about testing boundaries.

The biggest mistake I’ve made is distracting Rudy at mealtimes when encouraging him to eat.

Ergobaby Omni 360 £154.90, naturalbabyshower.com

THIS PAGE: Inès wears denim romper, £48, Bobo Choses at AlexandAlexa. Cotton-mix socks, £18, Caramel. Leather sandals, from £40, Salt-Water. Cotton bonnet, £16, Boden. Woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

RIGHT PAGE: Taylor wears knitted dress, £97, Caramel.

Merino bonnet, £26, Marlon & Little Friends. Blue jute rug, £23, Smallable Home. Other woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

WEAVE

magic

PHOTOG R APHY: JONATHAN MALPASS ST YLING: C HAR LOT TE KEWLEY G ROOMING: S H E IL A CARTON

THIS PAGE: Omari wears cotton romper, £65, Caramel. Cotton jumper, £46, Bobo Choses.

Woven rugs, Edit 58.

RIGHT PAGE: Georgina wears cotton top (part of gift set), £74, Caramel. Knitted bloomers, £39.99, Bonnet à Pompon.

Cotton bonnet, £17.99, Love Roo. Woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

LEFT PAGE: Inès wears cotton romper, £97, Caramel. Cotton-mix socks, £14, Tocoto Vintage.

Leather sandals, £40, Tocoto Vintage. Crochet rattle, £22, Anne-Claire Petit at Smallable.

Woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

THIS PAGE: Fraiser wears, cotton T-shirt, £46, Bobo Choses.

Cotton trousers, £40, Bobo Choses. Woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: MODELS: ARTHUR, FRAISER, GEORGINA, INÈS, OMARI, TAYLOR. MODEL AGENCIES: AK MODELS, BRUCE & BROWN, TINY ANGELS. ART DIRECTOR: CHLOË COLLYER.

Babyopathy 2nd Edition

Relaxed Mum, Contented Baby Available from May Every mum deserves a little relaxation when nurturing a new life...

Oils available via www.babyopathy.com

BABY TALK

I

My son is almost out of these onesies and I can’t bear it. For me, a little onesie says “baby” and Mini La Mode’s Peter Rabbit collaboration is so cute. My son has been living in this blue one.

We love reading Peter Rabbit in the evening, and he’s always pulling at his onesie and pointing at the Beatrix Potter character.

Pima Peter Rabbit cotton footsie, £48, mini-la-mode.com

love a good Easter egg hunt and spend hours creating the perfect trail. My children love it, and each year it gets more elaborate; I’ve even done one where they have to find jigsaw pieces, which when to put together make up the final clue. I put out jars of chocolate raisins as rabbit poo and marshmallows as bunny tails, and get a bit trigger-happy with the novelty cookie cutters, making far too many sandwiches of various shapes that inevitably get eaten by me! I’ve even threatened to set up a rabbit petting zoo in the garden in the past; my husband thinks I’m potty, but he always get into the spirit. This year, I’m going to make Easter Bunny footprints with a template and talcum powder. I’m getting excited already!

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG; ISTOCK

Leo’s

PEANUT

Instead of an event this month, I’d like to highlight an amazing app. Peanut, which has the tagline ‘Meet as Mamas. Connect as Women’.

This app helps you meet like-minded mums out there, make friends and find out about locally-run activities. peanut-app.io

LITTLE LUXURIES OU R COLUM NIST Leonora Bamford SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE THINGS THIS MONTH

Trotters always steals my heart when it comes to Easter and I’ve fallen in love with this little Liberty-print rabbit tee. It’s utterly adorable.

Confiture T-shirt, £22, trotters.co.uk

Anything from this wonderful brand makes a party feel even more special, and I can’t wait to get my hands on these little bunny-earred gift bags for my Easter egg hunt. They look so pretty in pastel shades.

Gift bags (set of three), £10, merimeri.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 49

PREGNANCY

MAKE LIKE

MEGHAN nce again, the world is on baby exclusive Lindo Wing maternity hospital in watch. In a matter of weeks, the London to give birth, Meghan and Harry have Duke and Duchess of Sussex will made a point of doing things their way. become parents and history will be made.

Meghan has ripped up the royal rule This royal baby, the new seventh in line to the book and her pregnancy style has been British throne, will be the first mixed-race child compared to Kim Kardashian. That tight-fitting born into the 1,000 year old House of Windsor. creamH&M dress she wore on an engagement With three living generations of royal heirs, was sexy by royal standards. it’s unlikely that Baby Sussex will be a future While the late Princess Diana covered up monarch. Nonetheless, there’s a global interest in tent-like frocks and Duchess Kate took a in Prince Harry, his American superstar wife decidedly conservative approach to dressing and their first born child. her bump, Meghan’s choices have been more When the pregnancy was announced the daring. The elegant black one-shouldered couple had just touched down in Sydney to Givenchy gown she wore at the British Fashion begin their first overseas tour and the news Awards seemed to be her way of showing that prompted a media frenzy.

The Duchess made a stylish Meghan’s bump and how she dressed appearance at the British it was scrutinised, and there was much Fashion Awards excitement about whether the couple were having a boy or a girl. They claimed they didn’t know, although Harry let slip that he’d love a girl.

Privately they penned a shortlist of names, and designed a gender neutral nursery at their new home Frogmore Cottage in Windsor in Meghan’s favourite shades of grey and white and in eco-friendly vegan paints.

From their fashionable new home (the Sussexes caused a stir when it was announced they were leaving Kensington Palace) to breaking tradition by reportedly not choosing the

O

50 | baby-magazine.co.uk

pregnancy wasn’t going to rein in her style.

Unlike the Duchess of Cambridge, who suffered with debilitating morning sickness throughout her three pregnancies Meghan has sailed through the first two trimesters feeling fit, well and happy. Even when she was called a “fat lady” by a well-meaning member of the public on a recent engagement she laughed it off, saying “I’ll take it.”

Meghan has taken a holistic attitude in the run-up to the birth, having acupuncture and reading up on hypnobirthing (she wants a natural birth if possible). And apparently even explored the option of a home birth, which was ruled out for safety reasons.

Where the couple plan to have their baby is being kept a closely guarded secret but Frimley Park, which is close to Windsor and where the Countess of Wessex had her baby, is a likely option.

After the birth, the couple will take some time off. Meghan’s planning to take at least six months’ maternity leave while the Duke will also take a break from official engagements.

Friends say they plan to be hands on when it comes to parenting, and don’t want to hire a full-time nanny or maternity nurse. Instead, Meghan’s mother Doria Ragland is coming over from LA to help the couple.

“Meghan seems to be a strong, independent woman and no doubt

PHOTOGRAPHY: TRISTAN FEWINGS/BFC/GETTY IMAGES; DPPA/SIPA USA/PA IMAGES; MARC GIDDINGS/THE SUN/PA WIRE/PA IMAGES

ROYAL AUTHOR Katie Nicholl R EVE AL S H OW TH E DUCH E SS OF SUSSE X IS ALR E ADY MAKING H ER MAR K ON ROYAL MOTH ER HOOD

PREGNANCY

DO IT LIKE A DUCHESS Take tips from Meghan’s pregnancy wardrobe to dress your bump in style

With its empire-line waist and peplum details, this dress is great for styling out a constantlycha i pre a c ure Trench coat £1,459, burberry.com

Tailored dress £109, seraphine.com

Open bracelet $65, taijewelry.com

Fine-knit dress £24.99, hm.com

Wool coat £1,435, stellamccartney.com

Leather tote bag £525, strathberry.com

Aquazurra pumps £445, net-a-porter.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 51

PREGNANCY

MEGHAN HAS TAKEN A HOLISTIC APPROACH IN THE RUN-UP TO THE BIRTH she’ll bring her baby up in that same way,” says Heidi Skudder, founder of The Parent and Baby Coach. “Harry’s probably also keen to have as much family involvement as possible.

Given Meghan is looking into holistic therapies for recovering from childbirth, she’ll likely see the first few months as the ‘fourth’ trimester and spend her time bonding with baby. She’s likely to breastfeed and how long she does this for will depend on how quickly her royal duties recommence. Kate’s a fan of routines, so perhaps Meghan will take advice from her sister-in-law, or perhaps she’ll take more of an attachment-parenting approach to the way she brings up her baby, as that’s probably more the way her mum parented her.”

It’s a far cry from the days when royal babies were taken into the care of maternity nurses and governesses behind the closed doors of palaces. Harry’s mother, the late Princess of Wales broke the mould by taking charge of the royal nursery and when Prince George was born, the Cambridge’s retreated to the Middletons’ rather than Kensington Palace so that they could take advantage of the loving support of Kate’s family.

When it comes to baby fashion, the couple will likely be more relaxed, according to the Cambridge’s go-to childrenswear designer Rachel Riley. ‘They’ll need to conform to royal protocol, so I expect Meghan will opt for classic styles, mixed with a simple, Californianstyle soft jersey pieces in neutral colours. Her own style is quite minimal and beautifully executed, so I’m sure she will continue with this choice for her baby,’ says Rachel.

Last year the Sussexes made the major decision to leave London for Windsor. Harry, who loves the countryside, is said to be keen to raise their child away from the spotlight that blighted his early years. He has previously said he wants any children he has to have as normal lives as they can, and that he’d do everything in his power to make this possible.

‘I wouldn’t be surprised if they have the baby with minimal fuss, issue a statement and release a photograph in their own time. They plan to be very private with regards to the baby,’ says one friend.

52 | baby-magazine.co.uk

SHOPPING

Leather brogues £40, youngsoles.co.uk

Lapino cashmere-mix cardigan £40, trotters.co.uk

The Very Hungry Caterpillar 50th Anniversary Collector's Edition £12.99, waterstones.com

Gift hamper £59, mamasandpapas.com

Knitted babygrow £54, pepaandcompany.com

Gold-plated personalised baby bracelet, from £49, mercimamanboutique.com

Cashmere blanket £92.95, ghhurt.com

Bronze feet casting from £900, wrightsonandplatt.com

Palace dolls house £399.95, letoyvan.com

54 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Cotton sleepsuit £32.50, babymori.com

SHOPPING

Royal delivery With Baby Sussex due any day now, we round up

Wooden bookends £40, dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

Highgrove rocking horse £5,600, stevensonbros.com

Personalised art print from £20, daisyandbump.co.uk

Bam Bam rattle £24.95, harrods.com

Cotton swaddle £15, adenandanais.co.uk

Baby gift set £75, bamford.com

Liewood teddy £16, naturalbabyshower.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 55

INTERVIEW

56 | baby-magazine.co.uk

INTERVIEW Rachel and husband Daniel haven’t yet revealed their baby daughter’s name

Weisz

words

ON E HALF OF A HOLLY WOOD POWER COU PLE, OSCAR-WIN NING AC TR E SS Rachel Weisz TALKS TO FR AN K GRICE ABOUT WHY BECOMING A MUM AGAIN AT TH E AGE OF 48 HAS BEEN H ER GR E ATE ST ACHIEVEM ENT YE T hen you think about it, it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise to find Rachel Weisz flying the flag for extending a family well into what is traditionally deemed the ‘later years’ of baby-making.

The London-born actress, wife of Daniel Craig and a mother for the second time having given birth to a baby girl at the start of September 2018, has lived her life wrapped in the values of a devoted family, a by-product of the experiences her parents went through.

It all goes back to 1938 when her father, George Weisz, a mechanical engineer from Hungary, and mother, Edith Teich, a teacher-turned-psychotherapist from Austria, were forced to flee their home country shortly before the breakout of World War II, in order to escape the Nazis and their abhorrent treatment of the Jews. “I think what they went through always cemented for me the idea that to do the best for those around you and to make tough, important decisions, is ultimately the role of a parent.

“I’ve always tried to live my life with that in mind, because if I’m a good parent then it’s a way that I can show respect to my

W

own parents too.”

That Weisz, now 48, is returning to 3am feeds, nappies and muslin cloths is remarkable given that her first-born, Henry Chance, is on the cusp of becoming a teenager. Born in May 2006, her son is the result of her previous relationship with American filmmaker and producer Darren Aronofsky, and has flourished into an impressive young man and, one would imagine, brilliant older brother.

Weisz said of her new arrival: “The preciousness of a new life and family means so much more now that I’m more mature and older. My son was a miracle and it was an incredible experience.

But doing it again now I’m older is very deep and very precious.

I’m very lucky.”

She continues: “I guess in many ways I’m just a late developer.

Henry came along when I was the wrong side of 35 and even in other things, it takes me a while to come round to certain ideas, such as marriage… I never thought that would be for me – it was all just a silly romantic ideal and I didn’t feel that would apply to me.

“I guess the moral of the story is never discount anything,

baby-magazine.co.uk | 57

INTERVIEW

THE PRECIOUSNESS OF A NEW LIFE AND FAMILY MEANS SO MUCH MORE NOW THAT I’M MATURE

and never suppose how you feel now is going to be how you feel in future. To have a new life around me, a little human, and to look forward to going through all those incredible experiences of seeing someone grow up, feels like such a gift.”

Weisz, for all the positivity and optimism she offers others who, like her, believe age to be secondary to that most natural of desires to have children, does like to retain an air of privacy over her life. That’s why the couple are yet to reveal the name of their new daughter, even if they’re happy to have been photographed out and about with her. Even when it comes to talking about her husband, the most recent 007, Weisz is coy. And yet, in what she does say about Craig – who brings his own daughter, Ella, 27, into the family unit – you get a sense of tremendous contentment.

“I’ve never felt comfortable chatting about Daniel,” Weisz says with a smile, “and our private life is private, but I understand made me feel Her happy family life has made Rachel more the interest. All I will say is guilty for some selective about her role choices I’m very happy.” time about acting, Certainly, someone as although I don’t accomplished as she has little need to blame him for that… it was looked upon very court the press, particularly when her art so differently back then. eloquently does all the talking. From a slew “I think he and my mother were both of brilliant early films across multiple genres, relieved when I started earning good money to a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her and they didn’t have to worry about me not moving turn as an outspoken Amnesty activist making a living at it. They always knew how in A Constant Gardener, to wowing audiences much I loved acting and they were very happy and critics onstage in the West End and on to see me find regular work and become Broadway, the New York-based star has successful because they knew it was a very consistently made good choices, even if her unstable profession,” she adds. “They were like father needed convincing… all parents in that respect and I’ll be exactly “I struggled with the fact that I felt I had the same… it’s only because we care.” disappointed him by choosing acting as a While Weisz admits the challenges of profession when he would have rather I’d becoming established were profound, and done something more serious with my life,” she often now looks back on her twenties she admits. “He hated the whole idea and that and wonders why, at times, she put herself

58 | baby-magazine.co.uk

“through hell”, she admits it was all for a reason. “I think becoming a parent was a big part of realising everything mattered less than I thought. When you become a mum your life simplifies overnight and you focus on basic things. I gained a lot of clarity and over the past few years it has been liberating to enjoy life with my husband and son and not worry about things that don’t matter,” she says.

That newfound confidence and contentment afforded Weisz the freedom to be more selective about the film and stage roles she took, although thoughts of work now are firmly on hold.

“You’re always trying to find the right balance between your professional and personal life, and there have always been times when it has been really hard to leave home for work,” she says. “I’m looking forward to not having to do that again for a while.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: JOHN SHEARER/GETTY IMAGES FOR PEOPLE MAGAZINE; MATT LEE; STARTRAKS/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK; MICHAEL BUCKNER/VARIETY/REX/SHUTTERSTOCK

Although very content, the couple like to keep their private life private

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ome to one of the most vital bird sanctuaries in Greece, Sani resort’s wetlands, gently rolling pine forests and hills give way to five miles of white sandy beach and lush gardens. Boasting an exquisite array of five-star hotels, 2019 will see the launch of impressive updates, including the Sani Suite Collection, which will bring a superior level of personalised service to guests’ journey, stay and departure. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from being able to pre-book tables in restaurants, spa treatments, crèche sessions, and activities for all ages. In addition to this, you can tailor your in-room amenities to meet your exact needs.

Ensuring families feel at home for their stay; Sani has teamed up with renowned baby consultant, Carol Mae Consulting. Guests can benefit from a bespoke baby and toddler advice programme; from adjusting children’s sleep and behavioural routines to a holiday

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Sumptuous suites offer families contemporary design and comfort

setting, to a list of extras that will transform your Sani suite into your home away from home. Not only that, but advice is also available before your trip’s even begun, with complimentary tips for your travel to Sani.

This special new complimentary service is offered to all Sani Suite Collection guests.

With your little one settled, the first stop has to be the new Family & Splash wading pool. Right next to Sani Beach’s playground, this is the place to go for some refreshing splash action. The pool’s specially designed to slow down eager water babies so that they stay safe while still having plenty of fun!

All of this splish-splashing around means guests big and small deserve a treat; and Sani’s brilliant new pop-up ice-cream van will certainly hit the spot! Be sure to grab a scoop as it travels around the resort. And the culinary treats don’t stop there: Sani has just announced its latest partnership with leading global baby and children’s food expert, Annabel Karmel. Launching a new world-class menu, little tums can enjoy healthy tasty meals – including vegan options – empowering families to enjoy good, nutritious food while on holiday. Guests can explore Annabel’s exclusive children’s menu across the resort’s restaurants; packed with a world of flavour, even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy!

2019 EXCLUSIVE OFFERS At Sani Beach, Sani Club and Porto Sani, two children under 12 can stay free. Guests are eligible for a free full-board upgrade if they stay at Sani Beach during 5-24 April or between 15 October to 2 November, and at Sani Club during 15-27 October. At Porto Sani you’re eligible for a free full-board upgrade for specific dates.

Guests staying in one-, two- and threebedroom suites across Sani Resort, in all deluxe suites of Sani Dunes and all suites of Sani Asterias receive complimentary Carol Mae Consulting service. Local airport transfers are also complimentary for direct online bookings. sani-resort.com

Little ones will love splashing in the many pools on offer

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LUXURY RETREAT & SPA

Upper House & Spa is a lovely romantic retreat where contemporary meets traditional architecture, to escape from it all in style and comfort.

Located in Craswall near Hay-on-Wye, it sits high up on Black Hill at the start of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

With its outstanding views and wonderful walks, it is the perfect escape for babymoon bliss or a serene family adventure.

Unwind, relax and revive in our spa overlooking the Monnow Valley, perhaps treat yourself to a pregnancy massage with one of our holistic therapists.

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Upper House & Spa

BABY TALK

“

ould you like to sit down?” Six words that, should you be with-child, are the best words you’ll hear all day. Or, if you’re not pregnant, nor have you been for almost eight months – you’ve just subsisted on a diet rich in almond croissants and mashed potato – though kind in their intention, these words can feel like a dagger to the gut. It’s a question that came in my direction as I gripped the rail, alone on the central line tube last week. “No, no, I’m fine”, I mouthed, clocking in my peripheral vision the young woman who’d offered her seat to me surreptitiously lifting her gaze up and down my body, to determine whether I was, indeed, pregnant or not.

I’d have been better equipped to laugh this off, or put it down to the chunky sweater I was wearing, had it not come just days after a masseuse enquired as to how “far along” I was, ahead of a treatment which she mistakenly believed was to be a pregnancy massage.

“No, no, I’m not pregnant,” I insisted as she invited me to cock my legs around a chair covered in towels. An administrative error. Sure. But I also wondered if perhaps the universe was trying to

THE GOOD STUFF

W

Though I’m dubious of oils that claim to tighten the skin, the practise of applying oil to the body has forced me to get on better terms with it. Plus, it smells like an alpine spa.

Susanne Kaufmann Resculpting Oil, £29, spacenk.com

DIARY OF A MUM part 9

I’ve tried all the shapewear. Thick, velcro straps. Painful multi-layered mesh. All in various shades of depressing beige. This is kind to the body while taking a good few cms off the waist.

The Outer Body, £95, heist-studios.com

I’m the Goldilocks of baby carriers, and have finally found the one that’s just right. It’s perfectly designed for frontfacing, and made of breathable materials for working up a sweat.

Ergo Omni 360 Cool Air Mesh, £154.90, ergobaby.co.uk

IN THIS IN STALM ENT, Joanna Ellner OPEN S U P ABOUT H ER R EL ATION SHIP WITH H ER POST-BABY BODY tell me something. It needn’t have bothered. I’ve thought about my body; almost every hour of every day since I had Noah.

I’m ashamed to say it. I have –

and in many ways still do – hated what I see in the mirror. I’m an intelligent, aware, enlightened woman. But I’m also plagued by an insidious disdain for my own physicality. Though I’ve slowly – very slowly – shrunk down, I’m still two or three stone heavier than I was. They said it’d go when I started breastfeeding. It didn’t.

They said it’d go when I stopped breastfeeding. It didn’t. My bump measured 50 weeks by Noah’s due date (hence the induction) and even six months later, my waistline was MIA and my stomach could pass for ‘hella pregnant’. But with the texture of an expired balloon.

Even now, I peel back the layers

of my clothing to reveal a lower stomach that looks as though it’s been violently mauled by a tiger, such is the fervency of the stretch marks that ripple across it. I smugly thought I’d escaped them entirely, but then, nine months along, I woke up one day and there they were.

I know I should write something here about them being battle scars. About having the body of a warrior – it powered through a 36-hour labour, only to battle sepsis and nerve damage for weeks to come. But the honest truth is, I wish it’d been stronger.

Fitter. Thinner. Yes. I wish to be thinner. And in those five words,

I feel revulsion for undoing the work of the sisterhood in fighting against the culturally ingrained body ideals that leave women feeling, less-than, unworthy, not good enough for generations.

I’m simply not as evolved as I thought I was. Nor am I immune to societal conditioning, clearly.

So as 2019 dawned, I committed to change. I now attend a weekly spin class. And hold the front page, I actually enjoy it. I’m eating well. And I hope that by putting these gloomy feelings on paper, feelings I’ve admitted to no one, I can purge myself of them for good. In the meantime, there are control pants.

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TOT GEAR

INTO THE WILD

February sees the launch of The Paloma X Cosatto collection, a wildly creative collaboration between Paloma Faith and quirky British baby brand Cosatto. Choose between the ultra-cool leopard-print Hear us Roar design for the Special Edition Giggle pushchair (£599.95), or the tiger-embellished Anarchy in the Nursery for the Wow pushchair, featuring traditional embroidery and enamel gold trims (£999.95). paloma-faith.cosatto.com

SMALL BUT MYTI Nuna’s latest car seat The MYTI grows with your child, transforming up and out from harness car seat to booster seat, all the while remaining i-Size compliant. With allover impact protection and a nine-position adjustable headrest and shoulder width it’ll see your child from 15 months to 12 years. To top it off, its clever integrated harness holders and easy one-click unbuckle design make travel stress free for parents. £275, nuna.eu/uk

tot gear

NEWS COOL AN D CLEVER BABY KIT FOR N EW FAMILY LIFE

BT has announced the launch of the s rst voice co tro ed art a o itor co ecti with oth e a a d oo e ssista t he atest o art o e s ew products it co es with either a or co our video scree sk e a or oo e ssista t to p a a u a take the urser s te perature or tur otio detectio o From £129.99, shop.bt.com

New Zealand-based brand Mountain Buggy now offers The Luxury collection: a range of strollers and matching accessories in four iconic styles. We especially love the Savile Row-inspired herringbone – a twill-weave fabric combined with classic tailoring, available for both the Duet and Urban Jungle models. mountainbuggy.com

MUCH-LOVED AMERICAN STROLLER BRAND UPPABABY HAS ANNOUNCED THAT ITS FIRST CAR SEAT IS COMING SOON. THE MESA I-SIZE INFANT CAR SEAT IS R129 COMPLIANT AND CLEVERLY DESIGNED FOR EASY INSTALLATION. UPPABABY.COM

62 | baby-magazine.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLIOT MORGAN

TAILORED FIT

REVIEW

THE REVIEW

FIR ST-TIM E PAR ENTS Louise AN D Diego TE ST DRIVE TH E TH U LE SLEEK WITH BABY DAUGHTER Sadhbh

B

efore Sadhbh came along we both decided on a light travel buggy. Living in the city, the practicality of a lightweight stroller was appealing, and after we’d been on six flights and countless trips via TFL it seemed like it was serving its purpose. Although soon enough we were apologising profusely to our little baby girl bobbing up and down over cobbles. We decided something with a tad more suspension was needed, so we could go on ‘real walks’ as a family of three. We went for the Thule Sleek.

GOOD LOOKING? Admittedly, we did think the buggy was very big at first, even nicknaming it The Tank, as our daughter looked so small in it. But the sleek black chassis and cool grey fabrics, means that while it may be large, it’s certainly no eyesore.

Plus, the big wheels make it look quite sporty!

PRACTICALITY AND DRIVEABILITY Our first trip out was to Hampstead Heath, and from the get go the Thule was noticeably smooth on any and every surface; registering no difference between even pavements and gravel paths. It was lovely to be able to wander around the parks varied terrains without worrying about waking Sadhbh. It was also important for us that the seat could be changed from parent-facing to forward-facing, which is easily done with the Thule.

As you’d expect it’s a two-person job when it comes to any steps but it’s very easy to The Thule Sleek, AKA The Tank is suprisingly easy to push uphill

Sadhbh always manages to doze off on family walks, whatever the terrain

push, even uphill. The big wheels have shown their purpose but of course, because of its size, narrow shopping aisles are a challenge.

It’s only when we began using the buggy every day that the little extras became noticeably convenient, like the magnetic fasteners on the peep hole in the hood and the basket underneath that make so much more sense than zips or Velcro. The brake’s easy to use, and even the front wheels can lock. The aforementioned basket holds a neverending supply of bags – it’ll certainly come in handy for summer picnics!

COMFORT We do still call it The Tank, but not because it’s big; rather because Sadhbh seems very safe in it; every time we take her out she falls asleep so she must find it very comfortable! It’s also very easy to recline the seat into a lying down position when she falls asleep upright, with

An additional carrycot can be added to give a from-birth option

three positions available. The handle height can be adjusted easily for comfort too, which we soon realised is very useful when pushers vary in height.

THE VERDICT In the long term, the Thule buggy will serve the purpose of being a hugely practical piece of kit that’ll grow and adapt with us as a family, as you’re able to add a second seat. Overall we’re really happy with it, and it’s made getting out and about on longer family walks a real joy. We wanted a buggy with better suspension and this certainly ticks that box – and many more besides.

From £780, thule.com

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Unique clothes for your little Pickles, handmade in the UK

www.pickle.co.uk picklegoods

picklegoodsuk

picklegoodsuk

1

PARTIES

Your own little Easter bunny will look adorable in these springtime pieces

HOP TO IT

PARTIES

These décor ideas make ideal finishing touches

with Carole Middleton

2 Cake Pops From £3.50, popbakery.co.uk

3

4

Make this spring eggs-travaganza even more exciting by throwing a party to remember Fake grass table runner £15.99, partypieces.co.uk

Paper lanterns (pack of three) £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

I

t’s time to grab your basket and don your best bonnet because Easter’s just around the corner! And I can’t think of a more perfect way to welcome in the spring than with a themed celebration at home or in the garden. From egg hunting to crafts, make time for some family fun, filling the afternoon with activity and sweet treats.

Firstly, make sure your party is adorned with seasonal décor – colourful baskets filled with painted eggs, spring wreaths, a bright or faux-grass table runner and lots of animal-themed details all ooze Easter fun. Don’t forget bunny ears and decorated hats for all those photo opps!

Get crafty with an egg-decorating station. Fill a table with paints, pens and activity sheets, and dish out the hardboiled eggs. If you’re worried about giving your toddler real eggs, you can also buy lightweight faux versions – and even paint-your-own egg kits – from most craft stores.

5 Paper plates (pack of eight) £5.49, partypieces.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY: NICHOLE REES (NICHOLEREES.COM)

EASTER FUN & GAMES

6

1. Cotton hat £14, mini-la-mode.com 2. Cotton woven skirt set from £32, boden.co.uk 3. Cotton all-in-one £67, stellamccartney.com 4. Cotton onesie £38.50, babymori.com 5. Cotton embroidered babysuit £75, rachelriley.co.uk 6. Leather shoes ¤95, minnaparikka.com

Easter wreath £25, johnlewis.com

Finally, encourage them to burn off some energy with a mini egg hunt. Hide some plastic or chocolate eggs in the garden or around the house, and see who can collect the most! Older children and parents will love the chance to take on an egg-and-spoon race too – see who can get from A to B the quickest, with a chocolate treat for the winner!

Fan decorations (pack of three) £5.99, partypieces.co.uk

Fake grass rabbit £6.99, partypieces.co.uk

PROFILE

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PROFILE The company’s a family affair, with son and daughter Guido and Alessandra now on board as CEOs, while their mother remains president

by g as a hob rted sewin a st ti 0 8 et el 19 Mrs M ufo in rting Il G before sta

BEHIND THE BRAND

IL GUFO NATALIE KEELER TALKS ABOUT KEEPING BUSIN E SS IN TH E FAMILY WITH Alessandra Melet ti, CEO OF IL GU FO

ith brands such as Dolce & Gabanna Jr, Young Versace and Gucci Kids right on their doorstep, not to mention Pitti Bimbo (the hugely popular annual kidswear showcase that takes place in Florence), it’s only natural that Italian children are as stylish as their parents.

From organic cotton and merino wool, to soft leather and fine cashmere, there’s something traditional and innocent about the clothing that’s made here – the kind that says ‘let kids be kids’ – while still being modish enough for any self-respecting catwalk.

Of course, Il Gufo, with its inordinately stylish, authentic designs, is the epitome of this Italian craftmanship; just one brush of its sublime texture against your skin is almost enough to tell you where it’s from – something Alessandra Meletti, CEO of the

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baby-magazine.co.uk | 67

PROFILE

brand, credits to the luxury fabrics they’ve sourced since the beginning, back in 1980.

“Most of our fabrics come from Italy, and we’re always on the lookout for the best possible products from our region,” she says.

“Bonotto, a textile manufacturer founded by Luigi Bonotto in 1912, is one example – they really cherish the luxury of craftmanship and handmade production.”

Much of the brand’s appreciation for fine materials comes from her mother, Alessandra adds, when she launched the business nearly 40 years ago. In the beginning, Giovanna Meletti would only produce a small number of exclusive designs using high-quality fabrics she’d choose herself, creating simple, clean cuts, but with fine embroidery and appliqués.

“I’d spend hours in my mother’s workshop after school, watching her work, and I started learning about how to make well-made clothes using these amazing materials,” she smiles.

“That’s something I inherited from my mother, I think; that love for beautiful garments, fine shapes and harmonious colour combinations.

She taught me that it’s a real talent to always be ‘properly’ dressed for every occasion, whether it was sporty or formal.”

Il Gufo’s origins, like many brands, started small, when Mrs Meletti began sewing bibs and bed sheets while her children were at kindergarten. “It was just a hobby at first, something she’d do to pass the time when we weren’t there,” explains Alessanda. It wasn’t until more people began requesting her services, that she realised she was on the brink of a venture that could really take off.

“It quickly turned into a real job, when some of the most important boutiques in the area started buying her items. She even turned the The Il Gufo designs always boast fine shapes and harmonious colour combinations

68 | baby-magazine.co.uk

he ra d s desi s reflect luxury Italian craftmanship and timeless design

ti would t, Mrs Melet o started ou uf g table!

G n Il po n g he n W the family pi on s n er tt cut pa

portico of our house into a studio and would cut fabrics on top of our ping pong table!”

The name Il Gufo, translating to ‘the owl’ in Italian, was a reference to Mrs Meletti’s nocturnal working hours, designing throughout the night so she could still spend time with her children during the day.

The family living room became a showroom twice a year, Alessandra says, where between cups of tea and pastries, her mother would receive buyers and take orders. Once she and Guido were older, Mrs Meletti decided to find a bigger space to expand the business, and so Il Gufo’s first HQ was established.

“By the end of the 1980s in Italy, Il Gufo had become quite a well-known brand, and our mother had built a customer base that really appreciated the quality of the clothing and its simple, sophisticated style,” says Alessandra.

“Once the brand exhibited at the Pitti Bimbo exhibition in 1994 to the international market, that’s when everything changed.”

Over three decades on, Il Gufo employs 134 people, with 83 based in its Italian headquarters in Asolo, seven in the Milan showroom and 51 in the brand’s shops across the world. Alessandra joined the family business in 2003, shortly followed by her older

brother Guido, and they’re both now CEOs of the brand with their mother remaining at the helm. Its first London store on Brompton Road opened in summer 2018, and has proven a huge hit with the capital’s discerning shoppers.

True to its origins, the clothes still feel so luxurious, its fabrics soft and divine, its colours vibrant and playful; the perfect combination for a childrenswear brand, some might say.

“Design, comfort and superior quality are the key pillars for our collections, where adult fashions are toned down for kids, ensuring their wellbeing and, most importantly, respecting their identity,” Alessandra explains.

“Within the childrenswear industry, we see the same trends repeated year after year, so it’s important to us that we rethink everything, with the ultimate goal of creating childfriendly cuts, style and functionality.”

Alongside its underwater-themed SS19 collection, Il Gufo has launched its Active Label range, using a ‘sensitive fabric’ that feels silky, light and almost lycra-like, offering lots of elasticity and shape recovery – ideal for little ones who love to run around, and parents who dislike ironing. “We’re the first childrenswear brand in the world to use it, so we’re really excited to see what customers think.”

The newborn collection is worth looking out for, too, which the CEO tells me is a wonderful throwback to the brand’s heritage,

PROFILE

The London flagship opened on Brompton Road in summer 2018

Vogue Williams and her son Theodore are Il Gufo fans

The newborn collection pays homage to Il Gufo’s heritage

ITALIANS DO IT BETTER

DESIGN, COMFORT AND SUPERIOR QUALITY ARE THE KEY PILLARS FOR OUR COLLECTIONS as her mother originally began by sewing bibs and rompers for babies. Il Gufo’s iconic little bear motif can also be found adorning the unisex rompers and layette pieces.

January also saw the brand grace the catwalks of Stazione Leopolda, Florence to unveil its AW19 collection, in which its cosy down coats, cool dungarees, coy ponchos and fleece puffer jackets stole the show. The collection’s open-air theme also sees the label exploring new prints and shades, combining classic tartans with Oxford, and pairing beige, blue and grey hues with more adventurous tones like orange, camel and army green.

“We’ve taken back the most authentic tradition of manufacturing and added some Italian sweetness to it, to create a combination of quality choices that leave our customers free to interpret, even making room for fun combinations,” Alessandra says.

With its innovative creativity, exquisite materials and unrivalled quality, it’s no surprise that that the label has garnered attention from a number of famous clients, too, most notably Suri Cruise – daughter of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes – Vogue Williams, and many high-profile bloggers and influencers.

And yet, in spite of its growing stardom, Il

Gufo hasn’t forgotten its roots. “The amazing attitude we have has all come from my mother; commitment, loyalty, teamwork and a deep love for doing things well. And I don’t think that’s going to change. We’re still putting as much passion, if not more, into everything we do. It’s like we’re a family that just keeps growing.”

And speaking of family, how is working with your brother? I ask. “Fortunately, we’re very different!” she laughs. “We complement each other, and focus our skills on different areas so everything’s covered. It helps that we share the same vision and rarely disagree. I can honestly say that he’s one of my staunchest supporters.”

It’s been quite a journey for the Meletti family since their matriarch – who remains the president of the business to this day – began sewing more than 30 years ago.

But indisputably, it’s a family dynamic that’s kept Il Gufo true to its principles.

“I love our team, and seeing them work together to convey what the brand’s all about,” Alessandra beams. “Some have been here a couple of years, others have been with us since the very beginning, but they’re all part of the big family that we’ve become.”

Cotton T-shirt and overall set from £80

Baby Boy Gift Box (comprising cotton hat and playsuit) from £113

Cotton two-piece set from £93

Cotton playsuit from £80

Cotton socks (pack of three pairs) from £46

baby-magazine.co.uk | 69

With you every step of the way

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HEALTH

GAME CHANGER

Bluebell might just be the future of baby monitoring. This new tech monitors both parent and child, supporting your wellbeing in tandem. A small device clips on to baby’s clothes to keep track of breathing, skin temperature, activity levels and more, while the parent’s wristband monitors your sleep, step count and mood, both of which connect to the smart hub and mobile app.

The data can even help you establish a solid routine by tracking feeding, sleep, bath time and changing. Pre-order from 1 March. £299, bluebell.io

health & beauty

NEWS

TH E L ATE ST PRODUC TS AN D IN N OVATION S IN TH E WOR LD OF WELLBEING ROCKABYE BABY Settle baby to sleep with Classic FM’s new compilation album, featuring 15 tracks from the likes of Mozart and Adele, all performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Created with sleep expert Jo Tantum, its gentle melodies will set both of you up for a peaceful night. £9.99, apple.com/itunes

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Prevent unnecessary leaks while you’re out and about with Bravado Design’s new washable nursing pads. Available in a pack of three pairs – including one nude and two polka dot designs – the reusable pads absorb moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable, while being the ideal thickness for wearing under a bra. £18, bravadodesigns.com

GENTLY DOES IT Horrified by the chemicals found in his baby daughter’s bath products, Daniel Shearly started skincare line Billy & Belle. Great for babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin, all ingredients are natural and organic, from manuka honey to olive oil. Made entirely in the UK, the range includes a body butter, nappy rash cream and body wash. billyandbelle.com

NATIONAL CHARITY ALLERGY UK HAS RELEASED A FACTSHEET ON WEANING AND FOOD ALLERGIES. A RESOURCE FOR PARENTS STARTING BABIES ON SOLIDS, IT ADDRESSES THE FOODS MOST COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH ALLERGIES – EGGS, MILK AND PEANUTS – AND HOW TO INTRODUCE THEM INTO A CHILD’S DIET. VISIT ALLERGYUK.ORG TO DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENT.

baby-magazine.co.uk | 71

H ONEY B LOSSOM

All is in the name of Love For all kind of personalized private parties such as baby shower, birthday, bridal shower to the wedding.

We are here to share your unforgettable moments!

These fashionable, beautifully soft scarves are cunningly versatile.

Beachside or swaddling a newborn they are the must have for any on-the-go Mummy. Fair-trade, natural and eco-friendly, what’s not to love!

www.lovemakes.co.uk

Find Honey Blossom at: www.honeybmuslin.com Instagram @honeybmuslin

info@lovemakes.co.uk M: 07467503558 @lovemakesevents

Baby Led Weaning by Cognikids Sip & Dip support Baby Led Weaning with extensive holes for child gripping and easy holding.

Both products help to develop the pincer grip and build muscles in the hand of children.

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This encourages independent feeding along with developing excellent hand eye co-ordination and fine motor skills.

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RUNNING HEAD

Q&A with fertility expert

Zita West

“How important is diet, especially during early pregnancy? I’m finding it hard to eat healthily when all I can stomach is sugary carbs.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

A

As your baby develops and your body is healthy diet during pregnancy will required to cope with the additional demands, guarantee you get all the nutrients both will draw from your nutrient stores. you and your developing baby need.

Here’s how your and your baby’s needs will But in reality, for many women, a perfectly change nutritionally with each trimester: balanced diet isn’t always possible, especially around the beginning of pregnancy when your blood sugar is fluctuating, and you’re feeling FIRST TRIMESTER tired and sick.

Good nutrition is particularly important However, research shows that what you eat during the first trimester when your baby’s (and what you don’t eat) during pregnancy developing and the risk of miscarriage is at its can have a profound effect, not only on highest. In your first trimester you’re laying the how healthy and enjoyable a pregnancy you foundations for all of your baby’s organs, and have, but on the health and development of there are key nutrients that are needed during your baby for her whole life. That’s why it’s this time. One very important one is folate, important to build up your nutritional reserves which is vital for nerve development, but also prior to pregnancy so your baby can rely on for preventing neural tube defects, so many them, even when your diet isn’t perfect. women are encouraged to take folic acid I often talk about pregnancy being before and during pregnancy. a 15-month event. Not only do ed Folate is rich in foods such as Recommend you have the nine months broccoli, parsley, cabbage product with child, but the three and spinach. You should months beforehand are really also make sure you have important too, in terms of plenty of omega 3, which laying down the foundations you can find in oily fish, for a healthy pregnancy in your system to help Vital Essence 3 supplements nutritionally. with brain development. £26.50, zitawest.com

SECOND TRIMESTER The second trimester is a crucial time for the development of baby’s skeleton. Drinking plenty of milk and eating yoghurt will help boost your calcium levels, enabling your baby’s bones and teeth to grow. Vitamin D and magnesium are also vital at this stage – you can get this from oily fish, while magnesium is found in green leafy veg, nuts and seeds.

THIRD TRIMESTER During this phase your baby’s rapidly developing and you’ll be gaining weight.

But make sure you focus on quality not quantity. Between 28 and 40 weeks, your baby’s brain goes through a growth period and it needs fats, so eat oily fish, which is rich in omega 3. However, you won’t be getting enough through diet alone, so I recommend supplements to top up on this. Protein is also important (meat, fish and eggs) as your baby will be building muscle and tissue, and iron, from spinach, lentils and sardines, is vital to build up your stores in preparation for labour.

Other important nutrients to top up include vitamin C, vitamin K, zinc and glycine.

Zita West is the founder of the Zita West Fertility Clinic which specialises in a holistic approach to IVF. Instagram: @the_first_1000_days

baby-magazine.co.uk | 73

HEALTH

TEETHING

PROBLEMS THE EXPERTS GIVE Georgina Blaskey TIPS ON HOW TO COPE WITH A TEE THING BABY

eething babies – even the thought of it’s enough to give you a sleepless night. For some, a tooth will arrive like a bolt from the blue, with no build up, and it doesn’t bother them one bit. For others, it’s a horrid toothache that niggles away day and night until a flash of white finally breaks through a sore, red gum. “Occasionally babies can be born with a tooth. However, for most the first tooth appears around six months on average and it can be a slow build up,” explains Dr Lucy Hooper of Coyne Medical. “Then, the teeth will keep coming until all 20 milk teeth have been established.”

If your three month old appears out of sorts or unwell, it could be the first effects of teething and there are lots of signs to look out for. Excessive drooling due to increased saliva production and red cheeks, especially on one side where an eruption is beginning, is common. Her demeanour will change – she’ll be more irritable because she has a toothache and she may pull at her ears on the side where the tooth is erupting. It can affect the inner ear and she may develop an ear infection. Also your baby may be more clumsy and fall over more as her balance is compromised. In severe cases when three or four teeth are erupting at the same time, a baby may have diarrhoea, followed by nappy rash.

Ollwyn Moran, neurological development therapist and founder of Cognikids, sites chewing as a telltale sign that a tooth is imminent. “Chewing everything – their hands, your collar, their toys, even the cot – is very common. If you put the knuckle of your pinky finger in to their mouth, you’ll feel that they

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aren’t simply exploring, they’re chomping! It’s the pain-pleasure sensation; it relieves the pain because by overstimulating the area, your brain sends signals which shut off that area.”

“They’ll love biting on anything,” adds Dr Hooper. “You can gets lots of different, beautiful teething toys but other normal items, such as baby spoons and wash cloths, can work just as well. Also cold foods can offer release – older baby might like to bite on cold mango or cucumber and for little babies cold apple purée can be nice.” There are quite a few clever gadgets that can hold cold or frozen chunks of foods within a mesh, so baby can suck and chew without the worry of them choking on a large chunk, and Ollwyn has designed Dip, a double-ended weaning spoon which customers have reported back as being a saviour when it comes to troubled teething times. “Parents have been known to put Bongela on the head – it gets to the right spot and stays put. You can put teething granules in there too. Pop it in the freezer for an hour or two and it can be chewed on and help bring down sore, hot gums. Natural yoghurt is another good one – and has probiotics to helps soothe a sore tummy if diarrhoea is a problem. It can be held even end it is tactile and sensory so they really enjoy it.”

If your baby’s drooling, it’s important to check her necking cheeks for a rash or inflammation. “Drooling can lead to a chin rash,” observes Ollwyn, “and simply wiping it away with a baby wipe or normal bib isn’t going to help. Cognikids’ Soothe bib is made from bamboo material which is hypoallergenic, more absorbent and helps wounds heal faster

GLOW DENTAL’S TOP TIPS • Pick delicate options to deal with the budding oral health of your baby. Opt for a baby-specific toothbrush with very soft bristles, or just use muslin cloths.

• Toothpaste is necessary once baby discovers sugars. Chocolate, fruit juice and flavoured milk, along with bacteria present inside the mouth, degrades enamel and cause loss of minerals.

• Limit the amount of sweet things you baby eats/drinks to a couple of times a week, preferably at meal times • Pick a baby toothpaste with the exact amount of fluoride required for infants (ideally a max. of 500ppm)– fluoride strengthens your baby’s teeth by supplying the necessary minerals glowdental.co.uk

HEALTH

THE CHOSEN CHEWS

Give your little one’s gums a workout with these recommended buys

The Nibbler £4.49, nuby-uk.com

Teething toy £9.99, matchstickmonkey.com

Liewood teether £10, naturalbabyshower.com

Cognikids weaning dip spoon (pack of two) £10, kidly.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Foreo baby toothbrush £79, lookfantastic.com

than cotton.”

If things are really bad for your baby, you may need a trip to the pharmacy. “There are some pain relieving teething gels, such as Anbesol, as well as some other natural teething powders and granules, such as those based on camomile,” advises Dr Hooper. “If they’re very upset, especially if they can’t settle to sleep, then you can use an occasional dose of a pain relieving medication such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.”

Teething can interrupt the nighttime patterns of even the best-sleeping babies, but be aware of setting bad habits which you struggle to break later, warns Ollwyn.

“Encourage self-soothing and manage how you comfort them mindfully.”

You can try other methods that don’t involve medication. Use a bit of distraction,

especially in the daytime, such as a funny game or a walk in the pushchair to help them forget their pain. Some mothers swear by amber necklaces because Baltic amber (the type usually recommended for teething) contains an analgesic substance called succinic acid, which is released by the beads in response to the warmth of the child’s body and absorbed through the skin, but they come with a warning: “I don’t recommend using an amber necklace because of the rare risk of baby choking on a bead or strangulation, if parents want to try I would suggest using on an ankle,” says Dr Hooper.

If your baby is suffering from some of these symptons, remember that there is an end goal in sight, and it won’t be long until they’ll have a gorgeous smile of gleaming milk teeth to dazzle you with!

Teething mitt £11.50, beloandme.co.uk

Brush new milk teeth AND massage sore little gums with these dimpled silicone brushes Finger toothbrush from £4.49, bickiepegs.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 75

Your Child’s Teething Hero Matchstick Monkey is making teething trouble a thing of the past!

The fun, colourful, soft teether features a range of different textures to help massage sore gums & ease teething pains. Teething gel or granules can be applied directly to the source of pain, thanks to clever bumps on the back of the Monkey’s head.

Suitable for every teething stage.

“

I have 3 children, but I’ve also been a nanny for over 15 years. I have to say Matchstick Monkey is one of the best teethers I’ve ever come across, my baby loves hers, it keeps her really busy as well as soothing her gums.

Laura

More teethers, muslins & gift sets available in the range at: matchstickmonkey.com

@MTSK_Monkey

@MatchstickMonkey

@Matchstick_Monkey

”

BREASTFEEDING

The Breastfeeding Café with

PROFESSOR AMY BROWN

THIS ISSUE WE ASK:

I’M RETURNING TO WORK AND STILL BREASTFEEDING SO I’M WORRIED HOW WE’LL ADJUST. ANY ADVICE?

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eturning to work after maternity leave can feel daunting, especially if you’re worried about how your breastfed baby will cope. The good news is that breastfed babies are less likely to pick up bugs, meaning you’re less likely to take sick days. It’s also a lovely way to reconnect at the end of the day.

Think about how your baby will feed when you’re gone. If she’s still exclusively breastfed will she take expressed milk? If so, start building a stash for the freezer. If you’re having difficulty expressing, seek support from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counsellor. If work’s flexible, some mums take feed breaks, or have their baby brought to them instead of expressing.

If your baby’s over six months and not used to having a bottle, try offering milk in a cup.

However, some babies will refuse milk any other way, instead waiting until you’re back. If she’s over six months and having some solid food, as long as she has plenty of access to water, she’ll be just fine. She may feed lots when you pick her up, or start feeding more at night again. Known as ‘reverse cycling’ and is perfectly normal, if not exhausting for you.

Lansinoh storage bags £5.49, johnlewis.com

Close reusable breast pads £11, jojomamanbebe.com

You have legal rights as a breastfeeding mother in the workplace. Your employer will need to do a risk assessment to ensure the workplace is safe, and that you have somewhere to rest. The Health and Safety Executive have further recommendations, including access to a private room with a lockable door to express (toilets doesn’t count!), a fridge to store milk in, and somewhere to clean any equipment.

If your employer seems unsure, tell them that research shows that this support will save them money in the long term. Absence is lower and retention is higher in workplaces that support breastfeeding women.

Show them the ACAS Accommodating Breastfeeding Employees in the Workplace policy, which outlines best practise.

Professor Amy Brown is the author of The Positive Breastfeeding Book, (£14.99, Pinter & Martin Ltd) available to buy now

Nipple balm £7.95, weleda.com

Feeding scarf £29.99, mamamoosh.co.uk

TOP TIPS

If you aren’t expressing milk for baby, you might still want to for comfort. If you’ve gone from feeding her frequently to not feeding her all day, it’d be a good idea to express regularly at first, cutting down gradually so you don’t become engorged, risk a blocked duct or get mastitis. Carry breast pads just in case of leakage.

Think about how you’ll return. Will you go back full time right away? Or will you ease yourself in so baby can adapt? Can you use annual leave to work shorter days?

If you go back straight away, then going back at the end of the week can be gentler.

Most colleagues will be supportive and not even realise you’re expressing. If anyone makes any comments about you expressing that you find offensive, even if meant in humour, this must be dealt with under the Bullying and Harassment in the Workplace law. For further details on this, ACAS can help.

Breast pump £249, elvie.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 77

PREGNANCY

TIME TO TALK with MARINA FOGLE & DR CHIARA HUNT

PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES This issue, The Bump Class founders discuss the importance of daily exercises

ne of the myths that annoys us the most is the idea that incontinence is normal after having a child. Not only is this a bit unfair on us poor mothers, but it’s totally untrue.

Your pelvic floor, the muscle group that’s responsible for your continence, is an amazing bunch of muscles and the good news is that it’s easy to strengthen during your pregnancy and build up a again after your baby is born.

Your pelvic floor muscles are a hammock of muscles that run under the pelvis connecting the pubic bone at the front to the coccyx at the back. They support your internal organs, including your uterus which is housing your baby but also wrap around the urethra, rectum and vagina, making them crucial for keeping women continent and sexually active.

The good news is that developing a strong pelvic floor is easy to achieve.

Pelvic floor exercises are easy to do, any time, anywhere. We recommend doing two types: SLOW: While gently breathing, squeeze and hold your pelvic floor for as long as you can for up to 10 seconds and then relax completely. The gold standard is 10 repetitions of 10 holds but for many pregnant women, this is impossible (that’s because you’re weightlifting a baby in your uterus).

Start with three- or four-second holds and slowly scale up from there.

FAST: Squeeze your pelvic floor strongly and immediately let go again.

Repeat 10 times. The release is as important as the squeeze, so make sure you’re releasing properly.

Ideally, you should be doing these exercises between three and six

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

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times a day. This might sound like a real commitment, but in reality the challenge is not doing them – they take around two minutes – but remembering to do them. Try and think of prompts like when you’re brushing your teeth or sitting at a red traffic light. There’s a great app called Squeazy, which allows you to input how many sets you want to do and how long you want to squeeze for, then reminds you when to do them.

The joy of these exercises is that if you’re doing them properly, no-one will know you’re doing them. You shouldn’t be bobbing up and down in your chair or tensing your shoulders. You can do them in any position you like – lying, sitting, standing, walking (although doing them while walking is tough).

For some women doing pelvic floor exercises is harder and they have no idea if they’re squeezing in the right

place. The squeeze is as if you’re stopping your urine’s flow – although please don’t do this while you’re actually peeing, as it could lead to urinary tract infections – but if you’re unsure, we strongly advise seeing a women’s health physio, who’ll be able to test the strength of your pelvic floor and make sure that you’re doing these exercises properly.

Life’s no fun if you’re constantly worrying about leaking urine, unable to join your children on the trampoline or race to rescue a child off a climbing frame without fear of a wet patch in your pants, so these exercises are incredibly important. We know that strong women are more resilient, good role models and better able to take on the challenges of motherhood, but that strength is not just about biceps, glutes and abs, it’s about those pelvic floor muscles too.

Dr Chiara Hunt and Marina Fogle are the founders of The Bump Class, which provides antenatal classes in South West London.

Their podcast The Parent Hood, is free to download on iTunes and Acast. Visit thebumpclass.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 79

SHOPPING

THE REVIEW KEEP BABY STIMU L ATED AS Laura Mason PUTS TH E BE ST PL AY MATS AN D GYMS TO TH E TE ST

Best for

LIGHTS

Best for

TRAVEL

Best for

TUMMY TIME

Best for

NEWBORNS

This padded nest gym is an ideal spot for daytime naps as well as sensory play sessions

Best for

MUSIC

SKIP HOP

FISHER-PRICE

LAMAZE

TAF TOYS

TINY LOVE

gym focuses on visual development – black and white graphics contrast bold, bright colours to stimulate baby’s sight as they grow to view a rainbow of colour. The gym’s musically interactive arches feature two light modes; the first is a tracking one for baby to follow, and the other is a dazzling light show. £90, johnlewis.com

For full-on entertainment, this play gym features five large light-up piano keys that play musical notes, a great incentive for tummy time, and moving about.

In addition, it features a range of musical settings, including upbeat tunes about animals, colours, shapes and numbers that will all support baby’s essential learning. £44.99, mothercare.com

This innovative play gym actively encourages babies to spend time on their tummies, which is important for strengthening key muscles.

The central pad allows baby to comfortably lay face forward while stretching out to interact with the colourful toys, rotating slowly as they become more advanced. £34.99, argos.co.uk

Thickly padded, this gym is great for newborns as you as can simply draw up the sides to create a nest, a comforting environment that’s also suited to daytime naps. Older babies will also relish the adjustable play arches that are adorned with sensory toys, guaranteeing hours of sensory fun with lots of colours, sounds and lights. £72.99, boots.com

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, this mat can be easily folded up and carried from place to place, making it a practical travel option. The mat features an interactive story theme with lots of developmental additions such as crinkle flaps, teethers, mirrors and squeaky toys. It’s machine washable too, making it very easy to clean. £39.99, tinylove.com

Vibrant Village Deluxe Activity Gym Kick ’n’ Play Piano Gym This light-up baby

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Spin and Explore Garden Gym

Musical Newborn Cosy Gym

Meadow Days Super Mat

Introduce your baby to a world of fun!

Perfect first books for your baby’s toy box, to take out and about, or to share at bed or bath time.

Soft and snuggly cloth books

The Bickiepegs Range

Touchy-feely covers with a wonderful crinkle

Encourages good oral health Is shaped to offer effective teething relief Helps develop emerging teeth

Talk and sing to your baby as you share the pictures

••••••••••••••••••

Available in Asda, Boots, Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug & pharmacies

www.bickiepegs.com

Organic and eco friendly handmade clothing for trendy little ones Waterproof, squirty bath books Enjoy squirting and splashing with your baby Durable, wipe-clean and hygenic

••••••••••••••••••

Handy buggy books The perfect way to make sure that you always have a book with you From the illustrator of The Gruffalo

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www.campbell-books.com @campbell_books

www.lovebeebaby.com baby-magazine.co.uk | 81

CampbellBabyRange_Baby_99x262mm.indd 1

15/01/2019 17:23

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82 | baby-magazine.co.uk

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CUTE AS A BUTTON

With its sweet Scandi colour palette of soft pink and white, we’ve fallen head over heels for Goodnight Bunny, the new nursery collection from Bobby Rabbit.

Among the range of furniture, soft toys and games, you’ll also find an adorable limitededition ragdoll, Mademoiselle Eglatine, who’s kitted out in a dusky-pink striped dress, faux fur gilet, matching bag and silver ice-skating boots. Made from 100 per cent organic cotton and hypoallergenic stuffing, this super-cute little lady is perfect for cuddling. bobbyrabbit.co.uk

interior

NEWS

ST YLISH U PDATE S AN D IN SPIRING FIN DS TO MAKE YOU R HOUSE A H OM E SLEEPING EASY

Shnuggle’s Air Bedside Crib is the ultimate new slumber pad for babies up to two years. With seven height levels, it can be altered as she grows, and its dual-view, zip-down mesh sides maximise air flow and allow you to keep an eye on and comfort her. There’s even an incline function to ease colic and reflux! £199.95, shnuggle.com

Lull baby into a peaceful slumber with this Infantino musical soother and night light projector,featuring a sleeping fox mother and her cub. Ideal for babies and toddlers, the i ht i ht p a s a choice o ve relaxing lullabies and three nature sounds. As the music plays, mummy fox e t oves her tai to pro ect a i ht display on to the nursery wall, depicting stars and clouds in an array of different co ours he re ova e o cu ca a so act as a comforter. £34.99, infantino.com

IT’S A KINDA MAGIC Hands up if you love unicorns! Us too, so we’re delighted to see these mythical creatures trotting all over Sophie Allport’s SS19 homeware collection. A print of rainbow-maned unicorns with gold stars adorns the new creations, and we’ve got our eye on the reversible blanket, too. sophieallport.com

baby-magazine.co.uk | 83

INTERIORS

NOW AND THEN Interiors guru Ali Howard

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he arrival of a royal baby sparks a frenzy of interest and speculation, from the big questions of gender and name, down to which nappy brand gets royal approval, so it’s little wonder nursery décor is hot on the lips of new parents wishing to emulate this lofty lifestyle.

But will the Sussexes opt for traditional or contemporary?

Either way, there’s a kingdom of luxury, design-led pieces to covet for baby’s bedroom, whether you’re going for a perfectly princely or thoroughly modern monarch feel.

Coming in classic solid beech wood, this cot is the perfect centrepiece for a modern, Scandi-inspired nursery Leander cot, £560, naturalbabyshower.co.uk

Sebra toy pram and walker, £125, bonordic.co.uk

Lillagunga Rocking Reindeer, £275, bobbyrabbit.co.uk

Mr Maria Miffy lamp (XL), £169, themodernnursery.com

TIP: Even royal bottoms need changing: this wall-mounted nappy station is not only an ingenious space saver, with its fold-out tray and integrated shelves, it’s a sleek and stylish addition to the modern nursery Noga baby changing table, £389, cuckooland.com

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TIP: Forget the stately throne and make space for this woolly hug of a statement piece. The modern rocker, with its wide, enveloping form, is perfect for curling up with your little one.

Kolton rocking chair, £549, made.com

Craft rocking cradle, £560.39, houzz.co.uk

INTERIORS

Princess Marie-Chantal cot bed £600, silvercrossbaby.com TIP: A royal steed is a must for any future queen or king. This cuddly one, made with soft velvety woven fur, is just right for pre-schoolers to clippity clop around their realm. Handmade to the highest standard, it’s a pretty perfect first pony.

Franzi rocking horse, £499, steiff.com Princess Marie-Chantal pram blanket, £95, silvercrossbaby.com

With its classic, square-edged design and leather upholstery, this cot is t or s u eri soverei s Aylesbury cot bed, from £799, teddyone.uk

Silver Lining Noah Pod, £123.99, clair-de-lune.co.uk

Legler dolls pram, £119.95, scandiborn.co.uk

Grace three-drawer chest, £649, boori.com

TIP: Encourage her inner Sleeping Beauty with a ceiling-hung floaty canopy of fairytale proportions.

Position it above the head of the crib and your very own Princess Aurora might just sleep through.

Himmell canopy, ¤183, skandic.de baby-magazine.co.uk | 85

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Makes a lovely gift for every mother and mother-to-be

FOOD

COME DINE WITH ME Weaning approaching? Stokke’s new Munch dinnerware collection has everything baby needs to get started on the world of food. Designed to encourage self-feeding, the fivepiece set includes a waterproof bib with a pocket for catching any crumbs, ergonomic easy-grip cutlery, a stackable plate, a sippy cup with weighted non-slip base and an antidrip bowl with silicone lid. Cast in a combination of soft mint green and dark mauve, pieces are available to buy separately or as a number of sets. £49 for complete set, stokke.com

food

JUST RIGHT

Take the guesswork out of heating baby’s meals with Thermapen’s First Foods digital thermometer. The blunt tip gives accurate readings of purées, meals and breast milk in under three seconds, folding away neatly for easy use when you’re not at home. As a guide, milk should be 36-37°C, with foods from 12 months not exceeding 46°C. £39.99, thermapen.co.uk

NEWS TH E L ATE ST AN D GR E ATE ST TR E ATS FOR BABIE S, CHILDR EN AN D PAR ENTS

SNACK ATTACK Jammie Monsters, the latest snack to join the Organix Goodies range, is a perfect on-the-go treat. Suitable from 18 months, the biscuits have a strawberry and apple jam filling made from 100 per cent real fruit, with no added salt, artificial flavours, and 20 per cent less sugar than a mini Jammie Dodger. Plus, each eight-pack comes with two cards featuring Monster Tribe characters – there’s six to collect. £2.49, sainsburys.co.uk

SHØRE THING Boost your energy levels the natural way with these new seaweed snacks from Shøre.

Each packet of puffs contain less than 100 calories, and is packed with lots of good stuff – including iodine, antioxidants and tons of fibre – with all seaweed grown sustainably in the Scottish Highlands. Choose from four flavours; sea salt & balsamic, sweet & smoky, lime chilli & coconut and Thai chilli. £1.19 per packet, ocado.com

BOUNCE’S ENERGY BALLS HAVE BEEN RECOMMENDED BY THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF OBSTETRICIANS AND GYNAECOLOGISTS. ITS NEW MUM PLUS ONE GUIDE SUGGESTS THEY CAN HELP WITH MORNING SICKNESS AND BREASTFEEDING, THANKS TO THEIR HIGH FIBRE CONTENT AND NUTRITIONAL VALUE. UK.BOUNCEFOODS.COM

baby-magazine.co.uk | 87

FOOD

Easter

TREATS Alice Fotheringham, IN FANT N UTRITIONIST, SHAR E S H ER FAVOU RITE SPRINGTIM E FAMILY R ECIPE S

S Q U A S H M AC & C H E E S E W I T H S AG E Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Makes 8 portions Suitable from 7 months Suitable for freezing, or store in a sealable container in the fridge for up to two days.

Creamy butternut squash, a two-cheese sauce, layers of macaroni and just a hint of sage make the ultimate comfort dish.

INGREDIENTS

• 250g macaroni or other short pasta • 1 glug of extra-virgin olive oil • 1 knob of butter • 1/2 medium onion, finely diced • 200g butternut squash peeled and chopped (or frozen cubes of prepared butternut squash, defrosted) • 1 carrot, peeled and chopped • 1tbsp of plain flour • 100ml low salt vegetable stock • 150ml full fat milk or single cream • 80g cheddar cheese, grated • 20g Parmesan or any other hard

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cheese, grated • 1tsp fresh or dried sage chopped METHOD

Heat a large pan of water and cook the pasta according to its packet instructions.

In the meantime, start making the sauce.

Heat a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and butter. When the butter melts into the oil, add the onion and cook for a few minutes until softened. Add the butternut squash and carrot cubes. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

Add the flour and mix through the vegetables before cooking them together for 1 or 2 more minutes.

Whisk in the stock and milk and bring the sauce to the boil. Stir in the cheeses and sage. Blend the sauce with a stick blender.

Drain the cooked pasta well and combine with sauce. You can either serve the meal as it is, or place it in a ramekin, grate a little extra cheese over the top and place it under the grill for a few minutes to brown.

FOOD

With both cheddar and parmesan cheeses in the mix, this mac & cheese is packed with flavour

baby-magazine.co.uk | 89

HONEY ALMOND BUTTER GR ANOLA CUPS Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 15 minutes Makes 24 cups Suitable from 1 year INGREDIENTS

• 300g rolled oats • 75g desiccated coconut • pinch of salt • 50g coconut oil, melted • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup • 1 tsp vanilla extract

This delicious one-bake dish is sure to satisfy the whole family from tots to grandparents

TO SERVE

• Almond butter • Natural yoghurt • Berries METHOD

L A M B M E AT B A L L S I N A F E TA & T O M AT O B A K E Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 40 minutes Suitable from 1 year

parsley, chopped to serve • 25g pine nuts, toasted • Bread, couscous or cooked quinoa to serve

This hearty one-bake dish is a great crowd pleaser to whip up in advance of an occasion.

Serve with couscous, quinoa or crusty bread and a salad or cooked beans and peas.

METHOD

INGREDIENTS MEATBALLS

• 500g lamb mince • 1 small red onion, finely chopped • 1 large garlic clove, crushed • 50g natural yogurt, plus extra to serve • 50g breadcrumbs • 1tbsp dried oregano • 4tbsp olive oil • salt & pepper SAUCE

• 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes • 1 x 500g box of pasata • 100ml vegetable stock • 1tsp ground cinnamon • 1tsp dried chilli flakes • 2tbsp runny honey • 1tbsp fresh or dried oregano • 200g block of feta • Handful of fresh oregano or flat-leaf

Mix all the meatball ingredients with lots of freshly ground black pepper and a big pinch of salt. Roll into 10-12 fat meatballs and chill for 30 minutes in the fridge.

Heat the oven to 170°C, 150°C if fanassisted, or gas 3. Put the olive oil in a frying pan and, in batches, brown the meatballs well on all sides, then scoop out onto a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain off the oil.

Safety discard of any remaining oil in the pan and add the chopped tomatoes, pasata, vegetable stock to the frying pan and bring to the boil, scraping up all the meaty bits as you do. Transfer to a deep baking dish or oven tray. Stir in cinnamon, chilli flakes, honey and oregano, and some seasoning. Sit the meatballs in the sauce, then cover the whole dish with foil. Bake for an hour.

Turn the heat up to 220°, for fan-assisted 200°C or gas 7. Remove the foil and break over the feta in chunks, then put back in the oven for 15 minutes. When it’s ready, scatter with parsley, sprinkle with pine nuts and dollop with a little yogurt. Serve with bread, couscous or quinoa.

Preheat oven to 200°C, 180°C if fan-assisted, or gas mark 6.

Grease a non-stick cupcake tin with oil.

In a processor, blitz 100g oats to form a flour. In a large bowl, add oats, oat flour, desiccated coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together to combine.

In a small bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the oats and fold to mix, making sure the oat mixture is evenly coated.

Fill mini muffin cups with 1tbsp of oat mixture, pressing down with the spoon’s back to create a shallow depression in each one..

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cups are golden brown. Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 10 minutes. Gently run a knife around the cups to release them from the mould. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Store in an air-tight container for up to a week.

Top with almond butter, yoghurt and berries.

Alice Fotheringham is an infant nutrition specialist at Piccolo. Piccolo is an organic baby food brand with roots in the Mediterranean approach to feeding children. The brand also supports the NCT and gives 10 per cent of its profit to food education. For more information, visit mylittlepiccolo.com

90 | baby-magazine.co.uk

But it’s not just about the kids is it?

Cosy cottages, glamorous hotels and luxurious glamping at home and abroad - all effortlessly child-friendly of course.

Magical family moments await: awaywiththekids.co.uk

W e r ’ e p are n ts t o o !

NEXT ISSUE

IN THE MAY ISSUE OF

STOCKISTS

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Bobo Choses

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Boden

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Bonnet à Pompon

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Caramel

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Favourite skincare products for mother and baby

Edit 58

edit58.com

We showcase some of the UK’s most beautiful nurseries, and how you can get the look

Farmyard The Label

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H&M Home

hm.com

JoJo Maman Bebe

jojomamanbebe.co.uk

KK & Boo

kkandboo.co.uk

Royal Correspondent Katie Nicholl discusses the role of a doula and why Meghan Markle wants one by her side We round up the best-looking pushchairs on the market We reveal why aromatherapy essential oils may help alleviate common newborn complaints

ON SALE

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La Coqueta

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Liilu

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Love Roo

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Marks & Spencer

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Marlon and Little Friends marlonandlittlefriends.com Patachou

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Pio Pio London

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Salt-Water

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Smallable

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Tinycottons

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Tocoto Vintage

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PHOTOGRAPHY: JONATHAN MALPASS

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Frasier wears knitted baby playsuit, £44, La Coqueta. Woven rugs, Miniknots at Edit 58.

TRAVEL

travel

I TA LY

A taste of Milan

We’re working with PEG PEREGO to bring you an authentic guide to true Italian life

F

amily-run parenting brand Peg Perego believes the Italian secret to finding happiness is to make every moment special. Bringing that inimitable sense of an Italian lifestyle, the Perego family will be sharing traditions, recipes, hidden gems for family escapes, alfresco dining tips, Mediterranean weaning advice and style, fashion and beauty ideas all year round on their social media channels, as well as here at Baby magazine. And as the brand’s home city, what better place to start than Milan…

NEWS

WH ER EVER YOU R DE STINATION , TR AVEL IN ST YLE WITH BABY IN TOW

INFINITE LUXURY

Following the successful opening of Ikos Dassia in Corfu, Ikos Resorts is adding a fourth property to its luxury allinclusive portfolio with the launch of Ikos Aria in Kos this May. Families can choose from stylish rooms and one- and two-bedroom suites, and enjoy the 47-acre beachfront resort’s private balconies, private pools and panoramic views across the Aegean Sea. ikosresorts.com

WHERE TO STAY:

Baglioni Hotel Carlton

Expect unforgettable Italian hospitality, with spacious family suites and rooms, in the heart of the fashion capital. Your room will be kitted out with all the baby essentials, plus the hearty breakfast will set you up for the day! Rooms from ¤990 per night, baglionihotels.com

WHERE TO VISIT:

Duomo Di Milano

Marvel at the 135 gothic gargoyles and 3,400 statues that adorn Milan’s incredible cathedral.

And, while tiny tots will love chasing the abundant pigeons in the square, grownups will prefer the bird’s eye view of the beautiful city from the roof terrace. duomomilano.it/en/

WHERE TO EAT OUT:

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK

Dulcis in Fundo

True Italians favour a leisurely weekend brunch when dining with their bambino because it’s served earlier in the day when many locals are still snoozing. Head to this cosy restaurant muchloved by local families for serving dishes tailored to suit the whole family! dulcisinfundo.it/ In the next issue the Perego family will be sharing insider tips on where they love to holiday together as a family in Italy

THE SIMPLE LIFE Sometimes you just want to stop the clock. And while Cynefin Retreats can’t work miracles, unwinding in its new eco pods come a close second. Just three miles from Hay-on-Wye, Cynefin’s indoor-outdoor pods offer Welsh countryside luxe.

They’re ideal for a babymoon, or for a break with baby, simply request a cot. From £150 per night, cynefinretreats.com

VILLA SPECIALIST, JAMES VILLA HOLIDAYS, HAS LAUNCHED A NEW RANGE OF VILLAS PERFECT FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS. THEY’LL BE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT 2019 IN SOME OF EUROPE’S TOP FAMILY DESTINATIONS INCLUDING MENORCA, MALLORCA AND THE ALGARVE. JAMESVILLAS.CO.UK

baby-magazine.co.uk | 93

RUNNING HEAD

The coastline is dotted with family-friendly hotspots

CORSICA

Rowena Carr-Allinson AN D FAMILY VISIT TH E ST YLISH M EDITER R AN E AN ISL AN D here’s no doubt Corsica has earned the nickname ‘island of beauty’. Forget booking a trip to the Caribbean, this Mediterranean gem has beaches that could give Anguilla a run for its money. Corsica’s white sands, secluded coves and warm turquoise waters are the stuff of picture-perfect postcards. Ideal to visit with teeny tiny kids, it offers warm, clear wading waters and Insta-worthy backdrops, while family-friendly bars and restaurants are dotted along the coastline.

With its distinctly tropical feel, we were seduced by Rondinara’s beautiful bay. Slightly harder to get to by car, it was less crowded than pretty Santa Giulia or Palombaggia, and just the spot to build a few castles, try surfing (on slightly windier days) and introduce, Tess, two, to the joys of sand (not an easy mission). We loved the Tiki-style thatched parasols for shade and Lennox, six, got his first taste of snorkelling in the shallow waters.

With rental companies offering boats, paddle boards, kayaks, canoes and even water-skiing on most beaches, we opted for a pedalo to keep both kids happy. My son rated it as his top moment of the week – a real recommendation. After a quick pedal from the shore, we were able to dive into the azure waters, spot a few fish and see the yachts up close.

For a day away from the beach, head inland towards l’Ospedale. Much of Corsica is still covered in pine forests and brush, ‘the maquis’ that gives the island it’s glorious mingled scent of eucalyptus,

T

A Stellina offers serious coastal views

Pretty Corsica is a perfect holiday destination for kids

94 | baby-magazine.co.uk

thyme and sage. Cooler than the coast, it’s great for more active types. Beware of the winding roads if the kids are prone to carsickness – ours sadly succumbed.

But, if you make there you’ll find quad biking, ziplining, canyoning and climbing.

We lucked out with our villa. A Stellina is sat up on the hill behind Rondinara beach gifting us a jaw-dropping coastline view, a gorgeous pool and three cosy bedrooms (with very welcome air-con) as well as a fabulously well-equipped kitchen. Owner, Suzie was on hand and immediately made us feel at home. She even gave us the scoop on avoiding the supermarket rush hour and where to get the best fish for the barbecue, so we felt like locals in no time.

In addition to the catch of the day, visitors should sample the dried meats.

Lonzo, coppa and saucisson, are often made from the wild boar that roam the isle. My two are charcuterie aficionados, so we came to the right place!

If you can’t face cooking (on holiday?!), treat yourself to dinner at the Grand Hotel De Cala Rossa. A Relais & Châteaux member, it has three restaurants to pick from: a fab tapas bar on the deck overlooking the sea – perfect for predinner drinks; a gourmet destination for serious foodies, and a romantic bistrostyle terrace where kids can roam free while you take your time over dinner.

For a week’s holiday at A Stellina, prices start at £692pp including flights and car hire. simpsontravel.com

A Stellina was a luxury home away from home for Rowena and her family

Tess came to love the island’s sandy beaches

2015

y St a

s t Place To Be

WINN

ards Aw

N

onal Tou ri sm at i

ER

Clydey Cottages is a multi-award winning cottage cluster, nestled in the heart of North Pembrokeshire. A perfect family retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.Children will delight in our daily animal feeding, heated indoor pool, Children's Club, Indoor/outdoor play, whilst the whole family enjoy cosy cottages, real log fires, hot-tubs and sauna and our Decléor Spa - just a few of the many reasons to visit.

Voted Best Place to Stay in Wales - National Tourism Awards. www.clydeycottages.co.uk - 01239 698619 - info@clydeycottages.co.uk Penrallt, Lancych, Boncath, Pembrokeshire, SA37 0LW

Circus School - Children’s Club - Animal Feeding - Decléor Spa - Woodland Adventures

Complimentary Children’s Club

Our Children’s Club sessions run on four days per week for two hours per session.

The Children’s Club sessions are geared towards the ages of the children but all will be exciting and SO much fun! Activities include dress-up, arts and crafts, soft-play, story time, outdoor play and more.

Boutiques THE LITTLE NATURAL CO, EAST SUSSEX

As the name would have it, The Little Natural Co specialises in organic, natural and handmade products for both baby and child. With an emphasis on ethical and sustainable production, its beautiful pieces are both trend led and environmentally friendly, from clothing and toys to skincare and accessories. They stock some of our favourite brands, including Olli Ella, Mabli, Wee Gallery and Sleepy Doe. 147 HIGH STREET, LEWES BN7 1XT thelittlenaturalco.co.uk

BON TOT, SCOTLAND

Opened in 2014 by Kristina and Graham Currie, Bon Tot is home to a selective collection of kids’ clothing and toys, sourced from small brands all over the globe. The team is passionate about slow, sustainable fashion; instead of chasing seasons and trends, their focus is on the designer and slowbatch production, bringing customers the very best. As well as clothing, there’s a selection of toys, books and homeware from brands including Amy & Ivor, Bobo Choses and Olli Ella.

46 ST STEPHEN STREET, EDINBURGH EH3 5AL bon-tot.com

MARIE-CHANTAL, LONDON

Founded by HRH Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, this beautiful childrenswear range is made from the most luxurious fabrics, including pure cotton and cashmere. In the boutiques you’ll find traditional-meets-contemporary pieces for babies, girls and boys from newborn up to 12 years. The clothing exudes modern elegance, and the comprehensive collection of baby essentials includes cosy sleepsuits, cotton rompers and bib sets.

4 MOTCOMB STREET, LONDON SW1X 8JU mariechantal.co.uk

CROCODILE TOYSHOP, GLOUCESTERSHIRE A traditional independent toyshop that’s been around for more than 30 years, Crocodile Toyshop stocks a wide selection of the latest toys on the market today – as well as some old favourites – including brands like Meccano, John Crane and Pintoy. Owner Mark Mitchell is always on hand to offer expertise and advice to clueless buyers, and, for fans of the humble brick, the shop houses one of the largest dedicated Lego rooms in the country.

4 THE WOOL MARKET, CIRENCESTER GL7 2PR crocodiletoys.com

NATURAL BABY SHOWER, SURREY

When her son Dylan was born, Victoria Hampson noticed a lack of ethical baby products on the market and was inspired to set up Natural Baby Shower. Nowadays, her established store brings together high quality, natural, meticulously-researched parenting products, from baby carriers and buggies to skincare solutions and sleeping bags. Many of the items for sale are from small, familyrun businesses, and all are offered at the best prices.

WINDLEBROOK HOUSE, 55 GUILDFORD ROAD, BAGSHOT GU19 5NG naturalbabyshower.co.uk

PAPOUELLI, LONDON

Head to Papouelli for truly beautiful, timeless shoes just for your little one. Fitting and foot health is of the highest importance to the team, and staff will size up your child’s feet using their professional system. Sizing ranges from 16 in baby shoes, through to child and then teenage sizes.

More recently, the founders Maggie and Nicole have added a selection of clothing and accessories to their boutiques, so shoppers can now walk away with a whole new outfit too.

STORES ACROSS LONDON papouelli.com

96 | baby-magazine.co.uk

Boutiques SISTERS GUILD, SOMERSET

As the name suggests, Sisters Guild is run by siblings Carla and Bekka in the picturesque town of Frome. Set on a pretty, cobbled hill, the shop truly is a treat for the eyes, with a plethora of beautiful design-led products available to purchase, from kids’ clothing to bits for mum, décor and nursery furniture. Brands stocked include well-known names such as Meri Meri and Oeuf NYC, as well as newer labels like Sleepy Doe. 32 CATHERINE HILL, FROME BA11 1BY sistersguild.co.uk

PEPA & CO, LONDON

Pepa & Co’s clothing collections for both boys and girls from newborn up to eight years old capture the best of British and Spanish heritage design. Founded only five years ago, the brand’s loved by the royal family, with Prince George and Princess Charlotte seen in a number of styles, including the page boy and bridesmaid outfits for their aunt Pippa’s wedding in 2017. More recently, the brand has opened its first boutique on Belgravia’s Elizabeth Street.

40 ELIZABETH STREET, BELGRAVIA, LONDON SW1W 9NZ pepaandcompany.com

THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY

The Little White Company’s immaculate stores are a favourite with stylish mamas looking for luxury clothes, bedding and toys that are still practical and affordable. From gorgeous cashmere sweaters to the cutest ballet slippers and pure cotton sleepwear, everything at The Little White Company maintains the simple, elegant aesthetic of the adult collection, but with a touch of childhood magic thrown in, too.

STORES ACROSS THE UK thewhitecompany.com

BIRDKIDS, CORNWALL

PHOTOGRAPHY: ANTONIO PAGANO

Founded in 2012 by architect couple Sara Giese Camre and Robert Warren Paulsen, Cam Cam Copenhagen is all about creating products for children that combine tradition with a touch of the contemporary, as a gentle contrast to modern-day life. Its pieces are designed to be handed down through the generations, created with sustainability in mind. We particularly love the charming mobiles and Scandi-inspired furniture. camcamcopenhagen.com

LUCY & BELLE

After being inspired to set up her own online boutique after the arrival of her twin daughters, Clara Bentata founded Lucy & Belle as a shopping destination for discerning parents. The site prides itself on delivering the best customer experience with an extensive selection of products, from baby clothing and changing bags, to outdoor pieces and accessories. Top brands include Pasito a Pasito, Cam Cam Copenhagen and Babidu. lucyandbelle.com

ON LIN E

CAM CAM COPENHAGEN

ON LIN E

Nestled in the seaside village of Fowey in Cornwall, Birdkids is, as the name suggests, inspired by the wonders of nature. Founded by Jane Bird over a decade ago, here you can shop from an everevolving selection of clothes, toys and gifts for children. Browse its eclectic mix of products and you’ll find animals, butterflies, bugs, birds and flowers just about everywhere. We especially love the sweet animal towels from Liewood and the aquatic soft toys from Wild Republic.

3 CUSTOM HOUSE HILL, FOWEY PL23 1AB birdkids.co.uk

baby-magazine.co.uk | 97

BUSINESS

The Babyopathy essential oil blends range help boost pre- and post-pregnancy wellbeing Babyopathy Bumps and Bits Massage Oil £29.95, babyopathy.com

The Babyopathy aromatherapy collection is made in conjunction with Base Formula

Angela’s first granddaughter arrived in 2018

INSPIRE

How do you stay passionate after 25 years in the business?

It’s not always easy. Being in this industry, I find myself getting very frustrated at government policies; Statutory Maternity Pay is not supportive to mums’ wellbeing or baby development, and maternity services are often cut. However, knowing that I can, and do, reach

98 | baby-magazine.co.uk

ANGELA SPENCER The business owner talks healthy pregnancies, sensory stimulation and balancing work and family life many mums to offer support and guidance through their pregnancy and parenting journey, and seeing the difference Babyopathy has made keeps my passion alive.

How do you juggle running your own company with family life?

Having run my own business for such a long time, I find that it’s quality time my family need rather quantity of time. Family life is easier now my children are older, however my first The sensorybased products help nurture mum and baby’s relationship

granddaughter was born in May last year so it’s been much busier since! I’m lucky to have shared the pregnancy experience with my daughter, and was present at her birth (as was the Delivering Babies camera crew!). It was nice to see her experience the benefits of Babyopathy and my Routine in the Womb birthing programme.

Tell us a little bit more about Routine in the Womb.

I set up the Routine in the Womb campaign in October 2017 to spread the word that knowing your baby’s routine in the womb is one of the best ways of keeping track of how they’re doing and noticing any changes.

My aim is to empower mums to have positive pregnancy and birth

experiences, with support to minimise today’s risks. We do this by enriching both mum’s sensory pregnancy journey and baby’s conscious sensory connection.

What has been your proudest business moment?

There have been many: opening my first nursery, publishing my first book and being a birth partner to mums. I was also named one of the UK’s Top 10 Most Influential People in Childcare in 2017 by Nursery Management Today magazine. I feel privileged to have been part of so many children’s lives.

What’s next for Babyopathy?

The second edition of my book, will be published in May, alongside which I’ll be launching my online parent workshops. The new book includes my Base Formula essential oil blends and promotes the Routine in the Womb. The second awareness month is in June and we’ll be focusing on the importance of resting and nesting in the third trimester with a Feet Up Instagram challenge! babyopathy.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK; SHUTTERSTOCK

What inspired Babyopathy?

Without any childcare knowledge I opened my first nursery in 1993 at 21 years old, and then three years later I had my daughter, who didn’t sleep through the night for three years. A few years later her brother was born, and he also didn’t sleep through the night. I also couldn’t breastfeed either baby. I knew there had to be a better way, so started doing my own research. I looked deeper into child development and the research quickly took the route of sensory stimulation. My first programme, Natural Care was introduced into my Angels at Play nurseries in 2000. After lots of requests, I published my first book, Babyopathy: Baby care the natural way! so parents at home could follow the programme too.

ilgufo.com

LONDON – 313, BROMPTON ROAD