+
PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD! CREATIVE KIDS LUNCH IDEAS
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MINI SPRING ENSEMBLES Start the season with a fresh wardrobe for the littles
THE BEST STROLLERS FOR SPRINGTIME WALKS
MARIO LOPEZ
The Extra host shares the most important lesson he’s teaching Gia and Dominic
SPRING AHEAD
PRETTY PASTELS PUDDLE JUMPING GEAR SPRING STROLLERS FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAVEL FUN WITH FOOD AND MORE!
Taking you higher, bringing TM you closer. Stokke® Xplory® and Stokke® MyCarrier At Stokke®, we are committed to putting children first. Our products are designed specifically to encourage child development and to strengthen the bonds between parents and children. We believe it is in a child’s best interests to be as close as possible to its parents, and to be in an environment of genuine safety and security, free to learn and to grow. Our products are innovative, sustainable and child-centric, providing smart solutions for your baby’s needs and fitting easily into your home and life. Stokke® products are also designed to grow with your child.
www.stokke.com
MINI
ON OUR RADAR
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT
Goumikids come these adorable newborn sets, complete with a newborn hat, mitts and boots. Perfect for baby showers this spring, these eco-friendly essentials are made from soft, organic cotton and bamboo. $40, goumikids, goumikids.com
( THIS JUST IN )
LU LU JO A brand where modern and traditional meet— Canada’s lulujo creates functional products with comforting fabrics that both moms and babies love. From muslin swaddles adorned with petite patterns to blankets, Turkish towels and facecloths, each product is sure to become a must-have that Mini parents will use for years to come. —lulujo.com
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
◀ BABY DEEDEE SLEEP NEST
No more loose blankets in baby’s crib! The Sleep Nest by Baby Deedee takes care of it all. “I love that these keep baby warm, cozy and secure with just two snaps— plus with eight colors, there is an option for every parent’s style!” says Mini’s Editor in Chief Kate Kirby. —babydeedee.com
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
MINI CAL
LOG ON TO
MINI
◀ MINI MUST-DO
Enter to win a new baby bag to star t your spring in style!
Try the Berry Berry Nuts and Bananas from Spread PB on blueberry bread, with strawberries, blueberries and bananas!
SPRING Jane’s Carousel in the DUMBO section of Brooklyn Bridge Park is the perfect place to spend a spring afternoon.
It’s a Mini’s dream come true! Spread PB is a new build-your-own sandwich bar in Studio City with tons of peanut butter sandwich ideas. —spreadpb.com LOG ON TO
MINI To find more spring launches and events this season!
The cherry blossoms are an iconic Washington, DC sight in the spring! Visit the Cherry Blossom Festival from March 20-April 12. —nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
ON THE EDITOR’S LIST
6
FROZEN FEVER ▶
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Take the kids to the Four Seasons Chicago this spring to experience the Let’s Getaway package— the ice cream man will be a big hit!
It may be spring, but we’re still in Frozen mode! Walt Disney Animation Studios’ new short Frozen Fever hits theatres March 13, in front of Disney’s Cinderella.
the
mini micro
for children ages 3 to 5 The Mini Micro Kickboard is the quality 3-wheel kick scooter with an award-winning Swiss desig n. Ideal for children ages 3-5, the Mini Micros’s 3 wheels, low-to-the-ground deck, and gentle lean-and-steer handle bar all contribute to the stability that makes the Mini perfect for pre-schoolers and kindergarteners. The lean-and-steer desig n is what makes the mini unique and fun. Using their body weight to curve right and left, kids intuitively learn to ‘surf the sidewalk’, developing balance, coordination and motor skills.
kickboardUSA.com
◀ MINI MUST BUY
Spring is the season for adventure and this tee from Rylee and Cru knows it!
EDITORIAL
FOLLOW MINI ! MINI IS ON INSTAGRAM
If you’re on Instagram, be sure to follow Mini! We’re sharing behind the scenes peeks at making the magazine, new kids products and collections, our #minisays series and much more! Find us on Instagram: @minimagazine or visit www.instagram.com/ minimagazine.
SHOP
LIFESTYLE
CURRENT ISSUE
MARIE CHANTAL The Mini Must-Have brand debuts their new spring/summer collection! mini-magazine. com/category/lifestyle THE NEW BABY BOOK Blinkbuggy reinvents the baby book with its memory sharing app. mini-magazine. com/category/lifestyle NANNY SEARCH An expert shares five things every parent should know when searching for childcare. minimagazine.com/category/ lifestyle
MINI MOMS Meet the inspiring moms behind some of your favorite brands and blogs! mini-magazine.com/ category/lifestyle
minisclusives LOG ON TO
MINI You can find all of this and more on our website!
Photos above, left to right: Rylee and Cru, Bugaboo, Marie-Chantal, Gretchen Easton, Blinkbuggy
PR
Life equals Style SHOP SPRING >
hatchcollection.com
contents 02
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44 48
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58
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45 | ABOUT A GIRL The lat-
est collection from Tutu du Monde celebrates femininity
17 | MEET THE TEAM The team that makes all the Mini magic possible
25 | THE STYLE SPOT The best of kids rain coats, rain boots and pastels
52 | ON THE SCENE Take a stroll with the best gear for the spring season
22 | EDITOR’S LIST A
32 | MOMMY CHIC It’s the
62 | BOOK CLUB Spend a
carefully-curated list of Kate’s favorites this season
style spot for our chic Mini moms
rainy day or sunny picnic with these fun reads
36 | TECH KIDS The latest
64 | GORJANA Mini chats
and greatest from the Mini tech sphere 38 | INSIDER SCOOP New from Banana Republic, White + Warren and Little Giraffe
with the mom of two behind the eponymous jewelry brand
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contents
52 54
56
62 64 70
78
80 82 86
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90 94 96 90
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100 102
78 | PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD Get creative with your kids lunches this spring 80 | KRISTIN HANNAH This
best-selling author shares how she makes it all work
82 | LOVESHACKFANCY Mini
visits the boho chic mama behind LoveShackFancy 66 | TEE PEES Mini curates the best tee pees for your little ones
72 | FITSPIRATION The coolest fitness studios to help parents get in shape
69 | THE FOX AND THE SPARROW A fresh, modern take on capturing moms and babes
75 | KRISTIN VAN OGTROP Mini quickly catches up with the Real Simple editor
56
StokkeÂŽ Flexi BathÂŽ Is a uniquely foldable bathtub suitable from birth with newborn insert to children up to the age of four. Being foldable, it is convenient to use and store, and equally easy to handle and bring along when you travel. Made from plastics that are completely free from harmful substances, the bathtub is safe, flexible and comfortable to use for a growing child.
www.stokke.com
contents
54 56
66
72 74 78 82 84 86
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96 98 104 106
92 | MEET FS CHICAGO
Four Seasons Chicago offers family-friendly fun 94 | OLIVIA CHANTECAILLE The beauty maven shares how she’s parenting daughter Delphina 98 | CLAIRE COFFEE The Grimm star is expecting her first baby and tells Mini how she’s getting ready
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108 | MI FAMILIA
Mario Lopez and his wife Courtney dish on life with two kids 116 | ELIZABETH MESSINA The expert photographer dishes on motherhood
110 114 120 123 | MINI WORLD
TOUR We’re going to New York City, Paris, Asia and beyond!
MUCH MORE MINI.
MINI MAGAZINE
Founder and Editor in Chief K aitlyn K irby Cover Photo grapher G retchen Easton Photo graphy A ssistant Abby Hall Wardrob e St ylist S amantha B aker Editorial Team Editorial Pro duc tion A ssistant M ichael B enters Contributing Photo grapher Lauren K allen Contributing Photo grapher M aria Lamb
M ini O ffices M ini M agazine Email | hello@mini-magazine.com Web | w w w.mini-magazine.com
M ini M agazine is a digital lifest yle publication for the moder n parent available online at w w w.mini-magazine.com. All r ights reser ved. No par t of this publication may be reproduced, distr ibuted, or transmitted in any for m or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other elec tronic methods, without the pr ior wr itten per mission of the publisher, except in the case of br ief quotations embodied in digital and pr int reviews. Copyr ight Š 2015 M ini M agazine.
MINI
WHAT’S IN THE BAG
The classic packaging somehow feels like home and I smile every time I see them.
JUST LIKE GRANDMA
W H AT ’ S I N T H E B A G
Rachel Roy? DESIGNER MOM RACHEL ROY
◀ TIFFANY NOTEBOOK
BALLY SOMMET BAG
A
gift from my BFF, Edward, who has the chicest taste. The color goes with everything and it’s a nice update to black. The size lets the bag act as a briefcase or a carryall.
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
I use the classic Tiffany & Co. notebook to make sense of my mess! tiffany.com
is a jet setter and always on the go. Since this is the season for travel, we took a peek inside her handbag to see what she takes along on trips. What did we find? Caudalie Organic Herbal Tea (These individually-wrapped tea bags are so convenient when you’re on the go and traveling!), a Tiffany notebook (I’m always writing things down, taking notes and making little lists as thoughts come to mind throughout the day!), Emergen-C (Anyone else always feel on the verge of a cold when traveling? These have been life savers for me and my girls!) and a tin of peppermint Altoids (My grandmother carried these in her purse and would let me eat as many as I wanted in church!). For more Mommy Musings, follow Rachel on Twitter and Instagram, @rachel_roy. CAUDALIE TEA BAGS ▶
I fell in love with the taste at their New York City spa and was delighted to find they came individually wrapped, as not many brands do. $14; nordstrom.com
ace & jig
Mara Hoffman
By Malene Birger
Rebecca Minkoff
Sam & Lavi
Rachel Pally
B U RU H A N D P I C K E D R E A D Y- T O - W E A R
Bella Dahl
FOR BREAST-FEEDING MOMS AND BEYOND
Receive $25 off your first order with the code MINIMAG25
Corey
@shopburu
www.shopburu.com
www.facebook/shopburu
MINI
FROM THE EDITOR
Hey, parents— Follow us on the web! Be sure to follow us on Twitter @theminimagazine, on Facebook (facebook. com/minimagnow) and pin with us on Pinterest (pinterest.com/theminimag).
Have ideas? Let us know! I’d love to hear from you. Send me an email kate@mini-magazine.com or tweet me @minimagkate to share suggestions, thoughts, and ideas.
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
It’s about time, spring! Here at Mini, we’re ready for April showers, May flowers, rainboots and puddle jumping. We’re ready for warm weather, bright colors and road trips with the family— lucky for you, it’s all in this issue! We welcome Mario Lopez and family to our cover, having spent a spring afternoon chatting all things parenting and keeping up with busy schedules. We share travel ideas perfect for this time of year, including the new Let’s Getaway package at Four Seasons Chicago. We bust out creative ideas for kids lunches (we know after a long winter, it can be hard to maintain the fun factor!) with food art and bento boxes. But let’s be honest, the best part of the spring season is hitting restart on both you and your Mini’s wardrobes. Clear out the old to make room for all of the new featured in this issue. There are pastel dresses, suits for Mini misters, baby turbans and headwraps (that I just can’t get enough of!) and the best gear for when the weather turns wet and soggy. Here’s to a fresh start and a healthy, happy and of course, chic spring season! Grab that jogging stroller and let’s get moving!
Kaitlyn Kirby
Founder and Editor in Chief
MINI
editor‘s LIST
◀
BRUSH STROKE TURBAN
BATH TIME BABY
◀
I am head over heels for tiny turbans and headwraps! This pattern is so simple and chic. $22; ultraviolet kids.com
The Puj Flyte tub is great for home and yet, is still small enough to fit in a suitcase for traveling this spring. $34.99; puj.com
◀
BUNNY SWADDLES
To celebrate Pat the Bunny’s 75th anniversary, aden+anais designed these sweet, limited edition swaddles. $34; adenandanais.com
◀
NURSERY STAPLES
The new Moroccan crib sheets from Little Giraffe are so luxurious. $45; littlegiraffe.com
◀ VAN GOGH MOBILE
◀
22
BEACH MINI SKIRT
The perfect piece to take along on your spring break beach getaways, moms. $245; loveshackfancy.com
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
I’m in love with the art-tastic Van Gogh collection from Bugaboo launching in April. From $105; bugaboo.com
DESIGN ALL AROUND YOU
Josephine Ald 3042 Lincoln W ay San Francisco , Califnia 94 115
“Zoo Menagerie” by Moglea (Audubon, IA)
Party dreams brought to life.
BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
INVITATIONS
NURSERY ART
PARTY DECOR
Sourced from a community of independent designers. Available at www.minted.com
WE
♥ SPRING
BRING ON THE SUN It’s time for shades! You can find more of our spring season picks on our website: minimagazine.com/lifestyle
PHOTO:GRETCHEN EASTON
ST YLE SPOT spring
The best of kids rain boots for puddle jumping fun this
ST YLE SPOT
April showers
Rain jackets and
ST YLE SPOT
pop of color
Pretty
MOMMY CHIC
umbrellas to cover the pastels for a subtle Mini’s latest Mommy
Must-Haves, like fresh, dewy makeup, nursing gear and more! M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
STYLE
SPOT
C AT S A N D D O G S
With these fun rain jackets, Minis can burst onto the spring scene ready for the wet weather the season will bring.
TINY TRENCHES
What’s better than trading your parka for a Mini trench coat? Yeah, we don’t know either. Above: Burberry; saksfifthavenue.com; Below: $150; Ralph Lauren; ralphlauren.com
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI MENAGERIE
HI HO CHEERY-O
Playful creatures jazz up a splash-ready The terry lining inside keeps Minis warm jacket. $54; Mini Boden; bodenusa.com. and dry. $66; Hatley; nordstrom.com.
BRIGHT AND BOLD
FLOWER CHILD
A rainbow lining to brighten any day. $25; saksoff5th.com.
April showers bring May flowers— and this raincoat. $19; target.com.
the ultimate shopping
destination for kid’s fashion
Sent straight from Paris and delivered to your doorstep in 72 hours: Armani Junior,
STYLE
SPOT
PUDDLE HOP
Puddle jumping is just as fun as singin’ in the rain! Grab a pair of these itty bitty boots and head outside to start splashing.
1
2
3
4
5
6
1. STRIPED SPLASHERS
3. TINY TOMS
5. MEET THE BOOTS
A navy striped rain boot is a spring essential. $45; Joules, target.com
Rain boots that also donate a pair to a child in need. $49; TOMS, neimanmarcus.com
This pair of boots features a fun face to keep your Minis on their toes. $65; Mini Melissa, amazon.com
2. BLOCK OF COLOR
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$75; Hunter, saksfifthavenue.com
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
4. BUTLER OVERBOOTS
6. PETIT FLORALS
$50; Butler Boot, nordstrom.com
$49; TOMS, nordstrom.com
Plenty of things keep you up at night. Shopping for your kids shouldn’t be one of them.
Our Stores
landofnod.com 800.933.9904
Chicago, IL North & Clybourn 312.475.9903 Northbrook, IL Northbrook Court 847.291.9902 Oak Brook, IL Oakbrook Center 630.368.9990
SOFT AS A CLOUD
STYLE
$65; Marie Chantal; mariechantal.com
SPOT
P R E T T Y I N PA S T E L Time for a Mini wardrobe makeover! Say goodbye to those dark shades of winter and spring for lighter hues this season. TINY TOES
$7; Gymboree; gymboree.com
MINI MARSHMALLOW
This tutu skirt is lightas-a-feather and a little ballerina’s dream come true. $69; Tutu Du Monde; tutudumonde.com. PASTEL PEPLUM
This champagne hue is both simple and sophisticated for a Mini spring ensemble. $325; Marie Chantal; mariechantal.com.
LITTLE LEGGINGS
Pair these pastel leggings with a casual tee for a day of play. $13; Gymboree; gymboree.com.
SOMEBUNNY CUTE
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
This knit cardigan features somebunny cute on the backside. $100; Stella McCartney; yoox.com.
visit us in store or online www.lillypulitzer.com
MINI
MOMMY CHIC
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The gorgeous hats from the new spring/summer collection from Preston & Olivia, inspired by 1960s surf culture. —prestonandolivia.com
ONE DRESS, ONE SEASON
STORQ If there is one wardrobe essential you will live in this spring, it’s this dress from Storq. The shirt dress comes in three colors: a soft peach, a refreshing citrus yellow and a bluegray marine. Simply pull it on, add layers with a scarf or a light jacket and head out the door! Dress it up, dress it down— this is an absolute Mini Must-Have! —storq.com
MOMMY CHIC INSPIRATION
“MOM OF TWO, THREE, SEVEN? THESE LULU FROST RINGS ARE A LOVELY WAY TO DISPLAY THAT ON YOUR FINGER,” SAYS MINI’S EDITOR IN CHIEF, KATE KIRBY. —jcrew.com.
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
32
Loafers are an easy fix to a busy mom’s shoe dilemma and this open loafer ($350) from Loeffler Randall was basically made for spring. Comfortable, unexpected and certainly chic. —loefflerrandall.com
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
GO AHEAD, FLAUNT YOUR BUMP. LET THE BELLABAND HOLD YOUR PANTS UP.
mid pregnancy Wear pulled up or folded over to hold up and smooth out too-loose maternity wear
late pregnancy Use folded over once or twice to hold up your pants when your belly pushes them down
post partum Helps the transition with tooloose maternity pants or too-tight pre-pregnancy jeans
e a r ly p r e g n a n c y Wear folded over to hold up unbuttoned pre-pregnancy jeans
IngridandIsabel.com Š 2012 Ingrid & Isabel, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
mommy
chic
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The Fast Food Sports Bra from BOOB ($89) for support while at the gym and access to quick and easy nursing. —boobdesign.com
BEACH STICKS
Charlotte Tilbury’s new twistup Beach Sticks add a pop of summer glow to your lips and cheeks with one swipe. —charlottetilbury.com
FRESH, DEWY, BRIGHT
MAKEUP
$17; Coachella Crush; model cosmetics.com
Your spring makeup should reflect the season with peach tones, pink hues and highlights all around. We’ve tested tons of products in order to share our favorites and help eliminate clutter in your cosmetics bag. Et voilà! We declare these three products (on right) are the only ones you’ll need for spring!
AMAZONIAN CLAY
A Mini favorite with up to 12 hours of coverage. Use for healthy looking skin and a satin-matte foundation finish. —tartecosmetics.com
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
WATT’S UP!
The Cucumber Tonic Mask ($18) from Mario Badescu to clean and tighten pores and give tired, dull skin a boost. Wake up to refreshed, radiant skin!
The cream-to-powder finish gives a youthful highlight on cheek and brow bones. —benefitcosmetics.com
—mariobadescu.com
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
TECH KIDS LOG ON TO
MINI RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The Aqueduck® faucet extender from Peachy to allow those little hands to reach the water much easier. —peachyco.com
Click here to grab Tile for ever ything you can’t lose!
MINI GAME CHANGER
TILE IT Busy parents are no strangers to losing their keys— it happens! That’s why we were thrilled to learn about the Tile app. By attaching Tile to an item (like your keys!), you’re linking it to your phone. The app supports up to 8 Tiles and casts a signal up to 100 feet, playing a melody until your lost item is back in your hands. No more being late to school over lost keys, Tile knows what to do! —thetileapp.com
RIGHT NOW WE’RE LOVING
The new YouTube Kids app with four playlist categories—Shows, Music, Explore and Learning— and the ability to customize settings to fit your Mini’s screen needs. —youtube.com
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
LOG ON TO
INSIDER SCOOP
MINI Click here to browse the new Banana Republic Mini!
BIG STYLE, SMALL SIZES
BANANA REPUBLIC MINI The classic Banana Republic style now comes in Mini form! The new, limitededition baby capsule collection recently launched and is available exclusively at the Lower Fifth store in NYC and on BananaRepublic.com. A cozy collection of clothing and accessories for babies ages 0-12 months, Banana Republic Mini comes to you from Creative Director Marissa Webb. “I began to notice that many of my friends are expecting and I want to give them a very personal gift,” said Webb. “With pieces that are not only fashionable, but also cozy for playtime, you’ll want them in your own size!” The collection— designed in a range of warm greys from ecru to heather— features French terry sweatshirts, sweat pants, soft knit separates, a fisherman’s sweater and a 100% cashmere blanket. There are 13 styles offered in 3 sizes: 0-3 months, 3-6 months and 6-12 months and prices range from $24 to $198.
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MAKE PLAY PERSONAL
Pinhole Press helps you share your special moments through photos. Create custom memory games, books, puzzles and flash cards for your family and let the fun begin!
“Pinhole Press has always stood apart for their unique ideas and beautiful designs.�
BABY LUXE Knitwear brand White + Warren has been setting the standard for everyday luxury for years— and now they’re taking their pieces Mini with a baby collection! Mini sat down for a lesson in cashmere from head designer Amanda Ferrer and here’s what we learned: Can you describe your love of cashmere and why people are so drawn to this material?
MINI |
Cashmere is luxury. It is extremely soft, warm and light weight. It has an enduring, sophisticated and chic quality to it like no other woolen fiber. This perfect balance of elements is so unique to cashmere that I think it makes it hard not to want! AMANDA FERRER |
White + Warren started as line for women? Why the expansion into the Baby category?
MINI |
White + Warren is passionate about being a lifestyle brand and the baby category is a natural progression for us. AMANDA FERRER |
If a woman is investing in one great cashmere item, what do you recommend?
MINI |
I recommend two pieces and you can’t go wrong with either. First is our amazing Travel Wrap which will become a staple in your closet (or suitcase!), no matter what the season. My wrap is like my security blanket— it goes wherever I go. Second is our Essential Crew from our White + Warren Essentials line. It’s so easy to dress up for an evening out or dress down. On those days [when] I wake up and don’t know what to wear, this is my goto sweater. —whiteandwarren.com AMANDA FERRER |
C OVE TA B LE • CO Z Y • C OT TON • C A S H M ER E whiteandwarren.com
MINI
INSIDER SCOOP
PINT-SIZED POSH LABEL
LOVE BY LITTLE GIRAFFE Beloved children’s brand Little Giraffe is expanding and sharing the LOVE with new pieces that offer comfort and quality for babies at a friendly price. LOVE by Little Giraffe is born of the desire for every baby to experience the luxury that parent brand Little Giraffe offers. The brand expansion features plush blankets, blankies and toys, including the signature cuddly giraffe. You’ll fall in love with the pastel color palette—just in time for spring— and swoon over the luxurious handfeel of each product. Prices range from $10 (Rattle) to $37 (Posh Satin Baby Blanket and Cloud Knit Baby Blanket) and include pastel pinks, blues and silvers. —littlegiraffe.com/ shop/love-little-giraffe/
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
LOG ON TO
MINI Use MINILOVE for 15% off the LOVE by Little Giraffe collection!
Save 15% with code
MINILOVE
TUTU DU MONDE CELEBRATES
ABOUT A GIRL Tutu Du Monde embodies a world filled with wonder and whimsy— and their latest collection, About a Girl is no exception. Celebrating all that is wonderful about femininity, the collection is filled with marshmallow tones and wisps of feathers.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
on the scene
THE MIXX
This three mode, easy-fold, all-terrain stroller provides the best in comfort and functionality no matter where you’re going this spring. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NUNA
JUST FOR YOU
Height-adjustable push bar caters to all parents and makes one-hand pushing a breeze.
ALL SEASON
Extendable canopy provides both extreme shade and light breezes at once.
THREE MODE
MIXX includes travel system, rearward and forward facing seats.
FUSS-FREE
One-piece, quickclick compact fold eliminates hassle for parents on the go.
SWAG STORAGE
Equipped with a large storage basket for stashing baby bags and more.
EASY RIDE READY TO ROLL
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Comes with infant car seat adapters and seat rain cover.
Lockable front swivel wheels provide peace of mind no matter the terrain.
available at Nordstrom
stroll on Whether it be an all day outing on cruise control or just a quick spin around the block, our MIXX is ready for the stroll ahead. With three riding modes, two crazily compact ways to fold, and one sweet, sleek sleeper seat, the MIXX is designed with all the little details in mind so your adventures in parenthood can be that much easier. Happy strolling — in smart style.
learn all about it at nuna.eu
The
Urban Stroller Bugaboo Bee3
Designed specifically for parents who live life on the fly.
MINI
on the scene
VA N G O G H
In collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum, Bugaboo introduces its new Bee³ stroller collection with a fresh take on a masterpiece. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BUGABOO
MINI ART
Almond Blossom served as the muse for the latest collection. A LA GOGH
The faux leather handle bar echoes the color of the tree branches. OUT OF THE BLUE
The Petrol Blue seat fabric and bassinet reflect the painting’s blue sky.
BUSY BEES
Easy-to-carry, lightweight, compact and quick to keep you on the move.
AND MORE
Signature accessories like the Footmuff and Breezy Sun Canopy are available in the Van Gogh print.
LOG ON TO
MINI Limited edition Bugaboo x Van Gogh will launch this April!
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
on the scene
STOKKE SCOOT
Stokke is bringing a splash of pretty pastels to sidewalks this spring with two new color options for the Scoot™ stroller. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STOKKE OVER YOUR HEAD
The oversized canopy boasts ventilation and SPF 50+ for protection.
HIGH FIVE
SPRING COLORS
High seat position to bring your Mini to tables in cafes or restaurants.
Choose from a sweet powdery Soft Pink to a crisp Aqua Blue accented with subtle Grey Mélange.
GROWS WITH YOU
Adjustable footrest can be adapted as baby grows. STOWAWAY
Spacious shopping basket with easy access from all sides.
STRESS FREE
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Large foam filled rubber tires allow for a smooth ride and no risk of puncturing.
MINI
LOG ON TO
MINI
on the scene
LOTUS CRIB
Click to snag a Lotus Ever ywhere Crib for your Minis this spring!
The Lotus Everywhere Crib is more than just a travel crib— use it every day at home with the kids and on your next adventure. BE COOL, BABE
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GUAVA FAMILY
Breathable, ClearView Mesh down to the mattress allows for full airflow and a complete view of your child.
PACK IT UP
Packs easily into its included carry case that also turns into a backpack.
58
IN A SNAP
NO YUCKIES
PEEK A BABY
The Lotus Everywhere Crib boasts a crazy fast and easy, 15 second setup.
No Flame Retardants. No PVC. No Phthalates. No Lead. No Heavy Metals. Low-VOC.
The zippered side door lets kids climb in and out and allows Mom or Dad to lie next to them.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
SAFE KIDS, HAPPY HOME
See our full line of baby gates at munchkin.com
MINI
on the scene
S A F E S T E P G AT E
Now 50% slimmer, the Munchkin Safe Step Gate will reduce your risk of tripping and stay out of the way in high-traffic areas. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MUNCHKIN GET A GRIP
EASY INSTALL
The dual-locking handle is easy for adults, but difficult for small children to operate.
Easy-to-install pressure-fit gate can also be removed in a snap.
SAFETY FIRST
A third lock at the base provides added safety and allows you to control which way it opens.
TRIPGUARD
The floor bar design is 50% lower than the standard safety gate to avoid tripping.
MEASUREMENTS
Stands 30” tall and fits openings 29.5”-35” wide, and can be extended up to a 54-inch width with additional gate extensions.
EASY PUSH
Gate locks shut with one simple push— no hard to close latches or locks.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
book club
SEA REX ▶
If you loved Molly Idle’s Tea Rex and Camp Rex, you’ll love Sea Rex. $13; amazon.com.
◀ HIPPITY HOP
GOODNIGHT YOGA
◀
Peter Rabbit is the perfect companion for spring storytime. $15; amazon.com.
A bedtime story and a series of poses for following the natural world as it comes to rest. $14; amazon.com.
◀
I SPY SPOT
Eric Hill’s classic character Spot is back in a new spring adventure! $5; amazon.com.
SP R I N G - A- L O N G
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Whether it’s a rainy day or a sunny picnic in the park, bring along these books to spring into storytime.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
PROTECTION IN STYLE.
MINI
MINI CHAT
G OR JA NA R E I DE L Mini chats with the Southern California-based mom of two and founder of eponymous jewelry brand, Gorjana. INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTO COURTESY OF GORJANA
You actually started your company with your husband. What’s it like to go to work with your husband every day?
MINI |
I actually enjoy working with my husband. We have always made a great team and there is no one else I could do this with. There are challenging moGORJANA REIDEL |
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ments, but we have learned how to handle those and give each other the space we need. Also, as the business grows, it requires you to focus on different aspects so we are not always working on the same thing. How has your career shifted to accommodate motherhood?
MINI |
The biggest shift has come with the amount of time I spend at our office. I have to be more efficient with my time and maximize my efforts so I can spend quality time with the kids. GORJANA REIDEL |
The pieces in your collection are just beautiful! Where do you find inspiration?
MINI |
To me, each piece is like a piece of art. [With] beautiful shapes and images around me, it makes it easy to stay inspired. It may be flipping through a magazine or a cool girl that walks by and something about her outfit sparks an idea. GORJANA REIDEL |
Talk to us about your favorite Gorjana pieces for spring. What are your favorite things to pair them with?
MINI |
My favorite pieces for spring are our Kate Bangles. They have these amazing details and look awesome stacked as a set. They pair great with our Zoe Ring to Wrist and Gwen Bangles.
confident in the pieces I have to choose from. What would you say is your parenting motto? What is most important to you and your husband in raising your children?
MINI |
Be present! We try to be present when we are with the kids and really give them the time and attention they deserve. We have really tried to stop talking about work or anything else that is going on and just focus on being there for them. GORJANA REIDEL |
Looking back to your first days as a parent, what advice would you give yourself?
MINI |
No one has all the answers. Follow your gut and it will all be OK. Be free to feel how you feel and don’t feel guilty about it. GORJANA REIDEL |
GORJANA REIDEL |
We all know moms are short on time! What are your simple steps to great style?
MINI |
I have really been focusing on investing in quality items that have a certain sense of timelessness— that way they can all be mixed and matched and last through a number of seasons. It makes it so much easier when I am in a hurry because I feel more GORJANA REIDEL |
BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD...
Have my weekends filled with so many sports activities. MY BEDTIME ROUTINE ALWAYS INCLUDES...
Reading and falling asleep while doing so. MY FAVORITE KIDS BRANDS...
Crewcuts, Zara, Jonah Love, Vans, Richer Poorer socks. THE PARENTING ITEM I COULDN’T LIVE WITHOUT...
Baby wipes.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI
MINI MUST HAVES
◀
STRIPES AHOY
◀
Black Stripe Canvas Teepee $159; landofnod.com.
GLOW IN THE DARK
Glow in the Dark Starlight Great Plains Teepee $129; gilt.com.
Hideaway ColorMy-Own Five Panel Teepee with Washable Markers $159; gilt.com.
TEE PEE TIME
We love them, the kids love them— they will make a fun addition to your Mini’s room or playroom. We’re sharing our favorite teepees!
PASTEL PLAY ▶
MINI POPPIES ▶
Kids Teepee in Red Poppy, Large $569; teepeedees.com.
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COLOR IT ▶
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Moulin Roty Cream Teepee $318; alexandalexa.com.
FLOWER POWER ▶
Kids Teepee in Blue Floral Vine, Large $239; teepeedees.com.
MINI
CLOSER LOOK
MINI AND ME
The Fox and the Sparrow beautifully captures women and their children in a fresh, modern way. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FOX AND THE SPARROW
Maternity sessions and holiday cards are not the only time to capture the best days of your life as a parent— Enter the Fox and the Sparrow. The women behind Studio Castillero, Sitting in a Tree, 1011 Makeup and Siren Floral Co have come together to offer a new and intimate way of capturing
a women and her children. With pop-up shoots all over the country, moms have the choice of boudoir (Fox), maternity or simply herself and her babes (Sparrow). “The sessions are meant to celebrate our wildness, tenderness and strength as women and mothers, and do so honestly and intimately,” the Fox and the Sparrow M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
told Mini. “Plus they’re filled with plenty of laughter, flower crowns and champagne!” The Fox and the Sparrow is truly a collaborative process among some of the best creatives around: Rachel, of Studio Castillero, acts as the in-house photographer; Tori of Sitting in a Tree provides clothing options for moms and their Minis; Erica of 1011 Makeup makes everyone feel beautiful with hair and makeup; Rachael of Siren Floral Co masters the flower crowns and florals for the shoot and Jamie is available as a guide through the whole process, helping with scheduling and booking. Whether you have one child or ten, all are welcome to participate, no matter the age! Pop-up photo sessions typically
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last 30 minutes, with a 30 minute hair and makeup session, for a total of one hour. If a private session is more your style, the Fox and the Sparrow will arrange to shoot in the location of your choice and bring the entire team along; private sessions include one hour of shooting in addition to 45 minutes of hair and makeup. Next stops for pop-up sessions include Portland, Denver, Nashville and NYC, so be sure to watch for your city! To place yourself on a wait list or sign up for a session, emails can be directed to fox@ studiocastillero.com. —studiocastillero.com —sittinginatreedesign.com —1011makeup.com —sirenfloralco.com
ORGANIC SOFT STYLISH With stylish babies and kids in mind, our fabrics are designed in house and printed on US grown, certiďŹ ed, organic cotton using eco-friendly water-based inks. Each piece is purposefully designed to mix and match and make the style uniquely yours.
LET’S CONNECT
W W W.VONBON.CA
MINI
CLOSER LOOK
F I T - S P I R AT I O N
Say goodbye to the winter blues and head to one of these fun fitness studios for a sweat sesh.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Beat-based 45-minute rides. cycfitness.com.
AQUA STUDIO
UPLIFT STUDIO
Combines aqua workouts and spinning. aquastudiony.com.
◀
Guided meditation classes. unplugmeditation.com.
Indoor cycling and barre classes. flywheelsports.com.
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UNPLUG MEDITATION
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A 45-minute indoor cycling workout. soul-cycle.com.
CYC
◀
FLYWHEEL
◀
SOULCYCLE
Women-only strength and sculpting. upliftstudios.com.
Discover
The all-new, all-terrain Bugaboo Buffalo
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SUBSCRIBE NOW
WWW.MINI-MAGAZINE.COM
MINI SPENT TEN MINUTES with Kristin van Ogtrop— Edi-
tor of Time Inc.’s award-winning women’s lifestyle brand Real Simple, author of Just Let Me Lie Down and mom of three boys—to talk parenting style, the best baby shower gift and the advice she would give to her new parent self.
KRISTIN VA N OGTROP INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTO COURTESY OF REAL SIMPLE
THE ULTIMATE MOMMY
A first-class plane ride from NY to CA. GETAWAY
ONE OF THE KEYS TO MANAGING THE PARENT-
Have one really neat space in your house that is completely within your control. When there are toys and school papers and muddy shoes everywhere, you can go there and take a deep breath. ING CHAOS
THE ONE THING ABOUT PARENTING NO ONE WARNS YOU ABOUT
Sometimes one of your children will exhibit a behavior that he picked up straight from you, and you will still really hate it. IF I COULD GIVE MY KIDS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE IT
If you chew with your mouth open, you will never have a girlfriend. WOULD BE
ON THE CLOCK
I WOULD DESCRIBE MY PARENTING STYLE AS MY FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE
An ongoing struggle to be more flexible in my thinking.
The Incredibles. I could watch it once a week.
IN MY FRIDGE YOU WILL
Pickles, kefir, cheese sticks, organic milk, apples, blueberries and about five kinds of IPA. ALWAYS FIND
MY FAVORITE KIDS BOOK
THE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE MY NEW PARENT SELF
Everything is just a phase. Both the good and the bad. So enjoy it while it lasts—or be patient. THE ONE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM
A little headless LEGO guy that I keep in the compartment with the Blistex.
Clogs from the No. 6 store in SoHo. Totally stole the idea from Julianne Moore. Part of my lifelong quest to be half as cool as Julianne Moore.
AS A BUSY MOM, I LIVE IN
I don’t really buy a lot of to-go coffee. I have one very strong cup of coffee at home in the morning that I make with one of those single-cup drip pour-over things. MY TYPICAL COFFEE ORDER
THE PERFECT SPRING ENSEMBLE INCLUDES
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A beautiful light overcoat that I have yet to find for myself.
MY FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL
Currently it’s Real Simple’s Saucy Baked Chicken Legs with Olives and Tomatoes, with a loaf of good bread. But I love to eat and love to cook and so that answer is always changing. My kids would say their favorite family meal is Marcella Hazan’s pasta bolognese. THE BEST BABY SHOWER GIFT
A collection of my favorite board books, starting with Good Night, Gorilla.
Photos: Previous page: Kid O Air Plane, Above: Roalddahl.com, Clock: Crate and Barrel, Book: Barnes and Noble
Right now, it’s anything by Roald Dahl. Does that count? Just magical enough for my 7-year-old and just twisted enough for me. We are currently reading The Witches.
The
Convertible Stroller
Bugaboo Donkey
Designed specifically to grow and flow with your family.
MINI
MINI FOODIE
FOOD FIGHT
Mom may have told you to never play with your food, but in this case, it’s encouraged! PHOTOGRAPHY BY SELENA KOHNG, HOWABOUTCOOKIE.COM LOG ON TO
MINI Follow @howabout cookie on Instagram for more yummy creations!
◀
CAULIFLOWER
Use cauliflower for fluffy clouds, soft sheep’s wool or even snow.
◀
KIWI SLICES
Sliced kiwi easily turns into leaves, wheels and ears.
LUNCHTIME LESSONS
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How About Cookie reminds us to think outside the (lunch) box. “A heart-shaped cookie cutter on its side can be a bird. Upside down, it can be the face of a dog.”
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
◀
ORANGE SLICES
Turn orange slices into sunshine or halve them to use as a smile.
USE WHAT YOU HAVE
Hard-boiled egg molds are great tools for bento and food art.
MINI
MINI CHAT
K R I ST I N HA N NA H Mini chats with the New York Times bestselling author (and mom!) of novels such as Firefly Lane, Home Front and recently, The Nightingale. INTERVIEW BY KAITLYN KIRBY PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTIN HANNAH
We’re big fans of your books! Talk to schedule that had me dashing from here to us about how you manage such a successful there, but I loved it. Writing allowed me to writing career with motherhood. be the mom I wanted to be. When my son was very young, I wrote at five in the mornKRISTIN HANNAH | I sold my first novel when ing and during every nap. Later, I wrote my son was two years old, so most of my ca- [during] school hours. I drove carpool, reer, I was a working mother, trying to find planned class parties and went on every the time to do everything. It was a crazy field trip and wrote in between. MINI |
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You went to law school yet went on to become a writer. What advice would you give to women who are struggling with the decision to pursue their dreams?
MINI |
I would say [what] I say to my son when he asks the same thing: life is short. No, we can’t always do the thing we dream of, follow our passion exactly when we want to, but I think the important thing is to begin. To dare to believe in yourself. Take whatever that first step is.
KRISTIN HANNAH |
Part of your obsession with writing stemmed from your mom— what would you say is the greatest influence she had on your own parenting style?
MINI |
She was the one who gave me the dream of being a writer. I had never imagined that course for myself, but she knew me better than I knew myself. Of all the many things she taught me, perhaps the most important was to support my son wholeheartedly, in whatever he chooses to pursue.
KRISTIN HANNAH |
In your opinion, what is the greatest challenge of motherhood and are you tackling it?
MINI |
For me, the greatest challenge of motherhood is, has been, and probably always will be, letting go. I love my son
KRISTIN HANNAH |
so much that I want to make the world easier for him than it was for me. I learn the lesson, over and over again, that sometimes helping our kids too much is as bad as not helping them enough. We have to let our kids go into the world and fail. I honestly believe it’s hard to find success if one can’t survive failure. If a Mini reader was headed to the Seattle area with kids, what 5 places should they visit?
MINI |
The Seattle Aquarium— I used to take my son here all the time; Woodland Park Zoo; The ferris wheel— the best view in the city and fun for kids and adults; Seattle Center— there are great rides for the kids, a food court with endless possibilities, and the Experience Music Project museum to check out; Pike Place Public Market— great food, great crafts, street musicians and a view to die for; For Mom— The Gene Juarez spa. KRISTIN HANNAH |
MY FIRST THOUGHT WHEN I WAKE UP...
Is it raining? I can’t run in the rain. MY FAVORITE AUTHORS INCLUDE...
Stephen King, Anne Rice, Pat Conroy. THE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE MY NEW PARENT SELF...
Relax. MY FAVORITE KIDS BOOK...
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
MINI PRINCESS
Scarlett’s room is filled with tutus, capes and animal friends galore. Her favorite book? Pinkalicious.
REBECCA HESSEL COHEN Mom to Scarlett, New Yorker, Fashion Stylist, Founder and Designer of LoveShackFancy interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
photography by
LAUREN KALLEN
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
FOUNDER OF BOHO CHIC
clothing brand LoveShackFancy and mom to little Scarlett, REBECCA HESSEL COHEN
opens her Manhattan home to Mini and shares what it’s like to live the LoveShack life.
As a stylist and designer, how did your busy life shift to accommodate motherhood?
MINI |
My life was always extremely busy, but ever since my daughter was born, it’s been ten times busier. I tend to be more of a free-spirited, non-planner, but with a little girl, you need to plan. Weekends are packed with dinners, lunches with our friends and family, playdates and nights out with my husband. [We] tried not to change our lives too much and just incorporate Scarlett, which we’ve done a great job with. She goes to restaurants and travels around the world with us. It’s so much fun to travel with her— she is so full of life, so we rarely ever leave her home.
RHC |
What do you think are the keys to making it happen for working moms juggling a career and little ones?
MINI |
It’s all about having the right kind of balance. You need to create a healthy balance with your husband, your kids and your work; it’s not easy. You also need a great support system to depend on. My parents and inlaws live in New York, so that’s very helpful. My husband is also so handson— we share all the responsibilities. I think you need to be patient and make everything fun. If I need to stop by the office on the weekend for a
RHC |
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shoot or pick something up, then it’s a fun adventure for Scarlett to come with me. MINI |
What is your parenting motto?
Not to take anything too seriously or be too overbearing. We have fun, most importantly, and we don’t need to stick to too many strict rules or schedules. When we travel and on the weekends, we are more spontaneous. During the week, there is a stricter schedule. I want my daughter to grow up with great values, confidence and a great sense of self— to always be comfortable in her own skin.
RHC |
â—€
FAMILY AFFAIR
Both sets of grandparents live in New York which Cohen cites as a strong (and fun!) support system.
Talk to us about the LoveShackFancy style.
MINI |
The LoveShackFancy girl is romantic and ethereal. Fearless and confident. She loves to dance barefoot under the moonlight. She is magical and free-spirited. Whether it’s the ruffle mini skirt that we make in cottons or silks or our ethereal fancy dresses in silk chiffon, they are timeless pieces that are perfect for travel and you can style with almost anything in your closet. My mother also spends time hand-dying a lot of our clothes— each is unique and individual. The more you wear it, the better it gets.
RHC |
You’ve talked about adding a little girls capsule collection to LoveShackFancy. What are you hoping to introduce for the Minis?
MINI |
We are actually launching our capsule LOVE SHACK GIRLS collection in early June in collaboration with Romy and the Bunnies. We are introducing several key pieces for little girls (12 months to about 4 years) in our favorite go-to styles for
RHC |
travel. Little summer dresses, rompers, mini skirts, peasant tops. A very bohemian look, but still girly and fun. I’m also coming out with a little flower girl dress and will soon be introducing more vintageinspired styles to the flower girl and special occasion line. Now that spring is here, what is your idea of the perfect kids spring ensemble?
MINI |
Mini skirts and little blouses or cute feminine dresses. Scarlett only wears dresses and skirts. I’ve maybe put her in pants a handful of times.
RHC |
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
What inspired you to create your spaces at home, especially your little one’s room?
MINI |
It’s absolutely magical. We have a large elephant, lion and giraffe that have crowns, straw hats, tulle tutus and capes on them. We have many baby girls and kiki dolls dressed in precious clothes, hand-painted wood toys. I love anything French and I buy almost everything online at a French website. The French really know how to do it best. RHC |
What would you say surprised you most about motherhood?
MINI |
How I could love someone so much. It’s a different kind of love than you’ve ever had before. It’s the most special kind of love. The bond between a mother and a daughter is truly the biggest gift in the entire world and I feel so fortunate to have this.
RHC |
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If you could give your daughter one piece of style advice, what would it be?
MINI |
To let your clothes reflect who you are as a person and have fun with it. Always feel comfortable, but look presentable. A heel is the best accessory and skirts can never be too short, long dresses can never be too flowy and you can never have too much white or lace.
RHC |
OK, now how about one piece of life advice?
MINI |
Surround yourself with interesting, creative people who inspire you and motivate you to become the best person you can be. Life is all about your friends
RHC |
and your family. Never stop traveling or creating adventures. Make sure you find a partner in life that you want to explore the world with— there is nothing better. If a Mini Mom found herself in Manhattan, where are five places she should go with the kids?
MINI |
Central Park (especially the zoo, merry-go-round and Alice in Wonderland), tea with Eloise at the Plaza, American Girl, FAO Schwarz and Magnolia Bakery in the West Village for cupcakes (we go there several times a week, it’s [Scarlett’s] obsession!).
RHC |
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
FAST FACTS FAVORITE PLACES TO SHOP IN NYC ABC KIDS and YOYA OUR BEDTIME ROUTINE INCLUDES A bubble bath with mermaids, reading Pinkalicious, Goodnight Moon and watching our favorite songs in Frozen. THE ONE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM A diaper. MY MOM UNIFORM Mini skirts and oversized sweaters. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I Would have so many logistics in life. MY FAVORITE MEAL Cacio e Pepe pasta at Sant Ambreous in the West Village. THE ULTIMATE MOMMY GETAWAY West Harbor Island or Soho Beach House. IN MY FRIDGE, YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND Sancerre. IF I WROTE A PARENTING BOOK, IT WOULD BE CALLED Adventures with Mommy and Daddy.
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SCARLETT’S FAVORITE SPOTS Sant Ambreous with me for coffee and croissants (or pasta for dinner) and Magnolia Bakery for cupcakes.
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MINI
MINI TRAVEL
L E T ’ S G E T AWAY
Set your sights on the Four Seasons Chicago this spring and experience only the best in family-friendly amenities. LOG ON TO
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS
MINI Follow @fschicago on Instagram for more snippets of the city!
◀
KIDS PLAY ROOM
There’s even a kids playroom with Wii, games, toys and more!
We’re giving the Four Seasons Chicago dog the Best in the City Award.
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The new package from Four Seasons Chicago offers access to the hotel’s Ice Cream Man (who wheels his cart right up to your room), Martini Man (for Mom and Dad) or pizza making with a chef.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
SKYLIGHT POOL
◀
LET’S GET AWAY PACKAGE
The indoor pool is the location of Macaulay Culkin’s famous cannonball in Home Alone 2.
Photos: Above: Land of Nod canopy, Vienna Beef
HOMEMADE HOT DOG
The Let’s Get Away package from Four Seasons Chicago is the perfect option for spring breakers— iconic city, beautiful accommodations and the best amenities. Included is your choice of one of the following experiences: pizza-making with a chef in the hotel’s kitchen, a visit from the Ice Cream Man or Martini Man (who also wheels his cart to your door with a selection of delicious martinis and garnishes), as well as either a $50 credit to enjoy in the spa or overnight valet parking for one vehicle. And let’s talk about that spa, shall we? Not only does it have a luxurious look, but the numerous body, facial and hand and foot treatments are out of this world. It is also through the spa that you will find the site of the Macaulay Culkin’s infamous
cannonball in Home Alone 2— the 50-foot indoor Skylight Pool. Four Seasons Chicago does its best to cater to guests of all ages, but we’ll be honest, the property has the best family-friendly experience we’ve seen. Just take a look! The following services are always available to guests: Kids Kart Brunch in Allium on Sundays, child-size bathrobes and slippers, access to the Kids Clubroom, 24/7 fitness centre with steam room, sauna and jacuzzi, option to experience specialized teen spa treatments and the option for couples to enjoy a bottle of champagne and canapes’ for a private late night swim in the Skylight Pool. Four Seasons Chicago is a Mini Must-Visit this spring! —fourseasons.com/chicagofs
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
HAVING GROWN UP IN THE
world of beauty, this NYC-based entrepreneur developed a unique vision and flair for fashion, culture and modernity. Now with little Delphina, she’s bringing the chic factor home and applying it to her experience with motherhood. interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
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photography by
LESLEY UNRUH FOR ONE KINGS LANE
OL I V IA C HA N T E C A I L L E
Mom to Delphina, Beauty Expert, Creative Director, Chantecaille
MINI |
How has your life shifted to accommodate motherhood?
to be in bed with the lights out and I am trying to stick to it.
My number one priority now is Delphina. I love her more than anything else in the world. Since having her, I’ve found that I have less time for myself. I’ve happily dropped activities I used to do in order to spend more time with her. We love to go to different classes, play in the park and do all kinds of adventures together.
MINI |
OLIVIA CHANTECAILLE |
What do you think is the greatest challenge of motherhood and how are you tackling it?
MINI |
OC |
Lack of sleep. I started setting a time
Your home is just as chic as you are! Talk to us about how you designed Delphina’s nursery.
While I was pregnant, Delphina seemed most active in my belly when I was in the garden; the environment made her happy. I wanted to recreate this for her nursery. It’s like an indoor garden filled with butterflies, flowers and sunlight. OC |
While you were born and raised in NYC, your parents are French. How do you plan to introduce your daughter to the French culture?
MINI |
I only speak to her in French. We read French books and I play French music for her. There’s a school in Tribeca, La Petite Ecole, where I plan to take her. There are classic French foods that I grew up on that she already loves and we love going to Ladurée for a classic French tea. OC |
As a busy mom, give us a quick beauty routine or makeup look that can be done on little time.
MINI |
Start with Rose de Mai Cream then apply a great tinted moisturizer, like [Chantecaille’s] Just Skin. To fake a healthy glow, add a bit of highlight to cheeks with Liquid Lumière. Swipe on some mascara to help you look awake [and] finish with gloss for a fresh look. It’s good for kissing your baby without leaving a mark. I [also] tend to avoid fragrance because it can be irritating to babies. OC |
Let’s talk pregnancy. What did you live in, style wise, while pregnant? What do you believe are the essentials of a maternity
MINI |
wardrobe? The most important thing is comfort and choosing clothes that are easy to put on and remove— especially as your belly gets bigger. In the [warmer months], I wore a lot of A-line dresses and flats. During the colder months, I wore pregnancy leggings and blouses that were good for layering. OC |
What would you say is the one thing about motherhood that surprised you?
MINI |
I was surprised by how much I knew instinctually, which was reassuring. I purposely tried not to read too much beforehand so I didn’t form preconceived notions. I was happy to see how my motherly instinct kicked in. I tried to use that as my guide. OC |
Q &A FAVORITE KIDS BRANDS Bon Point, Jacadi, Makie and J.Crew, aden + anais for organic sheets, swaddles and sleep sacks, Melissa & Doug for great toys. THE ULTIMATE BABY SPLURGE Their first birthday party. THE ONE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM Stuffed animal bunny. BEFORE KIDS, I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD Cook. IF I WROTE A PARENTING BOOK, IT WOULD BE CALLED Life Is So Much Sweeter Now That You Are in My Arms. FIVE PRODUCTS EVERY MOM SHOULD HAVE IN HER BEAUTY BAG • A good eye cream that tackles wrinkles and dark circles. I like our Stress Repair Concentrate. • Our Le Camouflage Stylo. • Pure Rosewater. It’s a calming spray that is good for both mother and baby. • A sleep-in mask, like our Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask. • A great moisturizer. I love our Rose de Mai Cream.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
SHE MAY PLAY A WILDLY
ambitious and deceptive Hexenbiest on NBC’s hit series Grimm, but this first-time momto-be’s sweet personality could not be farther from that of her duplicitous alter ego.
CLAIRE COFFEE Mom-to-be, Portlander, Actress, Blogger at Full Disclothesure interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
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photography by MARIA LAMB
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Your character (Adalind Schade on NBC’s Grimm) recently became a mom and you’re now expecting a baby yourself! What do you anticipate will be the biggest change for you? I expect a drastic increase in coffee consumption and time spent in the makeup chair, to cover up the impact of sleep deprivation on my face.
CLAIRE COFFEE |
How do you plan to juggle your successful acting career with motherhood?
MINI |
I imagine the biggest challenge will be staying focused on work responsibilities while undoubtedly wanting to spend every waking minute with the baby. My husband Chris is a musician and on tour most of the year, which will make that balance challenging, to say the least. I plan on hiring a top-notch cleaning service and making use of my mom’s offers of help as much as I can. She is the best mom in the universe and a retired nurse, so I’ll be in pretty good shape.
CC |
MULTITASKING MOM
A woman of many hats, Claire also blogs at clairecoffee.com/fulldisclothesure
How are you preparing for baby at home? Have you started prepping the nursery?
MINI |
I’m transforming my husband’s practice room into the baby’s area, so I’ve been doing a lot of repurposing of furniture. I’ve turned his desk into a changing table and added a bright red vintage dresser and wooden train set. Luckily, the color scheme I’d already chosen for the practice room was cornflower blue, black and orangey-red, which works perfectly for a baby boy. I added a larger rug from Pottery Barn Kids to create a more plush crawling environment and some playful wicker bins with navy stars for
CC |
keeping things organized. Were you and your husband on the same page when it came to finding out [the baby’s gender]?
MINI |
CC |
Definitely. We couldn’t wait.
What were your first thoughts when you found out you are having a boy?
MINI |
Relief— since it meant that my husband would be the one tasked with doling out puberty advice. I was also immediately excited about the baby bow tie possibilities.
CC |
â—€ VINTAGE BEBE
Claire repurposed this bright red vintage dresser for the nursery.
How are you dressing the bump now? What have you been living in, style wise?
MINI |
Definitely dressing for comfort. I’ve been living in my appropriately named Zella “Live In” leggings, Pea in the Pod long tanks, Splendid tees and my white Champion fleece hoodie.
CC |
What do you think your parenting style will be like?
MINI |
I am hopeful that it will be patient and supportive. I’ve been studying and admiring the Montessori method and its focus on fostering an infant’s curiosity and inquisitive mind, so I’ll try to bring some of those techniques into play. CC |
If you could give your son one piece of advice, what would it be?
MINI |
CC |
You can’t beat the Golden Rule.
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. My father instilled that notion to my sisters and me (simplified into “If you want to have a friend you have to be a friend”) and I really think that if you can master that concept, you’ll fare well in most scenarios.
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
“
I’ve been studying and admiring the Montessori method and its focus on fostering an infant’s curiosity and inquisitive mind. ”
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Q&A FAVORITE FAIRYTALE CHARACTER Alice in Wonderland. MY WEIRDEST PREGNANCY CRAVING Not necessarily weird, but weird for me is my craving for Satsuma Mandarins. I was never a citrus fan before pregnancy. THE ULTIMATE BABY SPLURGE Weekly house cleaning and a great diaper bag. I treated myself to the taupe Ellena bag by Storksak. WHEN I FIRST FOUND OUT I WAS PREGNANT, I THOUGHT YEAHHHH!!!! IN MY STACK OF PARENTING BOOKS “Expecting Better” by Emily Oster and “Understanding the Human Being: Importance of the First Three Years of Life” by Silvana Montanaro. FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Mary Poppins.
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MINI
COVER FAMILY
photography by
GRETCHEN EASTON
mi familia
photo assistant
wardrobe stylist
ABBY HALL
SAMANTHA BAKER
Saved by the Bell alum and current host of Emmy® Award–winning news program Extra, Mario Lopez and his wife Courtney open their home to Mini to share what life is like with their two children, Gia and Dominic. interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
RIGHT Courtney: TopMichael Stars; Gia: Shorts- Cavelle Kids, Tank- Tea Collection, Top- Lali Kids; Dominic: Shoes- Converse, Onesie: Tea Collection
We’re so happy to have you as our spring cover family and give our readers a peek into your every day! Let’s jump right into it. How would you define your parenting style?
MINI |
Pretty strict, but always coming from a place of love. I think as long as the two parents are united, on the same page and come from a place of love, you can’t go wrong. I just want to raise my kids to be polite and respectful. I think that goes a long way.
MARIO LOPEZ |
What are some aspects of your own childhood you hope to echo for your kids?
MINI |
I would love for my kids not to forget their culture. I am 100% Mexican and my wife is 100% Italian— I’d like for them to be familiar with where they came from. ML |
What is most important to you in raising your kids?
MINI |
Besides having healthy kids, it’s to teach them to be respectful of others, be extremely polite and to show them that they are blessed. I would like for them to always look out for their family. Family is always first but to try to help others when they have the opportunity. ML |
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
“
I THINK AS LONG AS THE TWO PARENTS ARE ON THE SAME PAGE AND COME FROM A PLACE OF LOVE, YOU CAN’T GO WRONG. ” - M A R I O O N H I S PA R E N T I N G STYLE
Looking back to the days before you were parents, what were your first thoughts when you learned you were expecting Gia?
MINI |
I was very excited, nervous, scared— just mixed emotions all around. ML |
How about when you learned you were expecting Dominic?
MINI |
I had those same emotions, but not as intense because we already had one child and we were even more thrilled to give a sibling to our little girl. ML |
Talk to us about the transition from one child to two. Where have you seen the biggest changes now having two kids instead of one?
MINI |
Two is definitely an adjustment, but I come from a big family. My sister has four kids, so I knew what I was getting myself into. I think once we go to number three we are going to be outnumbered— then it will get very real. I think it’s great that we have a boy and a girl. Not only because we have one of each, but because Gia acts like an older sister who kind of takes on a motherly role. She really wants to take care of her baby brother.
do what I need to do, but I am always there for my family. We always have breakfast and dinner together. Sometimes I travel on the weekends and fortunately, I have a supportive family back home that understands that.
ML |
Let’s talk about your home! What is your favorite kidfriendly activity to do at home?
MINI |
I love BBQ’s— having carne asadas at the house with the kids, being in the pool and playing in the yard. We love playing bocce ball which is a lot a fun lately and just being outside. Luckily, we are in southern California and the weather is always nice so we are constantly outside— that way the kids are active. ML |
We know your lives are busy! How do you keep all of the plates spinning with two kids?
MINI |
My family is my number one priority— that always comes first. I have a very understanding and supportive wife who knows what my work entails and how everything is very fluid and unpredictable. I just
What do you think is the greatest challenge of parenting?
MINI |
ML |
Being able to balance everything in your life— being there for your family and providing for them the best way you can. There is no manual. You do the best you can! ML |
for my children. He is everything. What about parenthood caught you by surprise? Was there something you just weren’t prepared for?
MINI |
You don’t realize the amount of love that you have for these new little humans. It changes your whole perspective and all your priorities. It completely changes your whole outlook and perspective on life. Then you have to learn how to function with less sleep— you hear about it, but it’s difficult once you start doing it. ML |
How has parenthood changed you?
MINI |
It’s only complemented my life! If it’s a horrible day—tough or long—I come home, go to the door and little kids yell Daddy! It makes it all better. ML |
Looking back to your first days as a parent, what would you tell yourself?
MINI |
What do you think makes each of you a great mom and dad?
MINI |
[Courtney] is very smart and patient, but also strong and stern. The kids respect her when she tells them something. She is very authoritative. ML |
No need to stress and worry about every little thing. Things will take care of themselves and children are a lot tougher than you think they are. ML |
Mario works so hard for our family, but no matter how long of a day he’s had, he comes home and is so present. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect father CL |
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
the facts FAVORITE KIDS MOVIE Tangled is solid! My daughter is really into that. FAVORITE FAMILY MEAL When we make homemade pizzas together. THE ULTIMATE GETAWAY We go to Mexico every year with the family. My sister brings her kids, so it’s a total of seven kids. A little chaotic, but a lot of fun. IN OUR FRIDGE Every kind of juice box you can think of, milk and Omaha Steaks. FAVORITE KIDS BOOK The ones I wrote for my kids, “The Mud Taco Series.” THE ONE ITEM IN COURTNEY’S HANDBAG THAT SAYS SHE’S A MOM Disney Princess Chapstick. It’s Gia’s, but I do use it occasionally. FAVORITE PLACES TO SHOP FOR THE KIDS H&M. I’m also obsessed with a brand called “The Mini Classy.” WEEKEND TRADITION We go to church every Sunday and after, we go to Mariachi Brunch and eat a lot. PROUDEST PARENTING MOMENT Gia starting school at 2-yearsold. Nico is about to start school in September as well— I can’t believe it! THE LAST BOOK I READ The Four Agreements.
MINI
SHE CAPTURES THE MOST
beautiful images of brides, grooms, moms-to-be, babies and families. Mini is happy to turn the tables to share a sneak peek into her own life as a mom of three and one of the world’s best photographers.
ELIZABETH M E S SI NA Mom to Jasmine, 8, Malik, 11, and Mykela, 17; Worldrenowned Photographer
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M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
interview by
K A I T LY N K I R B Y
photography courtesy
ELIZABETH MESSINA
We’re such huge fans of your work! Talk to us about how you balance such an amazing career as a photographer with motherhood. How do you keep all of the plates spinning?
MINI |
I am a woman in search of balance. The moment I think I have everything organized and under control, that’s when all is unbalanced. I think the secret, for me, is doing my best to be in the moment— If I am helping my kids with their homework, or watching the cutest talent show ever at their school, I am all in. My phone is off and I am simply their mother. If I am on location shooting, I’m immersed in the photographs. I want to be a successful photographer and mother, [but] some days, I am neither.
ELIZABETH MESSINA |
How did your career shift to accommodate motherhood?
MINI |
My career developed in the midst of making babies. I did not photograph my first wedding until after I had my first child. I brought my sweet, three-week-
EM |
old daughter to the wedding, my mother came with us and I nursed in between making photos. I have never known anything but juggling. Truth be told, I am not a mother or a photographer, I am a professional juggler. My business was born out of my desire to be a good mother. When I started photographing weddings, it was to be near home and my children, to work occasionally on weekends and be a good mama all through the week. You take such beautiful photos of families and little ones! What do you love most about capturing pregnancy, families and kids on camera?
MINI |
I am drawn to any real life moments— the tenderness and imperfection of life captivates me, the strength and beauty of woman, the innocence and joy of childhood, the secret language of lovers. I love photographing any moment within a family—whether it’s a newborn, toddlers, pregnancy or a newly-engaged couple— all of it is poignant because it is part of life. EM |
SELF PORTRAIT
Elizabeth and her husband with children, Jasmine, Malik and Mykela
As a mom yourself, we’re certain you have fantastic images of your Minis. What advice would you give other parents for taking better pictures of their kids?
MINI |
Let your children be themselves. The best photos are the most natural ones, so let your children be silly, get dirty or even pick their own outfits. Photograph the mundane moments and the messes, the laughter and the sulking— there is no perfect way to photograph a child.
EM |
You capture pregnancy so beautifully. What would you tell moms-to-be who may be a bit uneasy about documenting this time in their lives?
There is something inherently vulnerable about being a woman and yet there is incredible strength and power— pregnancy is the epitome of both. Images during this moment in a women’s life are truly wonderful and when done right, you can see all the beauty, softness and strength a pregnant women possesses. The changes of pregnancy can be hard for some women, [but] I love showing them how beautiful they are, even when they are feeling unnerved by the physical changes. Pregnancy often looks (and photographs) more beautiful than it feels.
EM |
MINI |
What do you think is the greatest challenge of motherhood and how are you tackling it?
MINI |
It’s truly humbling to be a mother. I know for certain that no matter what I do and or how hard I try, I am inevitably doing something wrong. I think I find peace in knowing how lucky I am to be a mother. So many women want children and struggle with infertility— I know I am blessed to have these three people in my life. Even on my hardest days, they continue to be my greatest joy.
EM |
Your photos are so dreamy and we can only imagine your home is the same. What went into designing your home?
MINI |
Actually, there are very few photographs around our home; I don’t want to live in a shrine of my own images. There are a few exceptions: in our dining room, I have a huge image (it’s about five feet by eight feet) I made printed on a cow hide (by an artist friend of mine); in our living room, we have a collage of our wedding photos mixed with some other collectables, a Chinese carving my husband brought home from China (he played professional basketball there) and a vintage burlap
EM |
grain sack that I love. We do have some sweet family snapshots on our fridge held on with magnets. In my children’s rooms, their art and school projects are strewn around. Let’s talk style. What are your kids living in these days?
MINI |
My youngest, Jasmine, has a very strong sense of style (that makes no sense to anyone but her). I like seeing her [creativity]. She does a lot of layering, pants with skirts. My mom tells me I did the same thing when I was little— that makes me smile. My son, Malik, is a baller— basketball all day and night. He is basically a Mini of his father. His uniform involves some combination of shorts and sneakers and he loves comfortable sweatshirts. My oldest daughter, Mykela, is as graceful as a gazelle and has the body of a swimsuit model (her beauty is overwhelming sometimes and yet she is oblivious). Her style varies— she loves skinny jeans but is also stunning in my hand-me-downs, old Anthropologie dresses and my favorite look on her, rompers. EM |
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
Q && A IN MY FRIDGE, YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND Organic eggs. THE ULTIMATE MOMMY GETAWAY A massage followed by a long nap. MY MOM UNIFORM Pajamas. I JUST WANT MY KIDS TO KNOW Everything is going to be alright. CURRENT OBSESSION Calligraphy. FAVORITE APP Instagram. FIRST THOUGHT EVERY MORNING Coffee. THE ONE ITEM IN MY HANDBAG THAT SAYS I’M A MOM Band-Aids. THE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE TO MY NEW PARENT SELF Breathe deeply.
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MINI
EDITORIAL COME ALONG ON A MINI TRIP
around the world! From New York City to Paris to Asia and beyond— just pack your suitcase and consider this your Mini passport to spring paradise! photography
GRETCHEN EASTON
wardrobe stylist
MARGARET TOWNSEND
props
LAUREN MACHEN
props assistant
CEDRIC LAHEURTE
hair
RENEE LOIZ
Mini World Tour
bensimon models S A’ M O N I
zuri model and talent GIANNA, MILA, COSET TE, KRUZ, LOGAN
paloma model and talent G I O VA N N I
M I N I s p r i n g ‘15
LEFT Dress: Marie Chantal, Hat: Janie and Jack RIGHT Shirt: Marie Chantal, Sweater: Marie Chantal, Shorts: Janie and Jack, Shoes: Cienta
LEFT Dress: Monnalisa, Shoes: Mini Melissa RIGHT Shirt: Mayoral, Jacket: Mayoral, Shorts: Oeuf, Shoes: Jumping Jacks
LEFT Jacket: Mayoral, Shirt: Neige, Shorts: Mayoral, Shoes: Saltwater RIGHT Shirt: Marie Chantal, Sweater: Oeuf, Skirt: Monnalisa, Shoes: Mini Melissa
LEFT Shirt: Rachel Riley, Shorts: Rachel Riley, Shoes: Model’s Own RIGHT Shirt: Mayoral, Shorts: Joules, Shoes: Havaianas
LEFT Yellow shirt: Mayoral, White shirt: Margherita, Shoes: Jumping Jacks RIGHT Suit: Oeuf, Sweater: Marie Chantal, Shoes: Zuzii
LEFT Shirt: Marie Chantal, Shorts: Mayoral, Bow: Oeuf, Shoes: Saltwater RIGHT Shirt: Marie Chantal, Jacket: Mayoral, Jeans: Hitch-Hiker, Shoes: Livie and Luca
The End