How have your children inspired your creations and overall brand at Johanna Ortiz?
Being a mother has been one of the greatest gifts in life. Not just for the brand, but they have taught us the purest love one can ever experience, and that fulfills all aspects of our lives. They give us strength to keep going every single day.
Why did you decide to make a mommy and me collection? Are you going to expand this collection going forward?
It was so fun. At the Atelier we are all mothers, from the design department to finance. It’s part of our life, so we decided to start the line and are so excited about it. It’s really cute to see a Johanna Ortiz dress in a "mini me" version, with little ruffles and bows. We want to continue with the line, evolving with the new collections of the brand.
Pay it forward, who are your favorite womenswear and childrens' designers that act as inspiration for you?
We love Maisonette or Bonpoint.
Who are your favorite local designers in Colombia?
I respect and admire Olga Piedrahita.
What are the next steps for Johanna Ortiz?
We are constantly evolving and growing. We want to establish ourselves as a relevant international House from Latin America to the world.
JOHANNA ORTIZ
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
That’s the word: "balance." I try to be really mindful of the moment I’m living, so if WE are with our families, WE fully present and enjoy that moment. When I’m at the Atelier, I am really concentrated and excited about designing.
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
Our home in Cartagena or Key Biscayne, we love boating.
How do each of you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Every morning I have ‘me’ time. Time alone to reset, be grateful, meditate, be in silence, have breakfast, read news, do some exercise. These moments give me perspective of where I am standing, and are sacred to me. But then my real balance time is being up with my three boys and husband every evening, having dinner, it keeps my heart smiling and that is the best medicine.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
Being respectful to every person that comes their way, honesty, and to follow their dreams, working hard to reach them, but it’s okay to fail while you are in that search.
CATALINA LONDOÑO
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
Always quality (time) vs. quantity: Being fully present and enjoying every second I am with them, without worrying about work. In the same way, I love my job and am very focused and productive, but always having fun and making the best out of it. My work makes me be a better mom!
How do each of you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Again, quality time is what really matters when it comes to “Me” time:
Every morning I take a couple of hours to work out, enjoy a massage, connect with the world and be mindful and grateful about the new day ahead of me.
Every week, my husband and I try to go on a “date” and have some much needed couple, “adult” time together. I really look forward to it all week!
Johanna, Paola and I were first friends before we worked together so when we travel for work, we always go for nice dinners, enjoy a glass of wine and celebrate life and friendship. Girls nights out are definitely a must “Me” time too!
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
St Tropez in the summer! It is now a tradition in my family and every year is even more magical than the one before.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
I always remind them to be grateful for what they have and to share, love and care for those in need. To respect others, and be humble by accepting everyone’s differences and learning from them. To be strong and work hard to reach their dreams!
What are some of your favorite kids' brands?
Love the classical European brands like Jacadi, Bonpoint, Marie-Chantal, Stella MacCartney Kids! But I have a thing for traditional Spanish kids brands too like La Coqueta and Nanos.
PAOLA ORTIZ
How you find a balance between work life and managing your families?
My children are my drive. They are behind my everyday will to live and work. When I have quality time with them, work just seems easy. Loving my family and loving my work is the perfect balance.
How do you carve out “me” time? What do you do during that time?
Three years from now I made a resolution, make some ‘me’ time. It’s super important and is all about activities that enrich my life: doing exercise, cooking, playing tennis, meditation.
When you travel, where is your favorite family destination?
Florida. I love the beach. I plan every year a special vacation with my children, so they can see the world and different cultures. It’s our tradition.
What values do you each hope to instill in your children?
Respect all, work hard, and family is first.