Describe yourself in 3 words...
Brave, fiercely loyal, compassionate.
How did being a mother inspire you to create your own children’s collection?
Whilst I was pregnant with my third, I had this incredible drive to work and create a beautiful brand for children. When my son was born, he had the most incredible head of silver blond hair and looked like an angel cherub. I set about designing an Angel wing onesie and the brand was created ! I wanted it to be a beautiful brand of classic, fun, contemporary clothes for children.
What are your go-to clothing stores for your own children?
My children are grown now and very fashion conscious, but when they were little, it was me me and me.
What was your most memorable family vacation destination to date?
We just came back this week from Vienna where I brought the two eldest ones, Olympia (21) and Constantine (19). All the elder cousins were there with us as were my sisters and parents. So fun to keep the family close! Next year we will add in the little ones, as they were missed.
What are your favorite kid-friendly restaurants both in London and New York?
I have a Chinese favorite in London called Yautcha in SoHo, super kid-friendly with a beautiful Aquarium filled with little Nemo fish. And in New York, the city of food, we have been discovering favorites like Balthazar, Ludlow House and Sidel's.
What was the greatest challenge of starting your own brand?
Initiating the dream. Getting it started with a proper understanding of the challenges of retail.... The design is one thing, but the supply chain and quality control is something else. I use the mantra "Retail is Detail," and boy is the Devil is in the detail!
You have 5 children, and a booming business, how do you carve out time for yourself? How do you prefer to spend that time?
I love to prioritize and carve out time spent with the kids big or small. I have a 21 year old daughter and four boys, the youngest being 9. I read to him almost every night as not only do I love reading to him, but it’s true quality time. I’m out maybe three nights a week, as it’s important to set time with kids as they appreciate it so much and it pays off.
Since you’re an expert having raised 5 children, what is your best advice to mothers?
Keep a calm home as kids learn through Osmosis...and energy is picked up! Also, kids imprint on behavior. So always pay attention to how you behave especially around children.
What is your mantra?
Keep calm and carry on with a smile.
What values do you hope to instill in your children?
I want them to be independent and be the best that they can be. I tell them all the time to be what they want to be but with a contribution to humanity and to this beautiful earth!