In honour of Mother’s Day, the female founders behind Homebodii, Papinelle and Gingerlilly sat down with us to talk motherhood, entrepreneurship and switching off.
The power of the perfect pyjamas has to be felt to be believed, but take it from the women behind Homebodii, Papinelle and Gingerlilly when they say it’s not one to be underestimated. As mothers and entrepreneurs, the daily juggle is only made easier by the simple transition into sleepwear. With busy schedules at work and home, discover how they’re managing the balance as they come up for a moments air this Mother’s Day.
Ingrid Bonnor of Homebodii
As a working mum, how do you approach balancing motherhood, career and looking after yourself?
I have tried to create flexibility in my day to day life and I often remind myself that there is no such thing as a perfect balance or the perfect mother.
Trying to find balance in itself can be stressful as something always seems to give and that leads to guilt. As I approach the big 40, more and more I look at getting older and being healthy as a privilege. One thing that does make my day run smoother is getting up early and preparing a good cup of tea in my pretty PJs which sets the mood for the day!
How can the right sleep and loungewear enhance our relaxation rituals?
Relaxation is all about finding what works for you. I have found a warm bath and a good book can bring on relaxation and depending on the season wearing sleepwear that is comfortable, conscious and cute is always a bonus for both me and my husband! If we feel good about ourselves it reflects in our mood and affects all those around us. Investing in a beautiful pair of PJs can help this and was one of the reasons Homebodii was born.
What’s your biggest learning as a mother?
My children have become my teachers in so many ways, my daughter evoking curiosity in the natural world, calling for me to join her on a swing, careless and wild spirited. With my son that time is fleeting, my beautiful baby boy who in what’s seems like a blink of an eye, is now almost a man and off on his own journey. They’ve taught me that nothing stays the same, we can’t control all outcomes. All we have is now and that being present is the best present of all!
Shop Ingrid’s Picks
Nicki Kelly of Papinelle
Describe your perfect Mother’s Day morning?
My bedroom is a total haven and the most peaceful room in my house, so I stay in my pyjamas, the kids bring me a pot of tea in bed with my favourite tea cup, a gift or two, and always hand-made cards. It’s my one day off washing and preparing meals.
As a working mum, how do you approach balancing motherhood, career and looking after yourself?
My life is fast and furious and I haven’t yet mastered the work-life balance, I did learn to meditate for that very reason. I am solar powered and love the beach. My soul is at Bondi Beach where I grew up, so when I’m in Sydney I’m always at the Icebergs, and in New Zealand we have a small beach house with the most beautiful, quiet, white sandy beach nearby. I’m happiest when I’m walking my dog, listening to a Tim Ferris podcast, in the sun, on the beach.
How can the right sleep and loungewear enhance our relaxation rituals?
It’s everything. The very first thing I do when I get home is change into my cozies and I announce it to anyone in the room. I also suggest to every family member that they do the same. It’s an instant full stop from busy work to relaxation mode. I love beautiful soft fabrics and generally prefer organic knits as my go-to.
What’s your biggest learning as a mother?
That your children and family are more resilient than you give them credit for. I often beat myself up for not being present all the time and as an entrepreneur, that’s often. When I am there, however, I put 100% energy into my family. Seeing them thrive, and happy makes all the hard work and challenges of being busy worthwhile.
Renae James of Papinelle
Describe your perfect Mother’s Day morning?
Probably much the same as every other mum – a little sleep in, followed by coffee and breakfast in bed. And because you said perfect I’d love to throw a one hour massage in after breakfast.
As a working mum, how do you approach balancing motherhood, career and looking after yourself?
Life is busy as a working mum so my wellness bucket is full when I balance a clean, healthy diet with family time, work, and relaxation. I love a facial, or pamper session so I try to take time out for these. I also try not to work after dinner and always read before going to bed—it’s my way of switching off and being completely focused on one thing.
How can the right sleep and loungewear enhance our relaxation rituals?
Getting in PJ’s signifies the end of the day so it’s like taking a big sigh when you finally jump in your sleepwear. If you value your downtime, investing in great PJs is a must. Our pure silk PJs are like heaven to wear and the fabric breathes and moves with your body. It’s hard to be anything but relaxed when you wear these.
What’s your biggest learning as a mother?
That I can’t control everything. Sometimes there will be late nights and bad food and we might run late but it’s all going to be ok. Oh and the colour white should be avoided.
Shop Nicki and Renae’s Picks
Vanessa Sofia of Gingerlilly
Describe your perfect Mother’s Day morning
Waking up in gorgeous Gingerlilly sleepwear without an alarm, followed by breakfast with my children and lots of cuddles. Then we’d visit my beautiful Mum as the kids adore their Nonna!
How can the right sleep and loungewear enhance your relaxation rituals?
There is nothing more relaxing than beautiful sleep and loungewear. The moment you change into it you automatically relax – it’s almost a subconscious trigger. The simplicity of well designed, aesthetically beautiful garments ensures you’re comfortable, and when you’re comfortable you’re more relaxed.
As a working mum, how do you approach balancing motherhood, career and looking after yourself?
As mums everywhere would attest, your children always come first, no matter what else is going on. Having them in a happy routine and spending quality time as a family is always my highest priority.
Running your own business can sometimes feel like having another child! I’m fortunate because my kids grew up at Gingerlilly so they’ve understood from a very young age that Mum works; this is their ‘normal’. They know that at certain times of the year my working hours are longer than usual, but we plan for it as a family and make sure that it’s not all work and no play!
In fact, solid planning and having flexibility in the way we run Gingerlilly also really helps; it means we can do important things like family holidays and attending school events, whilst continuing to run the business. Technology has been a game changer.
I’m also fortunate to have a supportive husband and family who chip in when I need some me time. I’m really thankful for that as it means I can indulge myself every now and again!
What’s your biggest learning as a mother?
That it’s essential to role model the behaviours you want your children to adopt. Motherhood is the most important job you’ll ever have.
Shop Vanessa’s Picks
The Breakfast In Bed Edit
From easy and delicious recipes to comfort essentials, this Mother’s Day, make mum’s moment mean that much more with the finest finishing touches on the breakfast in bed ritual she’ll adore.
