Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Steph and I’m a mom of three, ages 10, 7 and 1 year. I’m a multidisciplinary artist with a design studio based in Los Angeles and my family recently relocated to Georgia.
How did you get inspired for your nursery design?
Our little LA home didn’t allow for a separate nursery so we had to be creative about how to make a designated nursery space for Niko in our room. Our main objective was for it to feel calm and happy. Austin bought me a gold mobile of moons and stars that hung above Niko’s crib and informed everything we bought from there. We went with neutrals: shades of yellow, cream, and brown. We kept it warm and full of love.
What are your most-loved items in your nursery?
A cherished crib with sheets from Solly Baby and a Maileg stuffed animal plus a few treasured items to decorate: a print by Justina Blakely, a handprinted throw that was gifted to our older son Golden and a simple Eames rocker.
If you had to pack a hospital bag again, what top items would you take?
I labored at home so I never packed a hospital bag but as we settled in those first few weeks, I was incredibly grateful for a few items.
- my storq nursing bra
- my nightgown from dotter with buttons for easy breastfeeding
- jenni kayne cashmere socks
What postpartum products helped you to recover? (Teas, broths, bath products, books…)
So much of my recovery came down to slow days and good food. The first forty days by Heng Ou was my postpartum bible. I cooked and froze enough meals to last me 6 weeks and lived off her teas as well. I also drank incredible bone broth by my friend Austin Boos for the first few weeks.
What are your favorite mama and babe personal care products? (Bath, skincare, haircare, sun care, makeup, grooming…)
for baby: Wiley Baby Soap, Oil and Lotion for Niko. He had some digestion issues at the very beginning and the Wiley baby oil got us through.
for me: Osea, Ilia, Merit, Nucifera , and Nutrafol for me
Where do you shop for babes? (Skincare, healing, clothing, toys, food, vitamins…)
roux of course, midland, dotter, merci milo, babaa, shop darling clementine, salt water sandals, noble carriage, seaesta surf
What books and music are on rotation in your house?
Johnny Cash, Molly Baz cook this book, Braiding Sweetgrass, Montessori Baby and Montessori Toddler, The Happy Sleeper, The Light Between Us
What is a no-fail activity that your babes love?
All three of our kids are happiest outside or in water. We spend a good deal of time hiking, swimming, or days at the beach. If those aren’t possible, water play in the yard keeps them happy for hours.
Do you have a go-to recipe that your babes devour?
Feeding Niko has been so fun for me. He’s tried and has loved oysters, uni, caviar, chicken liver mousse, and most fish. He’s a big fan of roasted meats and guacamole. The only thing I really haven’t had success with are carrots!
What is your favorite part of the day with your babe(s)?
First thing in the morning when the house is still quiet, I have my coffee, and enjoy our 2 early risers.
The usual questions about how to find work/parenting/life balance feel overwhelming. What are some small ways that you find balance?
My group of friends is unlike anything and has provided so much balance. Our kids are all similar ages and work seems to overlap as well so parenting feels like a group effort and so many days are spent with piles of kids and years of shared history.
How do you unwind at the end of the day?
Nothing beats if we can manage a family walk in our neighborhood. Possibly a glass of wine or a phone call with my mom.
Do you have support resources to recommend to fellow parents? (Books, websites, podcasts, meditations, apps, at-home exercise classes, parent groups…)
- Montessori Toddler
- Early Riser Companion by Elizabeth Antonia
- Nurture by Erica Chidi
- First 40 Days
- The Fourth Trimester
- Dr Becky
- Books by Tina Payne Bryson
- Uma Mother Classes
- Loom Pregnancy Course
