Given the unanimous response from my post about, “What are we doing with our kids this year?!” I’ve decided to share the information I’ve collected to best guide you and help you through the great unknown. Will schools open? Well, it’s unclear, but in an effort to plan and prepare as much as possible, I found these 4 female founders who have inspired me, and created businesses to have us covered in a number of ways this year. For some of us who are at high risk, or have family members who are immune compromised, these options will serve as great tools for home-schooling and tutoring, as well as assistance with zoom school if that is the route you’re taking. Playful Learning, Admit New York, Blue Balloon, and Braintrust have all been interviewed below to give you a better idea of what each service delivers, so read them thoroughly to see what works best for your family, reach out and tell them Mama & Tata sent you!
Read moreLive the Process - Current Uniform
So I haven’t written any features in a while, since quarantine began, but I’ve been missing work like crazy, and had this one stored, so perfect timing! Quarantine has kept us at home and for the most part, eating! However when we aren’t eating and being chef, teacher, and all around family organizer, we are exercising! Working out has been a tremendous part of life at home, whether it’s walking, taking my kids to play soccer, or doing my Tracy Anderson routine, I find myself in a constant state of athleisure. Who better than Robyn Berkley, the female founder and boss babe behind Live the Process, to outfit me so I feel beautiful in the clothing I wear every single day! It’s easy to stay unmotivated and just get lazy in such dark times, but her workout gear is sexy, and makes you want to look your best. Her fabrics are thick and substantial, so they last a long time, and whether it’s jumpsuits, bra and biker short sets, or a cozy sweatshirt and flare pants, she has the perfect color schemes and silhouettes that are flattering on any body. I live for her process and her brand! It my personal go-to!
Read moreThe Concierge Tailor
I’m a petite person, so most clothing I buy needs a bit of tailoring to fit properly. I also wear a ton of vintage which always needs to be reworked to some degree, and I never have any time to go travel to have this work done. I’ve been using Tim the Tailor for many years, because he does impeccable work, and he does it efficiently. He comes to the house so you are able to be in your own space (with your shoes etc), even at night after the kids are asleep, and he brings my pieces back within the week. A real time saver!
Read moreHigher Dose - The Cure
It’s pretty clear that I suffer from major seasonal affect disorder, as I’m constantly escaping the city in winter for warmer, sunnier destinations! I’ve always had a hard time with gloomy days and cold temperatures, and some days it’s difficult to even get out of bed. I’ve found a solution to these negative feelings with Higher Dose, an infrared spa with private rooms for relaxation and lymphatic drainage massage to further detox the body. The sweat from the infrared sauna is similar to that of an intense workout, and gives the same feelings of detoxification and rush of endorphins which make you feel refreshed and recharged. I’m so addicted to infrared that I have the higher dose infrared blanket to use in my apartment, and if I could fit the actual sauna, I would have that too!
Read moreJason Scott - The Concept Store
When Jason Scott opened its doors in TriBeCa, it was refreshing. Finally, a great brand of loungewear, made with the softest fabrics and an edgy aesthetic. Jason Scott isn’t just a clothing store, it’s a place to congregate with friends, stop by for a drink in the cafe, take a yoga class in the back studio, or just see his friendly face. The collection is made for both men and women, and is also great for pregnancy and postnatal options. The space has a beautiful industrial vibe, and we are lucky Jason so generously allowed us to use it as our showroom for the new Black Iris collection. Typically, I feature female founders, but Jason’s kind, cool, demeanor, and chic, cozy collection is something I had to share!
Read moreHeritage Aristocrat - Farm to NYC
So when my favorite caterer in the Hamptons decides to expand to NYC, I get excited! Hamptons Aristocrat has been synonymous with the best farm to table food and presentation out east for many years. They source from all local, organic, fresh farms and create seasonal menus with something for everyone. I always miss those fresh, local meals I have all summer, and now we don’t have to because not only will they cater and staff anywhere in NYC, but they’ve opened a beautiful new space in Brooklyn, called Heritage Aristocrat, to host both personal and corporate events in an environment that feels very industrial chic, surrounded by artist’s studios and factories. Female founders, Lexi and Louisa, can also cater children’s parties as well as drop-off catering to offices for a more casual experience. They come very highly recommended.... by ME!
Read moreThe Giant Room - Little Giants
‘Tis the season of indoor play in NYC, and although it’s not my favorite season, I do try to get creative for the kiddos on the weekends. I am excited to share a new play space with you that is different from others I’ve seen. The GIANT Room mixes art with science, and is filled with the most challenging, yet fun activities for our little ones; from giant blank canvases for art making, to complicated tech tools they can put together and break apart, to laser cutters and 3D printers, this room is fully equipped to make our children feel GIANT. It is a colorful, safe, and educational environment for our kids to learn and explore independently, with the help of their female founders who have a background in early childhood education. It’s a space where kids can design clothing, make a mural, build a toy car, learn coding, and basically create anything they can think of. I can’t wait to take the girls to this Chelsea children’s paradise!
Read moreThe Well - Serenity in the City
As many of you know, I have a difficult time spending winters in cold, gray, dreary NYC. I travel a lot to find some time to refresh and refocus for my own mental stability. However, there’s a new game in town, and it’s a great escape without having to actually go anywhere! The Well opened up a month ago, and it reminds me of one of those small hidden doors one might find in Marrakech, and upon walking inside, you find a whole new world of reflexology, facial cupping, acupuncture, and zen that one could never imagine existed in Chelsea. They are fully stocked with wellness specialists, nutritionists, health coaches, fitness gurus, relaxation rooms and cozy work spaces. They offer the most delicious, healthy, soothing foods from the team behind Cafe Clover, to help their clients' wellness come full circle. It's a dream really, and membership is filling up quick, so I suggest getting a head start on signing up and treating yourself this 2020!
Read moreFancy Peasant - Food for the Soul
I’m always looking for new recipes that are easy, clean, and have very limited prep, as I have very little time! Greek food, primarily plant based, is delicious, healthy and filled with colors that feed the soul. My dear friend, Anastasia Ganias-Gellin, recently started her own catering business and recipe book called the Fancy Peasant, surrounding the love of her roots, her family, and her culture. Her food is made with love, and is authentic, down to the olive oil she sources from a farm in Greece, her secret weapon! Her passion for cooking stemmed from the love of her father who passed away this year, and she is honoring him by keeping those traditions alive through her new book and venture. I’m so excited to have her food at intimate gatherings and parties with friends, I just upped my dinner game!
Read moreSloomoo Institute - I’ve Got Sunshine On a Cloudy Day
I’m constantly looking for different ways to keep my girls entertained and engaged in NYC, since the winters here make it difficult to enjoy all of the outdoor activities. Yes, even in NYC, it’s possible to run out of ideas! My kids, and most-likely yours too, have become completely obsessed with slime. I’m not even sure what to compare it to in my day, because I don’t think Playdough was ever trending the way slime is. Between watching Youtube slime videos, the ever-fascinating slimers of Instagram, and playing with the DIY kits at home, slime has become life! This explains why when I first heard about The Sloomoo Institute, I jumped at the opportunity to take my girls, and then opted for a second visit for myself to really get a grasp on what the craze is all about. This museum of slime is one of those places that exceeds your expectations. Meeting female-founders, Karen and Sara, you can tell they’ve put their heart and soul into this project. These inspiring women have been through profound loss and hardship, but thankfully found the magical healing power of slime and wanted to share it with the world.
Sloomoo Institute is so full of light and color, it can make anyone smile. The custom scents throughout the space, are all nostalgic of happy times, and the feeling of simply stretching and pushing through the slime in your hands is therapeutic on a subconscious level. It’s like the longer you spend touching slime, the more meditative and stress-free you feel. In the space you can find everything from slime showers to a slime slingshot, and DIY slime (mine was “snow slime,” neon coral, with Christmas tree scent, and had sparkly bear charms) The girls were impressed! Sloomoo is officially open for business, and don’t be surprised if it starts popping up in cities near you, everywhere...slime is here to stay!
Read moreMama-of-the-Moment: Joy Bauer
You are the author for multiple best-selling books, a tv host, a columnist, the official nutritionist of NYC ballet and a mother of 3! How do you manage to juggle these aspects of your life and make it all work?
I’ve become a master juggler! I work insanely hard, but I choose work projects I truly love, so while it can sometimes feel exhausting, it’s also incredibly rewarding and fun. It also helps that I hire smart people who help me every step of the way. Plus, I have a wonderfully supportive family. They’re always there for me—cheering me on, testing recipes, offering good advice and a helping hand.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
For as long as I can remember, I was drawn to all things health. If you were to ask my mom, I was making messes in her kitchen—or, as I like to say, concocting healthy creations—ever since I was a little girl. I was also a competitive gymnast most of my young adult life, so I always cared greatly about health and wellness. In college, I studied kinesiology (I was a total science nerd) and then planned to attend medical school, but before I went down that path, I got a graduate degree in clinical nutrition. It was love at first class—and I knew I had found my calling.
To this day, whenever someone comes up to me to tell me that one of my recipes has become a family favorite or one of my tips has helped them drop weight or boost their energy or lower their cholesterol or got their kids eating veggies, there’s no better feeling in the world. It is such a rewarding and fulfilling career, and I’m beyond blessed to be in a position to help people change their lives for the better. I love my job!
How do you carve out "me" time with all of those responsibilities?
I take my “me time” when I can get it, and it’s not always “me time” in the typical/conventional sense. For instance, I try to start every day by taking a minute or two to think about a few things I’m grateful for—my family, my job, my health, my adorable fur baby. This puts me in a good frame of mind for the day ahead. I’ll also enjoy a few moments of deep breathing or stretching in between emails or conference calls.
And I love my time in the kitchen—it’s my therapy. It’s a double bonus when I recruit my family or friends to help with prep or cooking (or even sit at the island sipping wine while I cook), because I’m experimenting and creating fun and healthy recipes and spending quality time with my kids or husband or girlfriends. I view all of these moments as “me time.”
As a passionate hardworking mama, what is the best and the hardest part of these two full-time jobs?
The hardest parts: Balance. Being present. Disconnecting from work. I always try my best to make sure I’m not living my business life when I’m at home living my personal life… (I say “try”…because I’m constantly working at this and reminding myself to be in the present and to savor the moment).
Congratulations on your new book “Yummy Yoga”! The book is so much fun and perfect for engaging our little ones who are just learning. Can you tell us more about the book? How have your children inspired your work?
Thanks! I had so much fun working on it and am glad people are excited about it!
I’ve always had a passion for helping kids foster a love for good health. Early in my career, I worked in pediatric cardiology at Mount Sinai Hospital. I also had the chance to implement health programs in communities that were identified as being high risk for obesity, heart disease and type 2 diabetes (specifically Harlem and East Harlem in New York City). For years, I taught nutrition and exercise classes to children in kindergarten all the way through 12th grade—it was one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had! It was so inspiring to watch these impressionable kids sop up the information and make dramatic changes. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe. From working with thousands of kids throughout my career—and raising three of my own—I’ve learned two important things:
It can often be TOUGH to get little ones to try new healthy foods. They’re much more likely to latch on when we make it fun, exciting and interactive.
So when my college friend, Bonnie Stephens, a brilliant photographer and yogi… sent me a “food sculpture” she had built and photographed… my brain started spinning. I knew there was something super cool and creative here. And then, YUMMY YOGA was born – we built playful yoga poses made out of healthy foods that kids can mimic… and then I designed tasty kid-friendly recipes to go along with each of them. The goal is that the fun poses make the foods more enticing and crave-worthy!
My huge hope is that this book will help parents, grandparents, teachers, caregivers – even older siblings—encourage their precious little ones to latch on to good health.
You’re a professional nutritionist and a fitness and health icon... What are your go-to healthy snack brands for your kids?
I’m obsessed with making my own homemade creations—they’re so quick and easy.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
Take advantage of your slow cooker—it’s like having your very own personal chef! Just toss everything into the magic pot in the AM and you come home to an amazing delish and healthful meal. Plus, the kitchen smells divine. Of course, there are other cooking gadgets that I love and use all the time—my Instant pot, air fryer, spiralizer, blender, food processor and so on. But my slow cooker always takes the top spot.
Here are two fave slow cooker recipes:
What are your favorite healthy, family-friendly restaurants in NYC?
Waverly Diner and Malaparte.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Life is hard, food should be easy!
Madri - But Make It Fashion
I remember when I was expecting my first daughter; the excitement, the joy, the questions, the books, the magazines. Naturally, as inquisitive as a first-time mama can be, I researched everything about everything of becoming a future mom; from the cutest baby overalls to the 100+ benefits of breastfeeding. I was surprised by the sea of baby-related choices I could find, and yet, I had a very hard time finding stylish and comfy postpartum clothes.
Thankfully, Ashley and Danielle are here to help! The talented pair have created a fashionable line, appropriately named Madri, that will make breastfeeding and getting back in shape far easier without sacrificing personal taste. I can’t tell you how much better it would’ve been to have them around when I was a new mom. Now, with women going back to the office while breastfeeding and pumping, being discreet is made easy. The line is filled with pieces I’d wear in my life even now, so it’s money well-spent.
Read moreDear Annabelle - Paper Is Here To Stay
We are living in a digital world, but I’ve always loved a good handwritten letter. There’s something far more meaningful and thoughtful about receiving a note in the mail, than your average email or text, that takes a quick click. My dear, chic friend Marcie Pantzer (my own personal Emily Post) has changed the game with her new set of stationary called Dear Annabelle that is so beautiful and clever, it will make you exclusively want to practice your penmanship! Whether it’s a set of classic Monogramed notecards, her fun, flirty illustrated cards, or notepads for the entire family, these Dear Annabelle box sets are a must. All wrapped up in the most exquisite packaging, complete with a pale pink ribbon. Marcie has every detail covered as she always does, with the sweetest sentiments in her branding, paying homage to her beautiful daughter, Annabelle. Now that’s a Mama Moment!
Read morePlaygarden Prep - First Steps
Although my days at pre-school are long gone, I’m excited to share that my dear friend Valeska has opened up her fabulous Montessori-based program on the Upper East Side! There are so many programs out there for children age 2-4, but hers is by far my favorite because of the solid foundations she provides her students. When my girls were younger, they both started out at Playgarden Prep and have such strength when it comes to independence, confidence, socialization, and character. I loved the program so much, I would have kept them in school with her for pre-K too if she’d offered it! My favorite aspect of this early learning center is the education it provides giving our little ones the tools to thrive in the next chapter of schooling. It’s a perfect feeder program for both progressive and more traditional elementary schools, and the Upper East Side is lucky to have them in the neighborhood.
Read moreSocial Studies - Party in a Box
As you all know, I do a lot of entertaining, whether it be dinners with friends, lunch for my children and their buddies, or a casual family bbq. Generally speaking, I like to celebrate! Lately, being very busy with Mama & Tata features and working on Black Iris, my hands are tied, and entertaining has taken a back seat. Fortunately, friends of mine, Amy Griffin and Jessica Latham, have launched their new business Social Studies, saving time and money to plan in-home gatherings throughout the year. Their idea is brilliant, sustainable, and chic, making party planning easy and seamless with their reusable party boxes. I love the idea of not having to buy new sets of dishes and linens, and still being able to access a variety of tablescapes that are high-end and beautifully curated. Social Studies has several different boxes to choose from, equipped with playlists, party games, and floral arrangements, so you really don’t need to bring anything but the food! Both Amy and Jess have fantastic taste, so I would trust them designing any table in my home, and hopefully we will see a Black Iris party box coming your way in the near future!
Read moreBubbsi - Baby Safe and Kid Approved
There are plenty of kid’s products on the market and I’ve tried them all! Most brands claim to be “natural” or “organic” but if you study up on what the regulations are in this country, you will soon realize that although these companies market their products as safe, that is rarely the case. Anything with an artificial fragrance is a big red flag and completely unsafe, containing many carcinogens. I have recently been on the hunt for new and improved, kid-safe skincare and bath products, and was so happy to find Bubbsi, a female-founded business with an aim to keep our kids safe from toxins. I actually love using their lotion and oils as well, because I know it contains healthy coconut oils, and won’t have harmful effects. Their packaging is brilliant, as each product also doubles as great bath toys. My kids are totally obsessed, so I’m sold!
Read moreHey, Mr. DJ
Earlier this summer, I took my daughters to Blocks, Trucks, + Art, a business started by Jeff Mayer and his wife Angela De Vincenzo, with the goal of teaching my daughters to ride a bike this summer. We had a few ups and downs, but eventually they both learned to ride, and only after a couple of lessons. In addition to their fantastic biking facilities, Blocks, Trucks, + Art also has the coolest DJ booth inside the truck that my girls love to play in and mix their own tracks. Jeff is also a fabulous DJ in the Hamptons, so recently, I returned to talk with him a bit about his DJing booth and his work this summer DJing around the Hamptons.
Read moreCarolyn Rowan - Finishing Touches
I love a good find, and for those Fall evenings quickly approaching, my new go-to accessory is a Carolyn Rowan cashmere shawl. Carolyn has been in the fashion industry forever, and started her own brand of beautiful accessories that complete every outfit. She takes pride in the craftsmanship, as each piece is handmade locally, and unique. Whether it be special jeweled buttons, fur trim or fringe, these shawls, wraps, and scarfs are made to last and be worn time and time again, a true staple in your wardrobe. Carolyn is all about quality, and her product is reflective of that. Whether you have a special occasion and need to warm up your look effortlessly, or simply want to be classic, cozy and chic in your jeans, Carolyn’s newest collection is the perfect finishing touch!
Read moreNatur - Fresh Start
I’m all about trying to stay clean and healthy, particularly at home where I have the final edit. You would be shocked if you knew all of the toxins and chemicals that exist in products advertising just the opposite. Whether it be makeup, housecleaning liquids, shower products, pantry items and sunscreens, we need to conscious of what we are exposing ourselves to, and more importantly exposing our children to! I met with specialist, Ashley Perkins, founder of Natur, to discuss these secret toxic ingredients, and eliminate them from my daily use. Ashley has a wonderful service where she goes through your home, reading every label, and identifies the problem products, and then finds you better solutions to replace them with. She is efficient, and knows so many clean, natural products to choose from, and send links for each one, making the entire cleansing process a breeze! Here’s to new beginnings!
Read moreAlexandre Birman - Beauty and Comfort
Many years ago, I found my favorite pair of strappy sandals, that I wore summer after summer, by a designer who was unknown to me at the time. They are actually the only pair of shoes that have withstood the test of time in my closet, as they are currently still here about 7 years later! The designer was Alexandre Birman, and now the brand is back in my life collaborating with Black Iris for our Fall/Winter Look Book shoot. His shoes are unbelievably well-made, flattering, and unique. Whether it be his new Fall booties, a flat sandal, or heels for a night out, they come in an array of neutrals that go with most anything in my closet. I was thrilled and honored to have the brand participate at the annual Mama & Tata shopping event this past week at Topping Rose House, where they brought a beautiful selection of shoes to complement our new collection, and for a great cause, benefiting New York Children’s Hospitals.
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