Happy Weekend everyone. I’ve managed to squeeze in another Working Mum Series interview this month with the fabulous Holly Anna Scarsella. Holly is the founder of Pampelone clothing, which, if you have been following my Instagram and blog for a while, you will know that I LOVE! I have also had the absolute pleasure of meeting Holly on numerous occasions, pre-motherhood at events and now post motherhood just hanging with the kiddies. I can genuinely say that Holly is one of the nicest people I have ever met, and it is without a doubt one of the reasons that Pampelone has done so well. The collections are classic beachwear pieces that will last you a lifetime of summer holidays.
Holly is a fairly new mum (her daughter Sienna is six months old), so it is great to get a fresh perspective from someone at this stage in their motherhood/working mum journey. Holly mentions in her interview below that being a working mum can give you perspective, and I can really resonate with that. Sometimes it is so easy to get caught up with changing nappies, making baby/children’s food and sleep routines, so a little time out goes a long long way. Even if that is being in the office and going to the toilet by yourself (simple things!).
I hope you enjoy the interview with Holly, and as always, do get in touch if you have any questions/comments/feedback.
Lisa
xoxo
ps – Both Holly and Sienna take the most divine photos (see below!)
Website: www.pameplone.com
Instagram: @Pampeloneclothing
Cityrunmum talks to Holly Anna Scarsella
1.Please introduce yourself – what is your job, how many children you have, where you are from etc
I’m Holly, Founder of PAMPELONE Clothing, resort wear inspired by the Riviera. Born in Essex countryside, but spent the majority of my upbringing growing up at our family house in St Tropez. Married to my Australian, Italian best friend Mark, and we have recently welcomed our first child, Sienna, 6 months ago.
2. How many days/hours a week do you work?
Owning my own business, I tend to always be working. But I’m trying to differentiate more and work solidly and productively for 3 days and 2 days with Sienna, just being a mummy.
3. Describe a typical working day in your household (i.e. morning routines with nursery/school drop offs to evening)
Sienna usually wakes at 6am and has an hour or so with her father whilst he gets ready for work and I get an extra hour in bed. Then it’s breakfast and play time just in time for the PAMPELONE team to arrive at 9:30am. We gave up our office after I had Sienna so the days I’m working, I can be close to her in her comfortable environment whilst I work. Then it’s a full work day breaking for meal times, snack times and play time. The days I try and work and look after Sienna are tough…
4. How do you balance working life with motherhood? And what/who do you rely on to make it work?
Currently I don’t think I am that well… With Sienna being so young, I just hate being without her so currently take her everywhere with me, but as I’m learning – it’s not hugely productive. I’m coming to the realisation that it’s better to work solidly for 2 days a week with my mother looking after Sienna and then do one day of meetings with her, and then focus on Sienna and only Sienna for the remainder of the week.
5. What is the best thing about being a working mum?
Firstly, setting an example to my daughter and secondly being able to keep a great perspective. Perspective is important. It saves you from going mad talking nappies and poop all day.
6. And the hardest?
My attention being drawn away from my daughter. The infamous mum guilt.
7. How do you unwind?
Balancing motherhood with work can be relentless so what do you do to relax when you’re not at work/with the kid(s)? I love getting fresh air and a chance of scenery. Also a lot of time away from my phone and laptop.
8. What is your proudest mum moment?
Oh gosh there are so many in her so few 6 months – but I think her consistent happiness makes me so proud. Proud and happy to know she is such a happy, content baby.
9. Do you feel that motherhood has changed you, and if so, how?
Absolutely and completely. Priorities change, perspective is given and I now only spend time on things and people that matter to me.
10. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing working mums at the moment?
Pressure to perform in an environment that just does not suit motherhood or families.
11. What is your proudest work achievement?
Being named on the Forbes 30 under 30 list for retail in 2017.
12.What does flexible working mean to you?
13. What are your go to stores/websites/blogs for your working wardrobe, and what are your staple pieces as a working mum?
I love Wardrobe Icons for suggesting great investment, transitional and every day pieces. My staples are a great pair of every day smart shoes, and a sharp blazer to dress up any outfit. I also live in my Gucci Princetowns. They’re so comfortable, practical but also do look smart at the same time.
13. Finally, what advice would you give to new working mums? I.e. those who are just going back to work from maternity leave, setting up their own businesses, or going for a new job?
Don’t try and be everything to everyone. Try and be super efficient when you’re at work, but leave the work and work, and when you’re home – have your focus solely on your family.
