In our How She Does It column, we talk to inspirational mothers about work-life balance, favourite travel destinations, travelling with children, and how they really do it all.
This month, we chat to Hunter Bell, American founder, creative director and fashion designer of her eponymous brand, Hunter Bell NYC, and a mum of three. Known for her bright and colourful style, Hunter gives us the lowdown on running her business, tells us about her career goals, explains why she thinks working mums should be easier on themselves, and lets us in on holidays with her family.
Tell us about yourself?
I’m Hunter Bell, founder and creative director of Hunter Bell NYC. I studied fashion design at the University of Alabama and Parsons in New York before founding my label out of my Manhattan apartment in 2006. I now live in Houston, Texas with my husband and three children.
Tell us more about your working life?
My office is a few miles from my house which enables me to do school drop off in the morning, and go back and forth to my children’s school if I need to for special events. This is probably the secret ingredient to any work-life balance I’ve been able to strike.
What inspires you in your career?
I believe that inspiring confidence through your wardrobe is a real thing. I want to help women feel good about themselves – and to have fun with their wardrobe.
If you could give your past self one piece of advice about being a working mother what would it be?
It won’t always be easy, but you will always find a way, so go easier on yourself.
The three things that help you juggle everything?
Live music, my children, and coffee…not necessarily in that order!
Have your career goals and aspirations altered since becoming a working mum?
I think I’m more driven since becoming a mum. I want to make my children proud of me.
If you had the power to change one thing for working mothers, what would it be?
I would change the expectation that work-life balance is achievable. It’s just not, and we should normalise that everything is give and take, in phases.
If you have a day to yourself, what do you do?
I’ll always go to a spa if I have the day to myself. It’s a great way to relax and get some downtime.
Heading ‘out out’ – where is your favourite spot?
Armandos in Houston for Thursday night dinner – which then turns into Thursday night dancing! It’s such a fun spot and I would recommend it to anyone visiting Houston.
Tell us about the best holiday you’ve taken with your children?
The first one that comes to mind is our family spring break trip to the Cayman Islands this year. The kids had the best time swimming, snorkelling, and playing in the sand, while we enjoyed some much needed R&R, fabulous beachside cocktails and amazing bites. I particularly loved Tillies Restaurant; the scenery is beautiful and I left inspired by the decor. Another restaurant you must try is Calypso Grill; we loved the old-school vibes and will be dreaming of their sticky toffee pudding until we can go back.
Favourite hotel ever – with or without children?
San Ysidro Ranch is a magical place. It’s tucked away in the leafy foothills of Santa Barbara and has the most beautiful gardens and view. A really pretty, romantic place.
Can you share tips on what to do with children in Houston?
The museum district has so much for kids to do now. Mine love The Museum of Natural Science and, depending on the time of year, Discovery Green has amazing options for kids including an excellent playground, and an interactive water feature that they can splash in. If you’re coming during February or March it’s rodeo season, which is so much fun for all the family – and a real taste of the local culture.
Travel essentials with kids?
Extra chargers. You never know when you are going to need them.
Travel essentials without kids?
A sheet mask because when else do I have time for a sheet mask except when travelling without kids? Melatonin to help me sleep on the plane, and whichever Hunter Bell skirt is currently in rotation in my wardrobe. I love to pack one and see how many ways I can wear it.
How do you think travel benefits your children?
I’m always inspired by travelling to new places and I want to pass that along to my children.
Where are you off to next as a family and why?
Sea Island in Georgia. We love escaping to this iconic resort – it’s been running for over 95 years. We’ll spend long days on the beach, fishing, riding bikes and playing tennis. I’ll also make sure I find time to escape to the spa.
The best advice you would give to other mothers?
Let your children see you having fun, it will shape their memories.
Are there any women who inspire you?
Interior designer Kelly Wearstler is also a twin mum – and is such a stylish boss babe. I love following her career and style.
How do you do it?
I’m always evolving and trying to improve. I still haven’t figured out how to do it all!
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Any Questions or Tips to add?