How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
We have 3 girls. Elle is 6, Cameron is 4 and Brady is 22 months.
You grew up in Stamford and now live here with your family. What’s your favorite family activity in Stamford?
We love hiking at Mianus River Park. The girls love being outdoors so really anything that brings us outside the house! There are so many parks, playgrounds, beaches, and the girls have fun being at any of these places. They can entertain themselves for hours.
What are your must haves when you leave the house with the kids?
Snacks, water, and our emergency bag which is always in the car with paper/crayons for meals out.
What’s been your favorite “mommy moment” so far?
I love how much the girls love each other. Of course they argue (a lot) but they genuinely love each other so much and are so proud of everything their siblings do! It’s so sweet to see.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you need some “me time”?
About a year ago, I started waking up every day before the girls so that I can get at least an hour in the morning to myself. Before my husband goes to work, I am able to exercise and start the day at my own pace. Yes, it’s hard and I do not always want to hop out of bed at 5:30 a.m., but it was a life changer for me and totally worth it. Somehow I have more energy than I ever have. Aside from that, I like to go for a manicure/pedicure or shop solo!
Your parents started Hat Attack in 1981, why did you decide to be a part of the family business?
I always knew I wanted to be a part of it. I tried a few other careers, but the creative side of me always felt this was the best place for me. I want to continue what my parents started over 35 years ago and grow the business into my own someday. We moved here from Boston so that I could work with my parents at Hat Attack.
What’s been the best part of working with your family?
I spend a lot of time with my parents, and I know a lot of people say they could never do it. But for me its honestly one of the best parts. It’s also great knowing someone always has my back and is here to help me out when family matters come up.
We love Hat Attack! Tell us where you get inspiration for your pieces.
We love to travel, so we get a lot of inspiration from various places we’ve been. This season we went to Cabo on an inspiration trip, it was amazing. We visited all the resorts, people watched, shopped in smaller stores/markets. When we’re home we shop in NYC, in local thrift/consignment shops and also follow tons of inspirational people online.
What is your favorite Hat Attack items for summer this year?
I love all of the sunhats with fringe edges. I live in hats in the summertime. My favorite bag is our Handheld Satchel which has a cute pom detail down the sides!
How do you balance work & mommyhood?
My husband and I plan our week in advance and figure out who is covering what. He is my partner in everything and I am so lucky for that. We are also very fortunate to have a huge network of people who want to help—and I’ve learned to take people up on their offers! I am in no way doing this alone. We have an au pair, my parents live down the street, and I am never afraid to ask for help from a friend or neighbor.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Set your expectations low! I know that every outing is not going to be perfect with 3 kids under 6. I try to be realistic about everything we do and not overdo it!
Photos by Maureen Forte