Mum to three Jayde from _MeeandMoo_ and beyond beauty NZ shares her insight into Mamahood in her twenties with a wicked sense of humour!
Could you tell me a little bit about yourself and what you do:
Hmmm, I think I’m pretty boring. I just love anything beauty related -as a beauty therapist I think it comes with the territory. Funny thing (and people who know me from way back) I use to actually be a “Tom boy” if you want to call it that. Grew up playing Football, touch and rugby. Somehow made the switch to beauty therapy once I finished school. I like a shandy, Netflix and chill? I don’t like colour. I’m just literally listening things 😂
Age when you had your first baby:
I was 18 (almost 19) 🤭
What was your reaction when you found out you were pregnant?
Can I swear?? FUCK!!!!!! If not then FUDGE!!!!
What has been your biggest challenge with running a business and being a mama at the same time?
Watching other business’ flourish and grow. Knowing that if I tried, I would be putting to many eggs in to many baskets.
How do you balance Home and work life? (any tips/tricks to share?)
I work around my partner. He’s the main, I’m the sidekick so I try my best to work when he’s home to have the kids, or when my parents or other family members are free to mind them.
And don’t take on to much. It’s ok to say “no gf I don’t got time to fleek your brows this week”!!
Best piece of advice you were given about parenting:
Advice... maybe more of a wake up call/ comment.
For a new, single mum, 18 years old. Being informed before my baby crowned and burst into this world.. That
1. They dont sleep
2. They cluster feed all night, it seems!
3. And you may not shower or care too for a few days, was actually a great wake up call! I’m blunt, I’m sorry. I think parenting is sugar coated. It’s hard mate. Like the kid just got ripped from your nice protected belly to be changed touched by other humans, bathed and made to sleep alone. It’s rough. Just go with the flow. Love and cuddle that babe and just prepare to not sleep for 3 years. Then nothing will shock or get you down. Don’t compare your baby to others also!! Don’t!! Just don’t!!!
what would you do if you weren’t doing your current job/running your business?
I’d assume nothing, just mum life. Which is something I guess.
Have you met any challenges being a mama in your 20s?
I guess a lack of funds/ establishment in life. Being young I/ we didn’t have the materialistic things we would have wanted. But it hasn’t stopped us. With help and support ofcourse! But we are getting there slowly!
What has been your biggest challenge in your 20s (non-parenting related)?
The lack of binge drinking partying and concerts. No but seriously I get envious of others social lives. Then I go out for a couple bevy’s and regret it for the next 3 months and remember why being a mum of 3 at 24 suits me so well. The biggest hang over I get at home is me tum over me pants! 😂
If you could give one piece of advice to twenty-something’s pre kids what would it be?
Here’s comes the blunt me again. You don’t know anyone untill you’ve had a kid. That’s when the real relationship or friendships will show! For good or bad! Luckily mine have and are usually for the good!