From Sheryl Sandberg to Marissa Mayer, women are not sacrificing themselves for their kids like they used to. Why? If you ask me, a confident and happy woman makes a better mother. And whatever it takes to get there should be done. But as a mother myself, I know how hard it is to maintain a sense of style, run a successful business and to feel like an okay parent all at the same time.
Women who are flawlessly manifesting this enchanting trifecta are the new wonder women of our times and they are my idols. So I got to wondering how they actually do it all and have it all. Is it really possible? Are they hiding something? Do they secretly never floss? I hope to answer these questions and to give the rest of us moms cheat sheets of motivation to remember that we can stay true to ourselves, live fulfilling lives and love our families as much as ever by interviewing the moms who are doing it.
If you know a woman who fits this mold, please share her info with me on Twitter @metromomclub
Wonder Mom #2: Ali Smith
©Ali Smith
Ali Smith is photographer and author of the Award-Winning book Momma Love; How the Mother Half Lives. With a background in music and celebrity portraiture, Ali has successfully turned her attention to photographing children and capturing stories about women's lives for editorial, advertising and privately commissioned sessions. Ali has lectured and exhibited internationally. She lives in NYC with her husband and six year old son.
How did your book idea come into being and how did you know it was the one to run with?
I was compelled to explore what about society makes mothers feel overburdened to the point of unhappiness, but also document the deep importance and private joys of a mother's role. The evidence was overwhelming that I was not alone in wanting to see these things done in print.
How did you fund your book?
Blood, sweat and Kickstarter.
How long was it until you turned a profit?
Photo books don't see much profit, but the other work that has come for editorial, advertising and private family portrait commissions pays off.
How do you find time to get ready and maintain your style?
By sticking with one that's intuitive at this point. I don't take much time at all, but can grab what's thrown over my chair and put it on my body in under a minute. When life throws me a curve ball, like a bad haircut, I'm completely thrown off.
What is your spirit animal or dream super power?
My dream super power is to be able not to worry.
How has having a child transformed your lifestyle?
It forced me to create a routine. I am rather allergic to routines, in general. But, having my son inspires me to experience new things and places now while i have the chance.
Where do you get your energy?
From the knowledge that it's a short life, kids grow up and parents die.
What inspires you? (other than your children)
The idea that potential is everywhere for all of us. You just have to tap into it. That and music.
What would you do with more time?
I would write something that really opens hearts and minds. Sleep. Finish the album I've been recording for two years. Sleep.Talk with my husband. Sleep.
What do you do to relax?
I trade family photo sessions for massages!
What time do you get up and go to bed on a typical day?
When the alarm clock which is my son gets up around 6:30am. I am for a bedtime of 10pm and usually slide across the finish line at midnight.
What do you typically eat for breakfast?
Fruit. Yogurt. Decaf. Cereal. Marmite (married a Brit)
Coffee, tea, wine, tequila, or other (please specify)?
Double shot of decaf over ice, I'll add my own milk and sweetener. Followed by a gin and tonic.
Any advice for new moms, or moms who are struggling to make it all work?
Community, community, community! It won't always make things easier, but you will feel better...and less nuts. Most definitely.
©Ali Smith