Pass The Pen: Eva Amurri
Photo by Heidi Ryder
I’m so excited about this month’s Boss Babe for so many reasons. She’s whip smart, hilarious, gorgeous, and is the true definition of ‘girl’s girl’. Eva Amurri Martino, is simply fab. Her blog has been a go to for me when I’m looking for amazing mom hacks and inspiration. And her honesty about life, marriage, and mommy-hood is SO refreshing. I also feel so lucky to call Eva a friend and since the start of The Happy Place...a mentor.
On a recent trip to LA, Eva and I got together and had a little pre-Easter hang. She planned an Easter craft and treat for our kiddos and I threw together a pretty table for us to share a meal and the ever important...bottle of WINE! Our kids were thrilled that the Easter Bunny appeared to have visited early and I asked her one million questions, soaking up as much as I could. Our philosophy on life is eerily similar and I just love her so much.
Instead of trying to explain my interpretation of Happily Eva After, I thought I would share parts of the epic and informal Q & A we had during our visit. And I can’t wait to share our Easter collaboration later in the month. If you haven’t checked out Happily Eva After, run don’t walk. She’s so special and talented and I promise her blog will NOT disappoint!
Xx,
Jo
For those visiting Happily Eva After for the first time, what do you hope they take away from you and your site?
I set out to make a place where I could explore my interests and hobbies while also exploring some lesser-talked-about parenting and marriage themes. I think we can be everything unapologetically: Entrepreneurs, Cooks, Crafters, Interior Design Enthusiasts, Travelers, Beauty Junkies AND parents. I just hope people reading Happily Eva After feel supported in who they are and what they want in life...both good and bad!
What is the thing that most surprised you since launching Happily Eva After?
I think the two vastly different sides of the online space. On one side it can be absolutely, brutally nasty– especially in the "Mom Space". People can be so punitive and competitive, and go to places that should definitely be off limits (like your child's appearance or your value as a Mother)– it's actually crazy to me. On the other side of the coin, though, it can be so community building and supportive. I have real relationships with a lot of the readers who I've been interacting with online for years, and we've never even met! A message from them when I'm going through something really tough can instantly make me feel better. And vice versa!
What advice do you have for working moms?
Create a village of help and support. You don't have to do everything well. Ace a conference call but have to order in dinner for the family? That's ok! That's balance, baby.
What is your inspiration in designing your new home?
I find true elegance to be a beautiful environment that doesn't feel too fussy. I want my home to be liveable and also chic. I think the french do this combo very well, as do Californians. If you brought a west coast aesthetic to Paris– that is kind of the vibe!
What would do with 24 hours to yourself?
Watch TV in bed alone with an ice cold bottle of champagne, go to sleep early, and wake up after 10 hours of perfect sleep. Maybe one day!