Rowdy Roddy Vintage

Find great vintage for your little one here at Rowdy Roddy !

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Mother’s Day Spa Giveaway

With Mother's Day fast approaching, we wanted to show all of you awesome RRV mamas just how much you mean to us. Sooo, we've decided to give one lucky lady & a friend the chance to win a relaxing luxury spa treatment anywhere in the world! Yep, you read that right, anywhere! We wanted to make sure both our local and international mamas were in with a chance of winning, so wherever you may be, we'll find the most luxurious spa for you to relax in this Mother's Day.

A sneak peak of a few locations where you could be pampered:

Glasgow - A luxury thermal experience for two at Blythswood Square Hotel London - Massage of your choice at The Aveda Institute Salon And Spa Dublin - Customised massage at The Marker Hotel Paris - Energiser massage at Six Senses Spa New York - Imperiale relaxing massage at the Guerlain Spa

What you need to do: - Follow @rowdyroddyvintage on Instagram - Upload a photo of yourself sharing some mama love with your little one - Hashtag #RRVTREATINGME

(ps. remember to make sure your profile is public, otherwise we will not see your entries.)

The competition will close at 9am on Tuesday the 1st of March and a winner will be selected at random. So, what are you waiting for lovelies, head over to Instagram right now! This one is too good to miss out on.

Need some Mothers Day gift inspo? Whether you need to point a partner or friend in the right direction, or are simply buying for yourself, our new Mother's Day collection is filled with lots of lovely goodies.

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We’ve Moved!

As we wave a sad goodbye to our old friend Tumblr, we say an exciting hello to our brand new Rowdy Roddy Blog! 

As well as an awesome new look, we bring to you some amazing new categories, trends & contributors. From all things fashion to all things family, theres something fun for everyone over on the new RRV blog. 

So what are you waiting for? Head over to www.rowdyroddy.com now! 

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Oatmeal Breakfast Bites

We've teamed up with fabulous foodie mama, Amy of feedingfinn.com, to bring you the tastiest kid friendly dishes. Weekly we'll be posting one of her scrumptious, easy to make recipes for you and your little ones to enjoy. 

Oatmeal Breakfast Bites

This week its all about healthy breakfast on the go. For the mums who simply don’t have the time and the kids who just aren’t interested in cereal, we’ve got the recipe for you. Sugar-free, easy to make and yummy, what more could you ask for? 

What you’ll need:

2 ripe bananas 2 cups (195g) rolled oats 1 egg (beaten) ¾ cup (60ml) milk of choice 150g frozen mixed berries A couple of drops of good quality vanilla extract (optional) Coconut oil (or butter) for greasing.

Got a taste for these healthy sweet treats already? Head over to feedingfinn.com to find out just how to make them!

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Mummy Mondays: @sarahmathenia

Having been long time admirers of Sarah’s gorgeous Instagram (@sarahmathenia), we’re so excited to introduce her as this weeks Mummy Mondays feature. This mid-western mama of two has a feed full of bright colours & two gorgeous little girls. The fun and love her family shares shines through both her photography and interview, so, read on to find out about this amazing lady...

Where do you live, and what do you love most about it?

I live in the good 'ole midwest. I love that I am surrounded by friends and family here. It is so nice being here & being able to experience all the beautiful seasons.

What inspired you to start an Instagram account?

I thought it would be a fun way to share photos and connect with other moms. I love how it's become a little community for me. I've connected with so many amazing moms, & I am inspired daily because of IG.

When did you know you wanted to be a mama?

I've always known since I was a little girl. I grew up in a big family & I knew someday I wanted a family of my own. I have always been surrounded by boys (I have 4 brothers) & am thrilled to be raising two girls now. 

How many kiddos do you have and what are there personalities like?

I have two, Harper (4) & Darcy (22 months).

Harper is my little mini me! She is kind, sweet & caring. She has such a big heart. She is very creative & artistic. 

Darcy is my little fire cracker. She is loud & wild & full of energy. She is a sweetheart & has the best smile.

How would your husband/partner describe you?

He would say I'm sweet, stubborn, caring & beautiful. He tells me I'm the best mom all the time, which is really the best compliment of all.

What inspires you to dress your children in vintage clothes?

If it's unique, that definitely draws me to a vintage piece. I adore floral or ruffles. I am in love with anything that has a Peter Pan collar.

Kids wiggle, what is your secret to a good shot of your little one in action?

I wouldn't know! My kids rarely sit still for a picture! Sometimes a silly face or joke works.

When the going gets tough with the kiddos all in tow, what is your secret for putting the smiles back on those little faces?

SINGING! We sing all the time & it almost always picks everyone's spirits up.

What could you imagine your children doing in 20 years time?

Harper is so kind, I could see her as a teacher. She is so creative & loves to draw, maybe she could be an artist or graphic designer. Harper also loves ballet & tap so I could see her as a dance teacher.

Even with Darcy being only 22 months old, her personality already really shines through. She is so outgoing & friendly, she will probably be doing something extravagant & exciting.

What are your children’s favorite things to do as a family?

We love to go to the library together, I worked as a librarian for 8 years so I really love that my children enjoy our library & books as much as I do. We like to go for walks, have picnics, & go to the park together. We love going to our favorite pizzeria on the weekend as a family. We simply enjoy being with each other always. It doesn't have to be anything big or extravagant. Everyday life together is our favorite.

What is the hardest thing about being a mama?

Constantly worrying about your child. When you have a child it's like your heart is now on the outside of your body. It is so hard seeing your child get hurt physically or emotionally & knowing you can't always just keep them safe & happy.

And of course, what is your favorite thing about being a mama?

I love having two sweet daughters who love me unconditionally. They inspire me every day to be more kind, more patient, more adventurous, and more honest. Seeing the world through their eyes is so special. They remind me to enjoy the little things & to stop & smell the roses.

What are some daily rules/mantras do you use for being a mama?

Everyday when I wake up I remind myself that today is a new day. Yesterday's frustrations are behind me & today I will start the day with a positive, happy attitude. I also like to remind myself that these are the best days of my life. When I am feeling sad, lonely, stressed, scared, worried, I simply say to myself, "these are the days" & I am instantly reminded what is important.

When all the babes are in bed sleeping, what are you most likely doing?

I love to curl up on the couch with a tasty snack & watch Netflix when my babes are sleeping. Either that, or read a good book. If I am feeling really creative I will paint or sew something fun for my girls.

If you could take your family anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would love to go to a beach where we could just lay around in the sun all day & relax & make sand castles. That would be amazing.

Who are some of your favorite instagram users?

@dearestdaughers @sharstinm @marylauren

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Colour Trend: Rose Quartz & Serenity

Having been so inspired by the 2016 Pantone colour of the year, we present, the Rose Quartz & Serenity colour trend. For the first time, a soft blending of two shades have been chosen as colour of the year and here at RRV we are sooo obsessed. A gorgeous mix of warm and cool tones create a relaxing and modern palette for 2016 and, being a little kids boutique, we couldn’t ask for a more perfect, fitting colour.

Whether you're looking for warm rose home decor goodies or soft blue kids fashion, we've got it! Shop our Rose Quartz & Serenity Colour Trend Collection right here.

Need more inspo? Head over to our Rose Quartz & Serenity Pinterest board.

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AW16 Tradeshows

Playtime Paris always has a reserved spot on Rowdy Roddy’s calendar and, this year, it gave us a fabulous sneak peak into the hottest trends and rising stars of the kids fashion & interiors world! January 2016′s show was nothing short of spectacular and our little buying brains were most definitely inspired. From cool, quirky interior & homeware brands to our old and new fashion favourites, we found plenty of goodies that we think will make our RRV customers smile later on in the year.

Trends 

Cubism

As a personal RRV favourite, we were over the moon to see that cubism will be a recurring interior trend this autumn/ winter. Whether its in the form of animal heads, love hearts or simple cushion prints, we’re all over it and UK based brand, Tobias & The Bear, had us in total awe with their quirky prints and bold colours. However, no need to wait until autumn, here at RRV we already have some fabulous cubism inspired products ready to take home today. Shop our home wear faves, La De Dah Kids & Ferm Living for all things geometric.

Knits

Nothing beats a beautifully soft, hand knitted collection of goodies, so, naturally, we super excited to see plenty of them at Playtime Paris! From cute bobble hats & headbands to blankets & cushions, they had it all. Cushions were definitely where the imagination ran wild. With knitted champagne bottles, lips with gold teeth and cheeky cats, we’re obsessed with the cushions and home wear accessories some brands had to offer!! You can shop some knitted interior goodies over on RRV right now with the likes of Donna Wilson & La De Dah Kids.

Fashion

Now, we know you must be thinking, what about all of the amazing clothing brands we seen?! Unfortunately lovelies, we can’t give away any sneak peaks of the AW16 collections, but trust us when we say... they are AMAZING. Bold prints, textures and the most beautiful silhouettes from your favourite brands and plenty of new ones, get ready to be wowed later this year!

However, in the mean time, feed your fashion fix with some of our new season collection launches! Shop our very favourite Bobo Choses & Mini Rodini spring/ summer collections now.

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Happy Chinese New Year

Celebrations have started around the world as we celebrate the Chinese Year of the Monkey! 

6 fun facts about the Year of the Monkey

The monkey is more favoured by prospective parents, because many believe babies born in the Year of the Monkey will be energetic, self-assured, sociable, smart and innovative.

A stamp issued in 1980, the Year of the Monkey, is now priced at 12,000 yuan (about 1,800 U.S. dollars) each, but the face value printed is only 8 cents (about 1 U.S. cent). It is one of the most prized stamps among collectors.

Made familiar in the monkey master in Kung Fu Panda, the monkey is an important symbol in the world of Chinese martial arts. The school of Monkey Boxing derives from the gestures of monkeys. The moves are agile and swift, with some of them even imitating the monkey in real life.

the monkey was considered an auspicious symbol for high social status, such as government officials or royalty.

The monkey is considered a symbol of health and longevity, as many kinds of monkeys have white beards like old men.

No single hour in any other country sees as many tons of fireworks lighted as in China around the midnight beginning Chinese New Year. They are used to scare evil spirits: Most mainland Chinese believe that the flash and bang of firecrackers and fireworks scare away demons and evil ghosts.

Lucky Signs for the Monkey

Lucky numbers: 1, 7, 8

Lucky colours: white, gold, blue

Lucky flowers: chrysanthemum, alliums

Lucky directions: north, northwest, west

Happy Chinese New Year lovelies from all at RRV!

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Mini Rodini SS16 has landed

The wait is over people, Mini Rodini SS16, Drop One has arrived at RRV and oh boy is it fabulous. Straight from their Scandi dream world, this collection filled with magical motifs and bold stylish prints will have your little one looking cool as can be this summer. 

From adorable unicorns and mousey heads to stand-out stripes and lettering, this season there is something for everyone. 

So what are you waiting for? Go see for yourself and prepare to fall in love!!  Shop new season Mini Rodini right here.

**Please Note: The unicorn jackets & dresses are currently unavailable due a little manufacturing mishap noticed by Mini Rodini. They will, however, be back with us as soon as possible and are still online available for pre-order. Thank you for your patience**

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Mummy Mondays: @feedingfinn

Say hello to this weeks awesome Mummy Mondays feature, our favourite foodie mama, Amy. Currently residing in Edinburgh with her husband and two adorable boys, Amy loves experimenting with healthy, kid-friendly recipes for her whole family. Take one look at her beautiful Instagram feed and your tummy will begin to rumble. Her approach to modern healthy living is truly inspiring and will certainly make you want to get the oven gloves out and start baking (sugar-free, of course)!

Where do you live, and what do you love most about it?

I live just outside of Edinburgh. I fell in love with Edinburgh when I first moved there as a student. I returned three years ago and just love the international vibe, especially during the Edinburgh festival. The Festival is such an amazing atmosphere that I will never tire of.  Oh, and I love the fact you can go shopping and look up at a castle!

What inspired you to start an Instagram account?

I started my instagram when I started my blog feedingfinn.com. I’ve always had an interest in food and nutrition and when Finn showed his love for food, I decided to document this. My blog is a collection of healthy meals and snacks that he loves (and now also Rory). My instagram is a little more personal. More snaps of the boys and recipes that aren’t included on the blog.

When did you know you wanted to be a mama?

I think I’ve always known I wanted to be a mama but wasn’t ready, and didn’t have the strong urge for it until I was 30.

How many kiddos do you have and what are there personalities like?

I have two kiddos. Finn (4) and Rory (16 months).

Finn was born spirited and he has never changed! He is a boiling pot of emotions and can be so challenging at times but he is also the most loving child imaginable.

Rory, in comparison, is chilled. Pretty easy going, nothing seems to faze him, (Although as he gets older he is becoming more feisty!)

How would your husband/partner describe you?

He would probably say that I am strong-minded, opinionated, hard working and great mum. (He tells me this often enough)

What inspires you to dress your children in vintage clothes?

That the pieces are unique.

If you could go back to any period in time, where would you go and why?

The 60/70s. Flares, festivals and free spirits!

Kids wiggle, what is your secret to a good shot of your little one in action?

I have no secrets! As all my instagram pictures involve food so I usually snap as they try to grab a snack or mid munch! For general pics I just have to make sure they are unaware. Posed photos aren’t really my thing and even if they were I don’t think I’d have much success!

When the going gets tough with the kiddos all in tow, what is your secret for putting the smiles back on those little faces?

I find turning the situation into a game/joke works best with Finn. If he is bored walking I make it a race, if he has fallen I give the pavement a row or pretend he a left a big hole etc. This is how he responds best. Rory just wants cuddles when it is all too much for him.

What could you imagine your children doing in 20 years time? 

I could see Finn on the stage.  He oozes confidence, loves being the center of attention and is quite the drama queen.

Rory is still a little young to see his full personality but he is definitely a thinker. He loves to investigate things and I could see him being an engineer or scientist!

What are your children’s favourite things to do as a family?

Both boys love swimming and are happiest on vacation, in the sunshine, splashing in the pool.

What is the hardest thing about being a mama?

The sleep deprivation - I’ve never been a great sleeper but since becoming a mum this has only got worse. Even if the boys sleep through, I wake now at the slightest noise.

And of course, what is your favourite thing about being a mama?

The unconditional love, the smiles, the laughs and just watching them grow and learn.

What are some daily rules/mantras do you use for being a mama?

My mantra is to try and keep calm! If I shout, Finn shouts back! He responds best if I can remain calm.

When all the babes are in bed sleeping, what are you most likely doing?

Watching a TV series with hubby, on the Internet, blog work, catching up with friends on what’s app. Very recently I’ve got back into my fitness so also a little running, cycling or swimming!

If you could take your family anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Australia (to live). We will be living this dream in August. We move to Sydney for three years and I can’t wait. We took the boys to Perth, WA in Feb last year and I just loved seeing them flourish there and enjoying the outdoor life style.

Who are some of your favourite Instagram users?

I love to follow food accounts, especially ones that show their little kiddos.  I  love @little_big_h. She has gorgeous pictures of food, her boy and of Sydney life. 

I also love @MyLovelyLittleLunchBox. Again, gorgeous food pictures, pictures of her kids and I just love her home décor!

[rowdyroddyvintage]

In The Press

Our dreamy Donna Wilson Pink Cloud Cushion was featured in last week’s Fabulous mag! Totally on-trend and super comfy, we think this cosy cushion is a January home decor must-have. Add it to your little ones nursery or your living room sofa, and have this blush beauty give your home a pretty pink make-over. 

Not into pink? Lucky for you our Donna Wilson Cloud Cushions come in a variety of colours. See for yourself! Shop our full Donna Wilson Collection here. 

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In The Press

Did you see our amazing Miffy’s Dream Cloud Lamp featured in The Herald Magazine this month? Specially picked for the “Objects of Desire” section, this sought after home decor accessory has been the talk of RRV since it arrived. Perfect for adults and children alike, we think this stunning night light is ideal for storytelling at bed time, or even as décor for any modern interior.

Shop our full Miffy Lamp collection here.

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In The Press

Our favourite friendly faces appeared in The Herald Magazine last week! We love our Wild & Soft faux taxidermy animal heads and think they are the perfect addition to you’re little ones bedroom or nursery! 

Shop the full Wild & Soft collection here.

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Vintage Picks of the Month

Fear not vintage lovers, 2016 is your year. We will be continuing to update our be-loved vintage & designer seconds section with the most adorable pieces as often as we can. This month we’ve had some awesome new arrivals and we’re super excited to show them off! 

1940′s Vintage Handmade Playsuit // £45 

The attention this little beauty has received has not surprised us at all! From the scallop trimmed cap sleeves to the adorable home baking illustration, this cute playsuit is nothing short of perfect. In near mint condition, it’s certainly a summer must-have. 

1970′s Vintage T-Shirt // £11

A must have for retro kids, this cool textured t-shirt with shoulder buttons is a true vintage treasure. Pair it with some denims or a cute skirt and your little one will be ready to rock, 70′s style. 

Vintage Denim Dress // £9

This dark denim vintage dress from the early 90′s is a great addition to any little ones wardrobe. Layer it up with a cute summer tee or with cosy tights and a jumper for simple all-year-round wear. Its cute flouncy skirt and pocket detail would look adorable on any little 1-2 year old. 

Vintage Corduroy Dungarees // £16

Vintage lover or not, we think these amazing deep green vintage corduroy dungarees are a fab steal and a great addition to any kiddos wardrobe. Fit for summer & winter alike, they make a fab all-year-round piece. The classic cut shorts with crossover adjustable straps and original fastenings make this a must-have kids romper.

1980′s Vintage Carter’s Overalls // £21

One of our favourite vintage finds so far this year! How awesome are these 1980′s vintage carter’s overalls?! Whether it’s for outdoor play or for indoor comfort, this little onesie is perfect for you’re retro loving little one. In bold primary colours, with front zip and popper fastening legs, it is a real vintage treasure.

Need more?! Shop our full Kid’s Vintage Collection here.

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Happy Burns Night

In honour of our good old pal Rabbie Burns - we’ve dug out our cutest, most Scottish RRV outfit. 

Have a great Burns Night folks! 💙

(Ps. You can shop our adorable little baby kilt collection right here.)

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Bobo Choses SS16 Launch

We are super excited to launch the amazing new “Der Blaue Reiter” SS16 collection from Bobo Choses! At 10am (GMT) tomorrow, the gorgeous range of arty prints, comfortable shapes and colourful motifs will go live on RRV for all to obsess over. 

Inspired by the world of modern art, Bobo Choses “Der Blaue Reiter” celebrates both the use of colour and the spontaneous painting styles from the likes of Matisse, Picasso & Van Gogh. With a fresh and vibrant colour palette, SS16 presents a wider range of products in both baby and kids sizes. From motif tees and striped sweatshirts to organic knits and arty overalls, there really is something to suit every little ones style! 

So, Bobo lovers, set your alarms, “Der Blaue Reiter” isn’t going to stick around for long! 

[rowdyroddyvintage]

Mummy Mondays: @me_and_orla

Mummy Mondays is back with a bang for 2016 and we’re so excited to start off another amazing year with the lovely Sara of @me_and_orla. Her stunningly moody Instagram feed is nothing short of inspiring and it perfectly depicts her loving family life at home with husband and gorgeous little three year old, Orla.

Read on and feel the love through her beautifully honest interview.

Where do you live, and what do you love most about it?

In rural West Yorkshire. I love that it's wild & ruggedly beautiful - proper 'Heathcliffe' country.

What inspired you to start an Instagram account?

I was expecting my first baby and liked the idea of a simple daily record of that time in our lives. I'd previously dabbled in photography but was finding myself too busy to use my DSLR, so the iPhone + instagram model appealed. Once I was at home with a newborn I found the community and interaction a lifesaver, and never looked back!

When did you know you wanted to be a mama?

It was never not on my agenda. I had all this maternal love with no outlet, and I'd pour it all into pets or kids I worked with in Speech Therapy while I waited for my life to catch up. Within months of meeting, my fiancee and I were ready to try for a baby.

How many kiddos do you have and what are there personalities like?

Just one, for now - the 'Orla' in my IG username. She's nearly three and fierce, feisty and very funny. Her brain works a lot like mine, so she never forgets anything, takes a little while to weigh up new social situations, and loves to lie around in bed.

How would your husband/partner describe you?

Batty. Funny. Clever. (I just asked).

What inspires you to dress your children in vintage clothes?

I love both the aesthetic, but also the stories - imagining who wore that tiny 50's day dress before, and what they grey up to become. It's a sort of quiet magic. That it's also conveniently a good way to opt out of the wall-to-wall fuchsia pink & cartoon branding on girl's clothing today is really just a bonus!

If you could go back to any period in time, where would you go and why? 

The late 1970s, to kiss beautiful baby-faced Mark Hamill. It legit breaks my heart that he no longer exists like that for me to marry.

Kids wiggle, what is your secret to a good shot of your little one in action?

Lots of light and patience! Or just embrace the wiggles and go for an intentional blur that shows the true hecticness of the moment - then take the pretty portraits while they sleep! ;)

When the going gets tough with the kiddos all in tow, what is your secret for putting the smiles back on those little faces?

Water - be it the bath, shower, paddling pool or just a bowl and towels on the kitchen floor, I find water-play never fails to revive flagging spirits!

What could you imagine your children doing in 20 years time? 

I picture Orla growing up to be an incredibly tough, independent 20-something - not at all who I was at that same age.

What are your children’s favorite things to do as a family?

Orla has very clear ideas on this - she likes to go for walks in the woods to collect sticks for the fire, and to go to the pub (for chips & fizzy water!). She loves anything where she gets us both all to herself - she'll sometimes ask for an 'altogether bath' or 'altogether bedtime story', & it's impossible to refuse!

What is the hardest thing about being a mama?

Constantly putting your own needs second. It's not even an active choice - if she's hungry or cold or tired or sad, it's impossible not to priirotise her needs above my own. Sometimes I can get to the end of a day and realise I've put my own needs off entirely - delayed hunger and toilet trips and text message replies - but I'm working on finding a middle ground!

And of course, what is your favorite thing about being a mama?

The privalege of watching a whole new person bloom and grow. The very best person I know.

What are some daily rules/mantras do you use for being a mama?

You only need to be 'good enough', & life is too short for matching socks.

When all the babes are in bed sleeping, what are you most likely doing?

Working! It doesn't help that evenings are a naturally creative time for me. I'm often found with a glass of wine and my laptop at the kitchen table til the early hours.

If you could take your family anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Right now, Scandinavia is calling my name. That, or a desert island with nobody but us!

Who are some of your favorite instagram users?

@mimi_brune 

@cottagefarm 

@rrroza 

@freyadowson 

@lobsterandswan

[rowdyroddyvintage]

Mummy Mondays: @me_and_orla

Mummy Mondays is back with a bang for 2016 and this week we’re kicking off another amazing year with the lovely Sara of @me_and_orla. Her stunningly moody Instagram feed is nothing short of inspiring and it perfectly depicts her loving family life at home with husband and gorgeous little three year old, Orla.

Read on and feel the love through her beautifully honest interview.

Where do you live, and what do you love most about it?

In rural West Yorkshire. I love that it's wild & ruggedly beautiful - proper 'Heathcliff' country.

What inspired you to start an Instagram account?

I was expecting my first baby and liked the idea of a simple daily record of that time in our lives. I'd previously dabbled in photography but was finding myself too busy to use my DSLR, so the iPhone + Instagram model appealed. Once I was at home with a newborn I found the community and interaction a lifesaver, and never looked back!

When did you know you wanted to be a mama?

It was never not on my agenda. I had all this maternal love with no outlet, and I'd pour it all into pets or kids I worked with in Speech Therapy while I waited for my life to catch up. Within months of meeting, my fiancee and I were ready to try for a baby.

How many kiddos do you have and what are there personalities like?

Just one, for now - the 'Orla' in my IG username. She's nearly three and fierce, feisty and very funny. Her brain works a lot like mine, so she never forgets anything, takes a little while to weigh up new social situations, and loves to lie around in bed.

How would your husband/partner describe you?

Batty. Funny. Clever. (I just asked).

What inspires you to dress your children in vintage clothes?

I love both the aesthetic, but also the stories - imagining who wore that tiny 50's day dress before, and what they grew up to become. It's a sort of quiet magic. That it's also conveniently a good way to opt out of the wall-to-wall fuchsia pink & cartoon branding on girl's clothing today is really just a bonus!

If you could go back to any period in time, where would you go and why? 

The late 1970s, to kiss beautiful baby-faced Mark Hamill. It legit breaks my heart that he no longer exists like that for me to marry.

Kids wiggle, what is your secret to a good shot of your little one in action?

Lots of light and patience! Or just embrace the wiggles and go for an intentional blur that shows the true hecticness of the moment - then take the pretty portraits while they sleep! ;)

When the going gets tough with the kiddos all in tow, what is your secret for putting the smiles back on those little faces?

Water - be it the bath, shower, paddling pool or just a bowl and towels on the kitchen floor, I find water-play never fails to revive flagging spirits!

What could you imagine your children doing in 20 years time? Traveling, being a doctor, actress… etc.

I picture Orla growing up to be an incredibly tough, independent 20-something - not at all who I was at that same age.

What are your children’s favorite things to do as a family?

Orla has very clear ideas on this - she likes to go for walks in the woods to collect sticks for the fire, and to go to the pub (for chips & fizzy water!). She loves anything where she gets us both all to herself - she'll sometimes ask for an 'altogether bath' or 'altogether bedtime story', & it's impossible to refuse!

What is the hardest thing about being a mama?

Constantly putting your own needs second. It's not even an active choice - if she's hungry or cold or tired or sad, it's impossible not to prioritise her needs above my own. Sometimes I can get to the end of a day and realise I've put my own needs off entirely - delayed hunger and toilet trips and text message replies - but I'm working on finding a middle ground!

And of course, what is your favourite thing about being a mama?

The privilege of watching a whole new person bloom and grow. The very best person I know.

What are some daily rules/mantras do you use for being a mama?

You only need to be 'good enough', & life is too short for matching socks.

When all the babes are in bed sleeping, what are you most likely doing?

Working! It doesn't help that evenings are a naturally creative time for me. I'm often found with a glass of wine and my laptop at the kitchen table til the early hours.

If you could take your family anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Right now, Scandinavia is calling my name. That, or a desert island with nobody but us!

Who are some of your favorite instagram users?

@mimi_brune @cottagefarm @rrroza @freyadowson @lobsterandswan