Welcome to 'The Juggle': A new blog series where Pepa talks to inspirational mothers all around the world, delving into family life and what it means to be a working parent today, discussing family traditions and how to cope when life sometimes gets too much.

This week we chat to Hayley Bloomingdale, Contributing Editor at US Vogue, Times Luxx & Collagerie. Becoming a parent has meant that Hayley has had to find the perfect balance between work and home life.

(Ellie wears our Romantic Blue Linen Dress with Lace)

Hi Hayley, tell me about your family?
Most of my family is in California but I currently live in London with my husband and our 18-month-old daughter, Ellie.  

How did life change when you became a mother (apart from the obvious)?
Life became simultaneously tamer and wilder all at once. Tamer because our bedtime has shifted quite a few hours earlier but wilder because our days are often full of madness and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way! 

How do you define your parenting style?
I’d say we’re pretty relaxed, I like her to explore things on her own and figure out the consequences of her actions by doing rather than being told (as long as it’s safe, of course!) 

Any fun family traditions you have created?
Weekend breakfast and papers all together! Weekday mornings can be hectic but on the weekdays we linger over breakfast reading the papers, Ellie absolutely loves to “read” and is thrilled when we give her own section of the paper to rifle through.

What are the rituals that keep you grounded?
Pilates, a long hot bath and a glass of red wine! 

How do you carve out time for yourself?
My husband is very hands-on and usually tackles one of the day’s tasks so I can have some time to myself.  We also have an amazing nanny who makes the rest of my life possible! 

What pieces of wisdom are key to pass on to your children?
Believe in yourself, if you don’t, then no one else will! Trust your gut always and do what makes you happy.

Discover other Pepa & Co. blogs here!