Joanna Wolff is a creative and branding consultant for Joanna Wolff Consulting, working with companies on their identity, strategy and voice. A talented writer and editor, she has the sensibility and creativity to deliver high-level engagement on behalf of her clients, which include companies for fashion, lifestyle and consumer products. She is celebrating her first Mother’s Day this year.
What are you doing to keep your kids engaged throughout the day while you’re all at home, and how are you approaching your work? I have a 10 month old, so it’s the little activities that make his day. As the day goes on, we move from room to room, ‘discovering’ new toys. And we take a lot of walks in the park! Luckily, I can squeeze my work around his schedule and do it while he naps. If I have to be on a call when he is awake, I will put a giant bucket of toys next to him on the rug, and that will occupy him for a while.
How are you lifting your spirits and keeping sane in the midst of this new normal? The beautiful weather has been a huge help; going for walks or hanging out in the backyard has kept me sane. I’ve also returned to reading, and it’s been really helpful to have a good book to dive into. Also, wine. It helps.
What’s your biggest challenge right now? Dealing with the unknown of it all. My family is on the East Coast, and not knowing when I’ll be able to see them again is really hard.
What is your ultimate stay at home garment that’s giving you confidence and comfort? Anything black. I could be wearing sweatpants and a cotton shirt, but if it’s all black, I somehow feel like I’m more pulled together. Maybe it’s the New Yorker in me.
How are you reinventing your Mother’s Day this year? I told my husband that all I want this year is to sit outside on our deck and sip champagne together and toast to surviving it all this far. Oh, and also getting some alone time so I can watch Bravo.
About this interview series: As Mother’s Day approaches I’ve thought a lot about the importance of shining a light on all moms, particularly in the midst of this unprecedented new normal. The world is changing, but honoring and celebrating mom remains intact. Mothers come in many forms, those who gave birth to us or adopted us; our grandmothers and best friends; and those who found us in times of need and invited us into their lives. As part of my CANDID interview series, I had the pleasure of connecting with inspiring women who are mothers, founders and dynamic individuals. They share their stories of navigating the now and how they’ll re-invent Mother’s Day this year amidst this ongoing pandemic. I will add features daily to lauraksawyier.com until May 10, and all will be featured on townandstyle.com here as well. -LKS
Laura Katherine Sawyier is a women’s personal and wardrobe stylist and founder of the SALON X LKS event series. She is based in St. Louis and New York City.