Tell us about @ellenrobbins_; what drove you to start it?

I love sharing and connecting with likeminded women every single day, so it’s probably no surprise I am a hairdresser.

When I was pregnant with Sophie (now 3) I saw the massive boom in mummy bloggers, and fashion bloggers and would spend so much time investing in the beautiful imagery and captions about all thing’s motherhood, fashion and beauty. So, once I had Sophie, I started sharing her little outfits, things I loved, beauty tips and had a little blog called The Stylist Mama! After 3 amazing years I decided it was time to jump back into hairdressing and I saw the perfect opportunity to take my brand to the next level.

Now I am able to work with brands that I had blogged about- and work with them on a deeper level, working with them on campaigns, shoots, and events! I think that’s where my TRUE passion always has been :) My page @ellenrobbins__ is now a lot more relaxed and fun, and I am able to share a lot more family and lifestyle posts too which I really adore!

How has motherhood changed you?

In so many ways!! Our little Soph was a surprise, and for the first year I struggled to accept the new routine and my responsibility, but we just made it work- and now it’s the best! In the beginning there is SO much stress, and we were just so overwhelmed.

I just had to learn that this was my reality and it’s my chapter in life. I now embrace every element of motherhood so much more openly and free spirited and love the small moments. I know and can see how much I've changed and grown since being a mama and I am just so happy to juggle and hustle it all.

What are the greatest lessons motherhood has taught you? 

Patience!

What piece of advice would you like to share with other Mums about motherhood?

Being able to multi task will be your best asset for the first 3 years (at least!) Sometimes I even find myself blow drying a client, trying to hold a normal adult conversation while I have one foot on Soph, trying to keep her out of the salon- its full on.

My only other piece of gold is you will learn to be SHAMELESS. There is nothing in the world that is more humbling then being totally humiliated in public by your own child - anything from spew, poo, tantrums, interesting words they pick-up and USE in public, ah we have had some funny times!!

What is the most challenging aspect about motherhood for you?

For a long time, the sleep deprivation was a nightmare for me, I would really struggle to function and would end up eating crap, sleeping through the day and being a grumpy old bat through the night- it was intense. With a toddler now, it’s a little bit different- the hardest part is keeping up! LOL! I don't have enough games and ideas to keep her entertained, I have even started to stretch daycare days longer!

What drives you to maintain a healthy lifestyle for yourself and your family?

Health for me is such a huge combination of physical, beauty and wellbeing, dietary and mental health. I love to cook and exercise, so I spend most of my free time doing those things (with or without Soph). Beauty is my second nature so taking an hour off once a week or so seems ultra-indulgent, but I work my ass off and know that a treat every now and again keeps me switched on and motivated.

We love visiting the local markets (Jan Powers at New Farm) every Saturday and fill our fridge with beautiful fresh produce. Through the week we eat really clean and easy meals- lots of green juices, tuna salads, sandwiches, fruits ect, and dinners are often Asian, Italian, or Greek inspired.

How do you find balance in your life? Can you share any tips?

Balance is so important for me as hairdressing is really busy and creative, and motherhood is quite full on as we all know. I love doing a few classes of Pilates (Reformed Pilates at Corpooroo) each week, and I find listening to podcasts incredibly inspiring and relaxing at the same time. 

When I look after myself, I can be my best so finding the balance of having a crazy busy week, then having an entire weekend at home is bliss for me!

What 3 things could you not live without?

My family, my Zimmermann collection- my guilty pleasure, and my phone ;)

What is your favourite quote to live by?

“Work while they sleep. Learn while they party. Save while they spend. Live like they dream”

I found this quote one night deep in the Pinterest world when I was deciding what to do with my blog. I knew I only had one shot at being a “stay at home mum” until I went back to work. I then spent months polishing my skills and focusing on so many little hobbies I loved, so when I went back to the real world, I had more skills then anyone in my field. I highly recommend upskilling while your off work (if you plan to go back!) because it’s so easy to fall behind with opportunities- and I suffer FOMO so I kinda had to stay on top! Ha!

What is your favourite PONO product and why?

The Coconut Probiotic is hands down the most delicious thing ever! We use it in our smoothies, juices and even sprinkle it on yogurt too!

Thank you Ellen! 

Xxx

@ellenrobbins__ & @stylemeellro