MOTHER'S DAY WITH STEPHANIE OCKENDEN

This Mother’s Day, we chose to collaborate with a dear friend of C/MEO Collective, Stephanie Ockenden. 

 

A wonderful mother of three, Interior Designer, Artist and Strategic Development Head at the Art gallery of South Australia. Steph is an inspiration to all women; here she talks us through some of her tips and tricks to leading a busy life all whilst managing a household and leading a family.

 

  What does it take to be and raise a strong, independent woman in today’s world?

I think being honest with yourself about what you want and who you want to surround yourself with is key to being a strong and independent woman. I am a force of positive energy and I choose to surround myself with likeminded people. 
I have three children, aged 6, 3 and 1. The eldest two are both girls and it is always at the forefront of my mind to try my best to promote self-confidence, independence and positive reinforcement. If that means letting my middle child leave the house in a tutu with a giant hoop, butterfly wings, bright red stockings and light up shoes that smell like Hubba Bubba, then so be it!   
  
  
What are your tips for making self-care and style a priority?

With three young kids, self-care does tend to fall to the bottom of my to-do list, but I do try to make sure that I get 8 hours of sleep a night (potty train yourself overnight Madeline!) and eat healthily.

 Being an extrovert, dressing well makes me feel good and I’m a better mum when I feel good! Trying new things, learning new things and networking are key to filling up my cup. I also think having that weeknight G&T after a long day with the kids is 100% self-care!

 

 

 

What are your top 4 beauty products for the busy Mum?

1. Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter is my number 1. I have dry skin and it gives me a healthy looking glow! From @meccabeauty 

2. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in Gummy Bear. The best for dry lips and the kids LOVE to sniff me because I smell like gummy bears! From @sephoraaus 

3. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara. The best wake-me-up mascara on the market. From @meccabeauty

4. Maybelline Lifter Gloss Hydrating Lip Gloss in Reef 006. This is such a cult find! I always get so many compliments on this gloss and it’s so affordable to get one for each handbag. From @pricelineau

 

 

What are your top 4 Art galleries to visit around Australia?

1. Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) obviously! AGSA is well regarded as one of the best-curated galleries globally. On the first Sunday of every month, there is a free family-fun day called START for kids aged 3-12, including art activities, tours, live performances and entertainment. My kids love it! @agsa.adelaide

2. Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Sydney. When we lived in Sydney I often took Annabelle (my eldest) to ARTPlay. Such a wonderful and immersive art experience for babies. @mca_australia

3. National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). So chic. Always. @ngvmelbourne

4. Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) in Brisbane. QAGOMA is home to a Children’s Art Centre with fascinating interactive installations and artworks for kids. But also, the weather. @qagoma

 ___ 

This year Steph is involved with fundraising for Youth Opportunities. 

My challenge is to make a habit of allowing my kids to help in the kitchen. I’m a neat freak and like to do everything myself, but I do want to teach them independence and ultimately to learn life skills. 

You can get involved by sponsoring Steph.

You can follow Steph on Instagram at @stephanieockenden

Back to blog