Mom Talk with Anna from Lark Party
In a few sentences (we know you don’t have much time!) tell us about yourself and your little one…
Hi, My name is Anna! I’m originally from Belfast but have been based in Toronto for 13 years. I live in the east end of Toronto with my husband, James, daughter, Maggie, and rescue cat, Lloyd. Maggie is 26 months old and is hilarious and very opinionated. Her teacher in daycare recently described her as “spicy,” which is a perfect way of saying she’s got a lot of attitude!
Fill us in on everything we should know about what keeps you busy:
After my mat leave I returned to my communications job where I had worked for 10 years, only to hand in my notice 2 months later. Since then I have been freelancing as a copy writer/editor, and have launched Lark - and both projects keep me busy! Lark is an online store that sells curated, limited edition party kits. The idea came about just before my daughter turned one, when I realized that I didn’t have the time or energy to source party goods. I tried to find a kit that provided me with everything I needed for a small celebration, and found that there weren’t many options - so I decided to look into creating my own instead. It’s been a really fun way to build something that I’m really passionate about, plus it’s enabled me to learn new skills, like building a Shopify store and product photography!
It probably goes without saying that having a toddler keeps me extremely busy too!
FAVES
What is one thing you couldn’t live without as a mom?
(your ultimate must-have!)
Only one thing?! I hate to say it, but probably my phone! It’s great for both capturing moments, and providing a great distraction!
What are your child’s current faves?
(if it suddenly disappeared tomorrow - there would for sure be tears!)
She’s still obsessed with her soothers - and we really need to kick that habit sooner rather than later!
What are three things that you take everywhere with you …
(think diaper bag essentials - besides diapers!)
Snacks, Huggie Special Delivery wipes (the BEST) and Klean Kanteen water bottles (for mum and toddler!)
BOOK CLUB
What is your favourite children’s book?
(a childhood fave or a post children discovery)
When The Sky Is Like Lace by Elinor Landor Horwitz. I bought this book for my daughter as I had such wonderful memories of my father reading it to my sister and I. He recently passed away, so reading this book is even more special.
What are your child's favourite books?
(bet you can recite from memory!)
Thank You and Goodnight by Patrick McDonnell. A relative bought this for Maggie for her 2nd birthday and it has become an instant classic.
How To Catch A Star by Oliver Jeffers. We have all his books (and love that he’s from Belfast too!) but this may narrowly be her favourite.
MINI STYLE
What are your favourite places to shop for your babes?
(mostly online these days I’m sure!)
We are so fortunate to get hand me downs from family and friends. If I’m buying new, Zara is great, and so is August Kinn.
What children’s clothing brand do you wish they made in your size?
(because let’s face it, we’ve all once thought “I wish this came in my size!”)
I’m a fan of a good print, and Rylee & Cru have some of the loveliest!
MOM TALK
What advice would you tell your pregnant self?
(if only you knew then..)
Don’t ever feel guilty about taking time to yourself and resting - I had no idea how precious that time was! I would also tell myself not to put too much pressure on myself to be the perfect mother. I struggled massively throughout the first few months, and looking back I can see how hard that period in particular is for most mums, and that we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves.
As a working mom, how do you find “balance” between work and motherhood?
(really is there such a thing?)
I’m not sure there is such a thing, especially during a pandemic. My daughter has regularly been home due to daycare COVID outbreaks, or her having a cold. Between not having a 9-5 and the instability of both freelancing and unreliable childcare, there basically is no balance to be found! I’m hoping we all get to experience some normality soon!
Who is your momspiration?
(it can be more than just one because there are so many superstars out there!)
My sister - she’s honestly the most amazing person I know. She is incredibly busy with work, her two children and our family (she’s still in Northern Ireland) but always finds time to help others. She’s such a kind and giving person, and I wish she’d put herself first more often!
What has been your pandemic saviour?
(we need all the sanity tips!)
A really great TV show is a wonderful distraction (recent favourites include The Morning Show, Ted Lasso and Succession.) As eating out was non existent for a long time, ordering in is such a treat, and something my husband and I really look forward to. Exercising always makes me feel better, although I wish I was more committed to it. Maybe one day!
Follow Anna on Instagram: @larkparty and visit their shop website: www.larkparty.co
#TMLmomtalk