If your Instagram feed has recently become peppered with realistic – yet stunningly beautiful – images of motherhood, you have Shereen Jupp to thank for it...
Stretchmarked bellies, pinched nipples, postpartum underwear… Subjects that would often be considered highly unglamorous have been transformed by Shereen into spectacular pieces of art, showcasing the beauty and vulnerability that is motherhood. As the founder of Mother Muse magazine, Shereen has started a movement. The bi-annual magazine – which should really be referred to as a coffee table book – focuses on slow living and modern motherhood, and features the types of images and articles that will have you pouring over every page. With a background in the modelling and fashion industry, Shereen is a shining example of how our pre-baby passions can transform and flourish once our children enter the world. We caught up with Canada-based Shereen, who shared her thoughtful experience of modern motherhood in this fast-paced world. Dresses by @steviemay_byronbay |childrenswear @leuieshop | Photography @father.dear | See more at @mothermusemag and @shereenjupp
Tell us about yourself...
I am a wife, mother of two and editor and founder of Mother Muse, a bi-annual publication devoted to mothers.
We adore Mother Muse. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind it?
Mother Muse was inspired through my motherhood journey when I first gave birth to my beautiful daughter, Adaline Rose. I struggled with postpartum depression being a young mother and not resonating with the things I loved prior to motherhood. The coffee table book is a highlight of high-end fashion and lifestyle with the focus on motherhood. It is filled with original artwork, articles, interviews and editorials.
You’re busy working woman with a family. What is your secret?!
It’s beautiful chaos and I am still trying to figure out how I do it!
What does a typical day look like for you?
There is no such thing as a typical day with little ones, but they come first and I work my day around them. Right now, we are just enjoying the beginning of autumn and trying to keep outside as often as possible.
How do you currently split your time between work and family? Do you find it hard to switch off and compartmentalise when you are with your son?
Family is first, then work. My son is five months old so he definitely as a lot of focus. I work typically when they are sleeping. Somehow I manage to do it and as mentioned it’s still a learning process. I am trying to learn to switch off work at night but for now, that’s the best time for me.
In your work interviewing incredible mothers, have there been any stand-out words of wisdom that have stuck with you?
I can share some words that resonated so well with me, not so much advice but words of authenticity and commitment summed up so perfectly during my interview with actress and activist Jaime King: “You’ll never sleep the same because your heart isn’t just beating for yourself. It’s beating for two other souls. Mom guilt is very real, postpartum depression is really real, that feeling of inadequacy is very real, but it’s coupled with this extreme joy and beauty where you see everything differently. I think my greatest way to explain being a parent is you will never experience more joy or more care in your entire life.”
How has your career shifted since having a child? Do you feel any more or less ambitious?
Becoming a mother has made me more ambitious than ever before.
What has been your most memorable moment of motherhood to date?
Holding both my babies for the first right after birthing them, no words can describe that first moment, that first touch and eye contact. I will cherish those moments in my heart always.
What’s one piece of advice you would pass on to all mothers?
Be gentle and loving to yourself.
What advice do you have for anyone juggling a career and children?
Same as above and don’t be hard on yourself, we are our worst critics.
Where are your top places to shop for yourself?
Aritzia, Aurore Van Milhem, Christy Dawn, and Reformation.
What are your top three ways to unwind?
Music, podcasts, reading and Sex & The City.
Finish this sentence. “The key to surviving motherhood is …”
Patience.
Finish this sentence. “We all need to be more honest about …”
Our feelings.
Finish this sentence. “I wish someone had told me …”
How challenging breastfeeding can be.
What three words would you use to describe motherhood?
Vulnerability, love, patience (and strength).
What three words would do you hope your children would use to describe you?
Loving, passionate and protecting.
What’s one thing you hope to teach your children?
To love themselves and stay true to who they are.
What’s your little list of loves?
Coffee Dresses ChapStick Film Camera My babies (duh) My husband (duh) Kittens Poetry Beautiful music Seafood