Can’t Mum Without- Lauren Webber

The juggle is real! As we’re all very aware.

So what items make your mum life that bit easier?

We spoke to TMC Co-founder, Lauren Webber to find out her life, style, and mum must-haves.  

How I Manage the Juggle
1.
How I Manage the Juggle

“The simple answer is if I don’t exercise, nothing happens well. So, I make it non-negotiable. A meeting that can’t be moved. Some might find it hard to believe, but the more I’ve been up at night, the more I need exercise. It clears my mind and resets me for the day. I do it 2-3 times a week when my husband is off or can get in to work later. Then I’m done and can be a better mum, boss and friend.”

How to Look Put Together (when you're not)
2.
How to Look Put Together (when you’re not)

“A good hair day can change everything. Even if you’re tired, if your hair looks good, it changes your face. If I can’t get out to have it done professionally, I use my Dyson Airwrap to get a salon-like effect at home.”

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How I Got Better Sleep
3.
How I Got Better Sleep

“There isn’t one set rule for getting your baby to sleep better. Trust me, I know! Not only did this help with my son’s sleep patterns, but it also sorted his digestive and reflux issues. I swear by Alison. She saved me through the most challenging months of my motherhood journey so far.”

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The Best Item to Keep Babies Entertained
4.
The Best Item to Keep Babies Entertained

“My son loved this and would stand in it for ages, which gave me essential moments of hands-free time. Now that he’s grown out of it, we’ve transformed it into a table, and he still loves playing with it.”

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My Go-to Snack for Energy Slumps
5.
My Go-to Snack for Energy Slumps

“I love Deliciously Ella bars. They’re great for afternoon dips or if you’re rushing around and forgotten to eat breakfast. Sometimes, you need a bit of sugar to keep you going, and these aren’t overloaded.”

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My No1 Mum-Style Item
6.
My No1 Mum-Style Item

“My Lulu joggers are by far my most worn item. I’m not a dancer, but these are great for on-the-run mumming.”

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The Best Hotel for a Break Away
7.
The Best Hotel for a Break Away

“I’m a hotel snob. It’s a flaw because it costs me too much money. I used to work at Babington, which ruined my standards. When I’m in London, I like to stay at Artist Residence near Victoria. It’s central, and the bathtubs are massive. I chose the city every time because where we live in Jersey is so remote.”

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The Best Baby Grow
8.
The Best Baby Grow

“These are my favourite onesies for wriggly babies on the move. They zip up, wash really well and last a long time.”

Buy now

How Did You Start THE MUM CLUB?

“We created THE MUM CLUB because after we had children, we’d go to baby classes, and while they were entertaining for the children, we’d leave having spoken to no one and feeling emptier in a way. This experience drove us to create THE MUM CLUB because we didn’t want anyone to ever feel like that. At first it started as brunches that we planned and advertised locally and on Facebook. The events kept selling out, so we decided to expand to new areas, which were equally as popular.
The idea of THE MUM CLUB came from our own want and need, so we knew it would be popular! But the fact that we tapped into international waters after year one is something we’ll be forever proud of.”

What Does THE MUM CLUB Mean to You?

“Good Mum friends are essential when you have a baby, but sometimes it’s hard to find them. We aim to create a community that you can access no matter where you live. And I still get such a buzz when I hear how much our events have helped and lifted mums. It makes all the hard work worth it.”

Your Advice to Mums Wanting to Start Their Own Business…

“If you’ve got a good idea and you feel passionate about it, then just go for it. It doesn’t have to be huge at first or perfect, but starting something is often the biggest hurdle. And if you want some support then come and join us and start your own TMC!”

Become Our Next THE MUM CLUB Host…

Start Your Own Franchise...
Start Your Own Franchise…

We empower women and mums to be their own boss. Our team will support and train you on your journey and we have simple to understand fees, which allow you to choose hours which fit around your schedule.
You can expand the business to suit your work-life balance and reap the rewards of success.
Are you a people person, a great event organiser, networker, and really in-tune with what’s going on in your area? Then running a TMC franchise could be for you!

Find out more

TMC Date Night Recipe: Nobu Style Black Cod

When you can’t get out to a swanky restaurant – bring date night indoors! *Black cod in your pjs = bliss!

Ingredients

•1/4 cup mirin
•1/4 cup sake
•1/3 cup miso paste
•1/3 cup cane sugar
•2 lb black cod (deboned, cut into filets)

Method

1. Boil the mirin and sake for 3 min.

2. Add in sugar and miso. Cook a couple min without boiling. Let it cool.

3. Pour it all over your fish, cover it VERY tightly and marinate for 24-48 hrs in fridge.

4. Broil it (I did 7 min) but every oven is different so keep an eye out.

Watch how to make it…

Nearly Unbreakable Sunglasses – Under £100 

Designer styles just aren’t safe from those tiny troublesome hands. Save yourself some money with a durable, slightly more reasonable pair.

The “I Only Wear Blacks”…

Big bulky styles that will take almost anything!

Face Flattering Tortoiseshell

Warming browns that bring radiance to tired faces.

The Designer Doubles

Who even needs Saint Laurent and Gucci when you’ve got these guys!

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

TMC’s Guide to… Stratford Upon Avon

TMC Stratford Upon Avon Hosts Amy & Lizzie, reveal the best things to do and see…

Where to Stay…

Best Hotel - Hotel Indigo
Best Hotel – Hotel Indigo

“We love this boutique hotel, it has a lovely mix of traditional styles with contemporary finishes. It’s the perfect place to go for a romantic getaway.”

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Best Farm Stay - The Apple Farm Glamping
Best Farm Stay – The Apple Farm Glamping

“This Glamping site is placed in the most beautiful location in the Warwickshire countryside. It’s Glamping at its finest!”

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Where To Eat…

Best Baby Friendly Brunch Spot - Boston Tea Party
Best Baby Friendly Brunch Spot – Boston Tea Party

“This is the perfect place to grab brunch with your little ones. And if you head there, you definitely need to try the pancakes!”

Book a Table
Date Night - Salt
Date Night – Salt

“We love this Michelin Star spot. The food is beyond incredible, the wine is delicious and it’s in a beautiful venue that’s made for date nights or special occasions.”

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Best Coffee Shop - Prospero Lounge
Best Coffee Shop – Prospero Lounge

“This is a great spot to grab a coffee. It’s a huge space that caters for everyone including prams and kids (and they even serve wine!).”

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Best Pub - The Woodsman
Best Pub – The Woodsman

“This is a gorgeous pub in the heart of Stratford. The food is delicious and the wine is even better. And if you’re visiting at the weekend we suggest booking in on a Sunday as they do the BEST roast.”

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Best Bakery - Mor Bakery
Best Bakery – Mor Bakery

“What isn’t there to love about Mor? The pastries are to die for and the coffee is always piping hot and delicious. It’s well worth a visit even just for the pain au chocolat.”

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Best Breakfast - York’s
Best Breakfast – York’s

“We love to go here for breakfast. They do the most delicious eggs and they have a great coffee selection and cakes you’ll not want to share!”

Book now
Best Dinner - Red Hot Mamma
Best Dinner – Red Hot Mamma

“We LOVE this place. It’s a great pizza spot with the prettiest decor! The pizzas are HUGE but make sure you don’t share as you can always take it home for a late night (or next morning) snack!”

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What To Do…

Best Farm Shop - The Farm
Best Farm Shop – The Farm

“The Farm has everything under one roof. It’s an amazing farm shop, cafe, homeware and wine shop. And it even has a play area outdoors for the kids. Don’t forget to meet the pigs before you leave.”

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Best Spa - Billesley Manor
Best Spa – Billesley Manor

“We adore Billesley Manor, we’ve held events there and visit often. It’s a gorgeous manor house in the Warwickshire countryside. It’s so relaxing. Make sure you book a massage and have a dip in the pool.”

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Best Walk - The Greenway
Best Walk – The Greenway

“The Greenway is our favourite place to go for a walk. Head down and stop off at Bobby’s for a coffee or cocktail in the summer.”

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Best Boutique Shop - Vinegar Hill
Best Boutique Shop – Vinegar Hill

“We love this shop. They sell the most gorgeous homewares, gifts and the prettiest toys.”

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Best Florist - White Ivy Flowers
Best Florist – White Ivy Flowers

“Jo, the owner of White Ivy Flowers, is amazing. She has just opened her first workshop locally and it’s a gorgeous place to get flowers!”

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Best Sightseeing Attraction - Shakespeare’s Home
Best Sightseeing Attraction – Shakespeare’s Home

“You can’t visit Stratford Upon Avon without visiting Shakespeare’s childhood home. A real treat for all the family.”

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Best Money Well Spent - The Butterfly Farm
Best Money Well Spent – The Butterfly Farm

“The kids will love the butterfly farm. Getting up close with all the beautiful butterflies in the amazing tropical setting!”

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TMC Stratford Upon Brunch Club
TMC Stratford Upon Brunch Club

“If you want to meet local, likeminded mum friends on your trip why not attend a TMC Brunch club. We’d love to meet you even if you’re not a local.”

Book Now

Top Tips

Must see:

Shakespeare’s birthplace and if you have a longer stay planned, head to the RSC theatre to enjoy a performance.

Must do:

Rent a boat in the summer and relax on the river. Then stop off for a picnic, or for a cocktail or two.

Best time of the year to visit:

Come in the spring to avoid peak tourist season.

Recipe of the Week: High-Vibe Healing Bowl

When you want to feel part of the high-vibes club, the vibrant colours from all the gorgeous veg in this rice bowl will make you feel alive and boost your mood. Fermented pickles will give your gut some TLC and the tahini dressing with garlic, ginger, honey and turmeric will help protect your immunity.

Extracted from The Healing Cookbook by Gemma Ogston (Vermilion, £16.99) Photography by Xavier Buendia

Ingredients

1 Butternut Squash Peeled and cut into Wedges
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
a pinch of salt
300g brown rice, cooked
2 avocados, cubed
2 carrots, grated
4 cooked beetroots, cubed
3 handfuls spinach
Gut-loving sauerkraut
Carrot + Ginger kimchi

Dressing
Dressing

1 tbsp tahini
1 tbspn olive oil
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
11/2cm ginger, peeled and finely chopped
1tbspn honey
1 tsp ground turmeric
juice of 1 lemon

Method

Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan

Toss the butternut squash wedges in the olive oil and a pinch of salt and arrange on a lined baking tray. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes, until they look golden and cooked.

Divide the cooked brown rice, avocado, carrot, beetroot and spinach between four bowls. Add a spoonful of your pickles and then generously drizzle the dressing.

The Healing Cookbook, by Gemma Ogston
The Healing Cookbook, by Gemma Ogston

Nourishing plant-based recipes to help you feel better and stay well.

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How To Deal With Hyperpigmentation (Aka Pregnancy Mask)

Dark spots and patches appeared on your face? These are the best ways to reduce them.

What Are the 3 Different Types of Hyperpigmentation?

  • Age spots
  • Melasma, which is hormone-related.
  • Post-inflammatory trauma that can come from injuries, sun exposure or skin conditions like acne.

What Causes a Pregnancy Mask?

Gah! Another joyous side effect of pregnancy. Often associated with fluctuating hormones, Pregnancy Mask aka Melasma is a condition which causes brown spots on the skin. Melasma is most common in people of Hispanic, Asian, African, or Middle Eastern descent. As well as pregnancy it is also associated with the menopause, oral contraceptives, and sun exposure.
And you’ll usually find patches and spots on the forehead, nose, cheeks, and around the lips.

Why are Darker Skins Prone to Melasma?

Melasma occurs when melanocytes produce too much pigmentation in the skin, resulting in dark patches. And because people with black or brown skin have more melanocytes (*which gives your skin a darker and delicious colour). This means they are more likely to develop Melasma than people with lighter complexions. Because these skin tones are less likely to burn, it’s a common misconception that they can forgo an SPF. Because they are more prone to hyperpigmentation, if they want to avoid it, they need to use an SPF to prevent dark patches and also help to fade existing ones.”

Will My Pregnancy Mask Fade on Its Own?

Yes, possibly! As your hormones change, women often find that the patches diminish independently, and they can go on their own after a few months post-birth!
Consultant Dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings of Channel 5’s Skin A&E says, “Don’t try to treat it during pregnancy – there are no effective treatments for Melasma that are considered safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding. So, I suggest you don’t bother. Wait until you can use the right, effective treatments rather than wasting time and money (and getting frustrated) using ineffective cosmetic skincare products that don’t work. It’s never too late to treat Melasma. The treatments will almost certainly always be available.”
So maybe wait a while and see what your skin does on its own!

The Best Ways to Treat Hyperpigmentation

There’s no one magical treatment which will eradicate dark spots on its own. And like everything it takes a bit of effort. A three pronged attack of 1) exfoliating dead and discoloured cells, 2) replenishing and encouraging collagen and cell production, and 3) suppressing melanin production – is the best way to reduce hyperpigmentation.

Varying skin tones should be treated differently too! Paler skin tones are more susceptible to getting patches via sun damage and should prioritise sun protection to prevent further damage. And those with darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (skin injury). Which means a gentler approach is advisable. If you have darker skin then try to avoid aggressive treatments that might irritate the skin.

Exfoliate Old Pigmented Cells

Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask
Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask

Chemical exfoliators or peels using Glycolic, Azelic or Lactic acid promote rapid skin cell turnover. And will help remove discoloured skin cells.

Buy it now
By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Prep Water
By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Prep Water

If your skin is sensitive, which is often the case after pregnancy, you might get on better with Mandelic Acid – which is known as the gentle exfoliator.

Buy it now

Optimise Skin Function

La Roche-Posay Niacinamide B10 Serum
La Roche-Posay Niacinamide B10 Serum

Once you’ve exfoliated the dead skin layers and discoloured cells, you need to replenish the skin and give it a helping hand with some skincare hero ingredients like Niacinamide *Vitamin B and Retinol *Vitamin A.

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Medik8 Intelligent Retinol Supercharged Vitamin A Serum
Medik8 Intelligent Retinol Supercharged Vitamin A Serum

Both Retinoids and Niacinamide can reduce the appearance of dark spots. This is because they can decrease melanin production and increase collagen production. If your skin can take it and you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding, start with an entry-level strength product, such as Medik 8 Intelligent Retinol 3TR twice a week for the first two weeks, then once every other night for another two weeks and then nightly application. Once your skin has built up a tolerance to the ingredient, you can move on to a higher-strength Vitamin A.

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Reduce Melanin Production

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Serum

Treatments containing ingredients like Vitamin C, Licorice Root, Alpha Arbutin, and Kojic Acid, help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin.

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Exuiviance Vitamin C Serum Capsules
Exuiviance Vitamin C Serum Capsules

A Vitamin C serum is an excellent tool for tackling pigmentation as it can block some of the pathways that cause pigmentation. But with so many on the market, how do you know which is the best one? Look for a Vitamin C percentage of 15-20%, as this is shown to be the sweet spot, especially for darker skin types.

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Other Ways to Combat Hyperpigmentation

Microneedling

Helps stimulate collagen production, and it can even improve Melasma and other hyperpigmentation disorders. Fractora is a non-invasive skin treatment used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, loose skin, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. It uses radiofrequency energy combined with tiny micro-pins to stimulate collagen regeneration.

Laser
Laser

You have to tread carefully with laser treatments as they can sometimes cause inflammation and damage to the skin, which can worsen pigmentation, especially on darker skin. ADVATx is a new non-ablative resurfacing treatment that can help with texture and tone irregularities and the signs of ageing and doesn’t cause trauma to the skin. The treatment emits lights deep into the skin to encourage cell production and reduce discolouration. It is also heralded as the safest and most effective laser for dark skin tones, as it has been approved for use on all Fitzpatrick scale skin types.

ADVATX LASER TREATMENT
Use SPF
Use SPF

Prevention is always better than cure. And using a sun cream combining UVA and UVB filters is essential. Hyperpigmentation may worsen after sun exposure, as melanin absorbs UV rays. Sunscreen may help protect against further darkening of hyperpigmented spots. The cream must be broad-spectrum and block UVA and UVB rays. Even better, look for a topical cream containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or iron oxide, as these ingredients can treat the skin and be less irritating than chemical sun cream.

Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40
Look After Your Insides
Look After Your Insides

What you feed your insides is important too! And supplements including Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Glutathione have been shown (*with longer-term use) to help reduce pigmentation.

Wild Nutrition Food-Grown® Vitamin C Plus

What to Wear This Week

A nice and easy outfit that you probably already have in your wardrobe, the silver flats add a bit of fun to the ensemble. Keeping it comfy as usual, these Zara jeans are a must in your wardrobe.

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

New Season Knitwear You’ll Love Forever

We know it’s hot this week but these guys are sure to sell out. Get them in your cart stat!

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

TMC Recipe of the Week: Calming Almond and Raspberry Cake

This dense, gluten-free cake is made with ground almonds instead of flour. Almonds soothe and support the respiratory system, helping to remove phlegm. Raspberries have a tonic effect on the liver, and a calming effect on the mind. Rich in antioxidants, they also support healthy vision. And, in traditional Chinese medicine, raspberries are used to treat impotence and fertility in men!

Ingredients

250g butter, plus extra for greasing
250g caster sugar
5 eggs, seperated
250g ground almonds
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g raspberries

Method

Method
Method

1. Preheat the oven to 140°C. Grease and line a 10 inch cake tin.

2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add an egg yolk, mix well, then add a little of the ground almonds and combine well. Repeat until all the yolks and almonds have been added to the mix. Add the vanilla extract and combine well.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites to form stiff peaks. Gently fold the egg whites into cake mixture with a metal spoon. Keep 6-12 raspberries aside to use as decoration later. Transfer half of the mix to prepared cake tin, arrange half the raspberries on top, then add the rest of the cake mix and finish with the rest of the raspberries.

4. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes-1 hour until cooked through. Insert a clean skewer into the centre of the cake to test. If the skewer is clean it’s ready to come out. If not, let it cook a little longer and test again.

5. Place the cake on a wire rack and allow to cool. Once cool, carefully remove the cake tin and parchment paper. Decorate the top of the cake with some fresh raspberries and almonds and serve.

Neal's Yard Remedies Healing Foods: Eat Your Way to a Healthier Life
Neal’s Yard Remedies Healing Foods: Eat Your Way to a Healthier Life

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The Best Face Sprays for Hot or Tired Skin

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

Keep it in the fridge for an extra shot of cool

Besides getting more sleep, one of the best ways to wake up tired skin is to up your hydration. And while we’re always trying to drink more water, our skincare regimes usually take a back step.

Skin expert Chelsee Lewis advises, “Busy Mums who want to improve moisture levels should look to use hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. They can also keep skin looking glowing by keeping a face spray handy and spritzing it on throughout the day”.

The Mum Club Editor, Lydia House, says, “Since, following Chelsee’s advice, I keep mine in my car and spritz it before every drive. A few weeks have passed, and I’ve already noticed a considerable difference in my skin.”

BEST FOR TIRED SKIN - Plantopia Positive Charge Face & Space Mist 100ml - £18
1.
BEST FOR TIRED SKIN – Plantopia Positive Charge Face & Space Mist 100ml – £18

The beautiful scent of ginseng lifts both your mood and skin –and is a handy one to have when you’re having one of those days.

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BEST FOR HYDRATION - La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra 8 Face Mist 100ml - £20.50
2.
BEST FOR HYDRATION – La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra 8 Face Mist 100ml – £20.50

Containing a hefty dose of hyaluronic acid, this hydrating spray is one of our all-time favourites for tired skin. It’s so moisturising – sometimes it’s all we use in the morning. It doesn’t feel tacky on the skin and soaks in quickly, leaving a light but enviable glow.

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BEST FOR BRIGHTNESS - Skinician Revitalising Toner 200ml - £17.95
3.
BEST FOR BRIGHTNESS – Skinician Revitalising Toner 200ml – £17.95

The name toner has always confused us, tbh, so don’t let that put you off, as you can use it as a hydrating mist whenever you want. The formula is infused with Vitamin C, which is known for encouraging a brighter complexion and it also contains cucumber to cool and calm tired skin.

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BEST FOR YOUR HOSPITAL BAG - Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray for Sensitive Skin 300ml - £13
4.
BEST FOR YOUR HOSPITAL BAG – Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray for Sensitive Skin 300ml – £13

A great brand for sensitive and tired skin and for use in pregnancy. It’s our pick to pack in your hospital bag, and we recommend leaving it in the fridge until it’s time to go for added cooling effects.

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BEST FOR SKIN COOLING - Caudalie Beauty Elixir 30ml - £12
5.
BEST FOR SKIN COOLING – Caudalie Beauty Elixir 30ml – £12

Need some calm in your life? Don’t we all?! This beautiful spray feels as indulgent as it looks and instantly cools and calms sleepy looking skin. Unfortunately it can’t help you with toddler tantrums but it will de-stress you for a second.

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Best for Giving You a Boost - Neom Big Day Energy Face Mist - £26
6.
Best for Giving You a Boost – Neom Big Day Energy Face Mist – £26

A beautifully natural scented spray that not only gives your skin a brighter dewy effect but boosts your mood too. The light eucalyptus, rosemary & patchouli fragrance helps boost energy & mind. Can be worn over or under make up.

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Best for Sensitive Skin - Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Mist -£18.35
6.
Best for Sensitive Skin – Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Mist -£18.35

Formulated with Aloe Vera and non-distilled Witch Hazel the formula gives a beautiful natural glow to your skin. Thayers elixirs have been a fixture in medicine cabinets for generations – once you use them you’ll know why.

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Best for Soothing Inflamed Skin - Jurlique Aloe Vera Mist
8.
Best for Soothing Inflamed Skin – Jurlique Aloe Vera Mist

Skin feeling sensitive or irritated? This is the one for you. Containing Aloe Vera the spray instantly calms and soothes your skin. It’s also incredibly hydrating which is great if your skin is looking tired and dull.

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Best for Stressed Out Skin - Sabi Reviving Face & Space Mist - £30
9.
Best for Stressed Out Skin – Sabi Reviving Face & Space Mist – £30

A soothing, skin-plumping, and natural fatigue-fighting blend of botanicals when you need it most. Refreshes tired and stressed-out skin. Boosts hydration, reduces fine lines with natural seaweed peptides and redness whilst balancing and protecting the skin’s natural barrier.

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Best After a Long Haul Flight - Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist - £25
10.
Best After a Long Haul Flight – Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist – £25

This super delicate, lightweight spray not only smells good enough to eat but it refreshes and enhances skin and make up. It’s great for dry or dehydrated skin and gives a dewy, healthy glow.

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Soothing Stretches for New Mums

Relieve sore shoulders and improve posture with this simple yoga flow.

A 20-minute simple yoga flow for nursing mums

This gentle flow is full of great stretches that help with posture and relieve sore back and shoulders.
Whether you’re breastfeeding or nursing your baby from a bottle, you will still experience tension and possibly pain in these areas from all the lifting and time you spend supporting them while they feed.
This effortless flow features gentle twists and stretches that anyone can follow.
Just make sure you’ve had the go-ahead from your doctor.

When to do it…

We suggest doing this before bed but it’s a great healer to do at any time of the day.

If you have Diastasis Recti…

Candace says, “Avoid plank and even low lunge if you notice any coning in your abdomen. If you see this happening, firmly hug your belly back towards your spine and slowly come out of the pose, gently resting like a child’s pose, or stay in downward dog until the next movement begins.”

The Hotlist – The Best Things to Do in September

We’re in full hibernation mode – with a sprinkling of planning!

Make a fashionable date in your diary

A Chanel Fashion Exhibition Is Coming To London
A Chanel Fashion Exhibition Is Coming To London

This month the Victoria & Albert Museum launches Gabrielle Chanel. Fashion Manifesto, which is the “first UK exhibition dedicated to the work of French couturière.” Tickets are sold out until November but if you must see it now you can become a member as there’s no pre booking necessary for V&A VIPS.

Find Out More

Find an at-home workout that works for you

The Barre Coach
The Barre Coach

Whether you’re pregnant, just given birth or even several years postpartum, The Barre Coach Online Studio has everything you need to help you fall in love with fitness and get you feeling happier, healthier, stronger and more confident. Kicking off with a complimentary 1:1 session, the studio founder, Gen Greensted, is all about helping you find your path with fitness and giving tailored workout recommendations to help consistency feel easier than ever. Having welcomed her little boy in November, Gen has experienced first-hand how amazing it was to feel strong throughout her pregnancy and has experienced an incredible recovery from her c-section birth as a result.

Find out more

What to watch…

Choose Love - out now
Choose Love – out now

An interactive rom-com that we thought would be awful, but it’s strangely addictive. The only problem is we keep undoing our choices and choosing twice, and we’re possibly in love with Jordi Webber.

Watch now
Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny – out now
Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny – out now

Now available to buy and stream at home, this new film will give you a taste of nostalgia with a slice of Phoebe Waller-Bridge hilarity.

Watch now
The Morning Show – Season 3 – Sept 13
The Morning Show – Season 3 – Sept 13

They stopped filming because of COVID, and now they’re finally back. We loved watching the first two seasons and can’t wait to watch more.

Watch here
Painkiller
Painkiller

This came out in early August and is about the opioid epidemic in America. It is based on real stories and played by actors like Matthew Broderick. It’s unbelievably interesting and one you’ll recommend to anyone who listens.

Watch now
Sex Education - 21st September
Sex Education – 21st September

We lost a little interest in the last season, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be tuning in again. It’s the last season and likely to have some conclusive endings for Otis, Maeve and Co.

Watch it here

Warm up in a chic sauna

The Sauna Society
The Sauna Society

Love a fresh dip in the ocean but not a fan of the cold weather? This chic pod has popped up at St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey, and we’re sure it won’t be the last. It is a great way to warm up these suddenly cold days, relieve those muscles and soak up the scenery. And if you don’t live in Jersey, be sure to check out your nearest wild swimming location and we bet there’s something similar in place. It’s becoming ‘a thing’.

Find out more

Join TMC and Britax for Brunch

TMC Milton Keynes X Britax Romer Brunch Club - Redmoor
TMC Milton Keynes X Britax Romer Brunch Club – Redmoor

Join TMC Milton Keynes and Britax as they celebrate the launch of Britax Romer’s new car seat, MAX-SAFE PRO. Held in the Car Safety store, your ticket includes a delicious brunch, a jam-packed goodie bag, and a coveted TMC travel mug. Plus, there’s a babysitter, a play area, hot coffee, brilliant mum-mates and more.

Book now

Listen to this…

Not as we planned
Not as we planned

This is an open and honest account of the breakdown of relationships when you have children. Tash and Carly explore the emotions, hurdles, and struggles you go through when you split from your partner. It’s helpful and insightful, even if you’re not experiencing or considering a split.

Listen now

Don’t make plans for December

*You don't have to do a thing
*You don’t have to do a thing

Worried that now it’s September, you suddenly need to make plans for Christmas? It’s great if you’re ahead of the game and booked Lapland in Jan. But many of our favourites still haven’t announced their details yet or have just released information. And don’t stress if you book zero events. Kids (especially small ones) just love being around you and all the twinkly lights. And if in doubt, head to the local garden centre *again!

Read this…

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow

One of the best books we’ve ever read. This story is about two friends, Sam and Sadie, who are in love but aren’t lovers. They have a unique spark first found in childhood and reignited as adults when they see each other in a crowded train station. It is a story of friendship, creativity, betrayal and tragedy. Sure to be made into a film, read it now, if and when you get a moment.

Buy it now

The Best Jeans to Wear After You’ve Had a Baby 

Wardrobe disconnection after birth, is a ‘thing’! And one of the hardest items to shop for is our beloved jeans!
But it doesn’t have to feel stressful! Says Leading Stylist, Sarah Barlow. “Having a pair of flattering, comfy postpartum trousers will do wonders for your self-esteem”. Here, she shares her most figure-flattering styles.

Feel confident in flattering styles

“Please be kind to yourself. You’ve just had a baby, so your stomach is bound to be different, and it would be strange if you weren’t a bigger size. It’s important to ignore all sizes and numbers and focus on cuts and styling. You’ll be surprised at how incredible the right fit of trousers will make you feel.”

The Best Jeans to Wear After a Baby

“High-waisted cuts with stretch are the ones to look for. They provide coverage and support and pull attention upwards to the smaller part of your waist. Look for curvy or hourglass fits that compliment shapely figures.”

“The perfect pair of jeans is one item that takes a while to find, and blocking out a long solo trip to the shops is probably pretty impossible right now. So I suggest ordering a few to your house, then you can try them at your leisure. Order a few different sizes, and don’t be disheartened if it takes a while. Or if you need to size up a few times.”

The Best Postpartum Trouser Style

“Right now, drawstring waists are your friend. They are so flattering as they pull you in and often the little tie details acts as a distraction for the eye. They are also practical for a postpartum body that’s healing and changing. We often think of them as casual items, but the fashion industry has embraced them (probably due to COVID), and they’ve become extremely stylish.”

Try Out a Jumpsuit

“Try looking for a jumpsuit with a tie at the waist. They work in the same way as drawstring trousers and will pull you in and flatter your figure. They’re also a complete outfit, and you’ll probably find they become one of your favourite things to throw on.”

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.

Chic Nursery Interiors That You’ll Love Forever

Who says a child’s nursery has to be full of overly babyish bits? Meet the items that’ll last years!