As a woman about to embark into Motherhood for the very first time, I have spent the better part of the last 8 months trawling through books on natural childbirth, spending countless hours contemplating my birth plan, mixing essential oils to massage onto an expanding waistline, weighing up the pros and cons of disposable versus cloth nappies and even deliberating the 'no-nappy' approach.
Ahead of Mother's day this Sunday, and the exciting journey that lies before me, we take a moment to celebrate some of the incredible Mums within the Dilettante family and see what single piece of advice they can impart to those expecting.
"Listen
to your baby"
Rosalba wears an embroidered blouse and skirt from Comme Des Garçons Comme Des Garçons,
sneakers by Rick Owens and an Ann Demeulemeester Bracelet.
"Believe in yourself. Trust in yourself. Put yourself first and only then will you be able to take better care of your little one. Children learn from example; the more you love who you are, the more you will love them and the more they will learn how to love. Mothers are the beating heart at the core of a family"
Cindy
Cindy wears the Plisse Skirt by Yang Li and a Renie Ribbed top from Acne Studios.
Anne wears the Caroline Shirt and skirt by Preen.
"There is nothing quite like becoming a first time mother; watching your baby change and grow are the first of many joys in being a parent. Go easy on yourself, remember your sense of humour and enjoy each day because it will be over before you know it"
Anne
"Love unconditionally, whatever happens.
Always be there to listen and never be judgmental"
Jan, mother of Caitlin, wearing the Twisted Flared Dress from Song for the Mute with Kuboraum sunglasses.
Caitlin wears a Toga gown from Rick Owens, and accessories by Ann Demeulemeester and Kuboraum.
Carmen wearing a Kite Dress and Embroidered Bag from Rick Owens.
"Don’t ever feel pressured to be or have everything at once.
Do it all in your own time, and when it is right for your family.
Your children are only young for a short time – be sure to soak up every minute of it"
Sylvia, mother of 3 including Diana, wears the Abstract Dress and Stole combination from Pleats Please.
"You have always been a strong independent Woman. Be true and kind to yourself. Have faith in your ability to love this beautiful gift unconditionally and always remember to be patient. This bond will last forever, so don’t stress the small things along the way"
"Lots and lots and lots of holding and cuddling. Follow your instincts!"
Rebecca wears Polka Print Skirt by Comme Des Garçons Comme Des Garçons, Satinel Embroidered Boots from Ann Demeulemeester, and jewellery by Rosa Maria.
"Follow your heart – it knows beyond all doubt, all measure.
When you think you don’t know what to do, take three deep breaths and remember that a hug heals everything. Finally, what my parents remind me – 'an education is not for a living, but for life. At the end of education is character'. That pearl of wisdom has really helped me in guiding our son through his first year of university"
Ai-Ch'ng wears the Anabel Dress from Preen with a silver necklace by Jean-François Mimilla.
Jacquie wears dress, jacket and accessories by Ann Demeulemeester, the Musubi Handbag from Acne Studios, and hat by Reinhard Plank.