Mother's Day with SHONA J THATCHER

'Mum' to Tex and Jude, 'Wife' to Marty, 'Founder & Director' to the team at Shona Joy.

In celebration of Mother’s Day this year we're excited to chat with the woman behind the brand; Shona Joy Thatcher.

What’s the best piece of advice your mother gave you?

If you work hard you can do anything.

Look at things from other peoples perspective.

Don't wear blue and green together.

How will you be celebrating Mother’s Day this year?

Lazy day at home with lots of cuddles in bed, some beach time with my boys, a little road trip down the coast and a family lunch.

What can we find you doing with your kids on the weekend?

With two young boys we end up spending most our days outdoors, whether that's at the skate park or the (rather large) half pipe my husband built in our back yard; or at the beach watching my oldest boy surf. Sunday is usually at Nippers and then a bbq with friends chilling in the backyard for the afternoon.

What’s your best advice for mothers starting a new business?

Work-life balance. Make sure you don't lose sight of what you are setting out to achieve.

Make sure it's something you love and are truly passionate about.

What’s one of your favourite memories of your mother?

My mum passed away when I was in my early 20’s. She inspired me to get into fashion; I was always in awe of her and loved watching her get ready for a party or event. That would be my fondest memory, laying on her bed together deciding what she would wear. It felt so glamorous and so grown up.

How do you keep a work/life balance with two young kids?

Since 2020 I work from home so my life balance is so much better these days. My kids and I have time in the mornings to hang out, we have lots of laughs and I'm not racing out the door to the office. I get a welcome hug when they get home from school and that's priceless.

What have you learnt most from your kids?

Patience, not to take life too seriously and to love the simple things.

Also, boys are messy and they don't put anything away!

Tell us a little about your kids.

My oldest son is 8 and is hilarious, he is currently at the age of quoting one liners from films and whistles whilst doing almost everything.

My youngest is nearly 5 and obsessed with knock knock jokes and trying to be as cool as his big brother - he isn’t, which makes him even cuter.

Who are the women that inspire you?

All the incredible women I work with that have helped build our amazing business - they blow me away with their talent every day.

My best friends, my mother-in-law and sisters who are generous, hilarious, smart, great fun, inspiring humans and mums themselves.

Favorite recipe?

I love cooking curries - the spicier the better and Mediterranean food. I love entertaining and I can't ever go past a one pot wonder, something simmering on the stove for half a day with lots of condiments - yum!