Motherhood with Jana Kachel
This year in celebration of Mother's Day, we sat down with our designer Jana Kachel to discuss the ever-evolving role of being a mother.
How do you find balancing motherhood and work life?
Interesting. Some days I feel like I have it all under control, and then others, not so much. Time is precious; I often feel overwhelmed and feel like I have tried to jam too much into the day.
As my kids get older, they become involved in more activities, so I often run out of the office to get to cricket training, tennis, netball or swimming, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I would never want my kids to miss out because I was working. It's a juggling act, but we make it work. The best part of my day is arriving home to the kids.
Cathryn Wears Kachel's Rose Dress, Jana wears Kachel's Lia Dress
What have you learnt most from your kids?
To live in the moment. My kids are so innocent, and I love this about childhood. I wish I could bottle this into my adult life and for this eutrophic feeling of happiness, peace and adventure never to leave.
What is your fondest memory of your mum?
I have no one particular memory. I'm always making memories with my mum, my mum is my best friend, and we'll make memories forever and ever.
I talk to my mum every day, even if just to tell her the most random statement. As a little girl, I remember mum could do anything. If something was broken she could fix it. She could make anything from scratch. She could make anything look desirable and beautiful. She could also always make me feel better. She was my superwoman, and she still is.
Cathryn Wears Kachel's Harlow Dress, Jana wears Kachel's Nala Dress
How has your style evolved as a mum?
It has not changed that much. I still like to get dressed up. I enjoy putting outfits together and getting dressed up to come into the office. I learnt during COVID this is one of the main reasons I like working in an office. I was ready to burn my active gear and track pants by the end of lockdown!
It can be hard to find time for yourself being a mum; what are some of the weekly non-negotiables that you do just for yourself?
I don't get too many moments to myself, but I wake up early each morning and walk along the beach with a girlfriend. I love going to dinner with my friends and playing tennis with my kids. I hate cooking, so any opportunity to go out to dinner I find super relaxing as I don't have to clean up the mess, and someone else is doing all the dinner prep.
Cathryn Wears Kachel's Tara Dress, Jana wears Kachel's Aubery Dress