Shoe portrait: Luna

How did you become a blogger?

I met my partners, Esther and Emilie, in London in 2005 after our first babies were born. We quickly bonded over motherhood and the questions, concerns and joys that come with parenting. In 2007, Esther moved to Amsterdam, Emilie moved to Paris and I remained in London. We started the Babyccino blog as a way to stay in touch with each other and continue to share our parenting discoveries, tips and ideas from our three corners of Europe. Before this, I had never even read a blog! It was all very new to me. 

How did your passion for kids’ universe occur? Why?

When you have children, you naturally want the best for them. Having grown up in a big, adventurous family, I also knew I wanted this type of upbringing for my children as well. I wanted them to have a creative, imaginative childhood where simple pleasures would bring the greatest joys. My passion for the parenting and children’s universe came naturally and has grown over time.

What message would you like to pass on?

I’d like to pass on that Motherhood is a beautiful and joyful journey, and that having children doesn’t mean you have to limit your horizons, stop your travels or sacrifice other aspects of your life that you enjoy. Children only make those things better!

What are you inspired by?

I’m inspired by people who follow their heart and listen to their gut–people who defy convention and carve out their own path.

How and why have you decided to take a year out to spend time with your children and family?

Traveling around the world with my family is a dream I have had since long before I had children. Last year, the timing was perfect to make such a big decision. We were able to sell our house in London, Michael was able to leave his job, and the kids were all the right ages for a big adventure like this. So we decided to take the plunge, and we haven’t looked back since! We left London in July 2015 and we’ll be travelling until the end of August this year.

How do you feel now?

There is not a day that goes by that I don’t feel incredibly lucky to be spending this year with my family. I get to spend all day, every day, with my four kids and husband. I can’t imagine anything better! This nomadic life is an addicting one – none of us want it to end!

Are shoes important for you?

I’ve never been someone who has a lot of shoes, but I do believe in investing in good quality shoes that will stand the test of time. One of my favourite pairs of sandals I have had for 7 years now! I had them re-soled last year because I had worn holes in them, but the leather straps are still in tact and they remain in style even seven years on.

What are your favourite shoes?

I am all about comfort! Stylish is nice, but shoes must be comfortable too. Hence I don’t tend to wear shoes with a high heel. I love neutral colours, natural materials and to be able to sense the craftsmanship in a shoe. Really, I am most comfortable wearing a pair of leather sandals.

How would you describe your style?

I think my style is quite simple and understated with a touch of bohemian. I love a classic look, but my inner hippie always breaks out a little bit. I went through a long phase of wearing mostly black or neutral clothing, but in the past few years I’ve made an effort to introduce colour and texture into my wardrobe. These days I’m all about colour!

Family is essential for us –Heschung is a family business–, it seems that family is essential for you too. Why?

I grew up in a big family. My father was one of ten children so I had loads of cousins and we all lived in the same town. I am also the eldest of five children, so I have always been surrounded by lots of siblings. My family has always been the biggest source of pride for me. I always knew I wanted to have a big family and give my children the same sense of security, friendship and love that siblings offer each other.

What do you think of Heschung?

I love that it’s a family business started in 1934, and that while the shoes have evolved over the years to accommodate modern trends, they still retain their sense of tradition and timelessness. It feels like a brand you can trust both for their devotion to quality and for their long-lasting designs.

What is your favourite pair of Heschung shoes?

I love the beige Luna Oxfords with the perforated leather. I love the detail in the design. They’re perfect for spring/summer and easy to wear with any outfit!

If you had to describe you in three words…

Adventurous, approachable, and determined

If you had to describe Heschung in three words…

Timeless, crafted, and stylish