Made in Chelsea star Binky Felstead on life with her new daughter India, London lifesavers and date night with her boyfriend, JP
How has life been lately as mother to baby India?
It’s just incredible; I absolutely love it. She is developing such a sweet personality – she’s really smiley which makes me so happy! In case you couldn’t tell, I’m smitten…
How has having your daughter changed things for you?
It gives you a crazy amount of responsibility overnight, but it’s been just the best thing for me. I’ve always been a very maternal person so thankfully I feel it’s all come very naturally.
Did you have an enjoyable pregnancy?
I was very lucky – no morning sickness, and just a few headaches at the beginning. I did, however, crave everything naughty I could get my hands on, and carbs galore!
READ MORE: Kimberley Walsh talks motherhood and launching her new kids’ fashion line
Tell us more about your product range with My 1st Years – what can we expect?
It’s just a dream come true because I’ve been a customer of My 1st Years for years – it’s always been my go-to shop for baby gifts. My collection features 10 wardrobe staples in two prints.
There’s a sleepsuit, pyjama set, comforter, blanket and a selection of bibs, and they can all be personalised. It’s available for babies and children aged up to six years. We also wanted to ensure everything was still very affordable, as kids grow so fast, so prices start at £9.
Why did you decide to venture into parenting retail?
Now I’m a mum I know exactly what I want and need for India – I’m living and breathing it every day at home – so it felt like the perfect collaboration for me.
Where else do you love to shop for India?
I love The Little White Company and JoJo Maman Bébé at the moment because she just lives in babygrows. We seem to get through so many! But we have lots of beautiful outfits hanging in the wardrobe for her to wear when we get through this stage.
If we were to rummage through your changing bag, what would we find?
Probably Pampers nappies and wipes, and Weleda Baby Calendula Body Cream, which I also use on myself. Weleda’s products are amazing, we always use them in the bath, too.
How have you found juggling new motherhood with your TV work?
It is really hard to get that balance right but I enjoy being a working mother. I have great help with the support of my mum, and I can sometimes take India to work with me.
You started filming Born in Chelsea when you were pregnant, was it difficult having a camera crew around with a small baby or did you get used to it pretty quickly?
Honestly, I’m so used to it – and I’m really pleased we decided to document that time in our lives. We were also lucky that the response from the viewers was so kind, JP and I were very touched by everyone’s comments.
Where do you live in London?
We still live in Chelsea and love it. That said, we try to get out to the Sussex countryside as much as possible at the weekends for fresh air and relaxation.
Where in the capital do you like to go with India when you get some free time?
It sounds really simple but a walk always makes me feel better. We head to Battersea Park and stroll along the river.
What about when you manage to carve out some time for yourself?
I enjoy a little pampering, so I tend to use Secret Spa, which brings luxury beauty treatments to your home.
It offers everything from manicures, tans, and hair and make-up, to massages and facials. The therapists come to my home, and are wonderful – it’s a lifesaver now that I have India!
And for date night with JP?
We really like The Ivy Chelsea Garden, it’s near to where we live and it’s so beautiful. Bluebird Chelsea is also great for supper and cocktails, but at the moment we’re pretty happy to stay in!
What are your plans for Christmas?
We’re planning on spending Christmas in Sussex with my family and sister, who had her baby recently, too! We do a really traditional Christmas – lots of games, food and presents. I’m so excited for India’s first Christmas.
READ MORE: New mum Binky Felstead launches collection with My 1st Years
What does next year hold?
It’s definitely about having lots more fun with India, JP and my family, and I’ll also be doing more designing for My 1st Years.
‘With Love From Binky’ for My 1st Years is available at my1styears.com
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