My Little London: Tamara Ecclestone

The model, businesswoman and mother to three-year-old Sophia (Fifi), shares all about the joys of motherhood and life in the capital

Where do you live?

I live in Kensington. I love being near to Hyde Park – you feel like you’re in the countryside but have everything on your doorstep at the same time.

What do you get up to with Sophia at the weekend? 

We obviously go to Hyde Park whenever we can. There’s a great playground and we walk the dogs and feed the ducks. We also love the cinema and go to the Electric in Notting Hill quite often for its early morning showings.

What else do you love to do together in the capital? 

Fifi loves to go horse riding in Richmond Park and we always make sure we get out and about to some of the big live events – The Gruffalo, Peppa Pig and In The Night Garden have been her favourites.

Where do you shop for Sofia?

If we are online shopping then it’s Childrensalon, and we go to Bonpoint and Petit Bateau in Notting Hill. If you want high street, you can’t beat the comfort and design of Gap or Zara Kids.

What’s the best thing about being a mother, and what has it taught you? 

Every single part of being a mother has been the best experience. Watching this little human grow and thrive is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. It’s enhanced my life no end. I don’t actually think I’ve ever felt as fulfilled, content and happy. It’s the most rewarding experience and that feeling of such unconditional love is the best. It has taught me to trust my instincts and follow my gut, far more than I ever used to.

Where do you go to escape the city? 

If we need some peace and quiet then we head to Gstaad, in the Swiss Alps. It’s so different from London and amazing for feeling cosy with the snow-covered mountains outside. Our chalet feels like our second home.

You fly a lot with Sophia, any tips for travelling with little ones? 

I’ve been very lucky with Fifi – she’s always travelled exceptionally well and behaves herself. I guess you can’t have enough snacks, toys or books though.

When do you plan to stop breastfeeding, or will you rely on Sophia to let you know when the time is right? 

I’ve got no plans to stop right now. Fifi will let me know when the time is right for her.

How do you juggle your work with motherhood?

I actually manage to stay on top of things on email throughout the day, and when Fifi is sleeping, that’s when I tend to sit down and catch up. I have actually brought her to many a business meeting and she’s pretty chilled. Saying that, when she’s at nursery I do get a lot more done!

What did you hope to achieve when you launched your brand, Fifi & Friends?

I guess the plan was to create an online space where mums and expectant mums could feel a sense of community – for all those questions that remain unanswered as you prepare to become a mother.

What have you got coming up in 2017? 

It’s going to be a big year for me. I’m launching a new line of baby products as part of Fifi & Friends, and so I’ve been busy getting that new arm of my business together over the past few months. There’s a whole line, inspired by Fifi – sunscreen, shampoos, conditioners, nappy creams – and all without any rubbish ingredients in them. We just hope others love them as much as Fifi and I do!

Was there a baby product you swore by when you had Sophia? 

I swore by Water Wipes as they are so gentle on baby’s skin, and also coconut oil. You can use it for everything! I guess it’s a little more expensive but it’s a brilliant product.

You chose not to have a full-time nanny – why did you do that? 

I felt that I was able to bring up my child without the help of a nanny, to be honest. I’m lucky to be in a fortunate position. I have lived every minute with Fifi and feel privileged not to have missed any of it.

Fifi & Friends products will be available exclusively at fifiandfriends.com