. Marigold Mumma - Alana .
This week we chat to one of our favourite mumma's Alana Johnston. A woman of so many talents and one of the kindest people you will ever meet. Residing on the sunny Gold Coast with her boys, Alana takes a few minutes to chat to us on all things motherhood and how she stays inspired.
We’ve collaborated with Alana on so many projects for Marigold Mustang, she brought to life our first collection and is a constant support and inspiration to us, where would we be without her!
✺
MM: Tell us about who makes up your family:
AJ: My little family consists of my incredible partner kristian and my two boys, Finn, 5 and Koa, 3.
MM: What’s your favourite part about being a mum?
AJ: Oh gosh, there are so many parts that I love, but I’d have to say that my absolute favourite part is the unconditional love, the endless cuddles, and watching their little faces light up when they do something for the first time.
MM: What will you be getting up to this Mother’s Day?
AJ: To be honest I’m not too sure what the day holds as we’ve been busy renovating our house and are staying with family, but I can be certain that there will be plenty of cuddles and kisses, coffee, a swim in the ocean, hopefully a foot massage, and no doubt a trip to the skate park, haha.
MM: What is your favourite creative outlet and how do you stay inspired?
AJ: Definitely photography. I find so much joy capturing special little moments in time, especially when it comes to my kids, family and friends.. my first subjects.
MM: Staying inspired is something that comes in waves, some days easier than others.
AJ: I struggle some days to stay inspired as I lead a busy life, juggling many different things, but I find my creativity soon returns when I slow down and get out in nature. As they say, stop and take the time to smell the roses.
Finding inspiration isn’t always as easy as it sounds, but when you get that excitement and rush, it feels so damn good!
MM: What is/are your biggest inspiration/s?
AJ: My biggest inspiration without a doubt are my kids. I always loved photography ever since I was young, but it wasn’t until I had my boys that I picked up a DSLR and taught myself how to shoot.
Other than that, I love finding inspiration in nature, and the way sunlight moves and changes. I am inspired and encouraged by watching other ladies and mums doing what they love, and not being afraid to do so. And lately, I’ve been finding so much joy and inspiration in reading about other photographers and what inspires them. It’s so interesting to read about them and the story behind their photos.
MM: You are a self-taught photographer, do you look back at the beginning of your photography journey and admire how far you've come?
AJ: Absolutely! When I was first asked to do a paid shoot, I almost said no, I felt like I wasn’t good enough. But I gave myself a pep talk, and now I am so grateful I did. It’s been 3 years since then and when I look at how far I’ve come, I’m so proud of myself and excited for what the future holds!
MM: As a mother of two beautiful boys, what is your best piece of advice you can give other mothers and/or creatives about juggling home and time for their creative outlet?
AJ: Make sure to take time for yourself and what brings you joy. Whatever your creative outlet or hobby is, whether it be photography, painting, yoga, just DO IT! You will never regret it.
MM: What is the best advice you have received?
AJ: I guess this advice wasn’t exactly said but more ingrained in me growing up..
Do what you love, and always be kind.
I think it speaks for itself.
MM: If you could choose a theme song for your life what would it be?
AJ: Everywhere - Fleetwood Mac
