Audrey McClelland
I’ve been a long-time fan of Audrey McClelland for a number of reasons but mainly for how she’s built a strong personal brand, founded an online empire, MomGenerations.com, and all the while raising her four darling boys. If ever there was someone who personified Social Spinning Plates, Audrey fits the bill! I was lucky enough to pick her brain recently on how she does it all. Take a look, I’m sure you’ll find, just as I did, that her advice really hits home:
CM: As the mom to four boys, how do you keep everything running in your household and professional life?
AM: My husband! I swear, he’s the glue. We made the decision a year ago that he was going to be with the boys while I went out and worked. He’s the one that keeps the house moving and the boys where they need to be, which allows me the time to work. We have a calendar in our kitchen where we try and keep everything. Other than that, it’s all in my head… which isn’t always good! LOL… but in all seriousness, I can remember many work things and keep all the boys stuff in my head, too. But it’s my husband who runs the household. He’s my glue.
CM: What is one of your greatest accomplishments in your family and professional life?
AM: My greatest accomplishment in my personal life is William, Alexander, Benjamin, and Henry. They are my greatest loves and joys. My greatest accomplishment in my professional life right now is being able to provide for my family. My husband worked SO hard for us for 7 years while I built this, when he was laid off, we were terrified. So it’s an amazing feeling to be able to do this right now.
CM: If you could give other busy moms three pieces of advice, what would they be?
AM: 1. Cherish the small moments, too. The moments of bedtime kisses, holding hands on the way to school, conversations at the dinner table… there can be the best memories.
2. Don’t sweat the small stuff! The laundry will always get done. The toys will always be picked up. Enjoy the moment!
3. Make time for YOU. I know it’s not easy, but even a shower after the kids go to bed can be amazing.
CM: How do you find “me” time and what does “me” time look like (massage, run, pedicure, etc…)?
AM: LOL… how funny! I just mentioned this as one thing to do! I think if you could find an hour once a week. Or literally… it can just be 30 minutes in the shower, on a walk, baking, crafting or watching television. I fully believe it’s the best thing you can do for yourself and it makes you a better mom.
CM: What exciting projects do you have coming up?
AM: We have our Getting Gorgeous Event on August 4th in NYC which we’re SUPER excited about! That’s been on the forefront of all the planning. Also, I’ll be working with P&G this June on a special project which I’m extremely excited about!
CM: What do you love most about being the queen in a house of boys (this one is relevant to me in light of our upcoming arrival!!)?
AM: I love that my boys protect me. They are truly my little protectors. I remember everyone saying to me when I was pregnant with Henry (my 4th), oh – I hope it’s a girl! But I always have loved having boys. They are my loves. They treat me so special and there’s nothing in the world like a mom’s bond with her little man. My guys are my life.
CM: Any last words for moms trying to keep all their plates in life spinning?
AM: When you need it, ask for help. It’s something I never used to do because I felt like people would think I look weak. But the truth is, I needed the help with the boys from my husband and my mom. It helps YOU!
