1. What is it about The Mum Club that makes mums feel so at home?
We exist for the woman behind them mum. Our focus is on helping mums to breathe and feel a little lighter. Motherhood can feel so hard so we try and make those couple of hours at an event a little easier - for example, we organise a babysitter with a playmat and toys at our events so mums can eat brunch with two hands.
2. We often hear the phrase "it takes a village", but what does that actually mean to you?
Having people or services around you that lessen the load.
3. Motherhood can feel surprisingly lonely, especially in those early months. What have you seen happen when mums find their people?
They seem lighter, like their cup has been refilled.
4. What's something you wish every new mum knew during those first few months?
We are all finding it hard because it IS hard. You are not alone, our babies are so different but the struggles are often the same.
5. You meet so many local mums - are there any worries or struggles they have in common?
We all have the exact same worries and struggles - I've noticed that a lot of mums really value having a supportive community around them. Sometimes just knowing that other people are going through the same things makes a huge difference.
6. What's been the most rewarding moment since taking over The Mum Club Kingston?
Speaking to mums who are worried about coming alone and then seeing them come back month after month with friends they have met at our meet-ups.
7. If a mum was nervous about coming to her first event on her own, what would you say to reassure her?
I am at every event and will always be there to greet you and will introduce you to other mums. I did a poll recently and 80 per cent of our mums said they had come alone. Most people are in the same boat.
8. One thing I love about The Mum Club is how it champions local businesses. Which independent local businesses are you loving at the moment?
Honestly, I am LOVING the talented photographers I am working with like yourself. It's amazing to see women-led businesses who are also mums.
9. As a local mum yourself, what are your favourite places to spend time with your children around Kingston and Surrey?
I love Bocketts Farm and Hobbledown as there is so much entertainment for the little ones. I will also never get bored of the Surbiton to Kingston river walk and finishing with a nice coffee in Kingston.
10. What's one thing motherhood has taught you about yourself that you never expected?
That I can surprisingly function on VERY LITTLE sleep.
11. Looking ahead, what are you most excited about for The Mum Club Kingston?
I am looking forward to hosting in new places around the borough with more events each month.
12. Finally, if you could leave every mum reading this with one message, what would it be?
No matter which season of motherhood you're in, you CAN sit with us.
Diana's Kingston/Surrey favourites
Your favourite walk with little ones?
Bushy Park or the Surbiton to Kingston river walk.
One thing every local mum should try at least once?
The John Lewis baby change is amazing. It has massive rocking chairs to comfortably feed babies too.
To find out more about The Mum Club Kingston, visit www.themumclub.com or www.instagram.com/themumclubkingston
