DOUBLE INSIDERS

Raising Households and Empires with Janine Zafra

The entrepreneur talks the power of community, mindfulness, and finding pockets of joy amidst the beautiful chaos of modern motherhood.

|

Written by Jana Bocobo

|

4 min read

Raising Households and Empires with Janine Zafra Featured: Willow Cream Highland Rug 200x300cm
Janine Zafra, founder of flourishing accessories brand Brie Leon, guides Double through her cherished heritage-listed terrace, a retreat she shares with her beautiful family and Garry, the miniature schnauzer. Amidst the tour, Janine reflects on the delicate art of balancing the demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship, revealing that her secret lies in harnessing the power of community. As the founder of a thriving enterprise, this powerhouse mum has learned that it truly takes a village to navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern parenthood.

“If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from motherhood, it’s that it truly takes a village. Having a good support system and social circles is really important to me, which ultimately benefits my business as well.”

- Janine Zafra

In conversation with Janine Zafra

As a mum and a businesswoman, what are the best hacks you've learned that have helped you juggle everyday life?

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned from motherhood, it’s that it truly takes a village. Having a good support system and social circles is really important to me, which ultimately benefits my business as well.

A healthy work-life balance might feel impossible on the days when you’re wearing a thousand different hats, but for me, it’s the little things that make a difference. Starting the day with a healthy breakfast on the go always gives me the energy boost I need — my preference being a smoothie with oats, fruit, and nuts.

As I’m sure any parent can appreciate, there never seems to be enough hours in a day. That said, streamlining my life and my business and learning to delegate responsibilities are absolute game-changers when it comes to winning back time to spend with my family. As for around the home, a machine washable rug like the one from Double has changed my life. Just a quick visit to the dry cleaner and it’s like new.”

“A healthy work-life balance might feel impossible on the days when you’re wearing a thousand different hats, but for me, it’s the little things that make a difference. Starting the day with a healthy breakfast on the go always gives me the energy boost I need.”

Your home reflects your creativity and your family's unique personalities. How would you describe your aesthetic? Were there any requirements to ensure it was design-forward yet family and child-friendly?

“My aesthetic is quite minimal, and I try to be as thoughtful as possible when curating a space. Everything must have a purpose, and I’m completely clutter-averse, while still incorporating interesting elements that feel homely and personal.

To keep decor to a minimum, I prefer to centre each room around one statement piece rather than a variety of focal points. This might be a piece of art, a play on texture, considered use of colour or something that engages the line of sight as soon as you enter.

Of course, there are a few practical measures to take when designing with kids in mind. Higher shelving in case of sticky fingers and opting for wall art over trinkets is always a good start.”

“My aesthetic is quite minimal, and I try to be as thoughtful as possible when curating a space. Everything must have a purpose, and I’m completely clutter-averse, while still incorporating interesting elements that feel homely and personal.”

Share with us your most special memory or moment from motherhood so far.

“It’s impossible to pinpoint a single favourite memory, and it’s truly the day-to-day that brings me so much joy. No two days are the same, and I’ve found motherhood to be such a changing concept, so my standout moments are found in the evolving conversations that I have with my son, and we have as a family.”

Do you have a daily ritual you share with your son that is non-negotiable, and the day would not be the same without it?

“We have a few rituals and routines but no day is complete without pre-bed play, which essentially just involves hyping up our Miniature Schnauzer, Garry, before we say goodnight. It’s the perfect note to finish the day on, focusing on the playful side of our family.”

“It’s impossible to pinpoint a single favourite memory, and it’s truly the day-to-day that brings me so much joy. I’ve found motherhood to be such a changing concept, so my standout moments are found in the evolving conversations that I have with my son, and we have as a family.”

What does your perfect Mother's Day look like?

“My perfect Mother’s Day is no-frills. I’m not a Hallmark kind of person, so I prefer to skip the bells and whistles.

Ideally, a sleep-in is a must and a coffee delivered to bed is the cherry on top. I’m not fussed as to how the rest of the day looks, as long as it’s filled with laughter and quality time with my family.”

Janine Zafra epitomises the art of harmonising the beautiful chaos of motherhood with intentional choices. Her flourishing career, complemented by vibrant family moments, exemplifies a thoughtful approach to her pursuit of raising a household and a lasting empire. Her story underscores the power of fostering community, presence, and pockets of joy amidst the whirlwind of modern family life.

This Mother's Day, welcome mindful living home with Double's machine washable rugs – designed for life's inevitable messes, now up to 25% off.

Featured

Extroverted mustard cotton feel rug Extroverted mustard cotton feel rug
Extroverted Mustard Cotton Feel Rug
from $660.00
Pillar navy cotton feel rug Pillar navy cotton feel rug
Pillar Navy Cotton Feel Rug
from $940.00
Willow cream highland rug Willow cream highland rug
Willow Cream Highland Rug
from $210.00

Free shipping and returns in Australia

Welcome home to double.

Visit us over at Instagram and have fun with our friends in the Double community.
Something went wrong, please contact us!

Your Cart

FREE shipping and returns in Australia

Add 2nd item for 10% off!

Free shipping 15% off 20% off 25% off 30% off