Happy International Women's Day
To celebrate International Women’s Day this Sunday 8th March we asked some very special women in our lives to share some of their worldly advice.
Then I asked my Dad his thoughts on International Women’s Day; to which he replied “International what day? Don’t know what you’re talking about” … Our beautiful Dad (known to most as Marto…Poppy or Graham) turns 80 this year. So then I asked Dad Who do you think rules the world? and in the words of our Dad that we have heard all our life …
“The Hand that rocks the cradle rules the world”
So, to all you gals (and guys for that matter) always be true to yourself, kind to others and look after your soul with integrity and your day will always be filled with lots of love. Here's a discount code especially for you!
(Offer ends 11:59pm AWST 8th March)
20% off using offer code: MERINOGIRLS-20
Wordly advice from wonderful women
Sarah Rich
One of my oldest and dearest friends Sarah Rich @inquisitive_hq – second from the left (Normanhurst, Sydney). Up & coming business woman of the year; whom I adore and is so good for my soul. Pictured here at High Tea no less ! x
If you could give 1 piece of advice to yourself as a 12-year-old girl what would it be?
Great things will come with hard work, perseverance and believing in yourself. There will be ups and downs, supporters and haters but you have a strength in you that so far hasn’t been tested. It will come. Embrace it all!
When do you feel most feminine?
At High Tea (which I love and should do more often!)
Three words that you live by?
Can I have three mantras instead please? Of course, you can xxx
- One life to live.
- Don’t pander to small things and small-minded people.
- Be open, friendly and kind.
If you could go to dinner with any 3 people in the world who would they be and why?
Roger Federer
Rafael Nadal
and my sister Jane.
We are both big fans of each of them and I'd love to talk with them about what drives them, to see what their relationship really is like and to learn more about their charities and life on the tennis circuit. Plus, my sister would be so thrilled!
Pepa Martin
One of my newest and dear friends Pepa Martin on the left with her partner in crime Karen Davis (@shibori_textilles, Stanmore) someone I admire greatly and aspire to be just like 150% - her strength, determination, kindness and thoughtfulness of others, Pepa is truly an inspiration to all girls and women alike. Honestly you need to meet her and have a cup of tea.
If you could give 1 piece of advice to yourself as a 12-year-old girl what would it be?
The point of life is to be happy, don't compare yourself to others and walk your own path with confidence. Embrace every opportunity and always trust your instincts.
When do you feel most feminine?
I have naturally curly hair and as a child, I always admired my sister's shiny straight hair. Now when I straighten my hair, I feel a lot more polished and feminine. Silly how something as simple as hair can change how you feel so much.
Three words that you live by?
Compassion, Adaptability, Confidence
If you could go to dinner with any 3 people in the world who would they be and why?
That's tricky because there are so many people, I admire for very different qualities but I'm not sure how that dinner party would go!
Elon Musk because he takes risks, constantly learning and he thinks big.
Frida Kahlo because I admire her strength, courage and integrity. I think she made an impact using her art to overcome her adversities.
Aretha Franklin because she is the queen of soul and I would just love to have heard her sing.
Happy International women's day! xxx
Annie Edwards
My stylish beautiful friend Annie Edwards @catombal7 (pictured here with her daughter Lucy and her beautiful mum) makes me smile, laugh and makes the best Rocky Road in the world (which I know one day I shall be given the recipe for!). Annie is the humblest person I know, kind, thoughtful, great company, married to farmer Stew, has 5 gorgeous children, knows what it’s like to never stop, loves to dress up, is the most amazing librarian and can sing like a bird!
If you could give 1 piece of advice to yourself as a 12-year-old girl what would it be?
Don’t limit yourself - grab life’s experiences with both hands - don’t be afraid!
When do you feel most feminine?
When I am the Matriarch of my small army: Serving the dinner and drinks with my children and their partners gathered around the dining table - the family banter and the love and the way they look up to you in a funny kind of way - without ever saying a word. I feel an inner strength almost invincible. Feminine and loved.
Three words that you live by?
Kind, Kinder, Kindest to yourself to everyone you meet.
If you could go to dinner with any 3 people in the world who would they be and why?
Iris Apfel - Style, interesting and old...
Hannah Kent - Australian Author a passion for literature...
Abigail Ahern- English interior designer - That loves to style it dark! And because live in a bat cave!!!
Could I please have a fourth and fifth?
Grace Brennan ‘Buy from the bush’.
And you Pip, good for a laugh a dance and a drink - what more can I ask for.
MeiMei Fox
A new found friend MeiMei Fox (I've not been fortunate to meet you in person as yet but hope to very soon) featured Love Merino in Forbes magazine online last month. MeiMei @meimeifox.com is a New York Times bestselling author and life coach, and writes for many magazines and papers including Forbes and The Huffington Post. She's pictured here as Marie Antoinette in “The Let Them Eat Cake” – a fabulous 2-hour immersive theatre experience in Paris – MeiMei says it's the perfect experience when next in Paris for girlfriends, bachelorettes, mother daughter bonding and more.
If you could give 1 piece of advice to yourself as a 12-year-old girl what would it be?
Believe in yourself! Self-esteem is the core trait necessary for success in today's world. You are just as talented, smart, capable and lovable as everyone else.
If you could go to a dinner party with any 3 people in the whole world who would they be and why?
Michelle Obama - I love her confidence, her agenda to make America healthier through homegrown food and exercise, and her joie de vivre.
Greta Thurnberg - the young woman changing the world with her unapologetic message that we need to stop overconsumption and honor the planet.
Lin Manuel-Miranda - I worship Hamilton and his creativity. Plus, he seems really fun.
When do you feel most feminine?
When I take care slowly getting ready - shower, wash hair, put on make-up, dress up nicely - and go out to dinner with my wonderful husband.
Three words that you live by?
Almost 3??! My mantra for a decade has been this slogan I came up with, "Fear less, Love More!"