We’re so excited about the latest edition of Within Reach, our series that spotlights women we admire, because we adore a serendipitous moment. We ran into Jess Mack at the grocery store last month. A Bay Area native who currently lives in Lamorinda, Jess is a former mental health therapist turned stay-at-home mom to two (very adorable) kids. She was juggling said kids while she shopped and we just couldn’t help but stop her for a chat—and an upgrade. We offered her one of our Cross Your Heart slings as a replacement for the backpack she had on and, well, you can watch the whole thing here. Jess also agreed to chat with us for this series—thanks so much Jess, we hope you’re enjoying being hands free!
What do your hands do before 9:00 AM?
I’m usually waking up next to both of my children—yes, I’m that mom who lost the bedtime battles, so we are happily co-sleeping. My day typically begins with a view of wild bedheads, a raspy “Hi, Mama,” and sweet morning cuddles. Knowing that morning coffee is my favorite time of day, my husband usually has it ready for me in my favorite Big Sur mug by the time I walk into the kitchen.
We have a really beautiful pomelo tree just outside our front window, so we lounge on the couch for our morning “coffee talk” and listen to the bird chatter. Once the little ones scurry out of bed, breakfast begins—cue the mess! On any given morning, my hands are deep in pancake batter, French toast fixings, or a new baked concoction where I’m subtly trying to sneak a fruit or vegetable into the mix.
When do your best ideas tend to show up?
In my twenties and college years, my mind was constantly brimming with creative ideas about work, art and design ideas, and dreaming of where I’d travel next. Since becoming a mom, my thoughts primarily center around parenting, co-creating a value-driven life with my partner, managing burnout, and troubleshooting the (not always fun) developmental milestones of a one and two-year-old. If my younger self read that, she’d think it sounded boring, but I truly love the beautiful chaos of this chapter.
Because alone time is rare right now, my best ideas show up when my world finally gets quiet—when I’m in a state of flow. A quiet walk around the reservoir, a moment among the trees, a trip to the coast, or a rare window for yoga and meditation is usually when the inspiration returns.
Do you dress differently for different versions of yourself?
I try to stay away from passing trends and focus on investing in quality, timeless pieces. I’m willing to invest in something that is durable and you can tell it has been designed with care for the materials and fit. While I aspire to a true capsule wardrobe, I admit my closet is still too crowded! However, I practice intentional materialism: if an item doesn’t bring me joy, function, or comfort, it doesn’t belong in my home. I’ve learned to dress for my specific figure rather than forcing trends that don’t compliment my body type. I love a comfortable flowy pant with a fitted top or eco-friendly athleisure wear. I’m wearing more solid colors these days as I’m in the chapter of getting myself ready last and need something quick and easy to pull on (hence, the Cross Your Heart Sling). However, I’m still drawn to playing with bold prints and adore a good tailored jacket.
What’s something you’ve stopped wearing—or carrying—as your life changed
Heels, heavy earrings, and structured bras. Comfort and mobility take priority these days.
What does “ease” look like in your life right now?
Ease looks like accepting the current chapter for exactly what it is. It’s finding quiet pockets of peace amidst the toddler noise, letting go of perfectionism, and allowing myself the grace to just be without needing to constantly produce or optimize.
What’s a piece of advice you actually use?
“Bring to mind the version of yourself that you love and respect the most—the version operating optimally with all her needs met. On a scale of 1 to 10, where are you right now? When you are feeling strained and burned out, what minor need can be met to bring you just one point closer to a 10? It is so much easier to make adjustments from a 6 than it is to start from a 1 after a total burnout.”
What drew you to this bag?
The sheer functionality, combined with the incredible smell and feel of the leather. My children are 14 months apart and are only just now finding their independence. This means that you can still find me carrying both of them—at the same time—on most of our trips out. I appreciate this bag SO MUCH for being hands free; I didn’t realize how much having my keys and wallet (and even snacks!) accessible would lessen the load of managing toddlers.
Shortly after getting it, I accidentally spilled a drink on it as I was moving my glass. I was absolutely devastated and wiped it off as fast as I could. To my absolute surprise, there was zero damage—not even a faint stain. That durability made me love it even more (swoon!). I also love that it transitions seamlessly into a clutch and that the straps are interchangeable. It is truly timeless, and I’m already planning to collect more styles.
Where has it been with you lately?
Everywhere. It comes with me on daily walks, quick errands, and dates with my guy. The first night I got it, I loved it so much I almost brought it to bed with me! I’m not kidding. Not only is it gorgeous, it is so soft and dreamy. When I’m at home, it hangs right on the rack by my front door so I can admire it every day (and not in our overcrowded, co-sleepy bed).
Thanks for sharing Jess—see you at the grocery store!