WHO IS // JENNY RAYMOND

July 14, 2016 Cat Sims

Jenny Raymond is one of those people that's quietly pretty damn impressive. Founder of Mamazou.com - a social hub for parents - Jenny is all about supporting her fellow small-havers. After having her daughter, Jenny (much like the rest of us) spent most of her time tearing her hair out with worry and 'googling' and checking out Netmums and Mumsnet for all the advice she could get regarding how to keep her Small alive. Her experience on such sites was mixed: not always friendly, or indeed helpful; quick to judge and cliquey. So, like many #mumbosses before her, she decided to create her own. Taking on the giants of parenting forums is no easy task and while Jenny may come across as quite shy, she's fiercely determined to make sure that Mamazou.com is a safe, social, judgement-free space for parents to support each other.

Jenny is mama to Hayley (2)

WHAT IS // MAMAZOU?:

It’s an awesome social space for parents and parents to be (from across the world) to come share their knowledge, advice and experiences in a non-judgmental place.

HOW DID // MAMAZOU COME TO BE?

During my pregnancy I became very overwhelmed with all the information Google had to offer. Most websites I stumbled upon were cluttered, over bearing and opinionated. I saw a lack of social space for “real parents" to not only read information but to talk and engage with one another without feeling judged. I found myself wishing this could come to be and then knew I had to create it.

BEST THING // ABOUT BEING MAMAZOU?

Knowing that I’ve created a community where others are comfortable and being able to meet some exceptionally inspiring people along the way. Receiving feedback like this also keeps me motivated and reassures me that I’m doing good:

“You have really created a lovely community for parents to interact and share experiences. Ever since we moved to California I had been feeling a bit disconnected from everything, missing my friends terribly, but it’s been really nice to connect with lovely new people back home. You are doing an amazing job bringing people together.”

WHO WHAT // INSPIRES YOU?

As clichéd as it sounds, my little girl. She has taught me so much in the (almost) 3 short years of her life. My actions will always influence her so I’ve striven to be the best version of myself so that maybe, one day, she will be inspired by me.

DESCRIBE //

YOUR FASHION STYLE: I’m a skinny jeans and baggy jumper kind of girl. Call it relaxed. YOUR PARENTING STYLE: I go with the flow (and occasionally lose my shit!)

FAVOURITE //

BRANDS: I’ve just had a blank and all I can think of right now are Hanky Panky (comfy undies) and Haribo (my weakness). I’ll go with those! BEAUTY PRODUCT: Charlotte Tilbury Kohl Eyeliner BOOK OR FILM: The Ultimate Gift WAY TO RELAX: A hot bubble bath. HOLIDAY DESTINATION: Give me a gorgeous beach, sunshine, cocktail and I’m happy! I also LOVE Vegas!

THE LAST //

TEXT YOU SENT: “My legs are too” THING YOU ATE: Lickalix Chocolate lolly (so yum!!) CALL YOU RECEIVED: My grandma THING YOU BOUGHT: A FlikFlak watch

WHAT // CAN'T YOU LIVE WITHOUT?

My family, friends and phone!

WHAT IS // THE BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED?

It’s actually a quote which has always resonated – “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”

PARENTING //

FAIL: So many!! The last one was when I was filming H and she tripped over but I was too busy laughing.

FABULOUS: H has been able to spell her name the past few months. It makes me feel super proud! I also feel amazing when she says she loves me!

GUILTY PLEASURE //

If it brings me pleasure, I don’t feel guilty.

INSTAGRAM: @mamazou85

TWITTER: @mamazouu FACEBOOK: facebook.com/mamazou85

www.mamazou.com