Q&A with Emily McCarthy
Influenced by the vibrant city of Savannah, Georgia, Emily McCarthy created the custom stationery design company, Emily McCarthy. After resigning as senior graphic designer at Swoozie's, she pursued her entrepreneurial ambitions and started her family by becoming a wife and mother. Read Emily's exclusive Q&A below to find out how she unwinds and what motherhood means to her!
BR: What do you love most about being a mom?
EM: I love observing Rhett's growth and development– he amazes me every day with new words, phrases and expressions. Watching his little personality develop is by far my favorite. His little blue eyes and smile get me every time and the cherry on top are those sweet morning cuddles– I pray they never go away!
BR: What is the number one way in which motherhood has changed you?
EM: Becoming a mother has given me a different perspective on life and priorities. So many things in my life just make more sense– I understand my parent's love for me, the true meaning of unconditional love, strength and guidance.
BR: Did you breast-feed? If so, how did it affect your wardrobe selection?
EM: YES! I breastfed Rhett until he turned a year and he stopped on his own, which was perfect. It definitely affected my wardrobe– tops/dresses changed significantly, which is why I love the selections from BURU!
BR: After resigning as senior graphic designer at Swoozie's, you launched your own stationery company. What inspired you to create your business?
EM: Over the years at Swoozie's, I was slowly building my own business as a side interest. I came to a crossroads where my passion for my new business was stronger than my passion for my current position. I saw the future with my own business and felt I was at the point in my career to stand on my own with a solidified design aesthetic.
BR: How do you find time for yourself between your family and business? How do you unwind?
EM: My treat every week is Pure Barre. I aim for three classes a week and it keeps me sane! It is great for the body and the mind. It's important that I take that one hour of "me time" so I can focus on my health. When you're happy with yourself, it filters through your entire family.
BR: During and after your pregnancies, what was your day to day style?
EM: The first few months were pretty casual but I kept it as polished as I could. I love wearing black to appear slimmer and pairing leggings with long sweaters to dress-up nursing tanks underneath. Dresses were the best in the summer!
BR: What's the one wardrobe item you wish you had during or after your pregnancy but didn't have?
EM: Maternity jeans that actually fit well! Next time, I'm looking at BURU!
BR: What are your must-have pieces from BURU and why do they work in your mommy lifestyle?
EM: I love all these items [shown below] because I do work in my studio most days and meet with clients. A lot of these items can be casual or dressed up which I love! The shorts are so easy-breezy for days with Rhett while still feeling stylish. The dresses are great for work or church. I'm really tall so jumpers are my favorite.
Rachel Pally Elastic Waist Wide Leg Pants. Ark & Co. Smocked Elastic Waist Pants.
Boulevard Canvas and Leather Sunday Tote. Hunter Bell Tess Button Down Bow Blouse.
Julie Brown Button Down A-Line Coat Dress. Rebecca Minkoff Angelica Skirt.
Julie Brown Orange Print Wrap Dress. Hutch Black Drawstring Maxi Shirtdress.
Lucy Paris Polka Dot Burnout Blouse. COREY Tisdale Batwing Coral Shirtdress.
David Lerner Coated Lizard Short. Rachel Roy Black Elastic Waist Stretch Ponte Pant.
Hutch Mint Drawstring Maxi Shirtdress. Annie Griffin Navy & White Stripe Skirt.
B-low the Belt Leopard Print Skinny Belt. By Malene Birger Cointa Jumpsuit.
BR: How does living in Savannah, Georgia, a city of culture and Southern style, influence your designs and your work?
EM: We are so lucky to live here– where else can you combine such an artistic community with Southern tradition and coastal living? We enjoy charming downtown and also living on the water.
BR: Is there one fashion item, no matter how impractical for a mom, that you will never sacrifice in the name of motherhood?
EM: Dresses– they are effortless! You don't have to think about pairing it with something else, just throw it on, add a classic shoe and statement jewelry and you're done!
BR: Tell us your favorite...
- Bedtime story: Goodnight Moon
- Lullaby: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
- Vacation spot: Rosemary Beach, Florida
- Restaurant: Leoci's
- Children's brand: For baby, Petit Ami and Feltman Bros. For toddler, Crew Cuts, Polo and Prodoh Kids.
BR: What's the one thing you wish you would've known before becoming a mother?
EM: To not be intimidated by motherhood and starting a family. It has been the best decision we have ever made and SO rewarding!
Thank you so much, Emily! Shop her Tastemaker Sale HERE.
