Exclusive interview with Supermodel, advocate for ‘normalizing breastfeeding’, Designer and CEO of ERTH Jewelry and Bumpsuit, Nicole Trunfio.
How are you feeling?
I’m finally feeling ready, I think. On the third baby, that important list seems to become non-existent and you just wing it. So I have heard. I haven’t stopped. With two kids running around, launching a new business right before my due date, and my husband’s Grammy wins and events, I have been kept quite literally on my toes. Today is the first day, six days before my due date, that I have stayed home all day and put my feet up. I know I should take it easy, but I just don’t think it’s in my nature! I love being active too much!
As a mother, it’s important to take some time out for yourself. How would you recommend mothers, and women in general, do that?
I think you just need to listen to your body and what you need. I, personally, am not too much of a pamper person. My self-care comes more in the way of spending time with loved ones, friends, and my babies, while also nurturing and growing my businesses, and going on date nights with my husband! Which is my favvvvoorite of all! I have tried to get a 90-minute massage weekly, but that, very soon, turned into monthly instead. Getting enough sleep is important, but I always need to be the first one up to see my babies’ faces in the morning, so I usually am the most sleep-deprived. But how can you miss those faces…that makes my heart full and happy. That’s self-care.
How has your third pregnancy been different from your first two?
It’s so crazy to me how different each pregnancy actually is. My first was a breeze. I worked through it and worked out through it. Had no morning sickness, issues or complications. The second, I was deathly ill, lost my vision and feeling in my hands at times, couldn’t work out or take my prenatals, had severe morning sickness, and went to the ER three times, I was diagnosed with migraines during this pregnancy, and the third has been the easiest emotionally out of all of them, but I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which I cured myself of naturally after a few months. Each one comes with a new type of struggle and lesson. As does each birth, I think having an open mind to the challenges we face, and seeing these challenges as opportunities for growth, is a great way to overcome everything. I have learned so much about myself and my purpose during pregnancy and becoming a mother. It’s been the most rewarding and happiest time of my life so far.
Has your approach to style changed since you became a mother?
Absolutely! It’s whatever is easy, effortless, comfortable, chic, stylish, COMFORTABLE!!! That’s why I invented Bumpsuit. It’s for that ease, pregnant or not, it’s the perfect layer for comfort and class.
Can you tell us about your new clothing label and inspiration for Bumpsuit?
My inspiration came from not finding any good maternity clothing that suited my style and lifestyle, hating my own style choices in the past, and not wanting to make a decision when I got out of bed. I was basically running to get my day started. I needed a “no-brainer”, so I created it and wear it every day, and will continue to long after all the babies!
What have been some of the biggest challenges in launching a new business while being pregnant with your third?
It’s been a race against time, but worked out perfectly! I wanted to launch before my baby arrived, it just made sense to do it this way. When I started wearing my Bumpsuits and posting my looks to Instagram, people were ready then to get their hands on them ASAP! So I felt the pressure. I understand how it feels to be pregnant and uncomfortable so I really wanted to make them available to other soon-to-be mamas out there right away.
Is Bumpsuit sustainable?
We manufacture here in LA! It’s so great to produce quality products from our doorstep! Even with the low price point, you are getting quality goods made here in California.
How would you describe motherhood?
Pure bliss. It’s the most rewarding thing and the most challenging thing. I love all of it.
Who’s your Mother Muse?
All the mothers out there finding Grace in motherhood, finding a new voice in motherhood, and finding the fun in it again! I love being a mother. It’s such a gift, and there is nothing wrong with being a stay at home mom. If that’s all you do, that’s enough, because it’s the most important job in the world to raise the next generation!
Exclusive for Mother Muse
Photographed by Tiziano Lugli Makeup by Chantelle Baker Hair By Marie Uva
MOTHER MUSE 