M+A Edit

Our founder & CEO, Monica Royer, shares this heartfelt letter in honor of Mother’s Day—a reflection on strength, sacrifice, and the unshakable bond between mothers and daughters. Dear Mom, Your early life was not an easy one. Born in India, the middle child of seven, your path to the education you cherish was challenging. You immigrated alone to the United States at the age of 19 to pursue your college education and to send money home to your ailing father. It must have taken real bravery—a kind I have never...

A guide to sun-soaked memories, tiny hands, and joyful bites Summer brings with it a rhythm that feels slower, sweeter, and full of possibility—especially for families with young children. Whether it’s the first warm breeze that whispers “outside time,” or the scent of sunscreen and grilled veggies filling the air, there’s something inherently nostalgic about summertime with kids. For many parents, especially moms balancing everything from nap schedules to snack demands, the idea of planning a BBQ or picnic might feel like just another task. But it doesn’t have to...

There’s a particular kind of energy that pool days with kids bring—equal parts anticipation and “wait, did we bring snacks?” Whether you’re heading to a splash pad, a friend’s backyard, or your own inflatable setup, the secret to a smooth summer outing comes down to what’s in the bag. You want it light(ish), organized, and filled with sun-safe, skin-soft, seriously cute pieces that hold up to SPF, chlorine, and snack crumbs. Here’s what we’re packing—and how it all comes together for pool days that actually feel like a win. The...

As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to pack away the fleece-lined layers and bring out the breezy basics. Transitioning your baby’s wardrobe for summer is all about comfort, safety, and keeping things cute (and easy for you). Here’s your warm-weather checklist for dressing baby just right, all season long:   1. Stick to Breathable Fabrics Babies are more sensitive to heat, so light, airy materials are key.Look for: Organic cotton (gentle on delicate skin) Muslin (lightweight and soft with a natural stretch) These fabrics help...

There’s something special about a family movie night — no schedules, no screens (besides the big one!), and all the snuggles. Whether you're looking to start a new weekly tradition or just want a low-key night in, here's how to plan a cozy movie night your kids will actually remember. 1. Choose a Crowd-Pleaser Finding a movie everyone agrees on can be the biggest challenge. Rotate who gets to choose, or create a short list ahead of time. Family favorites like Moana, The Lego Movie, or Encanto are fun, feel-good...

Because the best summer memories are made in everyday moments By the time the sun starts beaming a little brighter and the days stretch long into the evening, many of us moms find ourselves both excited and a tiny bit overwhelmed. Summer holds all the promise—outdoor play, sweet treats, and the chance to slow down—but it also begs the question: How do we keep our kids engaged, happy, and off screens without burning ourselves out in the process? Whether you're caring for a curious toddler or a fiercely independent kindergartener,...

When Audra Lawlor traded a busy corporate job in New York City for a quieter life in the San Juan Islands, she wanted to reinvent what having a career looked like for her. “I was on a mission to create something different,” she tells Monica Royer in a new episode of The Mentor Files podcast. “Most importantly, to prove to myself that I could do it, that I could create a business and be an entrepreneur and build a company that did scale purposefully and could afford me some of...

There are treasures to discover everywhere–when you take the time to look closely! And what better way to do that on a warm day than with an outdoor scavenger hunt? Why Do a Scavenger Hunt? Scavenger hunts are more than just a fun outdoor activity. They offer a unique blend of adventure and education, which is perfect for keeping kids entertained while teaching them valuable skills. Plus, they can be easily tailored to suit different age groups and interests. Boosting Curiosity During a scavenger hunt, your child will be inspired ask questions...

Hint Water found Kara Goldin describes herself as an “accidental entrepreneur,” and her journey all traces back to amazing advice she received from her dad as she started her career. “What he said to me still sits with me today, and, frankly, something that I share with my kids is that go and find a brand that you want to support, that gets you excited, that has feelings inside of you or creates feelings inside of you that you get really excited about,” Kara tells Monica Royer in a new...

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a momentous occasion, one filled with joy, anticipation, and a dash of wonder. It's a time when every little detail seems to hold a deeper meaning, marking the beginnings of a lifetime of memories. Among the cherished items a baby receives, few are as symbolic and meaningful as their first blanket. A personalized baby blanket not only turns an essential item into a lifelong keepsake, but also wraps little ones in a story that is uniquely their own. The Significance of a...