Amy Jackson Westwick’s experience of motherhood is ‘really different’ the second time round. She’s learnt to trust her gut. ‘I wouldn't say it's a walk in the park, but it feels easier second time round. I’m much more confident,’ she tells Grazia.
The Liverpool-born actor, best known for her work in Indian films, and in the TV series Supergirl, welcomed her son Oscar with actor and producer husband Ed Westwick in March. But seeing her first son Andreas, five, take on the role of big brother with pride has been ‘really beautiful’.
Looking back on her first pregnancy she notes everything was a ‘little bit overwhelming’. ‘You don't really know what you're doing. I read the books, I did the Google searches, but when you're on the ground, as a mom, your instincts need to kick in.’
This time around she’s also focused on being present and feels more able to resist the pressure to work again immediately. ‘I’m really aware that I'm replaceable in every role except for my new role as a mum to Oscar and Andreas.
‘I am very career driven. I've worked since I was 15, and I love my work, I love my career, and it's a big part of who I am. But at the same time, over the years, obviously we change, and motherhood has definitely changed me,’ she says.
For right now, it doesn’t feel realistic for her to be away from her family for two months on a movie set, so she’s been looking at ways she can merge motherhood and work more easily. ‘I'm about to launch a podcast called What's The Tea Amy,’ she says, face lit up.
She’s crafted the venture to be based from her home, recorded at the bottom of her garden, so she’s able to still spend time with her family. She also plans to interview a range of people over a cup of tea.
She’s also been working with British parent-care brand Tommee Tippee. ‘I think that Tommee Tippee has been able to create products that not only work, but I know they’re functional, practical, and make you feel good,’ she says.
Whether it’s a ‘nice baby bag, or the portable breast pumps that makes life so much easier, and obviously the StayPutPocket [the sell-out phone case that doubles up as a dummy holder], they really add to your lifestyle.’
She continues, ‘Motherhood is a lot of things, but glamorous does not spring to mind. There's organized chaos, dirty nappies, there's routine, there's schedule, and it's so fulfilling. But I think that Tommee Tippy has been able to balance functionality and style.’
But when it comes to sharing any wisdoms she’s learnt as a mother she has a simple message: do what’s right for you. ‘I think there’s a lot of preaching [on parenting] but I don’t think there’s a right way.’
You can sign up to hear more about Tommee Tippee’s next StayPutPocket drop here.