Mother’s Day Interview With Astrid Krieg

Happy Mother’s Day! It is the perfect day to pause and reflect on how amazing the many mothers in our lives are. I know that I write about my own mom almost every Sunday for the OuiCooks – she has taught me so much on how to cook, live, and be a good person. I am sure you can think of that special person in your life too. There are so many different types of moms on Mother’s Day, but we all know someone that gives their all. Even if it is a friend, a grandparent, or yourself, take a little extra time to thank those special people in your life. On this mother’s day we wanted to really reflect on how much moms really do every day. 

This mother’s day we talked to Paris native, Astrid Krieg about her life as a mother. Astrid is the founder of Numeroa, a gorgeous interior design company in Paris. She specializes in creating modern looks using classic pieces. Her website is full of gorgeous photos with amazing statement-furniture. Here are some of our favorite designs from their Instagram. You can check out more of their designs at @studio_numeroa. 

                

Astrid with her kids, Ari, Milo, and Oscar.

We sat down with Astrid to discuss more how French women juggle life, being a woman, working in Paris, AND motherhood! 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Who you are, where are you from?

My name is Astrid and I am an interior designer here in Paris! I was born and raised in Paris with my two younger twin sisters. I am a mom to three little boys, Oscar who is 7, Milo who is 3, and Ari who is just 7 months. 

What is your favorite part about being a mom?

I love watching my kids be so enthralled with the world every day. Everything is so exciting to them and their enthusiasm is contagious. I love that they think the world is just so wonderful. It makes me take a second look at everything. 

Where in France did you raise your kids and why did you pick there? What were the easiest and hardest parts about living there with kids?

I was born and raised in Paris so I wanted to stay here to raise my kids. We currently live in the 7th Arrondissement and we love it! Paris is such a great place to raise a family because there is so much culture and history, there is always something happening and the kids love it! We are in the heart of Paris, everything is within walking distance: school, butcher, park, everything! The city is always moving and stimulating.

The hardest part about living here is the lack of space. I wish there were more opportunities for my kids to have outdoor activities and places to play outside. 

How would you define femininity as a mom?

I define my own femininity as owning the fact that I am both a woman and a mother. Being a mother is not the only part of who I am. I am sure to be aware of the part of me that is more than just being a mom. You can be both! 

We are big fans of NumeroaA, when and how did you start your business? 

While I was in business school, I was doing an internship at an interior design firm. I had actually never considered doing any interior design! During my internship, I realized my love for it. I met a client that trusted me on multiple projects. I decided to create my own company in 2012. Funny story – that same client is now my husband and father of my children! I will spare you the rest of the French romance story. 

What is it like to be both a mother and a successful CEO?

I love being able to do both, being a mother and running my business. For me, they go together. There are many women who love being a stay-at-home mom, I love having something that is my own. Everyone is different and my work life is very important to me. It balances me out. I cannot be happy in my personal life if I am not happy in my work life. It allows me to blossom as a woman and a mother. I could not have it any other way!

What french tip would you share with our American moms?

My motto would be to let it go and trust yourself. Do not doubt yourself and trust your motherly instincts! I think that American moms can often put too much pressure on themselves and their children. They are so go,go,go, that they lose sight of the big picture. 

What is the biggest lesson that you learned while being a mom?

Unconditional love. It is that simple! 

A huge thank you to Astrid for helping us with this Mother’s day post, we loved talking with you! Learn more about NumeroaA and Astrid on her website or @studio_numeroa on Instagram. 

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