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1. Please introduce yourself: Name, what do you do & how many children you have.
Hi, my name is Melike Bocan Atceken, and I have one daughter aged 8. Up until recently I was a lawyer in Istanbul, as well as running Bocan Couture, a luxury sleep and homewear brand with my sister, Ecem.
We launched Bocan Couture in 2012, as we wanted to create a brand of luxury clothing that was dedicated to brides and mothers-to-be. We created pieces that new mothers could wear to feel special but we’re completely breastfeeding-friendly designs
I had been splitting my time between Turkey and the UK and I was a founding a board member of Turkish Working Moms Association, it is the first and only association dedicated to supporting working mothers in Turkey. Last year, we made the decision to move to the UK to continue running Bocan Couture and fully launch it to the UK market.
We now live in Chelsea, and it’s been a fantastic move!
2. How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother?
Before the global pandemic happened, my daughter was coming to my office after school and working with her tutor on her homework. After I finished work, we were then going home and cooking together as a family.
It’s a little different now, as we’re currently in a national lockdown. She is now completely home-schooled and doing all her classes online. So, we’re sharing an office and school space at the moment.
3. What top tips would you give to any working mum?
My top tips would be to get used to having to do things faster than before. Invest in a pressure cooker to cook fast and nutritious meals. The other thing is to focus on is to make time for your partner, husband or significant other, and don’t just talk about the kids.
4. What do you love most about London? Do you have a favourite spot with your children?
I love London. It’s such a melting pot and a welcoming city to people from all over the world. People come for so many different reasons; education, work or to start a new life. It’s definitely a city that gives people hope and courage.
Kensington Gardens is both mine and my daughters favourite spot in London. She loves the playground, and I like seeing Princess Diana’s former house.
5. How do you define quality ‘me-time’?
‘Me-time’ is time where I focus on doing something just for me. At the moment, I’m doing Pilates 3 times a week, and meditating at least once a day to regain my focus in these crazy times.
I also enjoy writing, and cooking. Writing helps me put my thoughts in order, and I love trying new recipes which feel like they are healing my soul.
6. What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood?
My favourite thing about parenthood is to be able to see the world through innocent eyes again and see the innocence of childhood. I loved pregnancy, carrying a brand-new human was such an amazing feeling. I didn’t enjoy the feeling of not being able to dress up nicely or go out with my husband for the entire time though – which has probably helped with creating pieces for our own collection.
7. Tell us something people don’t know about you.
I’m often described as positive and outgoing who loves to socialise. But sometimes I really just love my own space and being by myself.
8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first time Mum?
My advice would be to not worry about your baby’s appetite. Focus on the little things like how many hugs, kisses and love you are showering on your baby.
I’m a mum and my biggest masterpiece is my baby girl.
9.Finally, please let us know what you love most about Kensington Mums?
Kensington Mums is a fabulous community to help parents with support and encouragement. It’s helping us all support other parents.
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