Merrin Schnabel – Geelong-based entrepreneur, speaker, model, and founder of Madge Beauty

Can you tell us a little about you and your family:

I have two boys, Luke (13) and Jack (15), and my husband. We’re a family of four.

Adjusting to motherhood..

To be honest, there wasn’t a big adjustment for me. I was ready and had always wanted to be a mum. The newborn stage was my favourite — I really embraced it from the start.

How do you manage the juggle?

It’s been a process, but I feel like I’ve got it now. I focus on balance and think of life as having pillars: home, kids, myself, and work. Each pillar needs to be in harmony, and working on myself is key.

It’s not selfish to give to yourself first so you can give to others. I’m an advocate for women being able to do it all, but it’s so important to nurture yourself to make that happen.

The best thing about motherhood?

It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. The love you have for your children is like nothing else. Seeing them happy every day makes my heart full. Everything I do is to inspire them. I love being a role model for them.

The biggest challenge?

The biggest adjustment was realising how little time I had for myself. No one really prepares you for the loss of solitude and independence. That said, I’m so proud of my boys. They make me proud to be their mother every single day.

The biggest surprise?

Just how amazing it is! It’s such a beautiful experience, and I feel like I was born to do this.

What do you wish you knew before becoming a mum?

I wish someone had told me about the lack of personal time. It’s a shock, and having more awareness beforehand would have helped me prepare.

Any advice to a new mum or soon-to-be-mum?

I wouldn’t want to preach, but I’d offer guidance if asked. Everyone’s journey is different, but I’m always happy to share advice from my own experiences.

Any advice to manage the day-to-day juggle?

Routine and structure are key! I wake up before my kids to set up my day, and I plan the entire week in advance to keep everything running smoothly.

How do you manage to fit everything in?

 consciously make sure each pillar (self, kids, husband, work, home) is balanced. I set aside time for each area to ensure work doesn’t take over everything. When everything is organised at home, everything else flows better. Something that’s been amazing for me is manifestation. I’m big on that — living in the mindset that something is already yours. Trust the process and take the action.

The 5 things in your bag you can’t leave home without:

Madge Standard Classic Lip Gloss, my phone, Celine sunglasses, Madge Magic Blush (Charli Lip & Cheek Tint), and clear primer with SPF 50. My favourite bags are my Balmain bag and my Prada bag.

Your favourite holiday spot?

New York!

Why do you love this place?

The energy there is amazing — it’s electric. It feels like home, and my kids love the U.S. too.

Next on the travel list?

I plan to go back to New York and LA multiple times this year, plus a big European trip — especially Italy and Eastern Europe.

Your favourite brand?

I love Alo for activewear and Parke, a U.S. brand. I also love Prada.

Trend you’re loving right now?

I love a mix of feminine style and a casual, preppy tomboy look. I also appreciate simplicity in fashion. Jeans with a short midriff tee is such a vibe — I love it.

Trend you can’t get on board with?

Over-commercialised brands that are everywhere. When I see something too much, I stay away from it.

Latest brand discovery?

Parke.

Where do you do most of your shopping?

Online.

A healthy lifestyle means…

Eating well, exercising, getting a good night’s sleep, and avoiding alcohol.

When I don’t drink, I’m the best version of myself. I believe in taking care of mind, body, and soul through meditation and wellness practices.

How do you keep your body moving?

Hot mat Pilates at CorePlus twice a week, personal training for strength, circuit training at Glow Getter, and on weekends, long walks and the occasional yoga session.

Your top tips for living a healthy lifestyle?

A balanced diet, plenty of water, regular exercise, prioritising sleep, and self-care activities like meditation and massages.

Do you have any non-negotiables?

Exercise, meditation, and staying hydrated.

What does “balance” mean to you?

Ensuring every part of life is equally balanced. As a working mum, finding balance is crucial to being successful and fulfilled. It’s a big, powerful word for me. If you’re a career woman and a working mum, you need to find balance to succeed.