Prepare yourself for smiles because today we're talking to Jen Wilder. She's a designer, business owner, creative director, product developer, an artist—and a mom of two to boot! We've been absolutely giddy about partnering up with Jen because she really does bring a much-needed dose of positivity to our lives. Read our conversation with Jen below: 

Sheltered Co. : What did you want to be when you grew up?

Jen : Forensic Pathologist!

Sheltered Co. : Do you have a favorite junk food?

Jen : Nachos with all the toppings

Sheltered Co. : Were there any "I would never!"s before having kiddos that you totally have given into now as a parent?

Jen : Sugar, screen time and all the other “perfect parenting” flew out the window in quarantine and I’ve just settled into-let’s be happy NOW in the present and go with the flow.

Sheltered Co. : Is there any part of your routine that you consider sacred or unmissable when it comes to your self care?

Jen : Moisturizer and body oils. Oiling up my bodacious body every morning after my shower has had a huge impact on my relationship to my body and truly loving the skin that I’m in because it’s perfect every day at showing up for me and helping me achieve my dreams.

Sheltered Co. : What was the least helpful parenting advice you ever received and what advice do you wish someone would have given you before having children?

Jen : All advice is usually unhelpful unless it’s sought out specifically so a LOT of unsolicited advice I left where it found me. I wish someone could have told me that there is a whole life of unexpected self work that is opened when you birth these tiny soul mirrors!

Sheltered Co. : What's something (anything!) you'd like to share about your personal experience with motherhood?

Jen : Kids are adaptable and present every moment, take advantage of showing them all the sides of your life. I think it’s important for my children to see me struggle owning a business and all the sacrifices I make to create a better world for plus size bodies to inhabit. My children have opened my eyes and heart to myself as much as to them. Being a mother has taught me so much about loving someone and also about letting go. Everyday they need me less and everyday my heartaches to let them level up and move on but that’s what motherhood is-the biggest letting go over and over again. 🥰

Thank you, thank you, thank you to Jen for chatting with us and showing off our Lipstick Pink weighted blanket (available here!). She can be found on Instagram at @unitedstatesofla :)