MetroMom Janice Binkley
 Mother, Media Relations Specialist for TIGI

MM - How long have you been with TIGI and how long have you been a mom?   

I have worked for our company a total of 18 years now. I started out working for TONI&GUY in the Salon division and moved into marketing for TIGI almost 8 years ago. I have been a Mom for 18 wonderful months.

MM - How did your life change when you became a mom?

My life changed when I became pregnant! I have to say this because it was the most amazing experience. I had a wonderful pregnancy. I was in awe how my body was changing and how a little life was growing inside of my tummy. Still amazes me to this day. The day my son Max was born, it was one of the best days of my life. And it just keeps getting better...

MM - How do you balance work and motherhood?

Balance? I would like to think I do. I have a wonderful support system at home and work. I work in PR and travel quite a bit. I'm very blessed to have the support system that I do. When I return from a trip we make sure we spend time as a family. They are my first and foremost priority. My company is family owned and operated. So they understand the importance of family. I couldn't do what I do and have balance without the support of both sides. The challenge is finding time for myself. I think most working Moms always face this. It is worth every minute I give. I make sure I enjoy my time when I do get extra moments alone.

MM - Do you have any hair/makeup tips for the busy mom?  

Okay this is actually part of my job...

Hair, I don't wash my hair everyday. It's best if you don't.

Day one: Freshly washed hair. A must have is mousse. I always put mousse on my scalp area first, the mousse helps reduce the oil on the scalp area and allows you to extend your wash's a day or two longer. Then follow with a leave in conditioner, apply the mid hair shaft to the ends. Let air dry a bit then add additional products for my desired look. Twist my hair up for when I sleep.

Day Two: Take my hair down. I use a product called second day restyle. Spray on the mid hair shaft down to the ends. Use my blow dryer to set the style. This takes about 5 minutes.

Day Three: The dirtier the hair the better. I put it up in a simple French twist, keep it messy so it doesn't matter if you see the pins, if you match the pins to your hair color they don't really show up that much. Second option; slick it back into a sleek pony tail with a cute tie. TIGI just came out with a dry shampoo. It will be available in December. If I don't feel like putting it up that day I use the dry shampoo on the roots and shake it through the hair.

*One challenge for Mothers who work out everyday or you've over slept. You can use this time saving technique...

Section the hair from the top of your left ear over to the top of the right ear, creating a half section. Pull all of the hair behind this half section and secure it into a pony tail at the base of your scalp. Take the remaining front section and shampoo & condition and style out like you normally would. This takes half the time but gives you a fresh look for those emergencies.

Make-up, I never wear make-up when I'm home on the weekends. I like, and my skin needs, the break.

Taking care of your skin is the most important thing to healthy looking skin. I always wash my face and use a moisturizer. NEVER sleep with your make-up on if you can help it. Drink plenty of water!!!

I would suggest going to a make up professional to get quick tips. Most will give you a make over and tips for free if you buy a few items. It's worth the trip. If you are in a hurry a little mascara, eyeliner and lip stick will give you a fresh and lively look.
 

MM - What is the best advice you received about being a mom or raising a child?

It so cliché, but it's absolutely true. Enjoy every moment because next thing you know they're off to college. I look at Max and think where did my baby go to? You can't spoil them with too much love and last but the most important... "LET GO and LET GOD."

MM - If you could give another mom or expectant mom one piece of advice, what would it be?

This is a hard one. The most important thing I have learned so far is not to react. This is a challenging thing for me, but has served me and my son well.

MM - Do you have a motto you would like to share with other moms?

As a first time Mom I think we all strive to be the best we can be. For me, sometimes, it's a fault of my own. So my personal motto is to "pick and chose my battles."