Each month we feature a mum who tells us what’s great about her London hood. This time we talk to Candice Brathwaite, a Brixton-born mother of two and cofounder of Make Motherhood Diverse — a platform which showcases that motherhood does not follow a singular path. Candice now calls Stony Stratford, near Milton Keynes, home. She tells us what she loves about her hood.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Candice Brathwaite and I’m a mother of two. I’m an online presenter, writer and co-founder of @makemotherhooddiverse.
Which area do you live in, and what do you love about it?
I live in a quaint area called Stony Stratford just outside Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire. What is not to love? Having been born and raised in London, Brixton to be precise, the difference in living conditions is remarkable. I love how much green space there is. Our back garden is like a forest but that doesn’t stop us from exploring the real woods less than two minutes away from the house. It’s a calm, hustle-and-bustle-free town and super kid-friendly and family orientated. Couldn’t ask for more to be honest.
Where’s your favourite family-friendly eatery?
GBK, for sure. I’m surprised they don’t know us by first name in there yet! During this pregnancy I’ve been obsessed with onion rings. I have yet to find an eatery that rivals theirs so we eat there at least once a week.
Where’s your favourite place to escape in your area for a little ‘me’ time?
Out of Office Coffee House, where funnily enough I’m sat right now answering these questions. I’m a coffee nut and it’s important that I support smaller businesses instead of the larger chains. This place is exactly that. Not only is their flat white on point, they also have super strong wifi and a baby-changing unit in a clean, spacious toilet. In a few weeks that is going to be very important to me.
What local activities do you and your family take part in?
I attend yoga at a local studio Whitespace Yoga. Whilst I enjoy solo classes, sometimes it’s nice to be led by a teacher. Admittedly it’s not as diverse as the classes I used to attend in London, but that’s the tradeoff I’ve made. Later on in the year, Esme is going to begin horse riding lessons at Ride High Equestrian Centre and I cannot wait!
Is there a little hidden gem in your area you’d like to share?
Not really, then it won’t be a little gem! I’m kidding! Ouse Valley Park for sure. The river flows from Oxfordshire. With a kiddie park, horses and lanes wide enough for cyclists and pedestrians, it’s a little slice of country heaven on my doorstep.
Find out more about Candice here: www.candicebrathwaite.com
