Hey, Emily! How did you go from living in Canada to Essex?

“I was born and raised in Toronto, but moved to Essex with my family when I was 14 – hence my mixed up accent! I now live in Brentwood with my husband Matt, and our three boys.”

And how did you become an influencer?

“It all began when I started sharing parenting videos and my experience of being a mum on YouTube in 2014. To be honest I was feeling a bit isolated at home on maternity leave with a baby and a pre-schooler. I’ve now grown an audience of over 1.5 million followers on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, which is never something I expected 10 years ago.”

You’ve written a book. How did that come about?

“Things I Wish I’d Known is the book I wish I’d been given when I became a parent 13 years ago. It’s a go-to guide of easy mum hacks and habits – and every single one’s been tried and tested on my own family. Along with lots of hacks it’s full of honest, practical and relatable advice to create a more harmonious family life.” 

Let’s move on to what you love about Essex. Where do you go to eat out?

“I love Smith’s in Ongar – it’s our favourite date night destination because the service and food are always incredible. I also love Malina in Brentwood, a new little café that does lovely food and coffee.”

What about beauty treatments?

“Definitely De Luca Beauty in Brentwood. I go to this salon religiously for lashes and nails. The girls are all so lovely and my treatments last for a long time.”

Where do you like to shop?

“Jasmine Bleu in Shenfield has lots of unique pieces for gifts, and the flowers are also gorgeous. I also love Frinton on Sea’s The Girls Wardrobe – I’ve bought a few really cute cardigans here recently.”

How do you keep fit?

“I love Pilates and go to Zero Gravity Pilates in either Brentwood or Chelmsford, depending on where I’m rushing around at the time. Whenever I do a class I wake up the next day with aches in muscles I didn’t even know I had!”

You want fresh air – where do you head?

“We all love to wander around Thorndon Country Park with our dog, Kiki. As well as lovely walks there’s also a nice café and trail for the kids to find characters from The Gruffalo. Though I’m not sure our 14 year old will admit to that!”

What about when you want to relax?

“It’s got to be the Glasshouse Detox & Wellness Retreat in Upminster, with its treatments and mindfulness classes. Be aware; as the name suggests it’s a detox centre so is caffeine and meat-free – so have a coffee before you go!”

Finally, where do you go for a spot of culture?

“We love Saffron Walden’s Audley End House and Gardens. A Victorian family estate with lots to explore, it’s got tons for the kids to do as well.”

For family tips from Emily follow her on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok. Emily’s book, Things I Wish I’d Known, is available to buy from Amazon or Waterstones.