Photo Credit: Pip Bourdillon
Montana Brown first found fame on Love Island UK in 2017, and has since capitalized on that massive platform by launching a career as an entrepreneur, wellness advocate and parenting influencer. Her latest project, Saltmoore, is a luxury hotel on the coast in the UK, blending holistic spa treatments with fine dining along with wellness programming. She and her fiancé, professional rugby player Mark O’Connor, recently renovated the unique 19th Century estate, while raising two toddlers, 3-year-old Jude and eight-month-old Miley.
In this week’s Meet a Mom interview, we asked Montana about her reality TV start, tips for traveling with toddlers, her London favorites, and more.
You first became known as a contestant on Love Island UK—what was that like and would you do more reality TV?
I actually thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I was young and carefree so there was an element of excitement. I was at the age where I wasn’t self conscious in the same way as when you’re a bit older. There is something quite nice about reality TV that brings people of all ages together to watch so I definitely wouldn’t rule it out.
You have two toddlers and always look put together. What’s your “mom uniform”?
I like classic and timeless silhouettes; I have always had quite a minimalist style and I want clothes that will withstand the test of time and also feel premium. I love to be in gymwear and loungewear; my Number 1 rule is I need to be comfortable. You will not see me mumming in jeans…that’s a different breed of mother that I wouldn’t want to mess with.
Please tell us a little bit about Saltmoore.
Saltmoore is a destination for people that want to stay in a luxury hotel, without the dress codes and elitism. It is a home away from home but everything has an elevated touch. We are kid-friendly, dog-friendly and we like to be as accommodating as we can be as we understand how difficult traveling with a family can be.
What are your favorite travel tips for traveling with kids?
I personally prefer to keep things really simple, minimal ‘stuff’ and try and get my kids to notice the small things. I try and just bring books; I find it really overwhelming when I bring lots of toys and random toddler bits. But I understand each child is different and has different needs.
What would surprise people about you as a mom?
I am quite strict and disciplined. I am always kind but I am quite firm on certain behaviors and lifestyle choices that I make. People think I am too intense but I am making an effort to be extremely intentional with my kids, which means I am okay to not be mainstream. As long as my kids are happy and healthy that’s my main priority.
With two toddlers, how do you find peace in chaotic moments?
I think taking a minute to ground yourself is so important. For me its going onto the grass, barefoot, sometimes with the kids, and just taking some deep breaths. I also think having an evening routine really allows me to switch off and center myself. Mindfulness and gratitude has been a real focus in the last month and it’s been really beneficial to put things into perspective.
SPEED ROUND WITH MONTANA BROWN
What’s your current favorite:
Reality TV Show – Love is Blind
Book You’ve Read or Movie You’ve Seen – I love anything Freida McFadden and Colleen Hoover, specifically Verity and The Housemaid. Favorite movie is The Notebook; I know it’s so classic but there’s not a rom com better than that.
Show You’re Watching – Yellowstone, The Madison and Dutton Ranch…
And in London, can you please share your FAVE:
Restaurant for date night – Koji in Parsons Green; its phenomenal Japanese cuisine and better than anywhere in Mayfair hands down!
Restaurant with Kids – Gloria Trattoria or any of that chain is to die for
Hotel – 1 Hotel in Mayfair is absolutely beautiful and feels like a home away from home
Hair salon – Hershesons; they have the best stylists however Aveda is also up there you can always guarantee your hair will be hydrated and glossy coming out of there.
Nail salon – Selfridges by Biosculpture I am completely converted.
Workout – I would say Alo or Equinox are the best
Kids store – Marks and Spencer have really upped their game in terms of clothing in the last few years. I am beyond impressed.
