TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?
My name is Amy, I am the founder and CEO of Two Birds Talking, a communications agency specialising in collaborations, media and events across fashion and lifestyle.

HOW DID YOU AND LAUREN MEET?
As to be expected with Lauren, our first encounter was fun and fashion focused. I was hustling in wholesale, Lauren was running a retail store, and I just showed up unannounced. No appointment, no formal pitch—just me, a lookbook, some samples, and way too much enthusiasm. I even started layering pieces over my own outfit to show her how “fabulous” they looked. Somehow, she didn’t kick me out—she actually placed an order! But more importantly, that wild little moment of retail chaos sparked a 20-year friendship that’s still going strong.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND MOTHERHOOD?
I don’t know if I would use the word balance. I now think of motherhood, and life, in small steps. A friend recently told me that “if you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s because your first step is too big. Make your first step smaller” and upon reflection that is how work and my caring for my family exist together. Some days it’s all family, some days it’s all work, some days it’s a mix of both but no day is the same, and the small steps move me, move us forward together.

Oh, and shout out to my husband Nick and extended family. Their unwavering support and belief are endless and unconditional. I couldn’t do either without them.

WHAT DO YOU PRIORITISE AND WHAT SACRIFICES DO YOU MAKE TO MAKE EVERYTHING WORK?
I prioritise movement of some sort. Movement wakes me up, gives me space to think and I prioritise mornings and daylight over evenings and night. I have always been a morning person but four years working Aussie hours in London has made this a daily habit. For me, the mornings are all opportunity and openness  – its where both my work and energy come from.

I would say I sacrifice incidental social catch ups with family and friends, and I think both my family and friends would agree 
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR YOURSELF THAT HELPS YOU WIND DOWN FROM A BUSY WEEK?
Friday nights are my favourite. We slow right down and it’s a welcome change from the week just gone. It involves the kids sport, sharing food and time with my immediate family. It resets me for the weekend and week to come. 
IS A JAMES VIVIAN APPOINTMENT AN ESSENTIAL IN YOUR SELF CARE ROUTINE?
James is essential full stop. James, and Ben, have built an incredible business and brand. I was introduced to them over 15 years ago, and they both remain and will always be dear (and again fun) friends.
WHAT HAVE YOUR GIRLS TAUGHT YOU SO FAR?
I learn from them every day. They have taught me about openness and courage, energy and enthusiasm for the simple things and patience, like no other, of course! I would also say they have taught me about the importance of full, unadulterated focus and presence. I definitely don’t achieve this everyday but I now have awareness of its impact and strive to achieve it as best I can, for them and for me.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU SHARE TO OTHER WOMEN WANTING TO START THEIR OWN BUSINESS?
If you have thought about it, do it. But start small and surround yourself by at least one person, you trust, who has a different but complimentary skill set to you. I did this with TBT back in 2008, and again with Lauren through MANE in 2025.
WHAT'S IT LIKE BEING BACK IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
We have always worked in fashion and retail through TBT, but fashion at MANE is definitely unique. The short answer is its playful, energising and I feel very grateful for the role I get to play in both the MANE business and brand.
THERE MUST BE A REAL TEMPTATION NOW THAT MANE IS BELOW TBT, WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE AT THE MOMENT?
Yes ma’am! I am not sure I have a favourite piece but more a favourite collection – the new GANNI direction is exciting to see as is Conner Ives move into denim and of course local superstar Alix Higgins continues to drop gold. I love a mix of global and local, which is why Lauren, and the MANE / STABLE edit is so refreshing and distinctive.
HOW DID MANE HAPPEN, AND WHY NOW?
MANE, when it happened, happened quickly, but Lauren and I have talked about bringing our businesses closer together for years, and that now includes STABLE, MANE and TBT.

I want to say for over 10 years in fact. We always knew we would end up close and connected, small steps back then led to where we are today. And as Lauren knows, I am already thinking about what’s next of course! 

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