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Coffee With…Eva Chen

Written by Erin Feher

Ready for a round of rapid-fire questions over a cup of caffeine? Today’s “Coffee With…” feature is with the multi-talented Eva Chen—although, we have to start out by admitting that the mama-of-two politely refused the coffee, as she’s a dedicated green tea drinker! Anything for Eva, who is celebrating the launch of two new projects: Her new children’s book, Juno Valentine and the Fantastic Fashion Adventure, which came out last week, and her latest line of icon-inspired children’s wear for Janie and Jack, which drops today (think mini Chanel-style suit dresses, Audrey Hepburn-inspired sunnies, and tulle gowns that would make Marie Antionette proud). The NYC-based mother of two (daughter Ren, 4, and son Tao, 2) is a fashion icon in her own right and currently oversees all things style at Instagram. Here, she tells us a little bit more about her life in NYC, tea habits, top parenting advice, and favorite way to relax.

How do you take your coffee?
“I don’t actually drink coffee! Just green tea…and a lot of it.”

At what hours?
“My first cup of green tea is at 7:30, and my last by 3:30 if I want to sleep by 10:30 p.m!”

How do you treat yourself?
“My ultimate night would be a hot bath and a cup of tea with a good book and in bed by 10 p.m. If there’s a massage thrown in there somewhere, then even better.”

What are your favorite massage spots in NYC?
“My massage hack is to go to a local nail salon (like Rehoboth on 14th street and 6th) and ask them to do a manicure while I’m in a massage chair and get a quick massage at the same time! I know that’s not exactly answering your question, but I felt like I had to share.”
What are your top five New York City spots?
Rubirosa for pizza. Heckscher Playground in Central Park. The Union Square Farmer’s Market—I love Andrew’s Honey there, he’s a real character! Breads Bakery. And my parents’ apartment. The last one is not open to the public!”

Flats or heels?
“Lately…flats.”

Early bird or night owl?
“Early bird 100000% percent.”

What time do you wake up each morning?
“Whenever my kids let me sleep until! Usually 6:45 or 7.”

Currently on your bedside table?
“Crystals and a sage spray from Sage and Salt in Arizona.”

Favorite film?
Singin’ in the Rain. It’s just the happiest movie ever.”

What’s the best piece of motherhood advice you’ve received?
“Enjoy the baby and early years because they go by all too quickly. Every mom has told me this and it’s true!”

What excites you most about motherhood?
“I love seeing my kids learn and master new things. Seeing the world through their eyes has been a gift.”

What makes you most nervous?
“Now that I’m a mom? Everything.”

What’s your go-to family meal recipe?
“Spaghetti bolognese and steamed broccoli!”

What’s one of your best childhood memories?
“Going on business trips with my mom!”

For more on Eva, follow along with her on Instagram. For more “Coffee With…” features, check out our conversations with Jessie Randall of Loeffler Randall, model, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Liya Kebede, designer Margherita Missoni, the multi-talented Karen Elson, and General Store Los Angeles co-owner Hannah Henderson.

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