Motherhood in Motion with Anzè van Staden
Let’s face it: mom life can get incredibly busy sometimes!
From dealing with school drop-off and grocery shopping to working 9-5 and running an entire household, you’re on your feet a lot more than you realise.
So, naturally, you want to ensure that you are making the right footwear choices to help you get the most out of your day.
This is exactly what we had in mind when designing the Skyquest Trek. Read on to learn more about why this new design is perfect for all the busy moms out there!
Merrell’s Mission for Moms
As it stands, our designs have started moving towards combining both comfort and style elements, offering you the kind of footwear that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
We like to think of our Skyquest Trek as exactly that! A stylish trail runner that is perfect for both on and off the trails. This lightweight design offers you that ‘barely-there’ feeling, which so many people love because it allows you to move freely and naturally. The Merrell sticky rubber outsole promises durable traction and grip, while the die cut EVA footbed provides cushioning and support - so that you can enjoy some light hiking or everyday wear.
We tried to consider the lifestyles of people who lead incredibly busy lives, and of course, moms were the first to pop up in our minds. So, we reached out to a local, stylish mom who is balancing it all!
Meet Anzè van Staden - Owner of Mooiste Boutique
With a passion for creativity and a background in photography, Anzè established herself as a go-getter from the young age of 22, when she first opened up Mooiste Boutique. What started as a women's fashion venture, soon became so much more. Today, Mooiste Boutique has branched out into the online space, as well as the boho furniture scene, with stunning pieces personally selected and imported from Indonesia.
Let’s take a closer look at Anze’s journey as she balances building her business with the joys and challenges of motherhood.
1. What was your inspiration and motivation to start Mooiste?
After studying photography and spending over a year working on a cruise ship, I came back home to South Africa. My heart has always been here, and at the time, I met my now-husband just before I left.
I fell in love with fashion during my first overseas trip to Bangkok in 2018, and that’s when Mooiste was born. I’ve never looked back. My passion lies in finding unique pieces and helping women look and feel beautiful in their own skin, whether it’s through our curated clothing or our waterproof jewellery.
2. In honour of Mother’s Day this month, we would like to get more insight into the world of busy moms such as yourself - how do you balance it all?
Being a mom and a business owner is not for the faint-hearted! Life is busy, but my boys are my biggest motivators. They keep me grounded and inspire me to work hard to build a better life for our family.
I had both my boys - now 3 and 4 - during Covid, which allowed me to be a stay-at-home mom while running Mooiste on the side.
I cherish weekends with my family and try to be fully present then, although sourcing stock sometimes means being away from them, which is incredibly tough. Thankfully, my husband is my biggest supporter. His belief in me has carried me through the highs and lows. It’s not always easy, and the pressure of being the sole driver of my business while contributing equally at home can be overwhelming, but the rewards, love, and bond I share with my family make it all worth it.
3. Merrell is dedicated to encouraging individuals to spend time outdoors, whether that entails going on a trail run or enjoying a family stroll to a park. Can you share your thoughts on this sentiment?
I love this so much! As a mom, being outdoors with my family is one of our favourite ways to spend time together. Whether it’s a beach walk, a park visit, or a spontaneous adventure, it’s how we reset.
The Merrells I chose are perfect because they’re stylish enough to pair with my pretty outfits but also functional and comfy enough for training or casual, on-the-go days. I live in sneakers, and these tick all the boxes - lightweight, comfortable, and pretty!
4. Can you talk us through how you style your outfits? And, in particular, your thought process for styling your Merrells?
My style is a mix of effortless and feminine with a touch of edge. I love contrast - pairing soft dresses with bold sneakers or styling activewear with structured pieces. When styling my Merrells, I love that they blend seamlessly into both my everyday and active looks. Whether I’m heading to a meeting, doing a shoot, or chasing after the kids, they just work. Comfort is always key, but I never want to compromise on style.
5. Do you have any exciting upcoming ventures you’d like audiences to look out for?
Yes! I’m super excited about two new projects on the horizon. First, I’m launching a men’s t-shirt brand called Laanie - it’s going to be something fresh and fun with a luxurious, local twist. And second, I’m opening a photography studio where we can create content for our own brands and collaborate with others, while also capturing beautiful family memories. It’s a full-circle moment, bringing me back to where I started - with a camera and a creative dream.
Are you a Merrell Mom on the Move?
We know that many moms out there can relate to Anzè - balancing work and mom life, while trying to also make time for fresh air outdoors.
That’s why we’re passionate about showing you all the ways you can embrace the outdoors, even with the busiest of schedules.
After all, it really does come down to one simple thing: a versatile pair of shoes that can take you from office meetings to school pick-up - and then straight to a fun family walk in the park.
