Q&A With Alexis Kristiana

Alexis Kristiana Coats can do it all. As a busy mom of two children, Alexis somehow finds the time to also model, create content for her social media , and run a small business. Whew! Her Instagram account @alexiskristiana has amassed a considerable following (nearly 31k!) of fans who can’t get enough of her relatable content. Her beautifully-shot photos and videos are accompanied by honest captions that perfectly capture the ups and downs of motherhood and everything in between. Her content resonates with many mothers who understand the struggles of postpartum and breastfeeding all too well, and she has built a brand that feels like a safe space for moms. After realizing how difficult it was to find nursing-friendly clothes that were also stylish, Alexis started an online store called Liquid Gold Vintage as a way to bring fashion and function together for breastfeeding mamas. As a female BIPOC, Alexis not only advocates for all mothers, but also uses her platform to bring attention and action to improve maternal health for Black women. She’s a mom, a model, a content creator, an activist, an entrepreneur, and an incredible role model. We spoke with Alexis about her children, her motherhood journey, and how she uses Toki Mats to spend some quality time with her

Q: How old are your children?

AK: Zion is 2.5 years old and Zuri is 7 months old.

Q: What is your favorite way to use your Toki Mat?
AK: I love to use the large Toki Mat to have combined play time with both of my kids. This has been the easiest way for them to bond as siblings, and for me to have them in a safe playing space.

Q: What is something about motherhood that has surprised you?
AK: How much you are able to juggle and manage daily. It gives you so much strength that you never knew you’d be able to have.

Q: What part of motherhood have you found to be the most challenging?
AK: Definitely making the time to juggle work and family life. It has been becoming more demanding recently, but I know I will figure it out the best way that I can.

Q: In what ways have your children inspired you?
AK: They inspire me in everything that I do. When it comes to things as simple as wanting to be the best version of myself, it’s because of them. I cannot imagine life without them.

Q: What is something that you haven’t yet experienced, but are looking forward to in your motherhood journey?
AK: I’m a mom of two young kids right now, so I have not experienced the teenage years yet. I can only imagine what that’s going to be like one day, and I can’t wait to experience the journey that will come with that path.

Q: What has been your favorite age for your children so far?
AK: Definitely my son’s age right now, as he gets closer to three. Watching him grow over the past few years has been so beautiful, but this transition from 2.5 to 3 has been so much fun! He’s talking, he’s playing, he’s engaging, and he’s just an amazing, tiny human from whom I learn so much every day.

Q: What is your favorite mom-hack?
AK: Using your mats for more than play! Sometimes my son doesn’t want to take a nap in his bed, and we make it fun and allow him to nap in the living room with his play mat while we are nearby. This can make the struggles of that time so much easier for toddlers! 

Q: What is the one piece of advice you would give to a new mom?
AK: You’re not perfect—you’re learning. Say this to yourself again and again, and just continue to give yourself grace. 

Q: What has been your proudest moment as a mother?
AK: The day that each of my children joined us earthside. Those days will forever be imprinted in my mind and heart, and it’s the start of two different motherhood journeys that I will forever be proud of.