How many little girls can say their mom was Miss USA? Well, Ali Landry’s 3-year-old daughter Estela can! Not only that, Ali is an accomplished model, actress, fashion designer and, of course, mom. Modern Mom was super excited to interview this Renaissance woman. Here’s the scoop on the beautiful and bright Ali Landry:
What is something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I am passionate about architecture and design. Just obsessed. When I vacation, I usually stop into the local real estate office and pretend I am buying a house, just so I can get ideas and learn more about the architecture and culture in that specific area.
What inspired your new clothing line, Belle Parish?
The line is definitely inspired by my Southern upbringing, but there are elements of European design as well. It’s all about being classic and age-appropriate, which never goes out of style. I have always wanted to have a line of products…this has been something I’ve dreamed about for over 10 years. I am just so happy that it has finally come to fruition.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure as far as food is concerned is always…no matter what…getting popcorn WITH BUTTER and M&M’s when I go to the movies. I have to say…I feel no guilt afterwards. I have always allowed myself that indulgence. I figure if I am going to eat it, I am going to ENJOY it!
What was the best part of being Miss USA (1996)?
I can definitely say two specific things. One would be the pride it brought to my small town , Breaux Bridge, and the State of Louisiana. For them it was more than a local girl winning a national title. It gave a small town hope knowing that anything and everything is possible no matter where you come from. The second thing would be the money. It was absolutely an honor for me to be representing my state of Louisiana as Miss USA, but I was a starving college student, and the money I won allowed me the freedom to pursue my career after my reign and not have to get a second job just to pay the bills.
How do you pamper yourself?
I guess I would say that I have different levels of pampering myself. It could be anything from lighting a candle, relaxing and reading a good book to heading off to the spa for a much needed massage.
How do you show someone you love them?
By taking myself out of the picture and considering the other person’s needs and wants, and then doing whatever I can to support, respect and lift them up in a positive way.
Describe your parenting style in one word.
Communicative
What is the most surprising thing about becoming a mom?
The absolute joy I feel in the depths of my soul. I have never experienced such joy and happiness before in my life. I owe that to my husband and my daughter.
What is the best piece of parenting advice you ever got?
The best piece of parenting advice I have ever received was that no one has figured out the balance of being a mom, wife, business woman, friend, etc. All you can do is keep your priorities in order and do your best to achieve that balance, but more than likely something or someone will always fall short….and that is OK! There is always tomorrow.
