Meet Candace Thomas

Candace is a stay at home mom to her two little boys, Bennett and Graham, and the founder/editor-in-chief for the website Luxe…With Kids, proving that life can be luxurious *and* kid friendly. Originally from Chicago, Candace’s family has recently (and happily) landed in Houston where she is currently Director of Marketing for Houston Children Give Back, a not-for-profit organization she co-founded with a team of like-minded mom friends who want to teach their children the value of philanthropy from a young age. A huge believer in practicing gratitude, Candace loves going on adventures big and small with her family, listening to music, exercising, and all things pop culture.

Q+A

What is your first (or best) memory? 

I have memories of being a young child at my great-grandmothers house. If I close my eyes I can remember exactly how it felt being surrounded by my huge Italian-American family. The memory is a blur of the sound of adults talking, kids laughing and shrieking, and dishes clanging combined with the smell of homemade tomato sauce cooking. There was a lot of love jammed into a small house. 

What inspires you? 

Looking at the world through my children’s eyes. It’s so interesting to take away all of my own associations and just see the world fresh again. Their world view is so innocent and joyful. There’s so much potential – nothing is set in stone and there’s no parameters or limitations on their little minds.

What is your favorite place to travel to? 

Hawaii. There is something so magical in the air on Hawaii. We love all of the islands, but Kauai is our all time favorite.

Favorite quote? 

“It’s supposed to be hard. If it were easy everyone would do it”. Oh yes, I’m quoting A League of Their Own. This quote is just what I need to hear when I’m starting to struggle or doubt myself. I don’t ever want to take short cuts - I want to push myself to grow, and this quote is just enough tough love to keep me motivated.

Favorite song? 

Possibly the hardest question OF.ALL.TIME. because my life has an ever-changing soundtrack in my head, but I have to go with Here Comes the Sun by the Beatles. It was the song I walked down the aisle to at my wedding and just holds such a special place in my heart.

Want more? Connect with Candace and Luxe with Kids on Twitter and Pinterest and Facebook