This week we grab a cosy corner with Nicole Huisman - a fashion and interior stylist, and a self proclaimed all-round creative, based in Amsterdam. Well known for her distinctive, eclectic style, she has also recently become mama to Olá.
Tell us about your family...
Together with my partner Friso, we recently became parents to our little miracle, our daughter Ola. Oh, and we share our home with our adorable cat, Obi.
You have been very open on Instagram about your IVF journey, which has been so lovely to see.
Thank you! I proudly share a lot of fun and aesthetically pleasing things online as part of my job. But at some point, it started to feel incomplete - like I was keeping a secret. The thing that was taking up the most space in my mind, I wasn’t sharing.
When I finally opened up about our struggles with getting pregnant, I was overwhelmed by the warmth and support I received. It helped me, and my story helped others. I still get so many messages about it.
Sharing really does heal, and I’m proud that my presence on social media can make a difference in that way.
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When someone tells me that, thanks to my story, they found the right help and are now expecting a baby - it truly makes me emotional.
What are the best things people can do to support friends going through IVF do you think?
I think it’s in people’s nature to want to solve problems. The general instinct is: I don’t want you to be sad, so let me fix it by giving you advice or distracting you from the situation. But that doesn’t help. Just listen.
Your friend is probably already busy exploring all possible medical solutions. If she doesn’t ask for your help, just be there to hear what’s on her mind. Most of the time, she simply needs a shoulder to lean on.
Have you got any tips for others on how to best manage the process & stay positive?
Feel all the feelings and allow them to be there. When you feel sad, let yourself be sad. When you feel like distracting yourself and going out, do that. Keep communicating with your partner. It’s a rollercoaster - expect highs and lows, both are part of the journey.
I often felt guilty when friends told me they were expecting, while I felt a heavy stone in my stomach. But over time, I learned: it makes complete sense that feelings of happiness for someone else and sadness for yourself can exist side by side. You’re not a bad friend - you just want something so deeply.
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Remember - the situation you’re in now, no matter how it turns out, won’t be your forever."
Has anything about motherhood surprised you so far?
Ola’s birth was a complete surprise - she was born at just 25 weeks, totally unexpected and far too early. We spent three months in the NICU with her and another two months in high care, and we’re still living with medical uncertainties.
Given our fertility journey, I already knew we were resilient. But since Ola arrived, I’ve realised that we are capable of anything. I’m genuinely in awe of the power of love.
People always say that having a child feels like wearing your heart outside your body - and now, I truly understand what that means. I’m so, so grateful for that.
What traits would you like to inspire in Olá?
I know she has inherited my strength and perseverance, and that has already brought her so much. I wish for her to have a lot of curiosity and love for the people and animals around her. I would love to encourage her creativity, in whatever form it may take. I can’t wait to see what a wonderful person she will grow into.
We know your for very distinctive bold and bright style. What inspires or has inspired your style along the way?
My love for prints and colour goes way back. It’s always been very intuitive and can change and evolve over time, but I think the common thread is that there’s always a playful, unexpected, quirky and often retro element in it.
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Playing with colour has always felt like my natural state of being - it’s almost instinctive for me."
Please could you share your favourite restaurants & things to do in Amsterdam?
Ohhh, I have so many tips to share! I live in Amsterdam Noord, my favorite part of the city, so here are some of my top picks...
Go for cocktails at Tula, dinner at Coba, Goudfazant or Europizza, grab a pie at NO-YUSU, have pizza at Klaproos, swim on the rooftop at Stretch & Fold, do yoga & Pilates at HAVEN, go furniture shopping at Studio 3000, pick up wine at Karlito, get coffee, croissants & bread at Kometenbrood, and enjoy kombucha and sandwiches in the park at Sans :)
What is your favourite part of being a mama?
It’s incredible to realise that Friso and I are Ola’s whole world. Seeing her smile in the morning, that sweet little face lighting up just because we’re there - it truly melts my heart.
What is your top tired mama tip?
I remind myself: this is just a very, very small part of my whole life. So, deal with it and enjoy your coffee. :) Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. And for me, a good workout works wonders.
Beauty product you swear by?
I’m a huge fan of the products from the Dutch brand Kenko - for both Ola and me, their scent is absolutely incredible!
And finally please share with us your top BINI picks...
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The Snugglers are my top fave! I use it in Ola’s stroller, in the playpen, for playtime on the floor, or as a soft surface on the couch. Practical and everything looks cozier. And of course I show them some love with the Binibrush!"
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I can’t wait for her to fit into the Shrimps slippers."
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The Snugglevest is the sweetest extra layer."
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I hope she drags the crochet bunny everywhere with her - too cute!"
