MEET OUR RESIDENT #SMASHTESSGUY - MIKE MARTIGNAGO
You’ve seen him on Instagram, he was everyone’s favourite Santa at our Sip & Shop this past Christmas, and he is our occasional model! We thought it was about time we formally introduced our resident #smashtessguy - Mike Martignago.
If you’re not sure who we are talking about, Mike is Ashley’s husband and little Frankie’s dad. He has been our inspiration for our Bro Romper - giving that effortlessly cool vibe. He also claims to have named Smash + Tess, but it’s been heavily disputed. Sometimes you can’t believe everything he says 😉
Mike is a jokester and loves to make our #smashtessgirls laugh! If you haven’t had the chance yet, make sure you keep an eye out for his cameos on our Instagram stories.
This Father’s Day, we want to celebrate all things Dads! We thought who better to find out more about them than Mike? Mike will be interviewing some of our favourite Dads leading up to Father’s Day, but first, let’s learn more about the original #smashtessguy himself!
How does it feel to be the resident #smashtessdad
I’m honoured! It’s great. It’s crazy to look back and think about our little Frankie being born nearly three years ago – just as Smash + Tess was growing, to now, just a couple of months away from our second little girl. I’m by no means an expert on being a dad, but I’m happy to be part of the team and love to offer any thoughts and suggestions when it comes to any and all men’s rompers.
How has the #smashtess journey been for you?
It’s been a wild ride and I’ve probably been the most influential part in all of it 😉. But seriously, it’s been incredible. Ashley and I met just before she was headed to London to take part in a summer fashion program at Conde Nast which really inspired her to take the plunge and leap into this opportunity. I remember when she told me about the idea of the clothing, the company and the brand she wanted to create. I always knew she was up for the challenge. There were some bumps in the beginning, but that’s pretty standard. She and the team quickly found their way. We talk a lot about strategy and decisions. I love listening to her and offering any (spectacular 😉) feedback along the way.
What does your ultimate Father's Day consist of?
Honestly, I can be a pretty boring guy. I love laying low at home. I don’t need to do anything over-the-top or go out for a meal or get-together. I’d be thrilled to sleep in and have a big coffee. Then maybe enjoy a bigger than usual breakfast – pancakes, bacon and eggs; hang out with my family and have a nap LOL.
What has been your fave Father's Day gift (so far)?
I don’t know if a gift stands out. I’d say the gift of my daughter and being a dad (if that makes sense). When I was younger, I always cared for Father’s Day, celebrating the occasion with my dad, but I obviously didn’t fully connect with it because I wasn’t a father. I think my first Father’s Day (2018) will always stand out, because when someone said “Happy Father’s Day!” it actually applied to me, and that was incredibly special.
What is your favourite thing about being a dad?
The bond and connection that I have with my daughter. Like when she looks for me when she’s scared, or runs to me for a hug, or just says the word “Daddy.” I legitimately melt when these things happen. Even the bickering and silly battles that I have with her. It’s such a blast. I certainly never knew or imagined a feeling like that.
How has being a dad changed you?
I think I’ve become a hell of a lot more responsible LOL. Once upon a time it was all about me. That’s definitely gone out the window. It’s all about my little girl and our family and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Everything I do now is in consideration of my little girl. When I wasn’t a parent, I didn’t have a clue. I feel like I react to other people’s children way more now. Becoming a father has just made me a softy 😂.
What is one food you couldn't live without?
This is a tough one because I literally like and eat everything. I’m one of the least picky people you’ll ever meet – unlike my lovely wife 😉. Being Italian, I love my pasta, pizza and prosciutto. Let’s go with pizza!
What is your go-to way to ROMPresent in your romper?
I’m the originator of the looks! I tend to centre a lot of my looks around my shoes – I own A LOT of shoes. My go-tos with my romper include Converse All Stars, Retro Air Jordan 1s, Adidas Ultraboosts. But my favorite look is with a pair of Vans and a jean jacket. A jean jacket is best jacket to wear with a romper. That’s easily the most versatile look.