Dear Viva’s friends,

This is the first of what I hope will become a monthly letter— something I’ve had in mind for quite some time. With Mother’s Day being celebrated across so many countries this May 11, it felt like the perfect moment to begin.

I’ve often thought about sharing my reflections on motherhood and how I experience it alongside my roles as a brand founder and businesswoman. I’m curious to hear from you, too— how do you navigate the many roles in your own life? Where does everything flow in harmony, and where does it fall apart?

Just a little side note: in Slovenia — where both I and Viva’s come from — we celebrate Mother’s Day earlier, on March 25.

So, my name is Živa Ferlež, and I’m the CEO of Viva’s — but first and always, I’m a mother to a wonderful little girl. On this Mother’s Day, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes to all you amazing women — to mothers of children, of ideas, of creative projects, or of something entirely your own. Also I’m a passionate animal lover and also a proud dog mom.

Motherhood is one of the most beautiful roles in the world. It has opened my heart, tested my strength, sparked inspiration, shaken me more than once, and turned many things upside down — yet it has given me more than I could have ever imagined.

I experience the role of brand founder and creative director much the same way. These titles may sound polished and impressive, but behind them is a reality of constant effort, daily decisions, sacrifices, and the ongoing work of pushing beyond limits. Much like motherhood, wouldn’t you agree?

From the very start of this letter, I also wanted to acknowledge those of you who may not be mothers to children — and may never be — but who nurture bold ideas, give life to meaningful projects, and hold space for others. It seems that, as women, we are naturally creative, generous, emotional, resilient, strong — and, yes, sometimes fragile.

So, where can motivation be found? Besides in coffee, of course! I believe motivation can be found in inspiration. I find it in everyday moments: watching my daughter grow, learn, explore; noticing how she impacts me, my husband, and our entire family. On tough days, that’s what pulls me through — it allows me to see past the stress and into what really matters.

The same is true in business. Not every day is easy. Sometimes partnerships fall through, production delays happen, designs don’t come out quite right, or progress feels too slow — even after months or years of effort. But then, I speak with our wonderful customers, or meet with an inspiring woman we’re about to collaborate with, and suddenly I feel that spark again — that gut feeling that we’re moving in the right direction.

And then there are the good days (thank you, higher powers and perfect planetary alignments!). Days when we launch something new, toast to a fresh project, reach new people, and see the impact we’re making — not just through what we create, but through the way our customers are embracing more mindful, supportive fashion choices. That’s when I know it’s all worth it.

I know there will be many more days filled with challenges — in both motherhood and business — but I’m already looking forward to the ones where everything flows, where it all feels just right.

To all of you reading this: may you never run out of inspiration. Celebrate your creativity, honor your talents, and be proud of everything you are.

Until next time — stay inspired.
With love,
Živa