Q & A with Amanda Alvaro

Amanda is the accomplished co-founder of Toronto's Pomp & Circumstance PR agency. She's also the founder of Artbound, a Canadian charity building arts schools in developing nations. Amanda serves on the boards of Rethink Breast Cancer and Canadian Art. As a commentator on CBC's Power and Politics, she enlightens viewers on pressing issues. She's a sought-after speaker on topics like women in business, politics, and arts education. 

Beyond her professional pursuits, Amanda nurtures her adventurous spirit by exploring the world with zeal and curiosity. She embraces diverse cultures, relishing the wonders of travel and broadening her horizons along the way.

Amanda is also a dedicated wife and mother of three children. Her impact spans philanthropy, leadership, and inspiring others.

We’re so excited to bring you our Q & A with Amanda Alvaro!

What does comfort mean to you?

I think true comfort is being at complete ease with my people - a cuddle fest on the couch with my husband and kids or an easy Sunday dinner with our family and friends.

We know you and your fam are big fans of our Jammers. What's your fav This Is J pajama style of choice?

I’m currently coveting the summer slumber collection but I’m also a big fan of the holiday sets. Yes, I’ve been known to deck the whole family in a matching set for a Christmas Eve pic (even if I have to bribe them to do it!).

What's the first thing you do when you walk through your door at the end of the day?

Let go of the day, change into something comfortable, and hang with my kids before dinner (wine optional).

What's the most important thing you look for in sleepwear?

Comfort! I want the coziest, relaxed fit but I also want to be able to chill in the set and feel like it could double as loungewear.

Do you have a bedtime routine? If so, what do you do to prep for sleep?

I’m an aspiring “sleep routine” kind of person. Mostly, I’m a little too random for routines of any kind but I’m pretty consistent with a simple skincare regimen and reading until I fall asleep.

When was the last time you stayed in Jammers all day (AKA the best day ever)?

Whenever I’m spending time at the cottage, I’m in pseudo PJ wear. Don’t judge but you might see me sporting pajama pants and a tank to run errands on any given vacation day!

At what time of day do you get your best work done?

Mornings. I wake up early, walk or do yoga, read the news and dig into work.

As an avid traveler, what are your tips for creating a sense of home / comfort when away from home?

I don’t. I think it’s a bit of magic to really leave home at home for a while and allow yourself to truly be away and discover and embrace all the differences and changes that come with being somewhere new.

You play so many roles (wife, mother, entrepreneur, friend, political commentator), what does balance mean to you? Is it even a thing?!

I’m happiest with a lot on the go. I like a full house and a full schedule and while I’m not sure that I ever really achieve true balance, I think I do a pretty good job of prioritizing the things that bring me true joy - time spent with family and friends, travel, a dock yoga, a good read, the occasional dance party and a career I love.

Are you a go out and dance on tables or stay in and stay cozy type of person?

I’m a Gemini so I’m decidedly both. I love a night of dancing with my girlfriends (maybe not on tables anymore!) but equally love cozying up to a movie with my family or having an impromptu dance party in our living room.

If you could go back and give your 18-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Travel often but live in another country at least once.