Taylor McGuire Barber on Bondi Beach Life, Global Adventures & Finding Joy in Motherhood

Taylor McGuire Barber, a talented designer with a transpacific life between New York and Sydney, offers a candid look into motherhood with her son Wylder. Living by Bondi Beach, she cherishes simple family moments and adventurous travels while navigating the beautiful chaos of parenting. Taylor’s story intertwines heartfelt reflections, lifestyle tips, and a fashion sensibility that blends edgy New York chic with laid-back Australian ease.

Name: Taylor McGuire Barber
Date of Birth: 4 November 1981
Place of Birth: Lake Forest, United States
Occupation: Designer

1. What do you love about being a mother?
Everything. Watching Wylder’s happiness and curiosity lights up my day. Becoming a mother was terrifying and overwhelming but also the greatest decision I’ve ever made.

2. What do you find the hardest thing about being a mother?
When your world shifts as your child grows. It can be frustrating until you realise he’s just learning and testing boundaries.

3. What are your go-to beauty products and favourite brands?
Joanna Czech Facial Roller (kept in the fridge!), Goop Exfoliating Insta-Facial, and my friend Jena’s Fitish beauty line — especially the ‘Don’t Sweat It’ spray.

4. How do you manage to stay in shape?
I avoid intense training. Yoga works best for me because it helps my mind and body. Running Bondi with our dog Jagger is a quick favourite.

5. How do you find time to rest and relax?
Quick getaways with Nic. We focus on rest and each other, prioritizing sleep and couple time.

6. Where are your favourite places to go in Sydney?
We love Woollahra for simple outings — coffee, croissants, and toy store visits with Wylder. Favourite spots include Apollo (adult restaurant), Sonoma Bondi (cafe), Gelbison (quick dinner), and Wild Play Centennial Park (adventure).

7. What are your favourite things to do together?
Bondi beach walks, exploring rock pools, and planning global trips. Our next journey takes us to Chicago, Palm Springs, and Hawaii.

8. Any travel tips with small children or a new baby?
Start with champagne at the airport! Expect chaos but enjoy brief peaceful moments. Always have a bag of small surprises for meltdowns.

9. Where is your favourite place to vacation with your family?
Italy — especially Ponza, a beautiful island near Rome where we spent time boating. Wylder’s middle name, Romeo, is a nod to our love of Italy.

10. What is your signature style and favourite fashion brands?
I love Saint Laurent’s dark, edgy aesthetic and the unexpected textures of Tibi. For shoes, Prada and Miu Miu are my classics, and Loewe bags are my current obsession. My style blends New York’s intensity with Sydney’s laid-back vibe.

Taylor wears Two Letters Necklace here