First-time mom and actress Parker McKenna (you can next see her as Laila James in BET’s Games People Play, returning for its second season in October) is especially proud of the fact that she’s an avid entrepreneur with a swimwear line. Next in the business pipeline: An in-the-works hair-care line, with a full-on devotion to the art of self care on the side.
You’ve been in the industry for a while and you seem rather selective. How does the process work when you choose a project?
“To be honest, I like to work on projects that I would actually support if I wasn’t attached to them. I want to be entertained along with everyone else when I watch, too! I am at the point in my career where I have full transparency with my team. It allows us to look at submitted projects and be on the same page when it comes to me as a brand. I’m not just trying to book anything and everything, which takes a lot of the pressure off. Now, I get a chance to enjoy mastering my craft.”
You are a first-time mom. What was it like having your baby during a time of so much uncertainty, aka, the pandemic?
“For me, having a baby during this crazy time of uncertainty was a blessing! I literally just got to ENJOY my pregnancy and I didn’t have to worry about much of anything other than taking care of myself. Plus, I got to pull off the best secret in the world since most work was on Zoom. Besides the obvious of just being worried about the future, it seemed like perfect time for me to go on that journey!”
You also like sharing post-baby “musts” on social. Anything you really love right now?
“As far as baby gear goes, I got Harley this big pink play pin that almost takes up half of our living room—you can find me playing in it often, too! It’s given us a designated area for toys (galore!!!), a space for her to explore, and even a good space to leave her occupied when we need our hands.”
As for musts for myself, I’m really into self care and my bathroom is kind of my safe haven for me. I like to splurge on things that’ll help me create nice, peaceful spa-like vibes. I love baths, and I just got a bath pillow—I can’t believe I missed out on that while I was pregnant.”
Rumor has it, you’re launching a hair line. Care to share what we can expect?
“Well, without giving away too much info, I’m creating a brand that caters to women and our MANY needs. I’m all about feeling amazing, and that starts from within. Just know, whatever I put my name on, I’m heavily involved in the whole process, even when it comes down to ingredients. I love simple, clean, organic products so you can expect nothing less.”
