Becoming a mother fueled Jaycina Almond’s career. The 23-year-old became a full-time model only after her daughter, Syx, was born in 2017. It was a decision of necessity: As a primary caregiver, she needed a flexible career. She quickly garnered campaigns for the likes of BeautyCounter, Dôen, and Target. Somehow, she found the time to publish a book of poetry, In No Particular Order (Amazon, $9.99), which outlines her journey into motherhood. Next up, Jaycina—who has a soft spot for vintage and 40,000 followers on Instagram—is launching a subscription box for expectant mothers called Tender, which delivers a selection of items handmade by other working moms and gives 10 percent of its profits to local mothers in need.
Hometown
Lexington, Kentucky
Neighborhood
Old Fourth Ward. My daughter and I just moved here from Reynoldstown. We love the splash pad.
Skin care secret
I do a facial steam every week with a cheap steamer from Amazon, followed by the Aztec Secret healing clay mask, which I mix with apple-cider vinegar.
Favorite accessory
I have a gold ring that spells out my name—surprisingly, I got it made at Zales!
Go-to kid-friendly spot
Indoor playground Hippohopp is a lifesaver.
On my playlist
“Khlorine” by Smino, all of Wet’s new album, and “Loving is Easy” by Rex Orange County.
Workout class
Jen at Solstice Yoga + Barre has a BYOBaby class I love.
How I unwind
I light some sage or my favorite No. 61 candle from Candlefish and read a book.
On my nightstand
Like A Mother: A Feminist Journey Through The Science and Culture of Pregnancy
Can’t leave home without
Peppermint chapstick from the local Mama Bath + Body
Where I go for inspiration
Any bookstore. Posman Books always has a fresh selection. Book Nook in Decatur is also pretty cool.
Favorite vintage shop
Paris on Ponce. They always have super-cute furniture.
Can’t miss
The farmers market! Freedom Park is closest, but I also like Grant Park’s.
This article appears in our October 2018 issue.