Sonya Prior on Style, Storytelling & the Art of Baby Naming

We believe in celebrating the layered lives of mothers — the way they move through the world with grace, humour, and heart. This month, we're honoured to feature Sonya Prior, a Communications Manager, mother of two, and the thoughtful mind behind The BB Namer. Originally from Auckland, Sonya shares her reflections on style, storytelling, motherhood, and the quiet magic of everyday rituals — all captured through the lens of her child, Odette.

Name: Sonya Prior
Date of Birth: 5 November 1991
Place of Birth: Auckland, New Zealand
Occupation: Communications Manager

What is your personal style signifier?
This might sound boring, but flats. Whether it’s loafers or ballet flats, comfort always wins — and my wardrobe proves it. I have an archive of heels from my twenties that I’ll likely never wear again after three knee surgeries, so practicality has become my north star.

What is your most cherished piece of jewellery, and why?
My engagement rings — yes, plural — from my partner Tyler. The first is a vintage Art Deco piece he chose while we were living in London. The second is a pink sapphire ring with baguette diamonds that I designed myself with a New Zealand jeweller. I love that together they represent where we met and where we’re from. There’s something deeply special about that.

What is the last thing you purchased and loved?
Our first home. It’s not the most exciting answer, but buying a house is all-consuming. There hasn’t been room for much else — financially or emotionally — but I’m so proud of this one.

What’s currently on your wishlist?
Diaphanous by Curionoir. I’m drawn to thoughtful, poetic scent — and this one has been calling my name.

The place that means a lot to you?
Menorca. It was the first holiday Tyler and I took together. It felt like the beginning of forever — without sounding too sentimental.

The beauty staples you can’t live without?
Sunscreen, always. My Wet Brush, Glossier Lash Stick, Aesop hand cream, and a spritz of something beautiful. Perfume is part of my ritual.

Tell us about The BB Namer — and why you started it.
The BB Namer (as in “baby”) is a tiny corner of the internet where I share my obsession with names. It started during my second pregnancy — I was deep in the world of name lists, style influences, and cultural nuance, but I couldn’t find anyone speaking directly to an Australasian audience. So I made a video. It took off, and now I get to help families around the world name their children — from curated lists to data dives to musings on pop culture. It’s niche, joyful, and strangely magical.

Go-to spots in New Zealand — for coffee, food, nature, or with kids?
I don’t drink coffee, but Blackdrop Eatery in Newmarket does the best matcha I’ve ever had. For food, I love Osteria Uno, Duo, Tokki, Bar Martin, and Ragtag — Auckland’s food scene is genuinely brilliant. For scenery, Waiheke Island or the drive north out of Auckland is always stunning. I also love a good inner-city bush walk — I’m lucky to have one right at the end of my street. And with the kids, we visit the Auckland Art Gallery and the Winter Gardens.

The things you’ll never part with?
I’m deeply nostalgic, so I keep memory boxes — filled with letters from my mum and friends, postcards, and even the ticket stub from the first movie Tyler and I saw together. I love tangible reminders of moments and people.

What are the challenges of being a working mother — and how do you manage it?
The inner monologue can be brutal. I know I’m a good mother, but believing it all the time is harder — especially when you’re trying to be everything, everywhere, all at once. I’m learning to give each role in my life the space and respect it deserves, while also accepting that I’m the common thread. If I’m okay, then the rest usually follows. I also have to acknowledge how lucky I am to have an incredible support system — family, friends, and most of all, Tyler. He’s not just a brilliant father — he’s my anchor. Sometimes I think my greatest gift to my children is giving them him as a dad.

Sonya wears Aquamarine Collier Letter S Necklace here

Film photography by: Odette (3)