Journal 48: Interview with Cristina Martínez Gijón
Cristina Martínez Gijón is a Spanish influencer focused on motherhood and family life, known for sharing her experience as a mother of six children on social media. Her voice stands out for promoting values such as family unity, cooperation between parents and children, and commitment to educating in a large household.
You have six children. What expectations did you have before, and what surprised you the most once your family began to grow?
“From a very young age, I dreamed of having a big family—perhaps because I grew up surrounded by siblings (there are six of us) and I know what that bond means. But I never imagined the deep happiness that dream would bring.
Since we started dating, Álvaro and I were always sure we wanted to commit to having a large family. We knew there would be sacrifices, but we also sensed the gift that comes with growing up surrounded by love and companionship. And we weren’t wrong. Reality taught me that family life is movement, adaptation and, above all, multiplied love.
What surprised me the most as our family grew was discovering my own capacity to reinvent myself. Each child brought with them a new lesson, a new version of myself. I learned that logistics can be an art, that patience can be trained, and that laughter is the best tool for chaotic days. In fact, if there’s something that defines us as a family—something we try to pass on and that has become our foolproof formula—it’s: LOVE + HUMOR.”
What personal lessons do you think you’ve taken from it?
“I’ve learned to prioritize and to enjoy the small things. Above all, I’ve understood that being present is far more valuable than doing everything perfectly. Motherhood has taught me to put things into perspective, to let go of the obsession with control, and to live with more inner calm—even when the outside world is pure chaos. And chaotic it is: I’ve taken an important video call while one child was asking for a yogurt and another showed up in tears. Before, that would have stressed me out; now I laugh and carry on. Because in the end, perfection is boring… and real life—with humor—is so much more beautiful.”
From the perspective of your career as an influencer and lifestyle creator, what motivates you to share your family routine?
“I started sharing without big expectations, simply showing my day-to-day life. No perfect filters or unreal lives: from the beginning I wanted to show who we really are—with chaos, love, laughter, exhaustion, arguments, and those beautiful moments that make everything worth it.
I like being authentic, natural, and transparent. I don’t hide who I am: I’m Catholic, I go to Mass, and sometimes I share reflections that—unexpectedly—reach many people. Recently I posted a video with Álvaro (who, honestly, is always up for anything 🤭) where you could see us laughing, arguing, criticizing and praising each other, always respectfully and, of course, with a touch of humor—because that’s how I like to do things. And I remember receiving so many messages saying: ‘Thank you for showing the reality of marriage.’
And that’s what motivates me most: if what I share helps even just one person, then it was worth it.”
What are your personal plans or dreams beyond being a mother?
“Being a mother is an essential part of me, but I also dream of creating something of my own in the world of fashion, because I believe fashion has that magic: it can transform how you feel without changing who you are.
My goal is to find a space where I can bring together my experience, my creativity and my personal essence. Because being a mother doesn’t mean giving up your dreams; it means giving them a new meaning.”
What place in the world would you like to explore wearing your friulane shoes?
“Without a doubt, Tuscany. It has that natural, elegant and relaxed charm I identify with: a perfect mix of rustic and sophisticated, landscapes that look like postcards, history, great food… and that serenity that invites you to enjoy life slowly.
I picture myself walking along those cobblestone streets, wearing my friulane shoes, carrying a basket of flowers, with the kids running behind me enjoying an ice cream.”
What would your perfect Cayumas look like?
“My perfect Cayumas would be comfortable and versatile, with that touch of color that brightens any look and any day.
A pair I can wear from a morning of errands to an improvised dinner without feeling like I need to change. Classic, but with personality.”