Australian media personality Kate Waterhouse is no stranger to life lived in the spotlight, but her most cherished role is the one she plays at home—as a devoted mum to her two daughters, whom she shares with husband and former rugby league player Luke Ricketson.
“Mother’s Day is such a beautiful reminder to pause, reflect, and celebrate the incredible bond between mothers and their children—and all the love that comes with it,” she tells marie claire Australia.
“Motherhood is the greatest gift and the most profound journey I’ve ever been on. It teaches you patience, strength, humility, and above all, unconditional love.”
It’s this celebration of unconditional love that influenced Pandora’s new Mother’s Day collection. Featuring the infinity symbol, the keepsake pieces capture the deep connections and enduring nature of motherly love. And as a longtime friend of the brand, Waterhouse beautifully embodies this spirit. Below, she shares her favourite Mother’s Day moments, life lessons and evolving signature style.
What does Mother’s Day look like in your household?
Mother’s Day is such a special day in our home. My daughters love making breakfast in bed for me, and they really go all out. They’re at that beautiful age where they put so much heart into everything—they’ll sneak into the garden to pick flowers, set a little tray with love, and proudly present their creations. It’s incredibly sweet. But my favourite part, without question, are the handmade cards. There’s something so touching about their words and drawings—it’s pure and heartfelt, and I truly treasure them. I always say I wish I could bottle up this precious time. It’s fleeting, but so full of love and joy.
What are some of your fondest memories of celebrating with your mum, Gai?
Mother’s Day has always been such a family-oriented occasion. Growing up, it was all about togetherness. We’d gather around the table with Mum, and when I was younger, we also celebrated with both of my grandmothers. It was always a big family lunch—full of laughter, stories, and generations coming together. I have such fond memories of those moments. It was less about gifts and more about the time we shared, and I’ve carried that sentiment through to how I now celebrate with my own family.
What’s the most valuable piece of advice she’s given you?
Mum has always led by example. One of the greatest lessons she’s passed on to me is the value of resilience and grace—particularly under pressure. She’s an incredibly strong woman yet always carries herself with kindness and elegance. She taught me that you can be both strong and soft, ambitious and nurturing. That balance has been something I try to embrace not just as a mother, but in all areas of life.
If you could pass down one life lesson to your children—just as your mum did for you—what would it be?
I would want them to know the importance of staying true to themselves. I always encourage my girls to be confident in who they are and to approach life with kindness and integrity. Life can be busy and noisy, but if they can stay grounded in their values and trust their instincts, they’ll be able to navigate anything with courage and compassion.
Pandora’s latest campaign celebrates the enduring nature of motherly love. What does infinite love mean to you when it comes to your relationship with your daughters?
Infinite love, to me, is the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child—its love without condition or end. It’s the kind of love that’s present in the everyday moments, not just the big milestones. Whether it’s comforting them after a tough day, cheering them on, or simply being there, it’s constant and unwavering. My daughters are my heart, and there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for them.
Your wardrobe is impeccable. Have your daughters inherited your sense of style, or shown their own interests in fashion?
Both of my daughters definitely have a love for fashion, but their styles couldn’t be more different—and I love that! My eldest is more into casual pieces. She’s a jeans and T-shirt kind of girl but still has a great eye for putting things together in an effortless, chic way. My youngest, on the other hand, is all about colour, sparkle, and fun! She adores anything with glitter, rainbows, and bold prints. It’s so much fun seeing their personalities come through in how they dress, and I always encourage them to express themselves through fashion.
Has your own personal style changed since motherhood?
Absolutely. My love for fashion hasn’t changed, but practicality plays a bigger role now. With such a busy lifestyle—juggling work, family, and everything in between—I’ve learned the value of versatile pieces that can take me from a meeting straight to school pick-up. I still gravitate toward timeless, classic styles, but I now look for pieces that offer comfort without compromising on elegance.
Speaking of personal style, what is the most cherished piece of jewellery that you own and why?
One piece that holds deep sentimental value for me is my grandmother’s tennis bracelet. It has a beautiful Art Deco design, and I remember there was a time when I considered modernising it—but I’m so glad I didn’t. Every time I wear it, I feel a sense of connection to her. It reminds me of her strength, grace, and the beautiful legacy she left behind. It’s a piece I hope to pass down one day, carrying her story with it.
Pandora’s Mother’s Day collection offers engravable pieces for special personalisation. This service is available online and instore.
Pardora’s skilled craftspeople shape precious metals and responsibly sourced materials into contemporary jewellery that holds the stories of things you love.
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