How did you and your husband choose the unique names for your children, Ocean and Breeze?
Irisha: We came up with my son’s name, Ocean, on our honeymoon, stand-ing on a ship, looking out where the sky met the sea, and felt so peaceful and powerful. My hus-band and I talked about the magnificent water and the sense of depth, strength, and calmness, and we knew it was the perfect name for our first child. Our daughter’s name, Breeze, came to me in a dream. Three important people in my life, my aunt Barbara Williams and my grandparents, the late Overseer Robert and Ida Means, were playing with a baby. To get their attention, I called out the baby’s name. That name was Breeze. I woke up knowing, without a doubt, it was perfect for her. It felt like a gift from heaven and went perfectly with Ocean.
Why did you decide to transition from being a cosmetology entrepreneur for 15 years?
Irisha: After 15 years in the beauty industry, I felt a shift. I loved it, but as life changed, so did my priorities. I had a son on the spectrum and shortly after, a newborn. I wanted to be more present for my family.
I needed peace and balance. So I pivoted, not because I lost passion, but to step into a season that aligned better with my family and faith.
How do you balance mom life with being a busy social media Christian beauty influencer (@irishaisfabulous) with a mass follow-ing and a wedding planner?
Irisha: It’s not easy, but with God, a great support system, grace, and good planning—it’s possible. My husband, their dad, is the absolute best! I prioritize faith and family first. I follow a routine: early mornings for prayer and devotion, dedicated content days, and family time. I’m not perfect, but I’ve found peace in walking on purpose.
How do you maintain self-care to be your best self for your children?
Irisha: For me, self-care starts with God. Prayer and devotion center me before anything else. I’ve learned I can’t pour from an empty cup. When I make myself a priority and take care of myself,
I’m more present, patient, and joyful for my family. I show up better not just as their mom, but as their safe place.
Having a son on the autism spectrum, what advice would you give other new moms potentially trying to navigate this process?
Irisha: Having a son on the spectrum has taught me patience, perspective, and unconditional love. My advice: I would learn your child’s unique ways of connecting and also celebrate every milestone, big or small. Don’t hesitate to ask for help through early intervention or therapists. Most importantly, remember your child is beautifully and wonderfully made. Autism isn’t something to “fix”—it’s something to understand and love through.
How has playing soccer for individuals with special needs at the YMCA enriched your son’s life?
Irisha: Soccer has been a tremendous blessing. He feels included, supported, and celebrated. His confidence has increased, and his social skills have improved. Most of all, he’s having fun, and that warms my heart. It’s important to see your kids thrive and have a purpose in life. Watching him smile on the field reminds me that every child deserves something to celebrate.
How does praying each morning with your children and reading bedtime stories at night as a family create a stronger bond with them?
Irisha: Morning prayer and bedtime stories are our special mo-ments. They help us connect, slow down, and center our hearts. Prayer teaches us to trust God, and stories bring us together in love and laughter. They remind us that we’re safe, seen, and loved, no matter how busy life gets.
Rapid Fire Questions
Favorite quick meal? Baked chicken, jasmine rice, broccoli, and rolls. Night out on the town or movie night at home? Movie night at home. What’s your funniest catchphrase? “A mess.”
Camping or glamping? Glamping for sure.
What is your dream vacation? I would love to visit the coast of Italy.
Irisha Thomas has been married to Terrence Thomas for eight years. The cou-ple has two children and lives in Montgomery, AL.
*Photo courtesy of Lisa Smith, Studio Panache.
