Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Rebecca Munroe, and I'm a one-woman production company. I direct, film, and edit, as well as occasionally photograph. You're pretty lucky to find me with my camera and a coffee in hand.
How would you define yourself in 3 words?
Warm, reliable, intuitive.
What makes you feel like a woman?
I feel like a woman when I'm in a deep bath, or even in the sea. I love how water can make me feel connected to my body, whether it's gentle or even choppy. Although I've never felt more like a woman than when my hips ache after a long walk.
What does a day in your life look like?
Nothing too glamorous. I spend most of my time editing and creating some kind of imagery, sometimes building a set for product photography. It's like there are never enough hours in the day. On the other hand, I always take the time to take care of my skin. I have a ritual when it comes to my skincare: Cleansing, serums, oil, cream, and repeat.
What are you most proud of?
I have a hard time perceiving my own "proud" moment. I think most of my proud moments come from being proud of others, my friends and family. I am most proud when I see my loved ones succeed.
An anecdote from your life that helped you move forward?
When I had just graduated from film school, I started working for a large production company in Soho. The environment was horrible, but I thought I should be there to start at the bottom before making my way to the top. After a while, I realized that the company was using my ideas and camerawork without showing any interest in me, or even allowing my name to be associated with the work, as I was considered "junior." I figured if they were selling my work for profit, surely I could do the same. Against all advice, I left. It was the best decision I made in my twenties. I've always believed in myself ever since.
What is your relationship with your body and mind?
My body and mind don't always see eye to eye. I love everything about who I am, but it took a lot of work to unlearn and relearn how I talked to myself. My mind can bring up a lot of intrusive thoughts if I haven't spent enough time with myself. I sometimes need to talk kinder to my body. I'm a plus-size woman, and sometimes I feel like the world isn't ready for me to love myself.
What gives you a boost every day when you're not feeling well?
An infusion, putting on makeup, cuddling my cat.
What are the beauty and wellness rituals that you couldn't live without or that you practice every day?
Facial massage is something I've always, always done. My mother is a professional masseuse, and I was raised knowing what a good massage can do to both the body and mind.
If you had to keep only one beauty product in your vanity case? (cream, serum, oil, eye cream, etc.)
A light oil. Just because it's the most pleasant to apply!
Your favorite Aime product and why?
French Glow , a classic! I've been taking them for so long, I don't want to see what my skin looks like without them! I recommend this treatment to everyone.
Do you have any reading recommendations?
The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van der Kolk, Ways of Seeing by Jon Berger, and Delta of Venus by Anaïs Nin. These three books together are an essence for me.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I don't believe in guilty pleasures, I don't believe pleasures should come with guilt (as long as you don't harm others).
What is your Proust madeleine?
An old Davidoff perfume, I think it was called "Cool Water." I think of my partner when we were swimming off the coast of southern France, sex, and also sea water. I like deep perfumes.
How would you define your vision of the world today?
I think it's a battle of freedoms. There's been so much evolution but also so much recession. Living in the UK, I can really feel a big divide, which has caused so much pain. But I remain hopeful. I like to focus on the beauty of the art and culture that is being created right now.
What would you say to yourself from 20 years ago?
Keep it up baby, don't be afraid to love like you do.
What is your mantra?
Breathe, listen, and learn. If all else fails, listen to your instincts.
Your plans for the future?
I want to continue filming, creating, and pushing myself creatively. I want to travel a little more and learn new techniques. I hope to go to Portugal for an intensive surfing trip; I've always wanted to be able to ride waves. I really hope I can master it.
