The Amazing Aviva Drescher Stops in for a chat !!

Reality television is something of a guilty pleasure, we either love it, or love to hate it. But there’s no denying this controversial, over-the-top, in your face type TV is what has kept millions of people worldwide tuning in over the years. The team at GCMAG, (ok mostly the girls!) were excited to chat to Aviva Drescher, one of the ladies from the successful television series The Real Housewives of New York City.
The over-the-top reality show follows the lives of Manhattans elite, super privileged socialites capturing their extravagant outings and sometimes tumultuous interactions.
The statuesque blonde is a mother of four, a wife to her investment banker husband, and a member of the exclusive crowd who reside on Manhattans Upper East Side. At 5’10 and with looks that resemble Claudia Schiffer, you may be mistaken to think she is just a pretty face. But as we learn, Aviva is so much more, having entered the show to bring awareness to her charities and various causes.
But like any series of this show, whether it be the Real Housewives of Atlanta, Beverly Hills or Orange County- the ladies go through friendship break ups, make ups and all thats in between. After having spoken with Aviva post-show however, we don’t think this woman has fallen victim to all the theatrics of reality television just yet!..
Aviva, you’ve just come off the runway at New York Fashion Week. That must of been exciting, but we bet you’re exhausted!
It was a lot of fun! Malan Breton is very talented and kind. Between the four kids and fashion week, I ended up coming down with a terrible flu!
It’s near freezing in New York right now, how did you cope wearing all those beautiful- but minimal dresses?
By teaming them with tights and coats!
The Real Housewives of NYC Season 5 (which we’re all addicted to by the way) is all about out with the old and in with the new, and quite fitting really, seeing as yourself and three other ladies were welcomed onto the show. What was it like being the newbie on such a popular reality show?
It was a tremendous experience. I had a lot of fun. It was a privilege having a front row seat and a backstage pass to such a huge part of pop culture, it was quite a journey!
Approached to take part in the show, what was it that made you say ‘Yes’?
I wanted to make a difference. Not get fame or recognition. I chose to become a cartoon character and in exchange raise awareness for amputees, physically challenged and all with differences.
We all know there was no lack of drama between the cast members on the show.. Were you worried about getting caught up in all that insanity?
Yes. I never thought I would! However, I learned quickly that when we sign up to do the show, it is not our moment to take the high road. That would be terribly boring for you all to watch.
Who were your favourite gal pals on the show?
While filming Carole Radziwill was the nicest. Ramona was the least kind when we hit an impasse. I really like all the women! I am closest with Luann, Carole and Heather.
You have a gorgeous brood of kids at home, and your loving husband Reid to help you raise them. What’s your favorite part about being a mother and is it hard to juggle that with the work commitments sometimes?
Thank you! Loving them is my favorite part. Hugs and kisses. Its a very tough juggle, but you just manage all of it.
Were you worried about exposing your children to the world of reality television and therefore the public eye?
Yes, very. But thankfully nothing negative happened! They don’t care, their friends and schools don’t care.. They have great people surrounding them.
You mentioned on the INSIDER that you are “The first actual real housewife?” What did you mean by that??
On the show I am the first “stay at home mom” (without a paying job) who was born and raised in Manhattan. No cast member has ever been born in Manhattan nor been a non-working mother.
At a young age you tragically lost a leg in a farm accident. Now you’re the National Spokesperson for the One Step Ahead Foundation helping other amputees cope with losing a limb. We think that’s pretty inspiring stuff..
Thank You! Please don’t be impressed. It is the least I can do. Wearing a prosthesis has always come very easy to me. I believe it all happened for a purpose- to give back. This gives me tremendous joy and purpose.
Do you feel the pressure to be constantly looking camera-ready now that you’re a public figure? There must be some days you just want to rock your comfiest pair of track pants and throw your hair in a bun?!
Yes! That is the most annoying part of the whole gig! The hair, make-up, wardrobe which is not provided for by the network. Its a full time job before getting in front of the cameras.
We’re pleased to know you are definitely not just a pretty face, having multiple law and literature degree’s from top universities to your name. Going onto the show, did you worry that people might perceive you incorrectly, when in fact you’re much more than just a housewife?
I was not sure how I would be portrayed or how people would perceive me. I couldn’t really control it so I figured there was not much point in worrying. I am though, very disappointed that it appeared that my leg and few fears seem to dominate my life. In reality, they are so in the background. I have friends who didn’t even know that I wore a prosthesis until the show aired!
A very ambitious lady, what’s your secret to managing it all? How do you fit the role of mother, wife, TV star, philanthropist, charity worker, friend and ALL the rest in? While still managing to keep your head on..
I probably don’t do any of it so perfectly. I just take it one day at a time, one child at a time and so on. Sometimes I don’t even look at the weeks calendar as not to overwhelm myself.
You exude strength and confidence on the show, what advice can you give other women aspiring to be like you?
That is really kind of you to say. I would advise women to own who they are. Own the good, the bad and the ugly. Be proud of it ALL. Everyone has so many attributes and no one is perfect. Be gentle on yourself. Confidence is really sexy. Believe.
We’re all big fans of the show and of you here in Australia, are there any plans to bring the family to our shores in the near future?
I would love to!!! I hope an opportunity arises!
Dying to go down under!!!
Thank YOU! Xxoo
Find out all things Aviva and keep up to date with her life at Facebook.com/avivadrescher and follow @avivadrescher on twitter.