Ayla & Storm

Our practice

A search built around the household, not the vacancy.

Ayla & Storm conducts selective searches for private families seeking experienced childcare and household professionals.

The work begins by understanding the household itself: how it functions, where the pressure sits, what the role must take ownership of and what the right person needs to make possible.

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The search

How we work.

  1. 01

    The Household Brief

    Before we search, we define the appointment properly: the responsibilities, household dynamics, practical requirements, communication style, boundaries and the outcome the role is intended to support.

    A family may believe it needs a nanny when the real need is a nanny–family assistant. It may ask for flexibility when the role actually requires clearer expectations. The stronger the brief, the more precise the search becomes.

  2. 02

    The Search

    We conduct a targeted and selective search shaped around the brief.

    The process is not limited to whoever happens to be actively applying. Where appropriate, we approach professionals whose experience and working style align with the household.

  3. 03

    The Assessment

    Experience matters, but it does not answer every question.

    We also consider judgement, discretion, communication, initiative, composure, boundaries, adaptability and the environments in which a professional is most likely to thrive.

  4. 04

    The Considered Introduction

    Families meet a small number of professionals.

    Each introduction includes meaningful context: why the person is being presented, where the alignment appears strongest and what the family may wish to explore more closely.

  5. 05

    The Appointment and Transition

    We support the offer, help both sides clarify expectations and remain in contact during the early placement period.

    The specific support and replacement terms attached to a search are set out clearly in the client agreement.

The appointments

The appointments we support.

  • Nannies

    Career, live-in, travel and rota nannies, placed around the needs and rhythm of the household.

  • Governesses & Educational Nannies

    Professionals supporting a child’s learning, confidence, routine and broader educational development.

  • Nanny–Family Assistants

    Childcare-centred hybrid appointments that also include defined family logistics and household support.

  • Family Assistants

    Professionals managing calendars, appointments, travel preparation, errands, household administration and the invisible logistics surrounding family life.

  • Household Managers

    Experienced professionals overseeing staff, properties, suppliers, standards and the day-to-day operation of a private household or estate.

  • Maternity Nurses & Newborn Care Specialists

    Dedicated early-stage support shaped around the baby, the parents and the needs of the household. The precise scope, qualifications and nature of the appointment will depend on the family’s location, requirements and relevant local standards.

Reach

International searches, shaped around each household.

Ayla & Storm is based in Canada and available for select international searches.

Each engagement is considered individually and structured around the family’s location, requirements and relevant local considerations.

Invitation

A private household appointment affects far more than the duties on the page. The search should reflect that.

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