Jennifer Lopez and Jennifer Garner, both significant figures in the lives of Violet, 17, Seraphina, 14, and Sam, 11, offer a stark contrast in style and character, as witnessed at Seraphina Affleck's school play on May 20. Lopez, in a vibrant red ruffled maxi dress and sky-high heels, is a living embodiment of glamour. On the other hand, Garner, donned in a simple gray T-shirt, mom jeans, and sneakers, is the epitome of conventional and grounded charm.

An insider commented on the inherent characteristics of the two women: Garner, the ex-wife of Ben Affleck, being “traditional and down-to-earth,” while his current wife, Lopez, is someone who "just loves to shine.” Interestingly, Garner's children are increasingly inclined towards Lopez's radiant persona.

This gravitation has reportedly created a bit of tension for Garner, as she struggles to balance her desire for her children to have a positive relationship with Lopez and her own feelings of being overlooked. "She and J. Lo are kind of battling for the kids’ affection right now... any mom would feel a little ignored if their kids wanted to hang out with their stepmother all the time!” said the source.

When it comes to navigating this complex blended family dynamic, Lopez, 53, has a clear vision. She expressed her hopes that her kids would see Affleck as a new ally and vice versa. "What I hope to cultivate with our family is that his kids have a new ally in me and my kids have a new ally in him,” said Lopez. But she admits to facing challenges with her 15-year-old twins, Max and Emme, who tend to be less communicative.

However, Garner's children seem to be attracted to Lopez's "cool and exciting" demeanor, as compared to Garner’s “strict and serious” approach, according to the insider. "J. Lo doesn’t want to step on any toes, but she’s not going to change who she is,” the source added, underlining that Affleck has traditionally been the more permissive parent.

Increasingly, the Affleck children are spending time at their father's house. The source noted that Seraphina was with Lopez and Affleck on Mother's Day, which was particularly challenging for Garner. Ben's situation is also complex. He is thrilled that his children are accepting J. Lo but doesn't want to distance Garner, whom he considers a "world-class mom."

In spite of these circumstances, Garner maintains her desire for her children to embrace Lopez, even engaging in activities like reading The Last Thing He Told Me with Seraphina, which reflects the narrative of a stepmother and stepdaughter. Yet, there is no denying the occasional hurt feelings, as the insider remarks, “But what mother in Jen’s position wouldn’t feel threatened?”