April lands us right in the middle of World Doula Week and International Doula Month. So what better time to share how grateful I am for the doulas in my life? I'm feeling especially grateful for how doula support has impacted my own journey, and especially honored to be part of a team of incredible women here at Sprout & Blossom who care so deeply for the birth community. I just want to take a moment to gush over them and share the love with anyone who reads (including those of you considering adding doula support to your own team…I highly recommend).

Financial Planning for the Growing Family: A guide for decisions beyond the baby registry

When financially planning for the growing family, there’s so much to consider beyond the baby registry. Four years into parenthood, I’m creating the guide I wish my spouse and I had been given during those early stages of financial planning. While this guide is not entirely comprehensive, it is a great launching point for some big considerations.

Baby's First Bath

There are so many sweet firsts to savor when baby arrives! Among my favorites? Baby's first bath. With my firstborn, I had envisioned placing her into our cute little whale tub we had — the baby bath with a mesh sling — for a gentle little sponge bath. But I quickly discovered a much cozier alternative, for both baby and me: bathing together! Read on to learn why and how I shared baby’s first bath — and watch a sweet little video clip, too!

PostpartumShay GabrielDecember 17, 2023newborn, postpartum, motherhood, bath, first bath, baby, baby prep, maternity, birth, fourth trimesterComment

Ditch the Hospital Gown: Why birthing in your own clothes matters.

If you are giving birth in the hospital, wearing your own clothes the whole time you are there sends a strong and important message. It says: I am not sick. I am not a patient. I am a person first and foremost and I am here to give birth. And trust me when I say, nurses and providers get the message. It’s a simple, and beautiful thing!

Merry Self-Care Christmas!

Join us in this year's Self-Care Christmas — the time of year when we gift ourselves an extra dose of happiness and healthy decision-making! Between all the winterizing, working against the darkness, and holiday prep, let us not forget to give ourselves the care we deserve. And, on that note, Merry Christmas to all — because when we take better care of ourselves, our people and our world feel it, too.

The Benefits of Writing Your Birth Story + 5 Ways to Get Started

The thought of writing your birth story can be daunting. So I'm here to offer some strategies for getting started! Because truly, the benefits of writing your birth story make the dedicated time and energy entirely worthwhile.

10 Little Stocking Stuffers

What's the countdown to Christmas!? *Cue holiday cheer!* As you're prepping to stuff stockings (the best part of holiday gifts IMHO), we've got a list of 10 little goodies you might consider. They’re shared here with easy click-to-cart buttons. Let the stuffing begin!

Our Holiday Gift-Giving Guide

It’s that beloved (but also….sort of dreaded?) time of year — holiday shopping season! Let’s breathe in relaxation…breathe out holiday stress…and open the Sprout and Blossom Holiday Gift-Giving Guide! A one-stop shop to improve your own wellbeing and that of your lucky gift recipients. *Cue happy Santa dance.*

10 Ways to Use Google Assistant in the Fourth Trimester

There's a lot about parenthood I didn't see coming. You know, like, trying to protect my baby from getting sick during a global pandemic...or repurposing her unused crib into a play fort (because she slept there zero times)...or how much I would rely on Google Assistant to make our lives functional! I'm here to let you in on alllll our tricks so you, too, can bask in the benefits!

Birth is Love: A Heartful Conversation

Preparing for Your Postpartum Journey | Sprout and Blossom Birth

When you’re in the throes of pregnancy, it’s easy to overlook the importance of postpartum planning. We’ll walk you through some advance preparations that will lend to a smoother (and more enjoyable!) postpartum experience.

Our Favorite Postpartum Products

Postpartum, Products, Preparing for BirthAnnica QuakenbushJanuary 17, 2021Sprout and Blossom, LLCpostpartum, sitz bath, perineal balm, peri balm, peri spray, haakaa, lactation, nursing, breastfeeding, lochia Comments

Postpartum Doula Recommendations | Grand Rapids Birth

Postpartum, Preparing for BirthAnnica QuakenbushJanuary 13, 2021Sprout and Blossom, LLCDONA, doula, doula care, doula support, postpartum, supportComment

Your Postpartum Visit with Sprout and Blossom | Grand Rapids Doula

The Third Stage of Labor | The Birth of the Placenta | Grand Rapids Doula and Birth Photographer

Let’s talk about the third stage of labor - the birth of the placenta. Know what to expect during this process, and how to ensure you are set up for postpartum care for down there. The placenta is incredible.

The Story of Annica Marie Essentials

I am so excited to announce a new product line called Annica Marie Essentials!

Now available is a postpartum care package called The Care Bundle. This gift box is full of essential self-care items to get you or a mama you love through the first weeks with a new baby.

Matias' Gentle Birth Story | Grand Rapids Birth Photographer

Sweet Baby Matias was born in the Philippines at Shiphrah Birthing Home (part of Help International Ministries), shortly before I moved back to Grand Rapids. It was an absolute privilege to be a part of this family's special day.

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