Another lifetime ago, I worked as an art teacher at an Atlanta elementary school and also provided childcare for families with infants under 6 months old. All the babies were born at Northside or Piedmont hospitals, with four delivered surgically after failed labor inductions.

The families chose the conventional route of using an obstetrician for their low-risk pregnancies. Most took a hospital or OB-recommended birthing class and planned to use epidural anesthesia. The parents who had c-sections felt they hadn't been adequately prepared to consider alternatives, benefits, or risks, and lacked the power to make informed decisions during labor, affecting their breastfeeding and bonding experiences.

I heard the call!

It was evident that I had much to learn about the over-medicalization of birth in America and its impact on new families. I researched pregnancy and childbirth extensively, including reading "Pushed" by Jennifer Block and watching "The Business of Being Born." I embarked on a new journey to empower women in their birthing choices and provide support for parenthood.

After a summer trek through the backcountry of Wyoming and Montana in 2007, I resumed teaching and became a nanny, eventually obtaining certifications as a Birth Doula and educator. I provided postpartum support and attended numerous birthdays, leading to the founding of The Happiest Doulas agency to serve more Atlanta families.

Life's a beach!

In February 2018, I moved to St. Petersburg, FL to visit the gulf beaches more often. (Life's short and I love the beach!) Drawing together a team of instructors and infant care specialists, The Happiest Doulas now provide personalized, in-person prenatal preparation in two metro areas of the southeast: Atlanta and Tampa - St. Pete.     

I am a Professional Member at Evidence Based Birth, where I receive frequent continuing education on the best practices in the field. I love to pass this information on to my doula clients and students of my private childbirth classes, which are available LIVE online and in person. In 2022, I completed my certification as a Lactation Counselor with the Center for Breastfeeding. This provided me with the current information to best support clients needing help with bodyfeeding.

I currently serve as President of the Tampa Bay Birth Network to carry on our mission of raising awareness in the area of holistic and informed pregnancy and birth for all families. We serve both the community at large as well as birth professionals.

To learn more about me or the pregnancy and postpartum services that I can provide to you, please request a call with me. I'm always happy to chat about doula support and how it can positively impact on your baby's birthday.

Memories To Last a Lifetime…

At the start of the pandemic, hospitals would permit a laboring patient only 1-2 visitors. Recalling my days in art school (yes, darkroom was still a thing), I brushed up on my photography skills to do double duty for birth clients as a birth doula-photographer. I upgraded my camera in late 2021 to a mirrorless version. It’s perfect for creating videos and documenting in low-light environments such as a labor room. If you wish to document your birth story AND have doula support, I’m ready to help you realize your vision.

Reach out soon to get on my client calendar and reserve space today.

I serve clients who live in the areas of 33701, 33707, 33780, and the surrounding neighborhoods (St Pete, Pinellas Park, Gulfport). An out-of-area travel fee will apply if services are provided outside the preferred zone.

Queer Inclusive Practice for Childbirth and Infant Feeding