working mom

Best Baby Registry Items for Working Moms

For moms planning on returning to work after the birth of their baby, planning ahead when making your registry is vitally important. Beyond cute outfits for your bundle of joy, it’s important to have a variety of things on hand that will make your life easier when it’s time to transition back to work.

We’ve put together a list of items that everyone from expectant working moms to those actively preparing to head back to the office can use.

For Expectant Working Moms

Blisslets Sofia + Cecilia Nausea Relief Bracelets – $29.99

You’ve heard of acupressure bracelets providing nausea relief for travel, right? That’s what these deliver–but with style! You’ll get relief from morning (or all day) sickness with these beautiful bracelets without any side effects. They’ll add a little extra something to any outfit you wear to work during pregnancy.

Belly Bandit Upsie Belly® Belly Wrap – $69.95

As your baby grows, you might find yourself needing a little extra support throughout your work day. This belly support band works for working moms during their pregnancies, helping to support the extra weight whether sitting at a desk or walking around all day.

For Working Moms Who Pump

Nanobebe Milk Storage Bags & Organizer – $9.99

Working moms have to stay organized in order to get everything done. We love how the flat nanobebe breastmilk bags fit in this organizer for your freezer. Put the oldest milk at the top and remove the guessing game from opening the freezer. We also have some pumping tips for working moms.

The Larken X – $48.00

The perfect nursing bra for working moms

This comfortable bra is the perfect selection for working moms who need to pump during the day. It’s wire free and comfortable, complete with hands free pumping in a snap-free, zipper-free, clip-free, patent-pending design. It’s a must-have, for sure!

For Work-At-Home Moms

DockATot Deluxe+ Dock – $195.99

Keep your baby nearby with this adorable marble patterned Dockatot. Your baby will be safe at an arm’s reach while you’re on your next conference call. Then you can hang out and get some tummy time in between meetings. Additionally, if you’re working from home, you may want to check out some advice for working moms; it was written in 2020 and still applies today.

Babymoov Travelnest Portable Bassinet – $89.99

Then when it’s time for a nap, you can move your little sleeper over to the Babymoov bassinet. Instead of running them back to their nursery and risk waking them up, you can simply set them down right next to you. You’ll be able to keep working while they take a restful nap. It would fit in just right in the ultimate work-at-home mom office.

For All Working Moms

Belly Bandit MT Moto Leggings – $89.95

Black leggings are a must. These moto leggings from Belly Bandit offer compression that keeps your postpartum belly firmly in place. The moto detailing will pair well with just about anything. However, they also have some solid black leggings without the moto effect, too.

Kibou Bag – $89.00

It’s described as a “deliberately minimal diaper bag,” but it’s so much more than that. It may look small, but looks are deceiving. You can wear it in a variety of ways, including crossbody and as a fanny pack. It’s got hidden card slots and holds more than you might imagine. It even has a detachable changing pad that unfolds from the back flap.

These are just a few of the must-have baby registry items for working moms. What items did you have on your registry that have proven to be your favorite as you’ve returned to work?

More for mom:
Working Mom Must-Haves: Kindred Bravely Brands
Time Saving Tips for Working Moms

ORiANE Favorite: The Sara Turtleneck Tunic

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

When it is time to shop for a birthday, holiday or pregnancy gift for expectant mothers, you must consider the Sara Turtleneck Tunic from ORiANE. Mothers will love all the Sara Turtleneck Tunic has to offer.

For the nursing and postpartum months, it is important for moms to wear something comfortable. The Sara tunic is made of a very soft material so moms will feel cozy and beautiful in this tunic.

The Sara Turtleneck Tunic is stylish with leggings or skinny jeans. It reaches the mid-thigh to create a piece that looks like an oversized shirt, rather than a maternity shirt. If mom is on the petite side, they can wear this tunic as a fashionable dress.

From the comfortable material to the versatile design, mothers can wear this tunic anywhere, from relaxing at home to making a grocery store run, to a stylish top or dress for date night. Whether working inside or outside the home, this gorgeous piece is a great addition to any working mom’s attire too.

The tunic is realistically priced to fit most budgets, so shoppers do not have to worry about breaking the bank on a great gift idea. At a reasonable price, shoppers can order the new-mama more than one, or even grab one for themselves!

Regardless of the occasion, you can’t go wrong with the Sara Turtleneck Tunic from ORiANE. Cozy, stylish and versatile, this is a great gift idea for mothers who are looking to feel comfortable and amazing.

And as a special bonus, you’ll receive 20% off, applied automatically at checkout, for ORiANE’s Bye Bye 2020 sale through 12/20.

Thank you to ORiANE for making this sponsored post possible.

Must-Have Diaper Bag for Modern Moms: Lily Jade

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

One of the most important essentials for any mom is her diaper bag. Diaper bags become your home away from home, and they are the most important transitional piece that will take you from day out with baby to business meetings and more. We’re huge fans of the Lily Jade Caroline Diaper Bag for so many reasons. Read on to see why the Lily Jade Diaper Bag-Backpack is a must-have for any parent.

The Lily Jade Caroline bag is a luxurious and lightweight diaper bag created with enhanced durability and sustainability, letting you feel fashionable with a lot of function! The Lily Jade Caroline bag is made with vegan leather, which helps keep the bag sustainable and lightweight for every day use. The custom formulated faux leather makes for a soft feel with enhanced durability. The vertical shape and wide exterior side pockets make for the chicest designed and most user-friendly faux leather bag available.

Lily Jade’s Caroline Diaper Bag has room for everything you need – and more! Designed to help you effortlessly transition from babies to boardroom, you’ll stay organized with all of the pockets and features. The Caroline Bag features 1 large exterior slip pocket, 2 side bottle pockets, 2 exterior zippered pockets, 1 large interior zipper pocket, 2 interior side elastic pockets, and 2 interior pockets. Additionally, it features an adjustable, detachable extra long strap for messenger carry and a gorgeous tassel with Jade color beads and LJ circle logo. Lily Jade makes it easy for busy moms to carry everything they need – even with a baby and toddler in tow!

Caroline’s ergonomic, permanently anchored, padded vegan leather back straps disappear completely, zipped up in the back and tucked in at the bottom. Coming in 6 modern colors, these vegan friendly Lily Jade bags would make an ideal baby shower gift as well as a gift for yourself! Even better, use code CAROLINE10 for 10% off the Caroline bag!

Thank you to Lily Jade for making this sponsored post possible!

Motif Luna with Battery Breast Pump: Real Mom Review

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Gugu Guru was so excited to work with influencer couple Mel & Neg Cordova on this real mom review for the new battery powered Motif Luna Breast Pump. In this post, Mel shares how this fabulous pump made her breastfeeding and pumping journey easier.

I am a first time mom, new to breastfeeding and I originally did not know where to start when it came to a breast pump. Like most anything nowadays, there are always too many choices for the same product and it can make things very confusing. Which one is better? Why are the price points so different? What does one brand offer over the other? I often rely on either asking people I know and trust for recommendations or searching for blogs and reviews on products I am interested in – and it was no different when it came to a breast pump. After my own experience, I can offer some advice for other new mommas out there.

Over the last few years, I had heard other mothers talk about brands like Medela and more recently, the modern Spectra pump. I had not caught wind of the Motif Luna with Battery Pump until Gugu Guru recommended it. As with most products they have thankfully suggested, I thought it would be a great opportunity to give the Motif Luna with Battery a try. And I am so glad I did!

I didn’t really start to pump until about 6-8 weeks postpartum. I was primarily focusing on breastfeeding and maintaining my supply based on my baby’s feeding needs. Before I knew it, I was approaching week 10 and was trying to play catch up for that working-mom-life. Knowing I had to start work by week 12, I had to get to pumping. And no joke – the Motif Luna with Battery is a rock star pump!

First of all, I love the fact that it is super easy to assemble, doesn’t have a ton of parts, it’s very quiet, and the best part – its wireless! Some other notable features is that it has two different modes – massage and expression – with varying levels in each mode, an LED light, backflow prevention, a great built-in handle making it easy to carry around the house since it is wireless, and the timer clock with auto shut off, which has proven to be very useful on many occasions.

I feel like I’ve become a pro at this pumping gig now. The Motif Luna with Battery made it super easy. I feel like I’m pumping any chance I get. I have pumped early in the mornings to express milk before feeding, right next to my sleeping wife and baby, and I even ran a meeting on the phone while pumping – yes it’s THAT quiet. I’m pretty sure I’ve gotten at least 4 different 30 minute+ sessions out of one charge, if not more.

Overall, it’s sleek, lightweight and easy to carry around with me when I’m multi-tasking 101 things at once. Us moms know the feeling all too well – that freedom comes in handy. I really love my battery-powered Motif Luna Pump and would highly recommend this to anyone I know – 5 stars! You will not regret it!

The Motif Luna Pump with Battery means more milk in less time.
Check with your insurance provider as Motif may be covered.

Thank you to Motif for making this sponsored post possible.

Essential Food for Babies and Kids: Serenity Kids

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Any working mom knows, it can be a struggle to feed everyone when they’re hungry. Between busy commutes, daycare pickups, and responding to work emails, a mom’s got to find a quick and easy way to feed those hungry mouths! We’re excited to introduce you to Serenity Kids – a healthy and quick way to make sure your littles are getting all of the nutrition they need. Serenity Kids is a one-of-a-kind company that focuses on low sugar baby and toddler food made with ethically sourced meats, organic savory veggies, and healthy fats. You know you’re choosing the healthiest option when it comes to Serenity Kids.

The Serenity Kids’ meat and veggie pouches are ideal for busy days, daycare snacks and lunches, and anytime you are on the go. With delicious flavors such as grass fed beef with organic kale and sweet potatoes, free range chicken with organic peas and carrots, wild caught salmon with organic butternut squash and beet, pasture raised turkey with organic pumpkin and beets, grass-fed bison with organic squash and spinach, and uncured bacon with organic kale and squash – you are sure to find many meat-based flavors your baby loves! Be sure to check out their Organic Savory Veggies line made with healthy fats like organic avocado or olive oil, as well. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your little ones at any early age. With no added sugars or preservatives, Serenity Kids’ allergen-free, easy grab and go pouch is the most nutritious low sugar baby food option for your little one.

The variety packs are a fantastic way to keep your baby’s taste buds evolving and try new flavors. Serenity Kids’ ethically sourced meats come from pasture raised animals from small American family farms and are never given antibiotics, hormones, or GMO feed. Pasture raised meat is proven to be higher in Omega 3 fatty acids, CLAs, Vitamin E, Iron, and other vitamins and minerals that support healthy development. Their farmers also use Regenerative Agriculture practices that mimic the way wild animals live in nature. Not only do these animals lead happier lives, but these practices also help reverse climate change.

Serenity Kids is excited to have recently launched their Toddler Purees with Bone Broth. These new flavors are full of ingredients toddlers love that help expand their palate and provide essential nutrients for their growing body and brain. Each pouch is made with pasture raised meat from small American regenerative family farms, ethically sourced bone broth made with organic ingredients, and Certified USDA Organic vegetables and herbs.

Serenity Kids Toddler Purees with Bone Broth feature 5+ grams protein and 5g healthy fats per serving for growing and developing bodies 12 months and up! Bone broth and herbs can help broaden a toddler’s palate, strengthen growing bones and teeth, help build connective tissue and joints, reduce the risk of food sensitivity, as well as support immunity and digestion. These are ideal for any time of the day, as a snack or to add to a meal.

Head over to Serenity Kids to learn more and use code WM15 for 15% off your first order on the website.

Thank you to Serenity Kids for making this sponsored post possible.

Working Mom Must-Haves: Kindred Bravely Brands

by Gugu Guru 1 Comment

When it comes to working from home, one thing is of utmost importance: comfortable clothes that will also make you feel put-together! This is especially true if you’re working from home and pumping or breastfeeding. We’ve rounded up some of our must-haves for working from home from Kindred Bravely and Davy Piper. Read on to see why these are essential items for feeling empowered, even when you’re working on the floor of your baby’s nursery.

A Hands Free Pumping Bra is a must-have for any mama working from home and we’re digging the Kindred Bravely Hands Free Pumping Bra for so many reasons. The Kindred Bravely Hands Free Pumping Bra is a game-changer for any postpartum mama, this all-in-one bra combines the best features of your favorite nursing and hands-free pumping bras. Kindred Bravely’s patented design features their unique Easyclip™ so you can wear the same bra all day (or all night) long for pumping, nursing, or both at the same time! Plus, we love that you don’t need to change clothes from breastmilk leaks all day; the bra is incredibly comfortable, as it’s underwire-free with removable padding and ultra-soft fabric. Most importantly, Kindred Bravely’s double pumping bra securely fits all standard pump flanges, including Medela, Spectra, Lansinoh, Ameda, Hygeia, Philips Avent, Motif, and Evenflo, as well as wearable pumps like Willow, Elvie, and Freemie. They make it easy to go from Zoom meeting to pumping in no time flat!

So, what do you wear over that Hand’s Free Pumping Bra to make nursing even easier? The Kindred Bravely Everyday Nursing and Maternity Shirt, of course. With a roomy-but-flattering cut and side access for nursing and pumping, this scoop neck T-shirt can be worn from pregnancy through nursing and beyond, which makes it a perfect investment piece of clothing during your pregnancy. It features a hidden under layer that allows for easy, discreet breastfeeding, plus the two-layer construction creates a great drape and extra coverage! And, Kindred Bravely thought of everything, as the pocket adds to the style and function — an ideal place to store your hair ties, breast pads, or pacifier. We love how soft and comfortable the Kindred Bravely Everyday Nursing and Maternity Shirt; you will feel ready to take on work with a baby in your lap!

At it’s heart, the Kindred Bravely brands are about inspiring and empowering women. They believe when you feel comfortable and good, you will feel strong and ready to take on the world! They also want moms to continue to enjoy the same comfort from their clothing after their breastfeeding journey is complete. For this reason they created the brand Davy Piper to continue to provide comfortable and beautiful apparel to women in every stage of life. The Davy Piper Diana Sports Bra is ideal for lower-impact activities like yoga and hiking, this sleek sports bra is made of breathable, moisture-wicking material that will keep you dry and comfortable throughout your workout. Made with active women in mind, this pullover sports bra ensures you’re ready no matter what the day throws your way.

We’re all about layers, especially when the seasons change, so we’re huge fans of the Davy Piper Joanna 2 in 1 Neckline Tank. This reversible layering tank top feels like a second skin, providing smooth coverage under any shirt. We absolutely love how it can be worn as either a V-neck or a scoop neck, as a layering piece or on its own, Joanna is designed for you to make it your own. With so many styling options and neutral colors that go with everything, Joanna is your new everyday essential. Kindred Bravely and Davy Piper are here to make you feel your best! Now, go shopping for YOU!

Thank you to Kindred Bravely for making this sponsored post possible.

Why You Need This Diaper Bag from Parker Baby Co.

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Parker Baby Co. isn’t just another baby-centric brand. Founded by a husband and wife team, this small business has taken the market by storm, going up against the most expensive products from top name brands and offering affordable, high-quality, thoughtful products that every parent will love.

The company was founded by couple Kirsten and Sam who were quickly overwhelmed by all the baby products they were told they needed when they had twins in 2015. Ever since, they have strived to redesign these same products to make them multi-functional and fit for the modern family.

The couple now has four children to call their own, and throughout each experience of welcoming a new bundle of joy into their family, they’ve been able to try out new iterations of Parker Baby products and make notes about what they’d like to see added or changed first-hand.

As parents, they know what it’s like to be bombarded by the newest products that could make their lives easier — so what makes this diaper bag, in particular, so special? You’re about to find out why it should make your must-haves list!

What’s So Special About This Diaper Bag?

To start, Parker Baby Co. has kept its promise on offering thoughtfully designed, high-quality products at prices new parents can afford, but they go beyond fair pricing with this diaper bag.

Spacious and modern, this diaper bag is actually a backpack, helping to keep mom’s hands-free as she goes about her daily errands with her little one. What’s more, it’s covered in pockets to make it highly functional and keep mom and dad highly organized.

Two of these pockets are insulated, making them ideal for storing snacks and milk, and there’s also the super easily accessible “mom pocket” that’s ideal for holding a phone, wallet, or other need-to-reach items. It also has a padded laptop pocket because Parker Baby Co. knows full and well the needs of today’s working and travelling moms.

Add to the list a keyring, built-in changing pad, and stroller straps, and you’ll instantly understand why so many new moms are adding this diaper bag to their baby shower wishlist. Plus, it features a neutral and modern color scheme to boot, so it seamlessly blends into any stylish mom’s wardrobe.

Get One For Yourself

If you want to get this diaper bag and try it out for yourself, you’ll find it here. Best of all, it only costs $75! While you’re there be sure to check out the other products Parker Baby offers and read more about this brand’s wholesome backstory and founders.

Thank you to Parker Baby Co. for making this sponsored post possible.

Expert Advice for Working Mothers in 2020

by Christine Swearingen Leave a Comment

Being a working mom is a challenge. Being a working mom in 2020, in these unprecedented times, takes the challenge to a whole new level. We asked our experts for their top piece of advice for working mothers in 2020. Read what they have to say —

Julie Burt Nichols – The Wizard, Twiniversity: “If you’re breastfeeding, buy a micro-fridge for your office to store your pumped milk so you don’t have to keep it in the communal refrigerator. When shopping for a baby monitor, consider one that can be viewed over the internet through a private IP address so you can access the feed from the office.”

Natalie Diaz – The Big Cheese, Twiniversity: “Plan to have child care start 1-2 weeks prior to your back to work start date to give yourself plenty of time to make a smooth transition back to the office. Go through your closet one month prior to going back to work to see what pieces still fit and what needs upgrading for your new, fabulous body.”

Elina Furman – Elfin Media: “With school closures, lack of routines, and zoom calls at odd hours, it’s so important for mothers to reshuffle the division of labor at home. While taking on the brunt of the invisible load left us frazzled and tired before the pandemic, an unequal division during these times is simply not sustainable. Families need to create detailed lists of every household to do and divide accordingly. This is an excellent time to reframe and equalize the household labor playing field, and women need to learn to delegate and give up perfectionism in the name of sanity.”

Jessica Hill – Founder, The Parent Collective: Invest in finding mom friends with kids the same age as yours. While I realize this will take time you might not feel you have, we all need those people to enjoy and survive motherhood with – they keep you company during the sometimes-monotonous early days with a baby and provide support as you juggle your work life balance (made harder now that many of us are home and attempting to do it all simultaneously). Friends managing the same phases with kids will be able to relate to your joys and struggles in a way no one else will.

Kelly Mariotti – Executive Director, JPMA: Families are spending much more time at home and that will likely continue so be sure to check for safety hazards around the house that might be inviting to curious kids when you are multitasking and can’t be right with them.

Jada Shapiro – Maternal Health Expert and Founder, Boober: My advice to moms who are working, taking care of their babies, nursing and pumping (and for many right now at home doing all of this at once!) is to recognize that the struggle is real and that reaching out for help can make a huge difference in your mental health or in adjusting your feeding/pumping routines; sometimes a little expert advice and support is all it takes to start feeling better!

Lori Caden – Co-Founder and CEO, Proof: “Push back against perfectionism. There’s no way to be a perfect mother, but a million ways to be a good one.”

Tara Campbell Lussier – Founder, Arrow Birth: “Find your village. Working mothers can feel isolated and lonely juggling their numerous work/life responsibilities, especially in 2020. When you connect with people in a similar life season who inspire you to be the best version of yourself – wisdom, community, resources, and relief are abundant. They’re out there, so follow your own intuitive mothering instinct to find them.”

Top Mama Must-Haves from Soma

by Mel Blume Leave a Comment

As mamas, we’re superheroes 24/7. We never clock out and always have to be ready to respond. So, how can make our always-on-call lifestyles easier? By owning quick and cozy gear that’s versatile and functional: essentials we can turn to at a moment’s notice. We scoped out the soft and stylish scene by Soma, and found game-changing items that can help you master this heroic task.

Around-the-clock comfort starts with ultra-cozy undergarments. If you’re nursing, Soma’s selection of bras is the breast. Designed with a one-handed release cup for easy access, these nursing bras make it super simple to feed babe without any extra stress. Our favorites are the Wireless Unlined Nursing Bra, the Embraceable Full Coverage Contour Nursing Bra, and the Embraceable Wireless Nursing Bra. If you’re interested in barely-there bras that offer the ultimate support, check out Soma’s Enbliss Bralettes. Their second-skin feel is epic—you’ll forget they’re even on.

Since our bodies transform and stretch during all stages of pregnancy and beyond, you might want to try the SOMAINNOFIT Bra to find your new perfect fit. Designed for fit purposes only (not as an everyday bra), this innovative measuring bra provides your exact measurements through your smartphone!

Speaking of the perfect fit, easy, go-to leggings are always essential during a mama’s journey. These two-for-one Reversible Leggings are the most convenient solution when an outfit change is needed—but there’s no time to think about your next ensemble. For a slimming option, try these leggings on for size. They’re designed to take up to 1” or more off your waist.

Top off your can’t-live-without leggings with one of these ultra-soft tunics. Their wear-everywhere silhouettes, with a cloud-like feel, are perfect for layering. Throw on a denim jacket, a blazer or sweater to get through the colder seasons without effort.

When you’re not out and about, relax. And take a deep breath with the help of Soma’s Cool Nights Pajamas and Robes. Instead of dreaming about sweet Zzz’s, make them happen. With long sleeves, short sleeves, and colors and patterns galore, you can easily find sleepwear to live in, season after season.

The most amazing thing about our Soma finds? The price points. These day-to-night luxuries come without the price tag you’d expect. Treat yourself, mama. You deserve it all.

Time Saving Tips for Working Moms

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

It’s no shock that working moms have a million plates to juggle on a daily basis; never is this more true than when a breastfeeding mama returns to the workplace and has to also juggle pumping, too! We asked out team for their best time saving tips for working moms to share, what are your best time saving tips for working moms?

Keep a calendar: When it comes to time saving tips for working moms, our top tip is to keep everything on a calendar; it may seem time consuming at the outset to put all of your important dates in a calendar setting, but believe us, it will save you time down the line. It takes way longer to look for the email invite to the birthday party than to simply peep into your Google calendar – double time saving if you share the Google calendar with your signifiant other or sitter! If you’re more of an old school calendar working mom, we love the personalized calendars from Parabo Press (which also make a great gift).
Plan your clothing for the work week: one of the daily hassles working moms encounter is figuring out what to wear for work every day! We recommend planning your outfits for the week ahead of time. Make a mom-uniform for yourself and stick to your favorite colors and what feels comfortable. If you’re pumping at work, make sure your outfits are pumping friendly.
Pump with Ease: Speaking of pumping, make sure you choose a breast pump that is easy to use and can help you multitask at the same time! We’re big fans of the Motif Luna Breast Pump for working moms. We love the Luna Breast Pump for many reasons, but one is that you can totally multitask while pumping with the Motif Luna Pump, as it features a soft, low purr that doesn’t disturb co-workers, phone calls or sleeping kiddos. Plus, It’s also one of the lightest pumps on the market, which means it is easy to commute with and can fit into any bag. We’re also fans of their Motif Breastmilk Storage bags; having stored breastmilk is a huge time saver, and these bags help get the job done. They feature an easy-pour spout, leak-proof double zippers, and the self-stand design makes it easy for refrigerator storage. Plus, they can also lay flat in your freezer to maximize space.
Outsource, outsource, outsource: Working mamas simply do not have time to do it all, and that’s simply okay! We’re huge fans of outsourcing everything we need – from grocery delivery to diaper delivery and more. We’re big fans of Abby + Finn diaper delivery, as it is super easy to customize your needs and the diapers are top notch quality. KIDBOX is another fave of ours to make your life a little easier, as they will handpick clothing for your kiddos and send it straight to you – no need to head to the shops or even spend time online shopping!
Meal Plan: Again, it seems counterproductive to sit down and meal plan for the week, but believe us, when you go into the week knowing what dinner is every night, it will save you so much time later on! Check out this post for helpful meal planning tips (and don’t forget to stock up on VeeTee rice for work lunches and dinnertime, too).

Thank you to Motif Medical for making this sponsored post possible!

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For Expectant Working Moms

For Working Moms Who Pump

For Work-At-Home Moms

For All Working Moms

What’s So Special About This Diaper Bag?

Get One For Yourself

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