My husband and I were thrilled Julia was part of our birth experience. She has a wealth of knowledge in this area and extensive experience working with couples in a variety of birthing settings. She is professional, respectful, no-nonsense and kind. She helped us prepare for labor, referred us to helpful resources and also gave us a list of useful questions to ask my medical providers. She always was accessible via phone, email and text. In the days before I went into labor (at 38 weeks), I was admitted to the hospital for gestational hypertension. Our plans for a natural childbirth seemed thwarted as the doctors became adamant about pursuing aggressive interventions. My husband and I were devastated and scared for the health of our son. Julia was available around the clock to help us navigate this unexpected situation; she listened, comforted, and helped us with questions to ask so that we could make a fully informed decision. In the end, we were able to experience the natural childbirth we had always wanted. When my contractions started, Julia stayed in close contact with my husband and arrived to support us at the perfect time during my labor (in the middle of the night!). My husband became a much better birth coach and supporter once she arrived. She gave him more confidence, and he also was able to take breaks because of her presence. They were a great team. Julia was calm, comforting, and loving. She made me feel safe, respected, and supported. She’s also physically strong and could handle bearing almost all of my weight as I leaned on her during my contractions. Once my son crowned, Julia began taking pictures. We are so happy to have these phenomenal shots of our first moments with our son. A few days after I delivered, Julia came by the house to support me regarding latching, baby carrying, and co-sleeping issues. Again, we could not have been happier with Julia before, during, and after the birth of our son!
-Grace Culley
January 18, 2014
Focused Birth doula and birth photography
Birth Fee: $1200 to $2000
Postpartum Rate: Not specified