Pregnancy 101 for First-Time Mums – Preparing for Baby
Welcome to Part 2 of our Pregnancy 101 for First-Time Mums series! Now that you’ve embraced the journey of pregnancy and built healthy routines, it’s time to focus on what comes next: preparing for your baby’s arrival, capturing those precious moments, and managing the unexpected.
This guide is packed with practical advice to help you feel confident and excited as you get ready to welcome your little one. Let’s dive in!
1. Preparing for Baby’s Arrival
Getting ready for your baby can feel like a whirlwind, but with a little planning, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to prepare for the big day (and beyond).
Create a Baby Essentials Checklist
Having the right items on hand can make the transition into parenthood much smoother. Start with the basics:
For the baby: Nappies, wipes, onesies, a cot or Moses basket, and a car seat.
For feeding: Bottles, formula (if not breastfeeding), and a breast pump.
For you: Comfortable postpartum clothing, nursing bras, and pads.
Pro Tip: Resist the urge to overbuy. Babies grow quickly, so start with the essentials and adjust as needed.
Pack Your Hospital Bag Early
You never know when your baby will decide to make an entrance, so it’s a good idea to have your hospital bag packed by 36 weeks.
What to include:
For you: Comfortable clothing, toiletries, and a birth plan (if you’ve made one).
For the baby: Nappies, a going-home outfit, and a blanket.
Extras: Snacks, a water bottle, and a phone charger.
Pro Tip: Include a special keepsake, like a small teddy or blanket, to make your baby’s first photos even more meaningful.
Plan for the First Few Weeks
Those first weeks with your newborn can be both magical and exhausting. Having a support plan in place can help.
Ask friends or family to help with meals, chores, or babysitting older children.
Stock up on frozen meals and household essentials before your due date.
Set realistic expectations—this is a time to rest, bond with your baby, and adjust to your new routine.
2. Documenting the Journey
Pregnancy and early parenthood are full of once-in-a-lifetime moments. Capturing these memories is a beautiful way to celebrate your journey and create keepsakes for years to come.
Why You’ll Treasure a Maternity Photoshoot
Pregnancy might feel like it lasts forever, but the reality is that it’s fleeting. A maternity photoshoot at my Bournemouth studio captures the beauty of your growing bump and the love and anticipation you feel as you await your baby’s arrival.
Why Choose Kirsty Hoare Photography:
Sessions are relaxed, tailored to your style, and focus on making you feel confident and beautiful (and you are!).
I work with you to create timeless images you’ll cherish forever.
Capture Your Baby’s First Days with a Newborn Photoshoot
Newborns change so quickly, and those early days pass in the blink of an eye. A professional newborn photoshoot ensures you’ll always remember those tiny details—chubby cheeks, sleepy yawns, and little fingers and toes.
What to Expect:
Sessions are baby-led, prioritising your little one’s comfort and safety.
I create a calm, cosy environment to capture natural and posed images.
You’ll walk away with stunning portraits that celebrate your growing family.
3. Embracing the Unexpected
No matter how much you plan, pregnancy and parenthood often come with surprises. Learning to roll with the unexpected is one of the most valuable skills you can develop as a new mum.
Debunking Pregnancy Myths
You’ll hear a lot of advice, but not all of it is true. For example:
“You have to eat for two.” (Not really—just focus on balanced nutrition.)
“You’ll fall in love with your baby instantly.” (Some mums do, and some need time—it’s all normal!)
Pro Tip: Trust your instincts and focus on what works for you and your family.
Staying Flexible
Sometimes things don’t go according to plan—your baby might arrive early, your birth plan might change, or your newborn might not stick to a schedule. And that’s okay!
Tips for Staying Calm:
Practice deep breathing or mindfulness to manage stress.
Focus on the big picture—what really matters is the health and happiness of you and your baby.
Celebrate small victories, like mastering a new feeding technique or getting your baby to sleep for a full hour!
Finding Joy in the Little Things
In the midst of the chaos, don’t forget to slow down and savour the little moments. Whether it’s feeling your baby kick, seeing them smile for the first time, or simply cuddling them as they sleep, these moments are what make the journey so special.
Conclusion
Pregnancy and parenthood are full of twists and turns, but with the right preparation and mindset, you’ll navigate them beautifully. From packing your hospital bag to capturing those precious first days with your newborn, every step of the journey is an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to celebrate this incredible time in your life, I’d love to help. Book your maternity or newborn photoshoot with Kirsty Hoare Photography, and let’s create something truly special together.
