What is your day job?
I’m the owner of Wild Womb Photography, where I capture the beauty of birth and parenthood. I’m also a certified birth and postpartum doula, and a proud mom of two awesome kids who keep me on my toes!
How long have you lived in the Grand Traverse area?
Northern Michigan has been my home for most of my life, and I’ve been soaking up the beauty of Traverse City for about 8 years now.
What is your favorite thing about living/working in the Traverse City area?
We’re spoiled with incredible lakes, forests, and trails around here. There’s always a new spot to explore or a perfect view to enjoy.
What do you do for fun?
I love getting outdoors with my family. Hiking, camping, and paddleboarding are our go-to activities. I’m excited to get back on the trail and do some overnight trips this summer with the newest member of our family, hiking with a 6 month old can be a little intimidating but I’m determined to try!
How do you get involved in the community?
I started a hiking group for moms where we hit up stroller-friendly trails. We also bring in guest speakers like pelvic floor physical therapists, lactation/feeding counselors, midwives, and myself to chat about pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, and parenting. It’s a great mix of fresh air and good company!
What is your favorite local business (restaurant, shop, service, etc.) and why?
Water Bearer Coffee is my happy place. I love grabbing a mocha and editing photo sessions in their fun, colorful atmosphere.
What’s the weirdest job you’ve ever had?
It’s not exactly weird, but I used to work in medical records. It was pretty much the opposite of exciting, but it taught me a lot about staying organized. But now, I’m thrilled to be building a business centered around something I’m so passionate about.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I’m a big fan of monster truck shows! There’s just something thrilling about all the noise and chaos.
What is something you learned in the last week?
I’m working on my childbirth education certification, and I recently learned that the placenta is the only organ that our bodies grow and then discard. The placenta acts as a filter, allowing nutrients and oxygen from the mother’s bloodstream to pass to the baby while removing waste products from the baby’s blood. How cool is that!?
How can other TCYP members support you (personally or professionally)?
I have big dreams about creating a network of birth professionals to provide resources to birthing people in our area. If you’re a professional or a parent, reach out! I’d love to hear about what you do or what you need as a parent or pregnant person. Let’s connect and make great things happen together.
