That’s totally crazy, right?! 1 year ago I finally summed up the courage to start my business. Something that was on my heart to do. I didn't know if anyone would like my work or if it would even hit, but I took a chance and did it anyways. And i’m so glad I did. Not only because people liked what I do, buuut because i’m happy doing it. I look forward to making moms feel absolutely incredible and showing maternity and birth in its raw form.

My business started off by me wanting to do birth photography, being that I am not a mom, I have never given birth and I don’t even know when that will happen, I was nervous, nervous that moms to be wouldn’t want me in their space.

But the first birth I attended confirmed that I was doing exactly what I should be. That birth was LONG, it was tedious, & it was SCARY. But it was also BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL AND ABSOLUTELY EMPOWERING watching a mom birth her baby. Finding her own inner peace and working hard to push her baby out. Witnessing the love of her husband for her and their baby. Watching as they put their faith in God and in their healthcare workers to bring their baby back to life. To hear her cry for the first time in what felt like an eternity. To witness their family grow.

After that birth I cried, cried knowing that things could’ve ended badly, grateful that everything was okay. & then I realized that I absolutely wanted to do birth photography & birth work.

And yes, it is different, not every family wants that time to be photographed. But those that do absolutely love that they can look back at the birth of their child. And also, not everyone wants their photos to be shared via the internet.. and thats totally okay! I capture those moments for them ! If a family allows me to share, I will, and if not then nothing is mentioned.

Not only did I love capturing photos, but I got into wanting to help families through their birth… whether it be a natural unmedicated birth, medicated birth, c-section and so forth.. I wanted to help families through their birthing process. So I continued my birth journey and became a DOULA!

Doula:

a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to a mother before, during and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.

As a doula I get to help moms prepare for the birth they want. I DO NOT take the place of their partner, I help their partner feel involved. Honestly some partners have no idea what is going on in the birth room and need some support helping mom. And some may think that is “simple” to support their partner.. but when things get rough or when they’ve been birthing for many hours.. they might just want someone with them to give reassurance that everything is okay.

Some couples feel abandoned when nurses/doctors leave their room and check in every so often (it’s understandable because they have to attend everyone that is there.. As a doula, I never leave the room.. unless asked by the birthing person. I offer support in a way that mom feels comfortable with (we go over this at our visits before birth). As a doula I DON’T do anything medical.. I don’t check how dilated you are, check your bp or the baby’s heart. rate… ect.. that’s for the nurses/doctors/midwives.. I’m there for SUPPORT and to help you achieve the birth you want ♡

That quote “Bloom where you are planted” has been stuck with me for quite some time now. I love it! It keeps me going. It reminds me to continue my journey, to continue learning and better educating myself to help others in anyway I can.

During my second year of my business.. I’m going to try to focus more on being a Doula and supporting local moms. I left my full time job to do photography and doula services full time. One of the best decisions I’ve made! Covid happened right when I left so it’s been a little interesting doing business and getting through a pandemic. & I’ve been a little MIA for a while, lots of stress, my mom tested positive, we had to make some new arrangements, we all got tested, thankfully we came back negative. We’ve been a safe house for my nieces and nephews being that we are able to stay home and not have to work. I’ve been spending time with my family here at home and trying to get in a rhythm which is why I haven’t been online.

I’m going to try to offer as much support and information as I can online via instagram, facebook and tiktok! I’m also considering changing my name from “Manawa Photography” to something with birth but i’m not 100% sure. Usually when I talk about doula things/ pregnancy facts/tips i’ll use the hashtag #BekaTheDoula that’s also my name on tiktok lol. But until I decide on a different name, thats how you’ll see my stuff:) If you have a name suggestion, i’d be down to hear it lol

And I want to thank everyone that has supported me and my journey. Everyone that randomly sends me messages telling me that i’m doing great, just offering words of encouragement. All the families i’ve met and worked with! The ones that keep me in their family loop with updates.. y’all mean the world! For those that like/share my content, that is more appreciated than you know! That helps me reach more people. Thank you all. Thank you for those that have sent me books as well, either from my list or just books that you think would benefit me! I much appreciate it! ♡ Thank you for a first great year of business!