For the Hoboken girl mamas expecting a little one — it’s such an exciting {but sometimes nerve-racking} time, especially for first-time parents. Luckily, there are so many resources in Hoboken to help keep your cool during pregnancy. Ladies in Hoboken are a pretty healthy bunch thanks to the wealth of fitness options and healthy eating establishments in town, but when you’re with child, it’s important to be in the know. Today our Mile Square Mama {of 3!} shares her tips and tricks for those 9 months of pregnancy while living in Hoboken.
Health/Wellness
For some women, pregnancy is a time to indulge and satisfy inexplicable cravings; others feel a commitment to refine their dietary habits to best nourish their baby, themselves, and maintain their figure. If you feel like you are walking a tightrope between the two, you are not alone! Melissa Gosser, a registered dietician and blogger at Fit Fab Mommy is a fellow Mile Square Mama of three and a great local resource. You might consider checking out Simply Juiced on 1st Street as they have so many varieties of organic juices that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Another great spot that serves all-natural and locally sourced food is honeygrow — their salads and stir fry dishes are SO good.
Registering for Goodies
Seek out the pros for advice before registering! We all know space is limited in Hoboken so it’s crucial to seek out expert advice on what you REALLY need for a baby. It’s incredible how much gear is needed for such a tiny baby. You can’t go wrong with visiting Wee Babe on Washington Street to learn about the latest must-haves and gadgets. You can even register there and support a local business!
Mama Connections
Connecting with other Hoboken mamas is a must. There is nothing like a support system of women who are going through the same experiences in life at the same time as you. There are many online resources that give you the opportunity to “meet” other Hoboken moms that can lead to a great circle of new mom friends! Hoboken Mommies has brought so many great women into my life, and NJ Mom is another great resource for those in NJ and a little further out of town. You might also checkout Hoboken Buy & Sell on Facebook {to score some awesome second hand items or pass on your own gear} and Hoboken Moms Meetup.
Pregnancy Fitness
It’s important to stay active when expecting because they say being fit may lead to an easier delivery and most certainly helps you to bounce back faster. Don’t worry, you can continue to take your favorite classes at the countless fitness studios in town. It is always important to check with your doctor and let your instructor know that you’re expecting. Devotion Yoga is a beautiful place to retreat to help alleviate some common pregnancy pains like sciatica and back pain. After your baby arrives, Stroller Power Fitness and Local Barre BYOBaby help moms get back in shape and feel incredible post baby while eliminating the need for childcare.
Pre-Natal Massages
Take the time to enjoy and celebrate your pregnancy. Yes, being pregnant is exhausting but it’s also such a fleeting time. Prenatal massages are a great way to recharge and relax as you prepare for delivery. Body Balance offers wonderful massages for expectant moms and has discounted pricing for new clients. Leyla at Health and Hands also does great trigger-point work {while still adhering to pre-natal massage requirements}.
Maternity Photography
Another way to celebrate this special time is maternity photos. Trust me, you will cherish these photos. Hoboken is filled with talented photographers and I can personally recommend Hoboken Girl’s editor, Jennifer Casson Tripucka, who took incredible photos of my growing family.
^My maternity photos
Looking Ahead
Finally, start thinking now about newborn photos. Catherine from Poppy & Posey Photography is a Hoboken mom who is an expert when it comes to newborn photography. Most newborn photographers will recommend that the shoot occur in the first ten days of life so be sure to reserve her early! Newborn sessions typically take several hours because a good newborn photographer will follow your baby’s cues. You will take breaks for feeding and there will be a few costume changes. Catherine will come with several hats, baskets, and backdrops; however, feel free to start scouring Etsy now, as she is happy to accommodate your taste and work in any family favorites.
^Poppey and Posey
There are so many resources for expecting moms in town — what are your favorites?
