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PumpEase Hands-Free Nursing Bra gift pack giveaway

May 24, 2012 by
Drawing from her own personal experience as a pumping mom, PumpEase™ and Snugabell creator/owner Wendy Bell has developed a product and company that offers quality support to pumping moms and now has a new line of maternity/nursing wear, the Toni Top line.  Along with a beautiful giveaway opportunity for Leakies, Wendy answers a few questions, sharing her passion, mothering wisdom, and how she overcame a breastfeeding challenge in her own journey.  I’m so grateful for the support of PumpEase™ for TLB and all Leakies and hope you enjoy the interview and giveaway.

TLB:  What’s your favorite part about working with pumping/breastfeeding moms?

 

Wendy:  By far the best thing is hearing from a mom that tells us that without our products she would have given up on breastfeeding.

 

TLB:  What’s in the future for Snugabell/PumpEase?

 

Wendy:  We will continue to develop and improve the Toni Top line and further penetrate the market for PumpEase.  We have other projects up our sleeves however they are in their infancy stages so mums the word! 😉

 

TLB:  How has being a mothered impacted your career?

 

Wendy:  It changed the direction of my career entirely.  If I hadn’t had a baby (and there was a time that I thought it might not be in the cards for me), then Snugabell would definitely not exist.

 

TLB:  When you were a pumping mom, where would you set up your pumping station?

 

Wendy:  At my computer.  Always.  🙂

 

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Wendy is giving away a PumpEase hands-free pumping bra (winner’s choice excluding organic); a Do Not Disturb door hanger for pumping moms of their choice; a Breastmilk Storage Guideline fridge magnet, and Breastfeeding with Comfort and Joy by Laura Keegan.  Retail Value: $80 USD.

 

Currently Leakies can find these and other great products on the Snugabell website.

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 Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and have fun browsing snugabell.com.  The giveaway is open from April 24, 2012 to June 1, 2012.  A big thanks to Wendy for her ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit their Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- Making Mama’s Milk and More giveaway

May 12, 2012 by
This Mother’s Day weekend the giveaways continue with a sweet giveaway from Making Mama’s Milk and More!  Sweet goodness baked up by Dori Acevedo, Making Mama’s Milk and More cookies are a yummy treat that can help boost your breastmilk supply.  You can read more about this TLB sponsor’s journey into making lactation cookies in her recent ABC interview here.  

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One lucky winner will receive 30 cookies in their choice of oatmeal chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and oatmeal butterscotch as well as a baby booby hat, a retail value of $58.

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 Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Making Mama’s Milk and More Facebook Page to get to know this company that makes it a priority to support breastfeeding moms through their sponsorship of TLB and thank them for this opportunity.  This giveaway is open from May 12, 2012 through May 19, 2012.

This giveaway is only open to residents in the USA and Canada, thank you.
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Mother’s Day Wishes- Mother’s Milk Tea Giveaway

May 11, 2012 by
Traditional Medicinals Mother’s Milk has long been a trusted option for moms looking to boost their breastmilk supply.  I had the chance to ask Dannelle Jenkins, marketing coordinator for Traditional Medicinals, some questions about the company, how they are celebrating moms this year, and what their Mother’s Day wish is for all moms.

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Traditional Medicinals?

Dannelle:  We love breastfeeding moms and support you all the way! We know that breastfeeding can be a wonderful, challenging, rewarding and sometimes awkward journey and we hope to provide you a little moment of peace and comfort with our Mother’s Milk(r) tea, used for centuries by women to help them breastfeed.*

 

TLB:  How did Traditional Medicinals come to be?

Dannelle:  In early 1974, three young friends started Traditional Medicinals(r) in the back store room of a small herb shop along the Russian River in Northern California. For nearly forty years, we’ve been passionate about connecting people with plants and passing along the centuries-old wisdom of how to use them. After all these years, our aspirations remain the same: help you use plants to be healthy. We are devoted stewards of traditional herbal medicine, practitioners of sustainable sourcing, meticulous judges of highest quality herbs, caring members of our communities, proud employee-owners of our independent company, herb nerds, and plant people who, without meaning to sound too hippie about it, feel like the plants are talking to us. We hope you will enjoy the fruits (or flowers, roots and leaves) of our labor. With over 50 herbal teas created by herbalists for your health and wellness, we invite you to explore the wonderful world of plants. In good health!

 

TLB:  How are you celebrating Mother’s Day?

Dannelle:  This Mother’s Day, we created a slideshow of our employees and all the reasons they love their moms. Check out our Facebook page to see what we have to say to our own moms this year.

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

Dannelle:  We hope all you mothers are able to enjoy and embrace the wonderful (sometimes messy!) experience of being a mom. It’s one of the greatest things to do and to be and we love you for it. We hope you love yourselves too.

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Three lucky winners will be randomly selected to win a case (each case has 6 cartons!) of Organic Mother’s Milk Tea, a retail value of $32.94 each.

From the Traditional Medicinals Mother’s Milk Tea website:

Promotes Healthy Lactation*
Herbal Dietary Supplement

Organic Mother’s Milk® promotes healthy lactation* and is traditionally used to increase breast milk production.* This traditional combination of anise, fennel and coriander has been used for centuries by European women, often recommended by lactation counselors and medical herbalists. Organic Mother’s Milk® is a pleasantly aromatic balance of sweet, spicy and slightly bitter tastes.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Organic Mother’s Milk tea Facebook page to get to know this company that makes it a priority to support breastfeeding moms through their sponsorship of TLB and thank them for this opportunity.  This giveaway is open from May 11, 2012 through May 18, 2012.

This giveaway is only open to residents in the USA, thank you.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy Nursing Necklace giveaway

May 10, 2012 by
Want something pretty for mommy?  Need something to help your distracted little one at the breast?  Take care of both with a beautiful, handmade nursing necklace.  Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy, a TLB sponsor (and fellow Leaky) has a whole shop full of such creations.  Jeemaa, the Leaky behind the shop, is offering up two of her hand crafted necklaces and a Mother’s Day wish for all moms.  I had the chance to interview Jeemaa and am excited to share more about this woman that I’ve come to know as beautiful both inside and out and her craftsmanship (I have 5 of her necklaces and they are all among my favorite pieces to wear) to be stunning quality.

Jeemaa with her son Zachary

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy?

Jeemaa:  My name is Jeemaa and I am a stay at home mom to a busy two year old boy. All my nursing and teething ring necklaces are hand-made by me. My goal is to create unique, natural and beautiful pieces that can be enjoyed by both mommy and baby.

 

TLB:  How did Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy come to be?

Jeemaa:  I have always enjoyed beading and mostly made bridal jewelry and nature inspired whimsical jewelry in the past. My mama necklace idea started with one of my best friend’s custom necklace request and my own experience with my baby boy. When my son was about four months old, my friend asked me to make a nursing necklace for her. I got some pretty beads with different shapes and textures and made one for her and one for myself. I wanted the necklace to be durable and functional – interesting enough to grab babies’ attention but pretty enough that it can be worn as everyday jewelry. My friend loved it and so did my son! He used to get very easily distracted during nursing, especially in public. And with the necklace he was more focused. He loved the natural donut stone and really enjoyed exploring the beads. He fiddled with it while I waited in a checkout line or changed his diaper. He tugged on it instead of pulling my hair. I was so excited that I posted the necklace pictures on Facebook and it didn’t take long before another mommy wanted one.

 

TLB:  What was your favorite mother’s day present to receive?

Jeemaa:  I love opening a card from my husband! He is a man of a few words but always says the sweetest things. And of course, the cards with my son’s cute scribbled notes that I adore! They are without a doubt the best presents! I also love herb plants even if they seem to get eaten by rabbits every year!

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

Jeemaa:  Mamas, I wish you all to have the most wonderful Mother’s Day! Life can get so hectic at times and it is hard to find time to just relax. Busy or not so busy, I wish you all a day pampered with the love of your families and kiddos!

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Jeemaa has made 2 beautiful necklaces she’s giving away.

Necklace 1: http://www.etsy.com/listing/87486307/hip-mama-nursing-necklace-with-orange

Value: $14.50 US; Free shipping USA and Canada; International shipping fee will be paid by the winner.

The lovely 35 mm Orange Magnesite pendant is complimented by vibrant Fire Agate, dark green Russian Serpentine and green Dragon Vein Agate beads. The beads are secured by knots, and will not spill if they break. The small wooden bead is finished with Certified Organic Flaxseed oil and is movable. Your necklace will come packaged beautifully.

 

Necklace 2: http://www.etsy.com/listing/78309667/happy-baby-all-wood-nursing-teething

Value: $ 11.50 US; Free shipping USA and Canada; International shipping fee will be paid by the winner.

This all natural maple ring measures 2 1/2 inches. The textured wooden bead is about 3/4 inch. The teething ring and the wooden beads are all finished with Certified Organic Flaxseed oil. It is safe for your little one to chomp on while you are wearing it. The necklace is adjustable up to 28 inches with a Sliding Knot.

I create my jewelry in my loving home with baby’s laughter, fun music and family conversations, so when you receive your necklace, it will be infused with love and happiness. Wear it when nursing, wear it short or long. Your necklace will come packaged beautifully.

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Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy in My lil’ Market to see more of Jeemaa’s work and get to know this company that makes it a priority to support breastfeeding moms through their sponsorship of TLB.  This giveaway is open from May 10, 2012 through May 17, 2012.  Jeemaa has offered incredible support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit the Mommy Jewelry Sturdy and Purdy Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries though international entrants may be required to pay shipping.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- Momzelle gift card giveaway

May 9, 2012 by
New TLB sponsor Momzelle based in Montreal, Canada, offers their Mother’s Day wishes for Leakies in honor of the creator of the company’s dear friend.  Christine, the mom behind Momzelle, shares how she came to start her company as well as her favorite Mother’s Day gift she has received to date.

 

 

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Momzelle?

Christine:  Momzelle’s mission is to help mothers feel good about breastfeeeding in public. It is a brand of nursing clothing, including nursing tops and nursing dresses, available at select independant maternity and baby stores, as well as online on www.momzelle.com. All of our tops are both stylish and functional, designed with a nursing mother’s needs in mind. They are easy to use, feel great, and most importantly, they allow mothers to nurse anywhere without worrying about what part of their body is showing. This freedom is very empowering.

 

TLB:  How did Momzelle come to be?

Christine:  Momzelle came to be about five years ago, after the birth of my daughter Cécile. I had created a nursing top for myself and my midwife raved about how good it was. She said I must bring the product to market, as all moms needed it. A few months later, with the help of my brother Vincent, I started Momzelle. The tops we designed were a hit right away, receiving amazing reviews from mothers and the media. Starting Momzelle was one of the best things I ever did and it is very gratifiying to know that our work makes a difference in mothers’ lives, allowing them to feel good while breastfeeding in public.

 

TLB:  What was your favorite mother’s day present to receive?

Christine:  My favorite mother’s day present to receive was a little heart shaped candle holder, made by my daughter. It is ugly, but made with so much love that I can’t help being moved when I look at it. I take it out on every special occasions, which pleases both of us.

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

Christine:  A friend of mine died of a cancer a year ago and had two little children of a very young age. This mother’s day, I wish to all mothers to be healthy and able to see their children grow.

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Christine is giving away a $25 gift card to the Momzelle online store.  Featuring beautiful and functional breastfeeding tops and dresses, Momzelle has a variety of styles fashionably designed for the breastfeeding mom.  With this giveaway the winner can pick their favorite product using the gift card to shop at momzelle.com.

 

Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Momzelle online to learn more about the breastfeeding wear clothing lines and get to know this company that makes it a priority to support breastfeeding moms through their sponsorship of TLB.  This giveaway is open from May 9, 2012 through May 16, 2012.  So grateful for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit the Momzelle Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- Motherlove Herbal Company Nurturing Life Giftbox Giveaway

May 9, 2012 by
For this Mother’s Day Motherlove is giving away one Nurturing Life Giftbox.  I was given a Nurturing Life Giftbox and absolutely love it, used the birth and baby oil while in labor, my nipples love the nipple cream, and everything else in the giftbox has been put to good use over the last couple of weeks.  My favorite gift for expecting moms and new breastfeeding moms.  It has been a privilege to work with Motherlove Herbal Company (makers of More Milk and More Milk Plus) and I have completely enjoyed getting to know Kathryn Higgens and her eldest daughter Silencia over the past year.  Making quality herbal products that are of the highest quality, safe, and organic, Motherlove invests in Mother Earth and mothers of the earth through their company and their non-profit, The Nurturing Life Foundation.  Please read on to learn more about this trustworthy company from Silencia, the daughter of the mom that started Motherlove and now the Director of Marketing of her mother’s company.  This mother and daughter team go above and beyond in supporting mothers and promoting breastfeeding.  

Kathryn and Silencia

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Motherlove Herbal Company?

Silencia:  Motherlove was started by my mom, Kathryn Higgins, over 20 years ago — when she was a new mother looking for natural options for her own pregnancy. The company has remained true to its roots and never compromised on quality. We were the first natural product line specifically created for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Today we make products for pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum and baby care. Our focus is on herbal products designed to nurture, soothe and heal women and babies.

 

TLB:  How does Motherlove support mothers?

Silencia:  Providing clean and simple products that work. Our More Milk Plus has helped thousands of women increase their breast milk supply and continue to breastfeed their babies. We donate a percentage of every sale to our Nurturing Life Foundation, which funds projects for low income moms, at risk kids and families who need extra support.

 

TLB:  What was your favorite mother’s day present?

Silencia:  I like to cook for my mom. She has trouble finding the time to cook (plus she doesn’t love cooking) so it is something that I can do to give her a little more time in the day to garden.

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

Silencia:  I hope that every mom has at least one day a year they feel appreciated. Being a mother is such hard work and having a day to acknowledge that hard work is important.

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Motherlove is giving away one complete Nurturing Life Giftbox, a retail value of $59.99.

The Nurturing Life Giftbox is Motherlove’s complete selection celebrating new motherhood! From pregnancy and labor, to breastfeeding and babies, these products nurture mother and baby with certified organic herbs and pure ingredients. These products do not contain any synthetic ingredients, fragrances or parabens commonly found in body care products. The perfect gift for the mother who is looking for only the highest quality, pure, natural products for herself and child.

The Nurturing Life Giftbox contains:

  • Nipple cream
  • Diaper rash and thrush cream
  • Rhoid balm
  • Sitz bath concentrate
  • Sitz bath spray
  • Birth and baby oil

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Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Motherlove online to learn more about the Motherlove products and get to know this company that makes it a priority to support mothers and babies.  This giveaway is open from May 9, 2012 through May 16, 2012.  Heartfelt appreciation to Motherlove for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit the Motherlove Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open only to shipping addresses in the USA.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- Undercover Mama Giveaway

May 8, 2012 by
I recently received my first Undercover Mama (2, actually) just last week and love them so I’m thrilled to be sharing this fantastic giveaway with you this Mother’s Day week.  This mom-designed product is unique and practical while being cute and specific.  I had the chance to meet the UCM team last fall and now to have a quick interview with them to share with all of my readers.  You’re going to love getting to know not only their product but the fabulous moms behind the company.

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Undercover Mama?

UCM:  The Undercover is the stylish & affordable alternative to a nursing wardrobe. It connects to your favorite bra & keeps your belly, sides & back covered when nursing. It can be worn during pregnancy, while breastfeeding and after!

 

TLB: How did Undercover Mama come to be?

UCM:  UCM was invented by Elisa, a mother of 5 (now 6!). It was designed by a real mom, for moms of all shapes & sizes. Undercover Mama is Mom Invented. Mom Owned, & Mom Operated! Our mission is to support moms!

 

TLB:  What was your favorite mother’s day present to receive?

UCM:  A day off from responsibilities to enjoy quality time with my family-highlights: long shower & afternoon nap!

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

UCM:  An opportunity to enjoy a peaceful & happy day with loved ones!

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Undercover Mama is giving away one Undercover Mama breastfeeding shirt, retail value of $24.99, to be issued as certificate to redeem online for winners choice of size & color.  From their website:

The Undercover Mama is a strapless camisole that attaches right to any nursing bra.  Layer it under any shirt, keeping your style without having to invest in a whole new wardrobe of nursing shirts.  Essentially, Undercover Mama easily transforms any shirt into a nursing shirt!

With two attachment options included with every shirt, Undercover Mama will work with any nursing bra and you can continue to use it as an undershirt with your regular, non-nursing bras when you are finished breastfeeding.

Let us help you make nursing comfortable and affordable while keeping you covered and maintaining your style.

Undercover Mama can be found at various online retailers and online at undercovermama.com.

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Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit Undercover Mama online to learn more about the Undercover Mama products and get to know this company that makes it a priority to support breastfeeding moms through their sponsorship of TLB.  This giveaway is open from May 8, 2012 through May 15, 2012.  Deep appreciation to UCM for their support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit the Undercover Mama Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open only to shipping addresses in the USA and Canada.

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Mother’s Day Wishes- KoalaKin Hands Free Nursing Support Giveaway

May 7, 2012 by
Vivian Muehlen’s personal experience as a breastfeeding mom led her to create the KoalaKin Hands Free Nursing Pouch.  Now supporting breastfeeding moms everywhere through their sponsorship of The Leaky Boob, KoalaKin is giving away one of their mom-designed supports for one lucky Leaky.  Read on to hear from Vivian about the inspiration behind KoalaKin and her Mother’s Day wish for all moms this year.

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about your company?

Vivian:  My goal is to help mothers breastfeed longer and not give up before they’re ready, by eliminating some of the strain some may experience associated with breastfeeding. I developed the KoalaKin so that moms could better enjoy this wonderful time in their lives.

 

TLB:  What was the inspiration behind the Koala-Kin?

Vivian:  When my second son was born, I realized that breastfeeding was a little more challenging than the first time around. Not only did my arms, neck and shoulder hurt from the long nursing sessions, I now had a toddler to take care of as well. The demands of a life with a toddler and the increasing pain on my arms and back took it’s toll on my milk supply and I had to start supplementing with formula. I tried nursing in slings and wraps, but I was never able to figure out how to do it properly. Sad and disappointed, I visited with lactation consultants who told me I was not alone. In fact, while 80% of moms nurse their newborns in the hospital, only 13% are still nursing after 6 months due to overall strain and exhaustion. She also told me that almost 30% of pregnant women suffer from carpal tunnel / tendonitis and that this condition is worsened through breastfeeding. Both of those statistics shocked me. That night, at home, I decided I was going to try to do something about it. So I joined forces with lactation consultants and physical therapists and the KoalaKin, Hands Free Nursing Pouch was born (pun intended!!)

Not a sling and not a carrier, the KoalaKin is a breastfeeding positioner that allows for easy, safe and comfortable hands free nursing. It consists of a vest that a mom puts on much like a back-pack and a pouch that attaches to the vest for the baby. Moms can nurse completely hands-free eliminating the strain on arms, shoulders and back. The pouch also distributes the baby’s weight across mom’s torso promoting a more ergonomic posture. Positioning the baby at the breast like the KoalaKin does, may dramatically improve the baby’s ability to latch on and stay latched.

While I openly admire those mamas that can comfortably nurse in a sling, not everyone can. I developed the KoalaKin for all other moms to be able to have the same experience. The KoalaKin also provides a few advantages over a sling:

  1. it is fully adjustable to accommodate for different mom and baby sizes
  2. you can switch nursing sides with just one click of the pouch
  3. if your baby falls asleep after nursing, a mom can unclick the entire pouch from the vest and lay the baby down without waking her up

 

TLB:  What was your favorite mother’s day present?

Vivian:  I love Mother’s Day as it falls very close to my birthday (on some years, it’s actually ON my birthday) so it’s always a big celebration! I love plants and flowers, so my husband usually leaves with all 4 kids for a couple of hours in the morning (giving me some very appreciated alone time) and comes back with gorgeous plants and flowers that each of the kids picked for me. I love hearing the stories of how they chose those particular plants! Then we all go for brunch at a place of my choice. It’s a yearly family ritual and it never gets old!

 

TLB:  What do you wish for all mothers this mother’s day?

Vivian:  As we all know, family holidays can be wrought with all the drama that sometimes comes from unfulfilled expectations. I hope we as mothers can embrace the imperfection of life and find peace and happiness even when things don’t go our way. I always tell myself: “life right now, is exactly as it should be”. This is my wish for all mothers this Mother’s Day: to find love and enjoyment in what is, live in the moment and let go of expectations of what life “should” be like.

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Vivian is giving away one KoalaKin Hands Free Nursing Pouch to one randomly selected entrant, a retail value of $89.  From the KoalaKin website:

The most important thing when considering the best way to nurse hands-free is adjustability. The combination of a mother’s breast size, torso length and the baby’s size and length all contribute to the challenge of finding the perfect hands-free nursing aid.

The KoalaKin® has 3 adjustable straps, to accommodate for different mom and baby sizes. Unlike a sling, the KoalaKin®’s patented shoulder clasps were designed specifically to help you switch the baby’s position without having to flip the pouch, therefore making it easy to move the baby from side to side.

The KoalaKin®’s ergonomic back support straps also help eliminate shoulder, back and arm pain by evenly distributing your baby’s weight and fully supporting your little one while nursing. Our product is made with 100% breathable cotton canvas and 100% soft & cuddly cotton fabrics for your baby’s maximum security and comfort.

Currently Leakies can find the KoalaKin at koalakin.com.

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Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and be sure to visit KoalaKin online to learn more about this great company dedicated to supporting moms in their breastfeeding adventures.  The giveaway is open from May 7, 2012 to May 14, 2012.  A big thanks to Vivian for her support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit the KoalaKin Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

Sorry, this giveaway is open only to shipping addresses in the USA.

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Snugabell Toni Top and Pencil Skirt giveaway

April 12, 2012 by
Drawing from her own personal experience as a pumping mom, PumpEase™ and Snugabell creator/owner Wendy Bell has developed a product and company that offers quality support to pumping moms and now has a new line of maternity/nursing wear, the Toni Top line.  Along with a beautiful giveaway opportunity for Leakies, Wendy answers a few questions, sharing her passion, mothering wisdom, and how she overcame a breastfeeding challenge in her own journey.  I’m so grateful for the support of PumpEase™ for TLB and all Leakies and hope you enjoy the interview and giveaway.

Wendy with hubby Mike

TLB:  What should TLB readers know about Snugabell?

Wendy:  Snugabell designs and manufactures maternity, nursing and pumping products for moms that are not willing to sacrifice fashion for function.  Our products include PumpEase, the world’s ONLY fashionable hands-free pumping bra, PumpEase Organic, the world’s ONLY organic hands-free pumping bra and the Toni Top “bump, breast & beyond” clothing line.  Our mission is “to support moms’ decision to breastfeed through education, community and beauty”.  Alongside The Best for Babes Foundation, whom we have proudly supported since 2009, we work hard to help beat The Booby Traps – the cultural and institutional barriers that prevent moms from achieving their personal breastfeeding goals.

 

TLB:  What inspired you to start your company and as you’ve added the Toni Top and pencil skirt to your product line, what are your plans to continue growing

Wendy: When I was pregnant with my first daughter, a friend of mine asked me if I was going to pump.  I asked her why I would need to (we get a full year of maternity leave here in Canada).  She said that she pumped so that her husband could also feed the baby.  I discussed it with my husband, and we decided this would work well for our new family.  I didn’t have too many pumping sessions under my belt before I was online searching for something to hold the pump flanges for me.  Not only was I bored silly sitting on the couch unable to do ANYthing else, as soon as my daughter was born I developed Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which made it painful to hold the flanges for any more than a few minutes.  I found a few products, all of which were ugly and none of which I was willing to part with my hard-earned money for.  With my (at the time) nine years experience in the apparel industry, I considered what would make a “better” hands-free pumping bra and sewed the first PumpEase prototype.  After encouragement from family and friends, I decided to do a small manufacturing run and build a website.  It was a no-brainer to produce the PumpEase in pretty prints – women like pretty things whether she is seen in them or not!  I naively thought this product-based business would provide some “passive income” and compliment my service-based CAD Pattern Management business nicely.  Little did I know it would grow to where it has in four short years.

Our plans for the future include continuing to expand the Toni Top “bump, breast & beyond” maternity, nursing and hands-free pumping clothing line beyond our current six styles (3/4-Sleeve Top, Tunic, Dress, Pencil Skirt, Maxi Skirt and Palazzo Pant) and continue to build our international business via distributors.

 

TLB:  How do you balance family and growing your business?

Wendy:  Actually, I don’t strive for balance anymore.  I don’t believe it exists and in fact believe the term “life balance” is yet another dangling carrot designed to make women feel inadequate .  You never hear a man that works 40, 60 or 80 hours a week pining for “life balance”.  My husband and my girls know that I have a business and that it is busy.  Sometimes one or the other gets more or less attention than it deserves and so be it!

 

TLB:  What was the most challenging experience you faced in your own breastfeeding journey and how did you get through?

Wendy:  I had amazing pregnancies, births and breastfeeding relationships with both my girls.  Not to say that I wouldn’t do anything different if I could do it all over again, as I would – I’ve learned *so* much since I’ve started the business.  If I had to choose the biggest challenge I guess it would be the misdiagnosed thrush that I had with my second daughter.  I found out only last year, when I took my CLE training, that it was most likely actually a staph infection (the stats are that 75% of staph infections are misdiagnosed as thrush).  The doctor didn’t take a culture and thus we were treating something that we didn’t have and it took forever to clear it up.

Wendy with her family

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Wendy is giving away a Toni Top and pencil skirt to one very lucky winner.  The Toni 3/4 Sleeve Top retail value = $66.00; Made in Canada; 95% modal, 5% spandex jersey knit.  Toni Top Pencil Skirt, retail value $56.00; Made in Canada; 95% modal, 5% spandex jersey knit, 66% rayon, 28% cotton, 6% spandex rib knit.

The Toni Top is designed for all stages of a busy mom or mom-to-be’s life – from pregnancy to nursing and beyond weaning. It even works for hands-free pumping! When you wear the Toni Top – you feel A-MAZE-ING. You know those garments that once you put them on, you are constantly stroking the fabric? THAT”S the Toni Top. It will quickly become one of THE favourite pieces in your closet.

 

  • get triple bang for your buck – wear the Toni Top during pregnancy, nursing and beyond weaning
  • it features a shaped front hemline that will provide coverage for your growing belly
  • it has no special openings for nursing – just good design – a hallmark of our products
  • it features easy nursing access, providing ample coverage as you gain confidence nursing in public
  • it has a flattering wide-set sweetheart neckline which broadens your shoulders and thus slims your waist
  • it features 3/4 length sleeves to keep you comfortable
  • it’s made from a luxurious modal/spandex fabric that feels heavenly against your skin
  • it features a heat transfer care label thus eliminating irritation to your neck
  • it was designed by an expert – a nursing mom that has over 17 years experience in the apparel industry

The Toni Top Pencil Skirt can be worn with the waistband rolled up to cover your belly or rolled down part or all the way. Rolling the waistband can also be used to control the length of the skirt a few inches – perhaps exposing a little more leg for a night out on the town? Wear the Pencil Skirt with the 3/4 Sleeve Top for a 2-piece dress – so versatile! It will quickly become a staple of your wardrobe.

  • get double bang for your buck – wear the Toni Top Pencil Skirt during pregnancy and beyond
  • it has no unflattering maternity panels – just good design – a hallmark of our products
  • it’s made from a luxurious modal/spandex fabric that feels heavenly against your skin
  • it features a heat transfer care label thus eliminating irritation to your skin
  • it was designed by an expert – a mom that has over 17 years experience in the apparel industry

Currently Leakies can find the Toni Top and Toni Top Pencil Skirt website http://www.snugabell.com/products/toni-top (soon to be on Amazon.com and in retailers this fall).

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 Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and have fun browsing snugabell.com.  The giveaway is open from April 12, 2012 to April 19, 2012.  A big thanks to Wendy for her ongoing support of TLB and all breastfeeding women, please be sure to visit their Facebook page and thank them for their support of TLB and this giveaway opportunity.

This giveaway is open to international entries.

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A Mother’s Boutique Winner’s Choice Giveaway

March 6, 2012 by

Today we have a giveaway from TLB sponsor A Mother’s Boutique.  Read on for details on this opportunity and an interview with boutique owner, Judy Masucci.  I recently reviewed two maternity/breastfeeding tops Judy carries in her store, you can read that review here.  I hope you take the time to get to know this company that faithfully supports The Leaky Boob.

TLB:  What made you decide to have both a brick and mortar shop and an online store?

Judy:  I started my business out of my home in 2007.  For me it was the “lowest risk” way to start.  I had no overhead – so the only costs that I had were my inventory and whatever money that I spent on marketing and on my website.  My original idea was that I would go visit local moms in their homes – so that they didn’t have to venture out with a brand new baby.  And that I would provide moms with great resources online.  I did quite a few home visits in the early days.  But as the number of items that I carried grew, it became less and less practical for me to bring my store to the moms – so I started inviting local moms to come to my home to shop.  I did this until 2010 when I literally “out-grew” my home.  I had taken over my entire basement with boxes of inventory, my front foyer and my entire dining nook in my kitchen.  My house was overrun with boxes and inventory.  I also found that many moms didn’t want to come to my house to shop – so I wasn’t able to serve local moms as well as I would have liked.  So in January of 2010, I moved out of my home and into a retail space.  This enabled me to do two things: 1) Have a warehouse for my growing inventory and 2) Have a retail store where I could better service local moms.  I have been in my retail location for just over 2 years now and I already wish that I had more space!

 

TLB:  How do you select the items your store carries?  What do you look for in choosing your inventory?

Judy:  I always looks for items that I think will helps moms be able to breastfeed their babies.  I started the business because of the clothing, I lived in nursing clothing when my son was little and I wanted to bring together the cutest, most fashionable and best value items for other moms.  It can be difficult to find good quality items so I make sure that I bring in brands that I trust and I always try to have something for every budget.  Most of the styles that I carry can be worn both during pregnancy and beyond for easy breastfeeding so mom doesn’t have to purchase items that she will only wear during her pregnancy.  The items that she gets from me will last her throughout her pregnancy, during her breastfeeding years and beyond.  I still wear nursing tops and I am no longer nursing, but the styles are so cute and innovative that you can’t even tell they are a nursing top unless someone tells you.

I have also become somewhat of a “bra guru” and now carry over 50 different styles of nursing bras in every size from 32-48 band and A to M cups.  I am always looking to add new bra styles to my boutique to better service moms of every shape and size.  A bra is something that you wear every day so it needs to fit properly and be comfortable and fit and comfort are different for every woman.  I even offer Virtual Bra Fittings TM for moms who aren’t local!  I also try to satisfy every budget with bras ranging in price from $16 to $78.  With bras, no matter what the price range, I always try to find items that are high quality.  I don’t want them to fall apart after a few months of wear and I want them to be comfortable for lots of moms.  It is a huge investment for me to bring in a new bra line, so I always try out a sample in my own size first to see how the line fits and how it wears before I decide to bring it into my store.

Some moms want function, some want something pretty so I try to have something for every one.  Whether it is a dress to wear to a wedding, a bra to sleep in or a PJ set to make those middle-of-the night feedings easier, I try to have something for every need.  If it makes mom more comfortable breastfeeding and enables her to meet her personal breastfeeding goals, then I am all for it!  I never judge and I am always happy to help with advice or a referral.

 

TLB:  What is your favorite part of your job?

Judy:  My favorite part of my job is when I get to make a difference in a mom’s life.  I have gotten so many nice notes from moms who have shopped with me, both online and in person, it makes everything worthwhile when I am able to help out a mom.  Whether it is helping her find a great nursing bra or helping to find answers to her breastfeeding questions, when I can make a difference in someone else’s life  it is very rewarding.  That is the reason that everyone who shops in my store (in person and online) gets breastfeeding tips articles from me.  I wrote them and I give them out to everyone hoping that something that I have learned along the way will resonate with another mom and will help her along her own breastfeeding journey.

 

TLB:  You just celebrated your birthday, what’s your favorite kind of cake and how do you like to celebrate?

Judy:  I am a leap-year baby so I actually had a real birthday this year!!  Whenever I get a real birthday I always have a big party on my day.  Since it only comes once every 4 years  I like to make it special.  I am a traditional buttercream icing kind-of girl.  And I have a cake lady who does a FABULOUS job at making cakes (and cookies!).  I found her when my son was 2 years old and she has made every cake for us since then.  You can see her on facebook here.

Judy's son Javin

This giveaway is for any item up to $110 value from the Annee Matthew line Judy carries in her shop.  I reviewed 2 tops from this line (you can see the review and pictures here).  Anne Matthew is a manufacturer based out of Singapore, and like many moms in this business, she was inspired by her own breastfeeding experiences with her children to make clothing for moms that would enable them to easily breastfeed their babies.  Mom turned designer, her garnets are fashionable, high quality, and most can be worth through pregnancy and beyond.

Additionally, 3 runners up will be selected for a $15 gift certificate to A Mother’s Boutique.  Please be sure to stop by A Mother’s Boutique on Facebook and thank them for their support of TLB and this opportunity.  The giveaway is open from March 6, 2012 to March 12, 2012 and is available only to USA and Canadian entrants.

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 Good luck to everyone!  Please use the widget below to be entered and have fun browsing Judy’s shop.  A big thanks to Judy for her support of TLB and all breastfeeding women.

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