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My Amazing Hypnobirthing Home Birth

My Home Birth Story

On Saturday 24 February 2018 @ 17.15 we welcomed Jack Ross Coleshill into the world. It was an amazing experience. Reinforcing to me why I’d been right to trust my instinct and have a home birth. I’d had amazing support from my midwife Kay. I’d been lucky enough to have Kay for all my appointments apart from one. Kay was so supportive about home birth this too made me confident in my decision.

I think i’m in labour…

I’d not slept amazingly well the night before but unlike my first pregnancy this time round I hadn’t been sleeping great. I suffer from terrible indigestion during pregnancy right from the word go but this time round it was even worse. Causing me to wake several times a night. I didn’t think too much of not sleeping great but I was a bit achy which made me think it could be the early stages of labour.

Even though I suspected labour I went off to my lovely pregnancy yoga class, held by the fabulous Muriel who runs MuMuYoga. Just perfect a yoga class to put me in a truly relaxed body if labour was imminent. It was a lovely class although I did notice a few of the positions I was finding uncomfortable reinforcing to me that something was going on. This didn’t stop me going to meet one of my best friends, Kelly for a coffee and pastry though after yoga! In hindsight I wish i’d had a full on lunch!! Kelly did look slightly alarmed when I turned up and said I think I might be in labour. Kelly was the first person I said to that I thought it was happening.

The drive home after my coffee was slightly uncomfortable. My breath work came into play for the tightenings. My son Oliver had stayed with his Grandparents the night before so I went to collect him as in my mind I wasn’t sure how many hours it would be before established labour. When I arrived he was fast asleep so I left him and drove home. I’d not said I thought I was in labour as didn’t want to panic them nor be told I shouldn’t drive home! As soon as I knew I was on my way home though it was amazing how the body responded. I just wanted to be home as the tightenings felt stronger and I labour was happening. I was excited to meet my baby and hopefully have my home birth.

The real deal

I got home just before 2pm and the moment my husband Jamie opened the front door my whole body relaxed and that feeling of ahhhhh I’m home came over me. My safe place. I said to Jamie I’m in labour. As you can imagine he looked slightly surprised seeing as I’d been out and about! Jamie got to work inflating the birth pool we’d hired and getting it filled. He called my parents to ask them to keep hold of Oliver as I was in labour. They must have been thinking we only saw her 20 minutes ago!

From the moment of getting home my surges came on very quickly. I was anticipating a build up and had been told to call the hospital when I was having 1 surge every 5 minutes. This never happened for me they came straight in at every 2 minutes lasting around 40 – 49 seconds. I had been recommended a TENS machine which worked as a great distraction tool. I used this as soon as I could as I’ve heard a lot of women say they tried to use it too late.

Call the midwife

Jamie put a call in to the labour ward and two midwifes, Komal and Lisa arrived at around 14.30. They explained they were in the area but due to go off duty at 4pm but wanted to make sure I was okay. I wanted to be examined and was around 5/6 cm dilated – music to my ears. As I was in established labour the midwifes said they would stay until my assigned midwife, George, came on duty at 4pm.

The midwifes, Komal & Lisa were amazing. Lisa was a trainee midwife and was fantastic. I was her first home birth. I’m an advocate of trainees so delighted she got to experience my home birth. When Komal & Lisa arrived they filled me with confidence immediately. They told me that Kay had briefed them on me as she thought I may go into labour that weekend when she wasn’t on duty. This filled me confidence in my team as I felt they knew me already. It also made me feel very cared for that Kay had taken the time to do that therefore further increasing those oxytocin levels.

Being at home allowed me to not seek permission. I trusted my body and being in my own environment was just amazing. I stood up through all of my surges and used my breath work as it gave me the most relief. I’d wanted to be as active as possible during labour but my body took over and didn’t allow me to be anything other than active.

Birthing in water

George arrived not long before I wanted to get in the water. Immediately I felt a connection with George which was great. At this point Komal & Lisa could have left. They decided to say as Lisa had never been present at a home birth. Lisa facilitated most of my birth and she was brilliant. Even though I had 3 midwifes present I never felt that I was being observed. They were totally respectful.

I couldn’t wait to get in the pool. It must have been for around the last hour I laboured in the pool. The warm water felt amazing. The water taking my weight. The feeling of buoyancy allowed me to be active and move around as needed. This part of my labour passed very quickly. I never had a steady transition phase. I went from breathing through surges to feeling like I had an overwhelming urge to push. In my head I knew I had to use my breath work rather than push and to go with my body. Through every surge I kept my body relaxed, not tensing my face and using my hypnobirthing down breath which gave me a great focus.

Jamie was a great support as were the midwifes. Personally I like interaction during labour and encouragement and was looking to them to know all was okay. I can remember asking them a couple of times was I doing okay. My midwifes were so respectful of hypnobirthing that it threw them slightly when I wanted to talk.

It got to a point when in my head I thought I can’t do this anymore. I knew this was a positive though and birth was imminent. I felt my waters go at a similar time which was a strange popping sensation! It was at this point that Jamie asked me if I wanted any gas and air. He must have sense the change in my demeanour. So for the last 10 minutes I used this along with my visualisation. Jack was born very quickly it almost felt like he was born in one go. My midwife did agree that there wasn’t much rest-bite between the head and the rest of his body!

My birth plan had requested that the midwife bring the baby out of the water. I know that it must be magical bringing your baby up but I felt happier that the midwife did this for me. We all forgot this was the plan though so after a few seconds Jack appeared. Jamie announced the sex of Jack and we were very pleased Oliver had a brother.

Jack was very calm when he was born and has continued to be since. Hypnobirthing babies tend to be calmer babies who sleep and feed well. Jack is a stereotypical hypno baby like his brother i’m pleased to say.

Post birth

Just after Jack was born the official second midwife arrived, Zoe. She too was lovely immediately making me feel at ease.

My midwifes set up my bedroom for me where we moved to once we were out of the pool. The beauty of a home birth climbing on to you own bed! I had requested delayed cord clamping which was done followed by a physiological third stage to deliver the placenta. This took 50 minutes. I had had a managed third stage with my first birth so I’m pleased I’ve got to experience both now. In enables me to give a well rounded view of both to clients.

Transfer to hospital

I did have to be transferred to hospital after birth as I had a tear that Zoe wanted assessed upon her examination. This didn’t upset me as I’d been lucky enough to have had my home birth. Its policy that women are transferred by ambulance but as I wasn’t high priority I had a lovely couple of hours in my bed with Jack. The paramedics were lovely when they arrived and transferred me. George came with me in the ambulance and was lovely to chat to on the way. She was amazing during my examinations at the hospital and stayed with me the entire time.

I wasn’t upset or disappointed that I had been transferred as after my tear was sutured I knew I could go home. Once I had been sutured I was given the choice to stay over night at hospital as I’d have to come in for Jack’s post birth checks the following day anyhow. I decided against this as i’d wanted a home birth to be in the comfort of my own home after birth. It was so amazing getting back into my own bed and waking up there.

Reflecting on my experience

It was an incredible feeling to have birthed in my own home. I’d recommend it to any low risk woman. Its wonderful to be able to describe my birth as amazing. A word that people are often surprised that I use to describe birth especially those who haven’t had a baby before. Birth truly is amazing and I wish every woman could achieve a positive birth experience. I’m lucky to have the pleasure of working with many women to help them achieve this.

My team from West Middlesex Hospital were beyond fantastic – midwifes truly are angels in disguise. I felt very lucky to have had a relationship throughout my pregnancy with one midwife. They then ensured that Kay did all my post natal visits too. I know Kay was disappointed to have not been on duty when I went into labour. It was a sad day when i had my last post natal appointment with Kay.

My tips

Don’t tell everybody you’re planning a home birth

Unfortunately there is still a lot of negativity around home birth even though the stats show for low risk women its a very safe way to birth. So I decided not to shout it from the roof tops that it was my plan. This way I put no pressure on myself nor have to listen to any negativity about why would you do that when we have hospitals. Normally the negative comments aren’t supported by fact either.

Ignore your due date!

I’d been very chilled during my first pregnancy – taking not much notice of my hospital due date. I worked with the dates I believed were more accurate which meant that 40 week milestone to me actually wasn’t 40 weeks. I continued this approach with my second pregnancy. Having this attitude I believe really does relax the body and calm the mind. I carry on my day to day life as normal as where the mind leads the body will follow. Being stressed about a due date isn’t going to encourage babies arrival – baby will arrive when baby is ready.

Trust your body

I wasn’t at all stressed during labour as it is a natural process. Being in a relaxed body keeps that uterus relaxed and the body not being stressed doesn’t cause it to produce adrenaline. Trust your birthing body.

Write an easy to read birth plan

I used The Positive Birth book to write my birth plan. My midwifes took the time to read my birth plan and respected my wishes throughout.

Ensure your birth partner either contributes to your birth plan or reads it. You want them to be on board with your wishes. My midwifes commented afterwards what an easy to read birth plan it was. I’d highly recommend using a visual birth plan.

Want to know more about how Hypnobirthing can help you through pregnancy and birth?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses around London and Surrey. Areas include Chertsey, Hampton, Hillingdon, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, Sheen, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Weybridge, Windsor.

For my group courses I’m taking bookings for June course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

My amazing hypnobirthing home birthMy amazing hypnobirthing home birth

My amazing hypnobirthing home birth

 

 

 

 

World Prematurity Day – 17 November 2017

World Prematurity Day

For those of us who are blessed to conceive its not to be taken for granted the struggles that can come with conception and birth. Fertility issues, IVF, miscarriage, still birth and premature births. It’s easy to not realise the journey that some families have been on. Sometimes a long journey before a baby is born too. For some pregnancy is going fine then the body decides to go into premature labour. To recognise this World Prematurity Day is a global movement to raise awareness of premature birth and to recognise sadly the devastating impact it can have on some families.

Friday 17 November 2017 marks World Prematurity Day. An opportunity to raise awareness about premature birth across the world. 15 million babies are born early every year across the world – that’s around 11.5% of babies born every year. A baby born early is pre 37 weeks. A baby born post 37 weeks is a considered  healthy time to arrive. Prematurity is often unpredictable and in most cases, unexplained.

Having a premature baby can be such an overwhelming, emotional and worrying time for parents. A baby being whisked away to a neonatal unit and not necessarily in the hospital you’ve given birth in. As parents you want to care for your baby as soon as they are born so its unthinkable how devastating it must be to not have that choice. Therefore knowing your baby is being taken to a Neontal ICU that can do their upmost to care for your baby is paramount.

The sad consequences of prematurity

Of those 15 million babies born prematurely every year sadly one million of these will not survive. Prematurity is the leading cause for death in children under five years old.

Thankfully in the past 20 years the care around premature babies has vastly improved and we need to continue to support that.

Every baby is a miracle and we can’t forget that. Pregnancy is a blessing and we can’t take it for granted. Pregnancy can be tough but we have to remember as hard as it can be we’re so lucky. The days when you have terrible sickness, trying to adapt to your new pregnancy body, not being able to do what you did as easily anymore just remember its not forever. Carrying a baby full term is a blessing.

Little Roo Neonatal Fund

My awareness of the World Prematurity Day has been bought to light by a friend, who’s now gorgeous healthy little girl was born 8 weeks early in 2016. Thankfully she was under the care of a nearby hospital to myself – St. Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey, Surrey who have an amazing neonatal unit. The family and their daughter received magnificent care. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of local charity for the Neonatal ICU The Little Roo Neonatal Fund. This fund was set up in 2003 and continues to support babies, families & staff.

Working within the Neonatal ICU requires dedicated and specialist teams of highly trained nurses and doctors, available around the clock. St Peter’s is the only Level 3 Neonatal unit in Surrey with the appropriate staff, equipment, skills and experience to provide this highest level of ICU for the smallest and sickest newborn babies.

A stressful time for all but with the support of this amazing charity they were able to take there little girl home 5 weeks after she was born. This little fighter has grown into a gorgeous happy little girl and everything you expect a 19 month old to be. I know how truly thankful not only the parents but their family and friends were of the amazing support they received.

Without the set up of this charity in 2003 many families wouldn’t be able to receive the support needed.

The Little Roo Neonatal Fund raises money to provide support at St. Peter’s Neonatal Unit. To continue to offer the highest standards of intensive care for babies born in Surrey and further afield.

Let’s support Little Roo…

We need to continue with the support of these amazing facilities we have available to us in Surrey. Unfortunately none of us know if one day our baby may need their help or one of a family member or close friend. As an example a Neonatal ICU cot costs in the region of £80,000 to fully equip. With the support of the charity they have been able to purchase an ultrasound machine costing £60,000. Equipment to help babies breathe between £4,000 to £20,000 each. A breast milk pasteuriser costing £19,000 and devices for treating and monitoring potential brain injury at £20,000. These are significant amounts of money so as you can appreciate the charity really needs the continuing support.

Little Roo need the continued support to help provide additional and replacement specialist equipment. To be able to send staff for specialist training that the NHS cannot provide funding for.

Let’s help give premature babies the best chance of survival and quality of life by taking action on their behalf.

What can we do to help on World Prematurity Day?

We can make a donation to Little Roo Neonatal Fund. Every penny counts as they say to continue supporting the work they do. An easy way to donate is via Just Giving www.justgiving.com/LittleRooNeonatalFund. An easy and secure way of donating by credit or debit card.

You can donate by text by texting PREM15 £2 to 70070.

Wearing purple on the 17 November 2017 marks your support for World Prematurity Day too.

Raise awareness on Social Media – #WorldPrematurityDay #PrematurityIs

What will Hypnobirthing Mumma be doing to support World Prematurity Day?

I will be donating 5% of my takings to Little Roo from the 17 November – 16 December 2017 for any hypnobirthing course that is booked with me. So what more excuse do you need if you’d been thinking of booking a course to know it will also be helping a good cause too.

Want to know more about Hypnobirthing Mumma?

I’ve taught women who have experienced premature labour with previous pregnancies. I’ve been able to understand the emotions they went through with preterm. As to why they then choose to try hypnobirthing for subsequent births. Of course hypnobirthing can’t prevent premature labour but it can help expectant parents. Overcoming the fear associated around perhaps the week their previous baby was born, using techniques to stay calm and relaxed. Working through fear release.

I teach private hypnobirthing courses around London and Surrey. Areas include Chertsey, Hampton, Hillingdon, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, Sheen, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Weybridge, Windsor.

For my group courses I’m taking bookings for my November course in Hampton Hill in and my first course of 2018 the January course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

World Prematurity Day - 17 November 2017

Hypnobirthing Courses

Hypnobirthing Courses

When it comes to picking hypnobirthing courses it’s important it suits your needs. This is why I offer 4 different courses to cater for expectant parents needs.

  • Full private course
  • Essentials private course
  • Refresher private course
  • Group hypnobirthing courses

There are many different hypnobirthing methods and I teach the KG Hypnobirthing course. This is an extremely extensive and informative course offering parents some amazing nuggets of information, relaxation and visualisation techniques. The techniques learnt you can continue to use beyond birth to relax and calm you in many situations. I often find myself using the breathing techniques to bring me back to a place of calm! The classes are beneficial for all – Mum, Dad, birthing partner and baby.

Included in the cost and provided for all my courses are:

  • Course notes
  • The Hypnobirthing book by the founder of KG Hypnobirthing Katherine Graves
  • Relaxations for a Gentle Birth – Colour and Calmness downloads

How can hypnobirthing help?

Hypnobirthing can help you achieve a better birth. One that you feel in control of by learning how the body works. Understanding how if we’re stressed where it can lead to and how it uses energy levels we should be conserving. Using techniques that help stimulate endorphins through gentle stroking and massage. Listening to relaxations and believing in the power of the mind.

We don’t want to hold on to negative thoughts and with hypnobirthing we encourage you to let go of those. Release any of the fear and tension you may hold on to in the subconscious mind.

Hypnobirthing isn’t pain relief but it teaches you to understand how you can be in control of your birth and remain calm. Being calm is key because as soon as you become stressed the adrenaline will kick in. This is then when we start to see intervention, women’s contractions slowing down.

Learning the tools of hypnobirthing will mean you’re not left asking is labour painful? You’ll feel confident that you will be able to have a birth that you feel in control of and can manage. This isn’t just for a natural birth but any route your birth takes.

Full private hypnobirthing courses

Held in the comfort of your own home the full 10 hour course really allows us to work through the fundamentals of hypnobirthing and ensure we work through fear release.

We get to work through each section of the course in great details. For each section I allow 2.5 hours. This gives us plenty of time to work through all the relaxation techniques. Talk about your expectations of birth and any factors that you feel have a negative impact on you. It also gives birth partners who may not have had much knowledge on hypnobirthing previously to really feel like they can ask lots of questions. Sometimes questions come about after a couple of sessions so a full course really gives that opportunity to go over elements of the course.

Course Content

  • We will look at relaxation techniques that both mother, father and birthing partners can participate in
  • Breathe work and visualisations
  • Reducing fear
  • Understanding of the birthing muscles and important hormones we use during labour
  • Places to give birth
  • The importance of a fathers/birthing partners role during birth
  • Being confident to ask questions of your caregivers and have open communication
  • Induction and how labour can be used for other types of birth apart from natural births
  • The benefits of oils in labour and massage techniques
  • Having confidence around birthing
  • Birth stats and case studies
  • How we can try to prevent intervention during birth by reducing any element of fear around birthing and being confident in your birthing body
  • How we can’t hope for a ‘good’ birth we need to prepare for one
  • At the end of each session I will ask you to practice what we have learnt together. Throughout the course you will be using the relaxation techniques and listening/reading affirmations.

As your hypnobirthing teacher I will be available for you to speak to throughout your pregnancy to help guide you should you need any further support.

The cost of the course is inclusive of both parents. I also welcome you to invite an additional birth partner at no extra cost. Its so important that anybody who is present at the birth is there as support and on board with what you’re trying to achieve through hypnobirthing.

Course cost – £395

Essentials private hypnobirthing courses

The essentials course is a great alternative to the full course for those who are short on time. This could be because of numerous reasons such as its hard to find 10 hours in both expectant parents diaries; you’ve previously had a baby but would like to explore hypnobirthing in more detail this time – perhaps you read a book before but your partner wasn’t involved; you’re close to 40 weeks but keen to hypnobirth.

This course covers all the main areas of hypnobirthing but in a more intense way and I tailor the course to your needs. If for example, you’ve done a birth preparation course i.e. NCT I will leave out practical info such as hospital bags, contraction timings if of course you’ve covered this already. You certainly won’t end a course feeling you’ve not learnt all you need to know about hynobirthing it is just covered at a faster pace.

Course content

  • Fundamentals of hypnobirthing – taking us back to basics before birth became very medicalised
  • Working with our birthing bodies & the hormones that help us achieve the most efficient birth
  • The important role birth partners have for a hypnobirthing Mum. How they can help Mum achieve the best birth
  • Understanding how hypnobirthing can work for all birth scenarios. It’s about achieving the best birth for you. If it takes an unexpected route you still felt calm, in control & part of the decision making process
  • Understanding inductions & trying to encourage spontaneous labour
  • The benefits of oils in labour and massage techniques
  • You will learn a range of hypnobirthing techniques – relaxations, breath work, stroking/massage technique, visualisation to help you achieve a calmer and happier birth
  • How preparing for birth helps you achieve a positive outcome

I am concious of the pace we cover the course at so I always welcome clients to stay in touch thereafter. That way we can talk through anything that may arise.

Course cost – £250

Refresher private course

My 3 hour refresher hypnobirthing courses are designed for those who have previously done a hypnobirthing course. It doesn’t matter which hypnobirthing course as mine is designed to recap on the fundamental areas of hypnobirthing. This is to refresh memories not to teach them how to use hypnobirthing techniques.

The course is held in the comfort of your own home and held over 1 session. During this session we will recap on the following:

  • Birthing hormones
  • Relaxations techniques
  • Visualisations
  • The benefits of oils in labour and massage techniques
  • Natural and medicalised induction

Course cost – £150

Group hypnobirthing courses

For those parents wanting to share a hypnobirthing course with other expectant parents I host group hypnobirthing courses in Hampton Hill and Twickenham. Group courses give expectant parents the opportunity to meet other parents from in and around area. They are a really lovely way to learn about hypnobirthing.

The course is held over 3 evening sessions lasting 2.5 hours. A group course is a great way to feel part of an antenatal class but to get all the benefits of hypnobirthing. The course content is the same as my full private course.

I don’t overfill courses as I want everybody to be able to ask questions and fully immerse themselves in hypnobirthing. To ensure this is the case I only teach a maximum of five couples per course. This group size allows me to get to know everybody individually.

I am happy to accommodate group classes elsewhere should there be a group of you who would like to do a course together. This could be hosted in one of the groups houses and would be the same format as my group hypnobirthing classes.

Course cost – £295

The benefits of Hypnobirthing

  • You are likely to experience a more comfortable and sometimes women refer to their birth being pain free
  • The length of labour is often much shorter with hypnobirthing births
  • The need for drugs and intervention is reduced, which allows your baby to develop naturally and easily after they arrive
  • Your baby will arrive to a serene and relaxed environment, alert and ready to bond with you as nature intended
  • Mums often bounce back quicker after a Hypnobirthing birth as the physical impact of giving birth is reduced
  • Hypnobirthing babies tend to show less distress during birth, are often very alert after birth and calmer babies
  • Your birth partner will learn how to support you and have a central and active role in the birth. A truly shared and loving experience

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses in Barnes, Hampton, Hillingdon, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, Sheen, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham, Weybridge and surrounding areas.

For my group courses I’m taking bookings for my November course in Hampton Hill in and my first course of 2018 the January course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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20% Discount on Hypnobirthing Courses

Would you like a 20% discount on Hypnobirthing courses?

Looking to do a hypnobirthing course? Maybe you have flexibility around the hours you can do? Would really like to do the course but looking to reduce the cost of one?  I offer a 20% discount on hypnobirthing courses –  Essentials, Full Hypnobirthing & Refresher courses that are taken between the hours of 10.00 – 16.00 on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. To be eligible for the discount all sessions have to be taken around these hours and on the specific days.

Sometimes its a struggle trying to fit everything in when you’re pregnant and time starts to speed up! Before you know it those first 12 weeks that took more like 6 months to pass are a distant memory and you’re in your third trimester. But did you know that even if you work on a Tuesday – Thursday during the hours of 10.00 – 16.00 you’re entitled to take antenatal classes during work hours? Hypnobirthing qualifies for this as its an antenatal course in the same way you’re able to take midwife and hospital appointments during work hours.

Where are the courses held?

The Essentials, Full & Refresher hypnobirthing courses are held in the comfort of your own home. So no need to travel anywhere you can just remain in a relaxed environment at home whilst I travel to you.

How can hypnobirthing prepare me for a better birth experience?

When it comes to our birth experience we aren’t aren’t always encouraged to treat it in the same way as any other memorable occasion in our life. Such as engagement, marriage, buying a house.  Why are we put off investing in educating and preparing ourselves for birth? We can’t just hope for a good birth experience we have to prepare for one.

Some people are put off by the cost of a hypnobirthing course. I often have parents say to me I’d like to do it but there is so much more to pay out for when you’re having a baby. This of course is very true. They are weighing up is hypnobirthing worth it. Preparing for a new arrival can become very costly. But what we can’t put a price on is an woman’s birth experience. A bad birth experience can haunt women for life. It can lead to post natal depression and consequently put a woman off having another baby. Even women who had planned to have more than one child stop at one after a negative experience.

Hypnobirthing prepares expectant parents for a birth they can feel in control of and approach in a calm manner. Understanding how the body works during the birthing process is a vital part of a calm birth. The more we understand the birthing body the easier it is to work with it. The more educated we are on birth the better prepared we are. Knowledge is power after all.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses in Barnes, Hampton, Isleworth, Kingston, Richmond, St Margarets, Sunbury, Surbiton, Teddington, Twickenham and surrounding areas. All of which are eligible for a 20% discount on Hypnobirthing courses.

I also offer group courses and I’m taking bookings for my November course in Hampton Hill in and the January course in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – I’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Group Hypnobirthing Course in Hampton Hill

Looking for a group hypnobirthing course in Hampton?

Hypnobirthing Mumma’s October course in St Margarets is now underway but I’m delighted to be offering the November group Hypnobirthing course in Hampton Hill. The course will be held in the heart of Hampton Hill at The Little Gym. A great environment for not only little ones to develop flexibility, strength, balance and coordination through varied physical activities but also a great teaching environment for my hypnobirthing courses. Allowing participants to feel comfortable and be in a relaxed environment.

Course dates and times

The course will be held over 7.5 hours from 19.00 – 21.30 on Monday 20th, 27th November and 4th December 2017.

I don’t overfill courses as I want everybody to be able to ask questions and fully immerse themselves in hypnobirthing. To ensure this is the case I only teach a maximum of five couples per course. This group size allows me to get to know you all individually.

The cost is £295 per couple.

What would I get out of a group Hypnobirthing class?

Joining this group hypnobirthing course in Hampton is a great way to not only to learn all about hypnobirthing but also to meet other local expectant parents in the area. I often meet expectant parents who may be new to the area who want to meet other parents to be in the area. A group course offers you the opportunity to meet friendly faces who share the same outlook on birth as you do.

An environment where I encourage you to share your thoughts around birth with like-minded people. Many of which have heard about the benefits of hypnobirthing for Mum, Dad and baby and want to learn as much as possible.

As a class I encourage us all to meet up once all the babies have arrived for a Postnatal Reunion.  This is held during the daytime in the week. An opportunity for mum, baby and of course Dad if he is free to meet and talk about your experiences of birth and early parenting.

The benefits of Hypnobirthing

  • You are likely to experience a more comfortable and sometimes women refer to their birth being pain free.
  • Length of labour is often much shorter with hypnobirthing births.
  • The need for drugs and intervention is reduced, which allows your baby to develop naturally and easily after they arrive.
  • Your baby will arrive to a serene and relaxed environment, alert and ready to bond with you as nature intended.
  • Mums often bounce back quicker after a Hypnobirthing birth as the physical impact of giving birth is reduced.
  • Hypnobirthing babies tend to show less distress during birth, are often very alert after birth and calmer babies.
  • Your birth partner will learn how to support you and have a central and active role in the birth. A truly shared and loving experience.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer the group hypnobirthing course in Hampton and St Margarets. I also teach private hypnobirthing courses in Hampton, Richmond, Twickenham, Isleworth, St Margarets, Kingston, Surbiton and surrounding areas. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Is Hypnobirthing Worth It?

What price do we put on our birth experiences? Is hypnobirthing worth it?

As women we often put investment into our daily life routine. Be it our hair being cut and coloured, having regular blow drys, manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing appointments. These appointments become part of our routine even though they are costly and take a chunk of our disposable income.

When it comes to weddings there’s often no expense spared. On average, a wedding in the UK now costs £27,000 with the figure in London reaching £38,000! But when it comes to what is said to be one of the most memorable days of your life we can become complacent about how much is being spent. We want to have the best experience on our wedding day.

I know as a bride to be I spent an eye watering amount on beauty treatments leading up to the big day. Changing my gym routine. Being more conscious of my diet. A lot of preparation went into my big day. My budget for my dress doubled when I saw ‘the dress’.

So why when it comes to our birth experience why aren’t we encouraged to treat it in the same way as any other memorable occasion in our life? Why are we put off investing in educating and preparing ourselves for birth? We can’t just hope for a good birth experience we have to prepare for one.

How can hypnobirthing prepare me for a better birth experience?

Some people are put off by the cost of a hypnobirthing course. I often have parents say to me i’d like to do it but there is so much more to pay out for when you’re having a baby. This of course is very true. They are weighing up is hypnobirthing worth it. Preparing for a new arrival can become very costly. But what we can’t put a price on is an woman’s birth experience. A bad birth experience can haunt women for life. It can lead to post natal depression and consequently put a woman off having another baby. Even women who had planned to have more than one child stop at one after a negative experience.

Hypnobirthing prepares expectant parents for a birth they can feel in control of and approach in a calm manner. Understanding how the body works during the birthing process is a vital part of a calm birth. The more we understand the birthing body the easier it is to work with it. The more educated we are on birth the better prepared we are. Knowledge is power after all.

A pain free birth?

Hypnobirthing doesn’t promise you a pain free birth but what it does do is allow you to reframe birth. Lets not talk about pain lets talk about sensations. Those sensations you will experience will be far more manageable if you’re calm and relaxed. The reason for this is because the body won’t be producing adrenaline – we don’t need this during birth. We need the body to be be producing oxytocin – the feel good hormone and endorphins as these will ensure your uterus works effectively and efficiently.

All this being said many hypnobirthing mums will say their birth was relatively ‘pain’ free. I for one describe my birth experience as and enjoyable experience and i’d had harder days at work. Some would say I was just ‘lucky’. I wouldn’t I would say my husband and I educated ourselves in the lead up. We prepared as best as we could so when that day arrived we would feel prepared and we did.

Own your birth experience

My advice to all expectant Mum’s would be to own your birth experience. Don’t expect anybody else to take control of it for you. At the end of the day a busy London hospital will see 1000’s of women come through their doors on a monthly basis. They are there to facilitate your birth but you need to have the voice and communicate with your caregivers. Don’t allow choices to be taken away from you by not educating yourself. Unfortunately many women will say about their birth experience ‘I wasn’t allowed to do that’. ‘The hospital said I had to do that’. As birthing women we always have a choice. We have to consent to anything that happens to us. Hypnobirthing educates us on this.

Hypnobirthing gave me a voice when I was in labour. Being transferred to the labour ward after having had a nice experience on the natural birthing centre. It was hospital protocol i’d be in second stage too long to remain there. I had a voice when they started to prep me for theatre for an epidural. Asking what the alternative was. What happened? The alternative meant my baby was delivered promptly without me having an epidural.

So is hypnobirthing worth it?

In my eyes its worth every penny. It was the best investment I made during my pregnancy. The course left me feeling prepared and confident. A feeling I now love hearing that my clients have experienced also when we finish a course together.

I’d advise any pregnant lady give up a couple of those things that we have in our monthly routines. Get your other half to forgo a few nights out with friends. Those sports or gig tickets. By the time you forgo a few you’ve paid for a hypnobirthing course. A course that will leave you feeling prepared. So what your nails and hair may not look as preened but having a birth experience that you look back on as a positive and happy day is worth it.

Every woman deserves a birth that she felt in control of. One that may have been textbook or one that took a different route. Regardless of that it needs to be one that you were in control of and was the best birth for you. It’s your birth – own your birth and your body.

So is hypnobirthing worth it? I strongly believe so. Treat your birth in the same way you’d treat buying a house, getting married. Let it be a memorable experience. Investing in it as you would any other significant life event.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I teach private hypnobirthing courses in Teddington, St Margarets, Richmond, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Kingston and surrounding areas. I also offer group courses in St Margarets. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

I offer Twick Mum and YogaBellies Richmond ladies a 10% discount on all my courses.

Follow me via my blog,  FacebookInstagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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My Favourite Baby Items For My Hypnobaby

What baby items should I buy? Where do I start?

As a Mum to be it can be completely overwhelming with all of the decisions that need to be made. What course do I do? What is hypnobirthing? Which hospital will I have my baby at? Do I want a homebirth? Do I need to go to NCT? Then there’s the amount of baby items to choose from! Many friends shared their recommendations with me. I bought many items that I barely used much to the frustration of my other half! What I did find out though were the baby items that served me well. So here are my favourite buys that I bought for my very own hypnobaby.

Medela Breast Pump

Unfortunately I really struggled with breastfeeding. Therefore the breastfeeding counsellor advised to get an electric breast pump to express. As although we struggled to feed I still wanted to give Oliver the chance to have breast milk. Expressing was the perfect solution for us. It was really easy to use and not uncomfortable. The electric pump made it so much easier and quicker than a hand pump. Women really give themselves a hard time with breastfeeding. I’m a strong believer in as long as baby is fed and happy then you are doing your best. You’ve created a miracle – don’t forget you’re amazing! So if you’re struggling to feed, or wanting to express so that Dad or those around you can help with the feeds i’d highly recommend Medela.

Doctor Brown’s Bottles

I had so many recommendations for these bottles and I understand why. They are fantastic bottles. Oliver fortunately never suffered with colic whilst we used them. They were long lasting and I never had to replace the bottles. Well I did but only the ones I lost when I left them in various places!! They come with various teat sizes so I was able to keep Oliver on them until he gave up the bottle when he turned 1. If you’re bottle feeding my tip with bottles is to buy the full size bottles to start with. They move up so quickly to needing more milk that the smaller bottles become redundant quickly.

Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep

I bought this once I realised that I wasn’t going to be able to breast feed solely. This machine is brilliant! Especially at 3am allowing you to make an optimum temperature bottle in under 2 minutes. This made our lives so much easier. It’s really easy to use and maintain. Changing the filter is like changing any water filer and it alerts you when this is necessary. Considering the usage the filters last a good length of time – so don’t be put off by needing to change the filters.

Phil & Teds Travel Cot

This travel cot is fantastic! This baby item has gone on in to a toddler item as Oliver still sleeps in it now! It is more pricey than some others on the market but its well worth the money. It so compact it fits in a suitcase, is super light and the mattress is inflatable. An inflatable mattress might not sound that comfortable for your little bundle of joy but when the cover is on you’d know no different. Not bulky or heavy and very easy to put together. We have taken ours on many holidays and for overnight stays. Personally i’d always rather have my own travel cot than a hotel one but some may say i’m just being fussy. It doubles up as a play pen and they also sell a sun shade for it so it can be used outside. This was definitely money well spent.

Babyway Newborn Bath Seat

We had a flat folding bath seat we had never got used as I found the Babyway bath seat was so easy to use. Oliver was really secure and comfortable. It grips to the bath and allows the baby to sit in a comfortable position. Oliver never slipped in this seat he sat comfortably allowing us to play and wash him. The only downside its an awkward shape to store so ours took up residence in the bath!

Muslins

We went through so many muslins so I tried a fair few! Oliver still loves a muslin know to him as his ‘raggy’! I think raggy appears in our wedding pictures more than us! So as you can imagine they get washed copious amounts of time. 2.5 years on these are the ones I loved the most, kept their softness and wash up so well. Aden & Anais my heart still pangs every time i see a newborn with these – so sparkly white with the cute animal design. Given to us as a gift and because I know how well they have served us I now often buy them as a gift too.

Another excellent set that are great value are from Aldi by Kirkton House. These too were part of a newborn gift and I hunted them down once I realised how great they were. I signed up to the Aldi special buys emails so i knew when they were having a baby event and stocking them. 2.5 years on the original set are still going strong.

A couple of baby items I didn’t buy and in hindsight I would have…

So hindsight is a great thing and there are a couple of things I look back and think I would have bought that. Not that what I had didn’t serve me well but these would have been better buys.

Stokke Tripp Trapp highchair

At the time i looked at these highchairs and thought i’m not spending that much. Yes they are pricey but the lifespan of them is fantastic. Oliver now uses one with his childminder and they are the ideal size for dinner tables. Once they move out of the baby seat you can use this as a chair that a child can sit comfortably on. The height is adjustable and they come in a super range of modern and contemporary colours. This will definitely be one of my baby items purchase should we be lucky to have another baby in the future.

Uppababy Buggy

When we were looking at buggies I didn’t want to have a buggy with a carrycot. I wanted a buggy that could lie flat and also be a three wheeler. I was able to find a nice design that I liked and met these requirements. Unfortunately what I didn’t take into consideration was the amount of basket space. Why would I?! I wasn’t used to having to juggle shopping, a handbag, baby changing bag and a buggy! So this was a bug bearer for me that I had a pretty impractically sized, flimsy basket. The handle was adjustable but my back continued to ache as not being high enough. I often look at mothers with the Uppababy buggies and envy the basket space they have and how high the handles go. So if I was purchasing another buggy it would certainly be an Uppababy.

Hopefully these suggestions are helpful and don’t overwhelm or confuse you even further. They are just a few items that personally I think are good buys on the market. There are loads out there and it can becoming confusing. Just give yourself time to browse the stores and find the best items for you.

What I do when i’m not recommending baby items!

I’m busy helping expectant parents achieve the best birth for them. I offer hypnobirthing classes in Teddington, Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Keep in touch

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with my courses and workshops taking place.

Ali x

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Birth Preparation Workshops

What is a Birth Preparation Workshop?

I host birth preparation workshops in conjunction with YogaBellies Richmond to help women and couples prepare for the birth of their baby. It is a nurturing, fun and informative 3 hours. We commence with an hours pregnancy yoga followed by two hour hypnobirthing workshop. Our intention is for people to feel relaxed and leave the workshop feeling more empowered and less anxious about birth.

A birth preparation workshop allows you to take time for relaxation. Allowing you to let go of any apprehensions and sharing your experiences with other new parents to be. It’s a nurturing workshop that allows you to relax, and take time for you and your baby. Allowing you the space to connect with the miracle growing inside you.

I enlighten attendees about the benefits of hypnobirthing. Educating on how if in the right environment we can encourage the birthing hormones. These hormones are so vital to encourage birth naturally and many of us are unaware of this. Inviting everybody to join in on relaxation and breathing techniques. We discuss any fears individuals may have and how hypnobirthing can help overcome those fears or anxieties.

Yoga compliments hypnobirthing as many of the beautiful poses are fantastic birthing positions. Opening up the pelvis so much more than lying on your back. They are open positions enabling a woman’s body to birth a baby more effectively and naturally. When a woman becomes more familiar with these positions during pregnancy hopefully they will come more naturally to take them up during labour.

Feedback received

The intention with the birth preparation workshop is for expectant parents to feel nourished and informed. I always encourage parents that even if they don’t go on to book a full KG hypnobirthing course to take away nuggets of info. Hopefully so that they are remembered when they go on to birth their baby. Be it how to encourage your birthing hormones, the breathing, keeping your jaw and face relaxed. If I can help somebody have the best birth for them then I’ve achieved what I set out to do.

A taste of the lovely feedback received from expectant Mum’s at the last workshop on the 10 June 2017 in Richmond, Surrey….

‘I thought the workshop was great and it has really inspired me not to be afraid or listen to negative stories!’

‘I really enjoyed it. Very informative.’

‘We’d both like to thank you for the workshop on Saturday – we both enjoyed it but more importantly found it positive and reassuring.’

‘Thanks again for such a great session.’

Many parents leave the session feeling inspired and do go on to book a full private or group course.

How often are the Birth Preparation Workshops held?

We aim to hold Birth Preparation Workshops every 2 months. We will be announcing a date very soon for a workshop for August 2017 in Richmond.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer hypnobirthing classes across Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Should I do Hypnobirthing or NCT classes?

Hypnobirthing VS NCT Classes

When i was pregnant I was lucky enough to be able to attend Hynobirthing and NCT courses. Some of us may not have that luxury be it due to money or time. I’m often asked what are the differences so luckily i’m able to give my views. What one would you suggest if i can only do one? Do they overlap in content? From experience they are both great but for different reasons.

I am firm believer in knowledge is power.  So to be as educated as  I could be would mean more control during labour. My hypnobirthing course was really interesting and opened my eyes up to how amazing the birthing body is. Both my partner, Jamie and I learnt so much. Jamie who was sceptical at first was an advocate by the time our course had ended. Hypnobirthing made him a great birth partner – I fundamentally believe this. Jamie gained a great understanding of birth. He knew what we needed to do to help achieve the birth i’d set out for. He also became very interested when he was able to liken it to sport!

Hypnobirthing Course

We did a private hypnobirthing course as I wanted that 1-2-1 experience. For me the 1-2-1 course would be in the comfort of my own home at times that suited me. I offer this 1-2-1 option for expectant parents. Many couples like the idea of a group hypnobirthing course. Therefore I offer this option too as they are able to meet other expectant parents. Perhaps discuss elements of pregnancy and birth they’d not considered.

My hypnobirthing course sets out to make the expectant parents as relaxed as possible. I work with the parents to understand what they want to get out of the course. I am then able to run the course taking their needs into consideration. If there are any fears what they are and how we can work through them. Hypnobirthing is an holistic approach to birth. With this in mind I don’t focus on pain relief in great detail. Most of my clients are hoping to achieve a natural birth. My teaching is around educating people how they can try to achieve this. How working with your breath is a natural pain relief.

For me its very important that we cover how birth sometimes can takes a different journey. If this happens how you can apply hypnobirthing techniques to that birth. Understand why it may have taken that course and be happy with the outcome. Hypnobirthing isn’t just about birthing naturally its for all types of birth and the best birth for you.

NCT Courses

The NCT class was a great opportunity to meet local expectant Mums in the area. Our teacher was great asking us what we wanted to get out of NCT and what we wanted to learn. You felt like you had ownership over your course. We covered things like what happens if you have a c-section. Preparing you for what would happen, how many people would be in theatre. The breastfeeding class was great and left me feeling very positive.

I think with group courses where you could have different views on birth it can be quite daunting. Some Mums are adamant they are having an epidural as they are convinced that birth will be a painful ordeal. Its understandable its what we’ve been lead to believe through gruesome stories, media, TV, films. This experience can be quite a negative one within a group environment. That’s where hypnobirthing steps in to help you overcome these fears and anxieties. To break down what can happen if you have an epidural. Expectant Mum’s need all the info to enable them to make an informed decision.

The main difference for me was that i found NCT a very functional approach. It felt like I was in a classroom learning but in a relaxed environment. With hypnobirthing I felt like I had left in a meditative state feeling so relaxed and excited about birth. NCT didn’t leave me feeling excited as it was quite matter of fact. Not in a negative way whatsoever but just a different approach.

The key things I learnt through hypnobirthing

With Hypnobirthing we break down the elements of birthing and the implications of procedures. For example epidurals and how they can lead to intervention. How an induction works and what the body does when its pumped with artificial Oxytocin. The body can’t break it down as it does with natural Oxytocin. For me these are key facts that women should be educated on as so they can understand what can happen.

Having a good understanding of this enabled me to know what i’d like to try and achieve during labour. I would never discourage anybody from having pain relief as sometimes its needed and birth doesn’t always go as planned. But having an understanding of the birthing hormones – oxytocin, melatonin and endorphins, this helps enormously with keeping you calm. Understanding why you need to keep your stress levels down to enable the body to birth more effectively. Keeping the stress hormone, adrenaline, at bay. Many women don’t have an understanding of these and by educating people about these we can help achieve better births.

For me hypnobirthing is far more than just downloading an app and listening to relaxations. A course is in depth and teaches you the importance of relaxation, practice, understanding how the body works. Most importantly it ensures the expectant Father or birthing partner is a fundamental part of hypnobirthing. They understand what is happening. What you want and can act as your voice when you are in labour and take control of situations. Most expectant fathers I teach are often really impressed. By the end of a hypnobirthing course they’ve have had their eyes well and truly opened. Left feeling like they have a true role to play during labour and how they can help in pregnancy. Hypnobithing isn’t only about Mum it’s about the Father and/or Birthing partner and baby too.

The choice is yours…

We’re all different so I never deter expectant parents from doing either course. Its all down to personal choice. There are elements in both courses that I found really interesting. For myself, who tries to take an holistic, natural approach to life I loved the hypnobirthing course. I found learning about how we can work with our bodies amazing. Understanding how a water birth can be a natural pain relief. How successfully women birth at home and why. How we can continue to use those birthing hormones after labour to encourage successful breastfeeding. NCT educated me on other aspects of birth i’d not considered – labour wards, c-sections, vaccinations. An in depth class on breastfeeding.

If you can’t do both understand what both courses can offer you. What is important to you and what you want to get out of a course. Have conversations with your local NCT teachers and hypnobirthing teachers to understand what they offer. Do you get support after the course? I offer all my Mums to be continuing support once the course has finished. I think this is vital in your role as a hypnobirthing teacher. We’re there to support expectant parents and beyond.

Interested in booking a hypnobirthing course? What to know more?

I offer hypnobirthing classes across Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Ali x

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Hypnobirthing Mumma’s Wedding

Wedded Bliss in the Sunshine!

Isn’t it amazing what sunshine does for us all. Makes you feel happy. People are smiling. We’re all so much friendlier! Vitamin D is good for the soul. I’ve been enjoying picking up where i left off a few weeks ago in Florida enjoying the beautiful sunshine and summer like weather in London. It caste me back to 4 weeks ago…. The wedding day had arrived – which had been 18 months in the making.

Since getting engaged on my birthday in 2015 my world had been consumed with not only my amazing hypno baby boy Oliver but also an exciting time of wedding planning. My inner little girl dreaming of getting married in a beautiful sparkly wedding dress had come true! The day came and as all brides say it passed in a flash. At 1am I had to admit defeat and leave the hardcore guests who were still standing around the pool to party on without me! Brides prerogative and all that…

The Wedding Day – 27.04.17

It was a wonderful day surrounded by most of our closest friends and family in the beautiful setting which Anna Maria Island, Florida. Set on a beach that is so white and impressed all of our guests. So much so my very good friend Cathy, co-owner of Puddle Ducks South West London, upon arrival said ‘why are there are diamonds in the sand’.

I started my day with a massive plate of pancakes, blueberries and maple syrup in the delightful Ginny’s & Jane’s cafe. Against tradition I enjoyed this with the groom Jamie and our son Oliver. As the getting ready process begun i was spoilt to be joined by lifelong friends throughout the day.

We picked The Sandbar to hold our wedding as it ticked all the boxes of what we were looking for. It was a very relaxed affair and I wanted people to enjoy the day not be worried about formalities. I wanted the guests who had kids with them to be able to enjoy the day. Not feeling like they need to keep the kids quiet or keep them seated in their seats for hours. By total coincidence the cottage we were staying in practically backed onto the entrance of Sandbar. I couldn’t have planned it any better if i’d tried.

Dad & I managed to walk down the aisle without tripping over one another as I was struggling to walk in the sand! We laughed all the way down the aisle which was great although took us a while to even get to the aisle as Oliver was insisting Grandad picked him up. Thankfully he took the hand of my Maid of Honor and his Godmother Lauren and eventually lead the way. At one point i was thinking they will need to re-start the song My Girl at this rate but then he decided he’d walk. Lets be honest he was the star of the show.

We invited guests to wear what they were comfortable in, bring the kids and to just enjoy themselves. The outcome a very happy set of guests on the day. We didn’t exchange rings instead opted for a sand ceremony where 2 sands are blended into one bottle. Whizzing through the vows so we could get on to the fun part! Piña coladas and mojitos consumed and copious portions of food to ensure everybody was well fed. The kids were well entertained with gift bags but i think the selfie station was more of a winner with them!

A big thanks to our support team

My superwoman also known as ‘Essex Kelly’ to differentiate between my childhood friend ‘Richmond Kelly’ joined me at 10am. I could write a book about this girl – her efforts on my wedding day were truly amazing. To say I feel blessed to have her in my life is an understatement. There is nothing Kelly wouldn’t have done for me and yes she helped me pee at the end of the night. She’d also held my hair back whilst throwing my guts up after my hen party. So i’m sure you’re getting the jist about how amazing she is. Her opening words when she arrived were this is your day and i’ll do anything you need me to. She was true to her word. She ensured the fizz was flowing whilst we were getting ready too.

The best man and his gorgeous girlfriend popped in during the course of the day to say hi – and yes Neerav certainly earns the title of Best Man. He is an amazing friend to Jamie & I and fantastic Godfather to Oliver. Helping me plan to surprise Jamie with his wedding gift. He put him off the scent by presenting him with a pair of personalised flamingo boxers. 15 minutes later he presented the real present – a watch. Can’t wait to see the look of disappointment on Jamie’s face with the boxers, as Chelsea our photographer was on hand to capture the moment!

Jamie was running around most of the morning including getting us girls all lunch before setting off himself to start getting ready with the boys.

My Stepdad Nigel and good friend Noddy must have lost about a stone in weight the morning of the wedding.  They were rallying around doing lots of jobs behind the scenes in the baking sunshine. Never complaining and unfortunately no time to breath for them before the 5pm ceremony!

Thankfully whilst this was all going on Oliver was a super star and having a massive afternoon nap for Mummy! Nanny and Grandad had truly worn him out that morning when they took him off my hands.

I loved having all my friends around me whilst i was getting ready. It was wonderful to be surrounded by good friends and family when I was putting my wedding dress. So blessed to have shared it with them.

One of my best friends, Diane couldn’t be with me as she is heavily pregnant. Yes we’d had lots of tears together about her not being there but thanks to FaceTime i got a picture with her. Albeit with my hair in rollers and Diane on an iPad screen! Joined by Superwoman Kelly in the picture to make The Three Musketeers as we’ve always called ourselves. Diane does have to take credit as being the driving force behind Jamie & I getting together with her endearing mischievous ways.

A great team of people goes a long way

We had amazing people around us to ensure what we wanted happened. A great event planner – A.J. owner of TheLoft5. A super talented cake maker Cindy owner of Hometown Desserts.  I don’t even know where to start about our super talented photographer, Chelsea, owner of Finding Light Photography. I’ve taken the liberty of posting a couple of Chelsea’s pictures for you all to see. I’m beside myself to see the final full set of pictures. This girl is such an amazing photographer!

I loved the laid back approach in Florida and the stress it took out of a traditional wedding. Friends enjoyed not only the wedding but loved Anna Maria Island. Many have told us they want to go back which delights us. It’s a lot to ask of people to fly across the Atlantic so for them to love the location was fantastic. Good friends who run their own businesses left those to join us again a big ask. To name a few Leanne putting her pilates classes in Twickenham on hold; Cathy leaving her husband Pete to man the fort for Puddle Ducks South West London; Laura taking a break from Laura Beth Photography and Jack putting down the plumbing tools. A massive thanks guys.

The best thing i found about getting married abroad, other than the relaxed style was the extended celebrations. We had drinks with friends the night before and the day after a BBQ at our gorgeous place we called home for a week – Anna Maria Cottage. We were truly spoilt to be surrounded by everybody for a few days.

It’s easy to get caught up in the finer details with weddings. My main objective was to keep it about Jamie, Oliver & I and about our guests. We wanted people to enjoy themselves, eat, drink and be merry. Upon reflection we achieved that, and all the other things that you sweat over deciding on dissolve in the background. The reason for this is because to be surrounded by those that love you and are enjoying your day as much as you are is the most important thing. To be thanked by friends for making it such an enjoyable day truly makes me happy.

So who’s up for an Anna Maria reunion?! Let’s get planning!

When i’m not getting married…

I’m busy helping expectant parents achieve the best birth for them. I offer hypnobirthing classes in Twickenham, Richmond, Kingston and surrounding areas in London. So to find out more about hypnobirthing or to book your hypnobirthing classes get in touch – i’d love to hear from you.

Keep in touch

Follow me via my blog,  Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep up to date with all workshops and events taking place.

Sending you all positive vibes from my happy wedded place.

Mrs Ali Coleshill x

Hypnobirthing Mumma's Wedding

Hypnobirthing Mumma's Wedding

 

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