1. Phone charger - once baby has arrived and you've told everyone, expect your phone to be ringing off the hook, and using valuable battery power. Also, unless you bring a separate camera, your phone will be what you capture your baby's first moments with.
2. Post partum pads - LOTS of them! If you think you have enough, add another pack! Nobody ever talks about post partum bleeding, but you can expect a lot in the first few days after you've had your baby.
3. Following on from this, treat yourself to some Bridget Jones knickers! You won't be worrying about how they look, and it's important to stay comfortable after your baby has been born; the elastic will sit above any possible c section scar too!
   
4. Slippers - you're not usually allowed to walk around barefoot in hospital, so get yourself some nice slippers that are easy to put on and keep your feet toasty.
   
5. Wash bag - don't bother with mini bottles of shampoo etc, either get some travel bottles and fill them at home or take full size bottles with you. Find something that's gentle on delicate skin and smells nice too, you'll feel amazing after that first post-baby shower!
   
6. Hair bands - you probably won't have time (or energy) to do your hair, so to keep it out of your newborns hands and face, a ponytail is a favourite hairstyle among new mums!
   
7. Something to read - whether it be a book, a magazine or an ebook, you'll spend a fair amount of time feeding baby or resting in bed, and something to read helps pass the time.
   
8. Lipbalm - hospitals are warm, and you may find you have dry lips (especially if you used gas and air), so a nice lip balm can do you the world of good.
   
9. Breast pads - your milk may not come in straight away, but you might find you start leaking soon after baby has arrived, so have breast pads packed next to your nursing bras ready.
   
10. Snacks - some hospitals have a day room with a small selection of snacks, or a little kitchen where you can make some toast for yourself, but it's always good to have a personal supply too. If you're not a huge fan of tap water, bring a small bottle of squash with you too, you'll need to drink plenty of fluids to keep your energy up.
    

Psst! Those who follow my Facebook page will have seen posts about exciting goings on behind the scenes...well...

See the picture?

That stairwell...leads to my new studio space!! Finally I move out of shooting in my living room, which means I can offer more variety with lighting, backdrops and props and you can see some of the products I offer, such as my beautiful canvas and box framed prints.

In the next few weeks I'll be organising a studio open day, where everyone can come and check out the studio, my work, products, one day only offers and more! Remember to like and follow my page on Facebook, where I'll be announcing the open day date and more details soon!

I want to thank my past and current clients for their custom, which has enabled me to take this big step forward ❤️