Best OKC and Edmond Baby Shower Venues

Oklahoma City and the surrounding metro area are packed full of awesome hot spots for events. Restaurants, small event venues, tea rooms, parks, recreational centers, or your local church are just a handful of choices.

There are a few factors to consider depending on the size of crowd you are expecting, your budget, and how formal of an affair you’d like it to be. Here are some options for venues who are designed with small events in mind.

1. The Space (located in Edmond on 33rd st west of Broadway). A great size at 800 sq feet, this newer location offers a private setting that you’ll have all to yourselves. There are options for catering with charcuterie boards and other snacks. Capacity is 24 if seated, 50 if standing. Starting prices range from $175 to $375 depending on the day of week.

2. Melrose on May (on May north of Hefner Rd). A similarly sized location but with more flexible seating options, Melrose is a private facility that’s a “blank slate” for you to decorate as you wish. Prices are comparable at $125 an hour.

3. The Hamilton Event Center (on Santa Fe Ave north of Memorial). For a larger and more upscale option, this location is draped in beautiful fabric with tall, 16 foot ceilings. It can accommodate seating for up to 50 and offers bonuses like lighting, linens, and themed decorations. For pricing you will need to inquire, but it’s safe to say with all the amenities it offers you’ll be paying for the experience. It can be worth it if your budget allows!

4. The Reverie (on May Ave north of Britton). Another private venue option for up to 50 guests, it’s a beautiful all white space with a touch of adorable vintage furniture. Prices are $85/hour on Monday-Thursday and $125/hour on Friday-Sunday.

5. Inspirations Tea Room (on W Edmond Rd just east of Santa Fe Ave). A beautiful little tea spot with everything included such as tea and tiered trays with sandwiches, fruit, and desserts. Prices range from $275-675 depending on the size of your group and which room you book. Any size from 12 to 30 guests can be accommodated.

6. The Stables at Icehouse (Just west of Broadway on 2nd street in downtown Edmond). A rustic modern private event venue that’s 1200 sq feet and has an outdoor reception are. It’s located in the Icehouse Project which also hosts a couple restaurants and ice creamery.

7. Bowlero (on S Boulevard south of 33rd). How about something completely different? A bowling party! With a fun event that provides lots of entertainment value for all ages, a bowling alley can be a super memorable baby shower. Prices range from $21.99 to $48.99 per person depending on food provided and amount of bowl time. The bowling ball belly jokes write themselves!

8. Chicken N Pickle (directly off Broadway Extension and north of Wilshire Blvd). Another fun and activity filled option. Play some pickle ball and then retire to the private dining space upstairs for the party. You’ll need to inquire on pricing and other amenities.

9. Vast (downtown OKC at the top of Devon Tower). For the wow factor, hold an event with a view! There are a few room options with space for between 50 and 100 guests. Prices may not be as high as you expect, particularly if holding a weekday lunch time affair. Your guests will love an excuse for a lavish lunch.

10. Packard’s (Midtown on 10th of I-235). For a rooftop option in the mild weather months, this location is very chic and has that hip Midtown feel. It can accommodate up to 200 but you have the option of only renting a portion of the rooftop if you desire. Prices vary depending on day and time, so you’ll need to inquire.

Hopefully this list has given you some ideas or at the very least some inspiration on how to elevate your baby shower and celebrate a new life in a vibrant atmosphere.

Top 5 Red Flags in a Newborn Photographer

Who would you rather be?

Person A: They’re becoming a parent for the first time. They are super excited and have focused on finding the perfect crib, carseat, and even the best diapers. When it came time to pick a newborn photographer, they had heard that their friend who just bought a nice camera was looking for baby models and signed themselves up. That friend had no experience in newborn photography. The baby uncomfortable and refused to relax during the session. The photographer didn’t know how to edit so the pictures were too under exposed, too yellow, and they still showed all the baby acne and flaky skin. In short, they aren’t photos that you want to print and hang proudly on your wall. But at least they were a bargain?

Person B: They are also a first time parent. They did all the research on the best crib, car seat, and diapers. They did that same kind of research on finding the best newborn photographer. They found someone who had great reviews, a beautiful portfolio, and years of experience. The baby was relaxed and slept well during the session which allowed them to be posed comfortably. The editing was top notch with beautiful, bright images of clear, creamy skin. They can’t wait to have a large picture featuring their new, whole family on their wall and a thick, well-made album sitting on their coffee table full with priceless, timeless images.

Obviously you are ready to pick person B. Even if they have to save up some money or plan a bit a more in advance, it’ll be well worth it when their baby is grown out of that crib and car seat but those photos are still proudly displayed.

So when you research to find that photographer that’s the best for you, here are the top 5 flags that you should avoid:

1. They don’t specialize in newborn photography

   If you have a broken leg that needs surgery, are you going to a your family doctor and expecting them to perform the surgery? Of course not! You want the best orthopedist surgeon available. You may not realize it, but photography is the same way. Someone who excels at weddings or even family photography will probably not be great at working with newborns. There are many who will outright refuse to do newborn photography and for good reason. They know they don't have the patience, experience, or skills needed for the job. Not to mention the equipment or props! When newborn photography is what they specialize in, you know they have the ability to produce the best images possible for you.

2. They don’t value newborn safety

   Newborn photography isn’t always safe. There are many photographers who might try poses with a baby’s head craned to far back, or balanced precariously on a prop because they don't want to take the extra time to edit out a hand in photoshop. Your baby’s well-being isn’t worth that!

3. They are inexperienced

   Maybe they are specializing in newborns. Maybe they have the equipment. But without having photographed many babies and spending hours on editing and perfecting their craft, they still aren’t ready to make the images you and your baby deserve. Don’t get me wrong, I totally understand that everyone starts somewhere. And as long as they are safe, you are welcome to support a budding photographer as they build their portfolio. Be prepared, however, to do another session with an experienced professional to get the photos you really want.

4. They are too cheap

   The old saying really does apply. You get what you pay for. If you are wanting an experienced, specialty photographer who will be guaranteed to make the images you want, you’re probably going to have to pay some good money. What constitutes “in the budget” is different for everyone. If a photographer is willing to do a session for just a couple hundred dollars, nine times out of ten they will not be the photographer you want. Also, most “expensive” photographers offer things like payment plans and gift registry!

5. They aren’t the style you want

   You found a photographer who is experienced, skilled, safe, and who you are willing to pay top dollar to. But you had your heart set on light and airy photos with minimal props and this photographer uses lots of props and loves dark and moody editing. They aren’t the photographer for you. These will be hanging up in your home for years to come. Be sure they are the “look” you want or it doesn’t matter how well they’re done, you will still cringe every time you see them.

Every baby from every family deserves to have beautiful images of themselves. These are photos that will be cherished for years and years to come. It may take a little investment of both time and money, but it’ll be worth it when years down the line you have no regrets.

Featuring Fantastic Doulas!

Have you ever considered hiring a doula for your birth or postpartum? What is a doula and what exactly do they do?

A doula is an expert at supportive care. They are there for whatever the family needs, whether that’s a quiet presence while laboring through contractions, a hand to hold during a cesarean, or even someone to care for you or little one in the exhaustive fourth trimester.

Doulas really can “do it all”! They’ve been to many births, held and cared for many babies, and had a wealth of experience that you can benefit from!

This website is a great resource to learn more on what doulas are and how they can help you!

So if you’re interested in hiring a doula, wether it’s for your birth or postpartum experience, who should you hire? It’s important to find one that has the experience, beliefs, and personality that’s the right fit for you. Here are a few in the Oklahoma City area you should consider:

(All photos have been provided by the doula)

• Miller Birth Services, Jen Miller

  “Jen is a passionate and knowledgeable birth doula and childbirth educator. She began her journey into birth work in 2012, after having two positive birth experiences and needed to share the possibilities with others. She enjoys life with her hubby, two kiddos, and two great pyrenees in Edmond and currently serves the OKC metro. Jen has completed multiple doula trainings, childbirth education training through the HypnoBirthing Institute, as well as trainings in rebozo, Spinning Babies, Dancing for Birth, Birth Art through Birthing from Within, and more! Jen is a firm believer that all birthing families benefit from education and support and loves working with families through their pregnancies and births for just that reason.” www.millerbirthservices.com

• Sooner State Doula, Miranda Jones

  “Sooner State Doula was founded by Miranda Jones in 2015. Miranda is from a large family and was blessed to be present at the birth of some of her siblings. This sparked an intense passion for pregnancy, birth and motherhood. Miranda decided to become a doula out of a desire to form close relationships with her clients and support them through all three of the major perinatal milestones; pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Miranda provides birth and postpartum doula services, childbirth education, and lactation support. She lives in Newcastle Oklahoma with her husband, two daughters, and several farm animals!” www.soonerstatedoula.com

• Nested Oak Doula, Ashlee Byrd

  “Ashlee Byrd is a certified birth doula and certified lactation counselor serving the OKC metro and surrounding areas through birth doula services, private childbirth prep, and lactation support. Since 2016, she has been passionate about helping families walk the childbearing year with agency, surrender, and joy. She believes that birth is a transformative  journey and wants her clients to feel prepared, respected, and confident regardless of how their journey unfolds.” www.nestedoak.com
  
  

• Amy Varughese

  “My name is Amy Varughese and I am a

  Postpartum doula. I was an Occupational

  Therapist Assistant for 15 years before I became a doula.I went through severe postpartum depression and anxiety that took so much of my joy in motherhood. I am a testament that a mother can overcome this and I want to help moms no matter what walk of life they have come from! Becoming a Postpartum Doula was God’s way in my life of turning purpose from pain. 

  I am Indian and love my cultural food, I cook as a side hustle for my friends, family and clients! I love making care packages for moms in the different seasons of life they find themselves they are in. I want them to feel seen, loved, and valued! I have a saying and that is everyone wants to hold the baby but who holds the mama? And this where I as a postpartum doula comes in!I also like to volunteer and do random acts of kindness with my family especially for mothers.

  Serving Mustang, Bethany, Piedmont, Edmond, Okc Metro” www.amyvarughese.com

• Breathe Birth Bond, Susan Mossman

  “I am so excited to serve the community here in Oklahoma. I am a military spouse of 14 years and have served as a doula and childbirth educator for over 10 years. My goal is to help families feel supported, informed and empowered about their upcoming birth. I don’t believe birth has to be a scary experience. It can be a space of peace and calm. I want parents to have a fulfilling, positive birth no matter what turn a birth take. I look forward to connecting with you.” www.facebook.com/breathe.birth.bond

• Ave Birth Doula, Taylor Young

  “My name is Taylor Young and I am a new doula still working towards certification(been through training with DONA). I have 4 children and work as a dental assistant. I enjoy sports and outdoors with my kids. Faith is important to me.

  I wanted to get into this field because of my experiences delivering my own children.  My first birth I was clueless and just in shock.  I had attended a childbirth class but did not learn much of anything there.  So it became my goal to inform all my friends and family how birth really is when anyone of them were expecting.  

  Then I discovered doulas. This is exactly what I wanted to do. Help women learn about birth and have a great experience. I just want to help others as much as possible.” www.avebirthdoula.com

I hope this blog has helped you whether you have never heard of doulas before, were on the fence on hiring one, or if you simply needed to narrow down your field of choices.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy baby!

Pick the best newborn photographer for YOU

Every family is unique and has different needs. Fortunately, there is a newborn photographer out there to fit every desire! Let’s look at what you should consider when selecting the best photographer for your needs.

A great example of a posed, studio newborn image done with props.

1. Style. Most likely, these are photos you are going to have hanging on your wall or sitting in a photo album on your coffee table for many years to come. So one of your first considerations should be picking the photographer with the style you prefer.

   • Studio/Posed: These are the photos you see of newborns wrapped up and posed in a bowl or bucket or posed with naked or just with a wrap. There are many varieties from those with themes and lots of color to those that are more simple and done with neutral tones. These are what I offer in my studio and I offer both colorful props and neutral options, usually keeping it very simple and focused on the baby.

   • Lifestyle: This style of newborn photography is typically done in the your home with an emphasis on a casual, non-posed look. Not every home is an ideal setup for a lifestyle session, but a skilled photographer can make most homes look beautiful.

   • The above examples are definitely oversimplifying your options. Another option I didn’t even list is birth or 48 hour photography which can be done instead of or along side a newborn session. There are so many possibilities! Each photographer has their own style, own props, own equipment and expertise. Be sure to look at lots of examples of their work and find the one that you like best!

Lifestyle newborn photography is usually done in your home. (image courtesy of https://shefaliparekh.com/marin-county-newborn-photographer-sycamore-smith/)

2. Services: Some photographers might not have many services or extras to offer their clients while others might include the use of their props, their own studio, wardrobe for the parents, hair and makeup, or even more. These types of services might make the photographer more expensive up front, but could save you money and stress in the long run. Also, you definitely want to consider what other types of shoots they may be willing to package with a newborn session. Perhaps you’d like to do a maternity session or milestone sessions throughout the baby’s first year. Having the same photographer for all those sessions will create a consistency with your photos and your albums.

3. Product Options: Some photographers offer only edited digital images while others offer prints, wall art, and albums. Lots of photographers offer options of both. Before deciding, decide what exactly you’ll be using the photos for. Are you going to hang them on your walls? Are you going to create a birth announcement or share them on social media?

Many photographers that provide the edited digital images will include a print release, however the quality of prints available to the general public are many times not as good as those available to professional photographers.

4. Experience: You might not realize how important this is, but rest assured that having a photographer who has experience is very important. Especially experience specifically working with newborns. There are many photographers, many of them just starting out, who are willing to lots of different niches of photography as they discover what their preferred specialty is. However, newborn photography is a time when you want someone with experience.

• Experience means safety. A photographer who has experience around babies knows how to safely pose, wrap, and moderate the temperature of a newborn.

• Experience means talent. Having an eye for lighting, for posing, angles, props, I could go on and on. All of that comes with years in the business.

• To put it bluntly, a new photographer should get experience by taking courses and working with a mentor. Not practicing on your baby and putting them at risk and creating mediocre images.

5. Price: Just like in many other industries, you get what you pay for when it comes to a newborn photographer. Finding a photographer with the style, services, options, and who has lots of experience in your budget may seem like finding a diamond in the rough. One thing to keep in mind is that many photographers offer pricing plans, gift vouchers, and even a gift registry (have your friends and family contribute at your baby shower!). Photos are something that are going to be around for years to come and I can’t count the times I’ve heard someone say they wished they hired a better newborn photographer. A good photographer who has their heart in it is not doing it for just a few extra bucks but instead are doing it as a career and a passion. They are worth every penny!

The average newborn photographer can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. The more money you spend, the more you should expect in talent, services, and product offerings. If you find a photographer who is offering all digital images for just a hundred dollars run away! While it may seem like a deal, they likely don’t have the training, skills, and expertise to provide you with images you really want or deserve.

6. Professional: While this was touched on in number 5, it is worth stressing the importance of hiring a photographer who is a professional. A big reason is that they should have a comprehensive contract that will protect both them and you. A good contract should cover things like the rights to use the images, a model release, terms for refunds, liability release, and more. There are many, many horror stories out there where a photographer who didn’t have a contract signed was able to take advantage of a client by charging more, cancelling a session without offering a refund, or withheld the images even after payment was received. These aren’t images you can replicate months down the line when you realize that a photographer has ghosted you. Hiring a professional with references and a contract will insure you’re actually getting what you pay for and will have photos to cherish for years to come.

The right newborn photographer can create irreplaceable, timeless images that you will cherish for years to come.

Where to register for your baby shower

Baby shower registries have changed over the years just like the economy has. Gone are the days of going to Babies R Us and scanning every little thing that tickles your fancy.

Today’s options are different, but still a lot of fun. After all, who doesn’t love spending other people’s money?

1. Amazon. Yup, it’s the big corporate giant. Nothing can beat the convenience of sitting at home and picking your registry items while eating that tub of ice cream with pickles (or whatever your current pregnancy craving is).

2. Target. For a big chain store option that allows you to go in person to select your items, your best option is the red circle. However, there isn’t a huge selection and not all metro area stores carry the same items.

3. Cinnamon Bears. Yes, there is a baby boutique in Edmond! I always like to support small businesses whenever possible and it would be great if you can encourage your baby shower attendees to do the same! After all, their stuff is adorable.

4. Registry through Corrie Graybill Photography. Have your friends and family help pay you for your newborn session! Whether it’s a gift voucher of $25, a credit towards an album, or covering your session fee, they will love contributing towards making lasting memories! And, if they also want a tangible item to gift you, they could always give you a….

5. Gift Baskets through Corrie Graybill Photography. You can have your baby shower attendees buy gift baskets! Each gift basket is filled with gender neutral baby items that are all from locally owned small businesses. Each basket also include vouchers towards your newborn session! They can also purchase the vouchers separately for any dollar amount.

Gift Baskets come in 3 sizes and are all filled with products from local small businesses. They also each include a gift voucher and a hand-knitted bonnet that can be used at the newborn session!

Hopefully you this has given you some great ideas on where to start your baby shower registry. It’s good to have a combination of online and in store options for your attendees so you are sure to get items you really want!