Real Birth Stories: Erika on Pregnancy, Birth & Motherhood
Meet Erika, aka CasualAllure
Every birth story and motherhood journey is unique, and today, I am honored to share Erika’s journey into motherhood. Erika is a mama of two beautiful girls, CEO of Shop Eleven Eleven, influencer, and a community builder with her Shop Small Soirée! I have followed Erika’s journey on Instagram for years, and we happened to be pregnant at the same time in 2021! She’s opening up about her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience with us.
Pregnancy: The Journey to Motherhood
How did you feel when you first found out you were pregnant with your first?
I was SHOCKED! I was SCARED! It was a surprise, so I was overwhelmed, to say the least, because being a mom was something I always wanted, but I wasn’t sure when the time would come for me. But I told myself everything happens when it’s supposed to, and this was my time.
How did you feel when you found out you were pregnant for the second time?
It was another surprise! But the best one. This time around, we were more at ease when we found out, but so happy we were gonna give Harlow a sibling.
What was the most unexpected part of pregnancy for you?
To be honest, I had heard of morning sickness but didn’t realize how bad it was going to be! I was down bad both times with constant nausea. It was awful.
Did you do anything special to prepare for birth?
I’m going to be honest—I really didn’t. I took a very relaxed approach.
Birth: The Big Day
What were some moments that really stuck with you from your labors?
I remember doing a lot of self-talk, making sure I had zero expectations, and ensuring that I made my own experience MY OWN! Of course, you talk to a LOT of other moms who’ve been through it, but I made sure to base it off my own experience. So again, both times, I really kept calm and relaxed.
What emotions did you experience during your labor experiences?
I was nervous—I didn’t know how my experience was truly going to be. Also, a LOT of emotions. I was so happy but crying, lol. But they were all happy tears.
Did your births go as planned, or were there any surprises?
From movies, you always see their ‘water break,’ so with my first, I was expecting that to happen, lol. But I was induced, so that surprised me, to be honest. But it went very smoothly.
Were there any differences between your first labor and your second that you weren’t expecting?
OMG, with Haven, I was so nauseous during labor that they gave me—I believe it was Phenergan. (I was already used to taking Zofran, so I don’t know why they didn’t give me that.) I experienced the worst side effects. I got extremely anxious, was pulling my hair out, and couldn’t stay still. It was awful.
Postpartum & Motherhood: The Fourth Trimester
What was the hardest part of postpartum recovery for you?
With Harlow, I was down really bad. I was completely entering the unknown, and I was overwhelmed. I experienced PPD and PPA. And prior to that, I remember telling myself, "Erika, please don’t fall into it," but honestly, it’s something you can’t help. It was so hard because I felt I couldn’t do anything on my own, and I felt like a bad mom for that.
What helped you the most during those first few weeks?
Honestly, my village. I have such a great support system. I don’t know how I would have done it without them.
How has becoming a mom changed you?
Wow, in so many ways. Being a mom has made me 1000x a better person. Your priorities change, your perspective on life shifts, and you start living slower and appreciating the small moments—because they grow so, so fast.
What advice would you give to an expecting mom?
The best chapter of your life is coming!!! Motherhood changes you in ways you never thought possible—but all in the best way.
Motherhood as a Business Owner
What was it like jumping back into boss mode at Shop Eleven Eleven and Shop Small Soirée after having your girls?
Extremely hard. Time management has been so hard for me to juggle—not even going to lie. I’m so thankful my mom and dad have it under control. I also have a pair of girlies who help me run Shop Small Soirée, and I couldn’t be more thankful for them. They have it down and are truly the best!
You are such an inspiration to many women, both as a mother and business owner. How do you do it all?
Again, I owe it all to my village. My parents and in-laws are so involved and helpful. I also have a great nanny who has been with us since Harlow was four months old.
I always tell mamas—don’t be afraid to ask for help! If they know they could possibly have a village to help them, seek it! You’ll be surprised who will show up for you. I know that isn’t the case for everyone, and I’m very fortunate to have help. I look up to and praise mamas who do it on their own. They’re superheroes!!! TRULY!
Final Thoughts
Thank you, Erika, for opening up about your journey. Unfortunately, postpartum depression and anxiety can really hijack our lives and steal precious moments from our babies. Getting help is so important and having a support system that can help you is priceless. If you are suffering from postpartum depression or anxiety, please visit https://www.postpartum.net/.
Every birth experience and motherhood journey is so different and unique, and I love hearing the wisdom each mama takes from her experience. If you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment on this blog!
Here is where you can find Erika: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casualallure/
