When I decided I wanted to start Stella + Co 3 weeks pp, it was just going to be cute, affordable clothing options for moms because let's be honest, shopping was one of the funnest parts following that positive test. However as I have interacted with strangers that have now become friends in our little community on social media, I have learned that so many are suffering.

When we found out we were pregnant with our first baby, we were over the moon! Ecstatic! Then we found out it was a girl + tears of joy filled my eyes + my soul. I have always dreamed of having a little girl as my sidekick + tiny BFF. They don't tell you with all of the joy this little soul will certainly bring, your body + your mind can betray you. Playing the cruelest tricks. Shortly after having Stella, my Dr diagnosed me with Postpartum Depression + Anxiety. I felt like I was alone on an island. I felt immense guilt that I had just experienced the miracle of life, had the most beautiful baby in my arms, + I could still have the thoughts + feelings consuming me that I had. I thought how ungrateful must I be that I can't just get rid of these thoughts. I didn't know at the time that 1/5 women will experience PPD or PPA. Think of the 5 closest women in your life.... one of those 5 have experienced this unfortunate, all too common dysphoria. So while yes, you can shop for your babe here, know that if this is you, you aren't alone. We are in this together. The worst thing for all of us, would be to act like everything is normal, fine, + A-OK!

I love you.
We will get through this.
You matter.
You will always have a place to be heard here.