Maternity Photos with Baby #2

Truth be told, I wasn't really looking forward to taking maternity pictures this go-around.  It just seemed like yet another thing I had to do on my ever-growing maternity to-do list.  But every time I thought about opting out I knew that I wanted to capture this special time in our lives when we were a family of three waiting for our second baby boy to make his arrival.  In all likelihood this will be my last pregnancy so I wanted some pictures to document it.

Boy did Amanda of Momma's Gonna Snap Photography hit these out of the ballpark!  In just a short 30 minute or so session, she grabbed tons of beautiful images between me and Jack, me and Jason, all three of us and just me.

I wanted to take pictures at Discovery Green Park in downtown Houston since it's within walking distance of Jason's office and is close to where we took our engagement photos.   I love how we were in the middle of the city we love yet in some it looks like we are in the middle of a country field. 

I waited to the very last minute to pull everyone's outfits together (Ashley can attest to this) but I'm so happy with how it all came together!

Here are just a few of my faves...

 

Checkout our maternity session with Jack a few years ago! 

Maternity Style :: Dressing for the Last Trimester & Giveaway!

Nothing is trickier than dressing during those last few months of pregnancy.  But no matter how big you get, life still goes on.  For me that means, I'm still working full-time, running around with my toddler and even have a few special events to attend like maternity photos, lunch with the girls and dinners out.  It's hard to find maternity clothes that fit right when you are 8 and 9 months pregnant, especially trendy maternity clothes that still fit your personal style!

Just a few weeks ago, I was dreading having to go to dinner with my husband and his coworkers because I just didn't feel pretty or like myself.  As vain as it sounds, sometimes finding the right clothing - something new that actually fits - can lift your spirits and give you that boost you need!

After a failed Stitch Fix Maternity box, I finally got that boost I needed from Pink Blush Maternity!  I'm kicking myself for not trying this online maternity boutique earlier in my pregnancy, but doing a happy dance that at least I found them now!  I'm confident that I can now happily make it through both this last trimester looking good, but also those awkward first few post-partum months when you have tons of people visiting and want to look nice, but you also need to be functional with nursing-friendly pieces that are forgiving too!

I recently tried three maternity clothing pieces from Pink Blush that I'm now so in love with.  They carry everything from maternity dresses to tops, tunics, cardigans, basics and even nursing friendly pieces - all at an affordable price.  Who knows if this will be my last pregnancy, so one of my goals when buying clothing right now is that I can wear it after pregnancy too!  All three pieces work great now and will look great after baby Colin arrives....bam!  Double score!

 Navy & Cream Cross-Hatch Maternity Top, $28 {also comes in black}

This is my favorite piece since it's so versatile.  I can dress it up for work and dinner and dress it down with shorts or jeans for hanging out at home.  It's super comfy and will 100% work after baby arrives.  The busy print is very forgiving too.  Love, love, love and you can't beat the price.  

Rust Open Crochet Accent Short Sleeve Maternity Cardigan, $32
{my version is sold-out, but similar here} 

This outfit is Jason's favorite.  Cardigans are great to buy during the last trimester because they give you the coverage you want, but don't scream maternity and can be worn for months afterwards!  I also love the fall vibe of the rust color.

Black Maternity/Nursing Maxi Dress, $49 {also comes in blue}

I've been on the lookout for nursing friendly dresses lately since I will be having a c-section.  Dresses are much more comfortable those first few weeks so you don't have to worry about rubbing your incision.  This maternity maxi dress is perfect!  I was a little worried about the quality of this dress when I ordered it, but was pleasantly surprised.  It's light, comfortable, but also has great lining so you feel supported and covered!  And the length is perfect...no hemming required for this shorty!  For fall, it's looks great with a cardigan or denim vest or jacket added to it. 

If you are interested in any of these pieces, for size references, I'm currently a 10/12 in maternity clothes and purchased a Large in all of the above pieces.  I would say everything was true to size.  

Clothes are also available in Plus Size Maternity too AND regular sizing!  

 :: Giveaway Time ::

Now bonus for you...Pink Blush is giving away one $25 Gift Certificate to a Perfect Catch Blog reader!  Enter below to win.  The winner will be announced next week.  And double bonus...you do not have to be pregnant to enter and use this $25 credit!  Pink Blush also has a non-maternity online boutique! 


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclaimer :: Clothing from Pink Blush Maternity featured in this post was given to me by Pink Blush Maternity in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and statements above are my very own and I will 100% be purchasing from Pink Blush in the future.  
 

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 I'm linking up today with Annie and Natalie today for Thoughts for Thursday. 

Stitch Fix Review #6 :: Maternity Fix

I recently received my 6th Stitch Fix Box in the mail.  I wanted to try one more "maternity fix" for this pregnancy to get me through the last trimester!  I received the box on the first day of my third trimester and was excited to see what was included.  I asked for maternity items that might be good for a maternity photo session I have coming up next month.  I specifically asked for a maxi dress, cute tops and anything that would be good for post-partum and nursing. 

I apologize for the terrible photos, lighting and not showing myself in most of the pieces...it was late at night by the time I could try everything on, I looked terrible and just wasn't feeling it!  #tiredworkingpregnanttoddlermomproblems

You can read my other Stitch Fix experiences below:
Box #1
Box #2
Box #3 - Epic fail on my part...I still need to post this one!
Box #4
Box #5 - Maternity

What is Stitch Fix?

For those of you who aren't familiar with Stitch Fix, it is a styling service that sends you 5 pieces of clothing and/or accessories pulled specifically for you. Once you receive the items you can try on, take pictures and see how they will work into your wardrobe - all in the comfort of your own home.  You have three days to decide to keep the items or send them back.  If you keep all five items you will receive 20% off the entire purchase.  If you send all 5 items back you lose your $20 stylist fee that would have been applied to your purchase.  Everyone fills out a style and fit questionnaire, but you can be as picky or open as you want in your communications to your stylist.  Stitch Fix recently launched both Maternity and Petite options!

So what did I receive and keep...

Panama Colorblock Multistrand Necklace, $38

I didn't hate this necklace at all, but just know that I don't need it and would choose other items I already own before this one so it was an easy pass.  I'm really trying to declutter what I own, not add to it!  I think for future boxes, I will say no jewelry since this really isn't what I want in my boxes.

Verdict:  Pass

 
LA Made Maternity Cap Sleeve Dress, $68 {See photo above}

Although I didn't request this dress specifically, I saw it on another blogger and hoped I would receive it or something like it.  This dress is not only great for pregnancy, but is nursing-friendly with a flap over the bust that can be lifted when nursing.  I always love a little black dress, but this was VERY form-fitting and therefore did not look good with my big bump and large booty.  I don't even think a larger size would have worked. 

Verdict: Pass



Full Moon Scoop Neck Maternity Tunic, $58

This top had potential.  I told the stylist I love tunics and I think it is a great transitional piece from summer to fall, however it just didn't fit right.  The size I was given worked, but it was just too flowy for me.  It actually looked like I was wearing a bathing suit cover-up. 

Verdict:  Pass

Market & Spruce Chevron Maxi Dress, $88

I specifically requested a maternity maxi dress or skirt so I knew my stylist was listening when I pulled this out of the box.  Of everything I received, this was my favorite and it fit the best, however it still just missed the mark.  This dress was super comfortable and although it did fit me in most places, it was a little snug in the booty area {see a recurring theme} and I just knew that I wouldn't feel comfortable wearing it out.  I probably would have kept it to wear at home now and on maternity leave, but for $88 I knew I could do better for "lounge wear" so I sadly passed.   Sort of regretting this one now as it was so comfy, but oh well!

Verdict:  Sad pass

Market & Spruce Lace Trim Maternity Knit Top, $58

Unlike most everything else in my box that was just a little snug, this top was actually too big on me.  It was a loose, flowy top that would look great with jeans, but the arms were huge on me.  For what it was, I also don't think it's worth the $58 price tag. 

Verdict:  Easy pass 

FINAL THOUGHTS ::   Although I didn't keep anything, I still love Stitch Fix!  I could tell that my stylist really listened to what I was requesting.  Maxi Dress?  Check!  Transitional Pieces?  Check!  Nursing friendly?  Check!  We can just chalk this one up to being really hard to know sizing - especially when pregnant!  If you don't keep anything in your box, you typically lose the $20 styling fee, but since I had credits I didn't pay anything for this box. 

I will continue to receive Stitch Fix boxes, but plan to wait until after the baby comes and I'm itching for a few new pieces.  Maybe right before I return back to work from maternity leave. 

Check back next week to The Perfect Catch Blog when I talk about another Maternity Clothing site that I tried...this one was a winner with three pieces that are perfect for my third trimester!

If you want to give Stitch Fix a try, you can use my referral link here to sign-up. 

Note that I will receive a $25 credit if you sign-up.  Hopefully then someone will do the same for you...it's like subscription box karma!

Five on Friday :: Books, Blardigans, Bargains & Bumps

We are back from Colorado and had a great time.  I plan to do a full recap complete with picture overload next week.  Until then, just as soon as we unpacked our bags from the mountains, we are packing back up for a long weekend in Matagorda - our 4th of July family tradition.  Although I'm super tired and would love to be lazy at home, it will be nice to be on the water and get some beach time in with Jack before he has a sibling in the mix!

ONE 

Speaking of being at the beach, I'm reading a great beach read right now - Jane Green's newest book Summer Secrets.  Love it!  I also just finished The Girl on the Train which I really liked too and can recommend.

Next up I'm considering reading Primates of Park Avenue, Family Pictures and Finding Audrey.

What are you currently reading?

TWO

Has everyone started gearing up for Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale?  I did some major damage last year purchasing a few of Sheaffer's "Must-Have's" like a Blardigan, Black Must-Have Shirt, leggings, and a few other tops.

This year I'm not as interested in the clothing sine I can't wear it for a while being pregnant and my sizes are all over the place but I'm VERY interested in grabbing another Blardigan since I have a feeling it will be my go-to piece this winter when I'm rocking a post-baby bod, nursing and on maternity leave.  I think that justifies grabbing another one, yes?  A new striped version is available this year!  For reference, normal blardigan price is $92, Anniversary Sale price is $60.90.  

If you are a Nordstrom cardholder, the early access sale is July 9-16!

THREE

While in Colorado, I discovered a new shampoo/conditioner that I love...and even better, it's super cheap!  Suave Professionals Almond + Shea Butter smells so good and so far has been giving me lots of good hair days even back in the Houston humidity. 


FOUR

Last Five on Friday I mentioned my search for a great maternity workout pant.  Not that I do that much "working out" these days.  We'll call them my "walking out" pants since walking is pretty much my preferred form of exercise.

Anyway, I ordered these from Nordstrom by Ingrid & Isabel out of desperation - so not wanting to spend $68. The longer "capri" version can be found here and is $78.

Thanks to a sweet blog commenter, I learned that Target sells a VERY similar product for a fraction of the cost called BeMaternity by Ingrid & Isabel.  Same brand, same style, similar material, much smaller price tag - currently on sale for $23.99 (or the knee length is $21.59!  Lucky for me, my Target had it in stock before my trip so I was able to grab a pair!

I ended up keeping both pair - the knee length Nordstrom version and the capri length Target version, both in black.  You can tell a difference in them just that the Nordstrom version material is a little thicker, but overall I'm 100% happy with the Target pair.  Both were comfortable, held me in, cool with the crossover panel in the back, and looked great even in my size L thighs! 

If you are in the market for a pair of maternity workout pants, I say go the Target route and use the extra money you saved on an entire outfit!  You can do the pants + this top + this top + a Starbucks treat for yourself for LESS than the price of just the Nordstrom pants!

Also note that the Nordstrom version only goes up to a Large.  No XL is available.  I'm a size 10/12 or standard Large these days, even at 22 weeks pregnant.  While the Large fits me great now, I probably would be more comfortable in my third trimester in the XL.  The material is very thick and compressive.  It's nice that Target comes in a variety of sizes from XS-XXL! 

FIVE

I'm loving my Bump Nest pillow!  So much so that it traveled with me to Colorado!  This pregnancy pillow is definitely NOT a bargain at $99 (currently on sale for $79 which irritates me since I spent $20 more a week ago), however I will say that it is worth the higher price tag than some of it's competition like the Boppy Total Body Pillow or Leachco Snoogle. The shape, stuffing and material make it different.  It's so silky, cool and soft while still being firm and supportive. 

I hope you have a wonderful Friday and happy and safe 4th of July! 

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Linking up:

Maternity Style When It's Hot, Hot, Hot!

I'm over on Houston Moms Blog today sharing lots of links for great pieces I've found to keep my growing bump cool, but still looking good this summer!

Happy Tuesday!

Stitch Fix Review #5 :: Maternity Edition!

I just received my 5th Stitch Fix Box, but this time requested maternity items!  I was super pumped to see what the new Maternity Stitch Fix was all about and I was pleasantly surprised.

You can read my other Stitch Fix experiences below:
Box #1
Box #2
Box #3 - Epic fail...I still need to post this one!
Box #4

What is Stitch Fix?

For those of you who aren't familiar with Stitch Fix, it is a styling service that sends you 5 pieces of clothing and/or accessories pulled specifically for you. Once you receive the items you can try on, take pictures and see how they will work into your wardrobe - all in the comfort of your own home.  You have three days to decide to keep the items or send them back.  If you keep all five items you will receive 20% off the entire purchase.  If you send all 5 items back you lose your $20 stylist fee that would have been applied to your purchase.  Everyone fills out a style and fit questionnaire, but you can be as picky or open as you want in your communications to your stylist.  Stitch Fix recently launched both Maternity and Petite options!

So what did I receive and keep?

ONE :: Stitch Fix Brand 3-Pack Maternity Cami, $44.00 - SENT BACK
Love the idea of sending this long length cami set as part of the maternity box, however these are "one size fits most" and I did not fall into the "most" category - at least not comfortably.  Would be perfect for a size XS, S or maybe a M person.  Love the colors, stretch and length, but these just didn't work because of the sizing.  They were skin tight on me, plus I already have a brand of camis I own and love in multiple colors. 

TWO :: Mavi Freida Maternity Jean, $98.00 - SENT BACK
Again, a great maternity jean is a staple in any pregnant gals wardrobe, but I just didn't need these.  I already have and love several pairs from Gap that fit me better {and were cheaper} so this item was an easy pass for me.  Thank goodness since $98 seems steep for maternity jeans.  Also note that these are full panel which I find gets way too hot for the summer.  I prefer demi-panel items.  Let that belly breathe!

THREE :: Gilli Alina Printed Maxi Skirt, $58.00 - KEPT
In my note to my stylist I requested a maternity maxi dress.  While my stylist didn't come through on a dress, she sent this maxi skirt which is the next best thing...maybe better since I don't currently have a maxi skirt.  While it might not be the most flattering piece of maternity clothing to my body, it's cool, so comfortable and I love the colors!  This is a must keep and because of the great stretch, will grow with me!  I can see myself dressing it up for church or dressing it down lounging around the house or running errands.   In the pictures, I just paired the skirt with this v-neck black maternity tee I already owned.

In the picture on the right, I tied the skirt in a knot (as suggested on the Stitch Fix Facebook Page) to help with the length and give it a fresh twist!

FOUR :: Pale Sky Lottie Pleated Maternity Blouse, $68.00 - KEPT
Love this top {don't mind the wrinkles, it just came out of the box}!  Love the color and I don't have anything in my {maternity} closet this color.  It has a perfect, long length and is very breezy and light for the summer.  I can easily dress it up or down for work or play.  So while I think $68 is highway robbery for a top of this quality, I went ahead and kept it knowing that it will get lots of wear...that is where Stitch Fix gets you.  Even if you think the price is a little much, you already have it in your closet just waiting to be worn so it's hard to say no!

I plan to wear with some neon yellow pieces {here} I already own for a fun, weekend look!

FIVE  :: Papermoon Bankside Split Neck Tunic, $64.00 - SENT BACK
I like the idea of this tunic.  Very earthy and bohemian and I think on the right person it would be really beautiful for some outdoor maternity pics, however it just wasn't working for me.  The long sleeves are not going to work in this Houston heat and the maternity wasn't very breathable.  There was no stretch either so it wouldn't grow with me in the coming months.  Easy pass. 

FINAL THOUGHTS ::  I am very happy with my first maternity Stitch Fix.  My hope was that I'd end up with at least one item that I loved so to end up with two that I know I will wear a lot this summer is great!  I highly recommend at least giving Stitch Fix a try.  All you have to lose is $20, but the experience is so fun.  With most of my boxes I ended up keeping at least one item, so then you don't lose that $20 styling fee.  Please let me know if you have any questions about the service.  I do recommend adding as many notes as you can to your stylist in order to get a box that you will love. 

If you want to give Stitch Fix a try, you can use my referral link here to sign-up. 

Note that I will receive a $25 credit if you sign-up.  Hopefully then someone will do the same for you...it's like subscription box karma!

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Linking up: