Trying to survive and enjoy the holidays as a new mom can seem challenging, but it’s 100% possible. As a mom myself and a Northern Virginia newborn photographer, it’s safe to say that I know a thing or two about juggling the craziness of new motherhood and the holiday season. To help you prepare for the holidays, I’ve compiled this list of tips for surviving (and even enjoying) this particular time as a new mom. Let’s dive in!
Set Realistic Expectations
Your holidays will look different post-baby than they did pre-baby. While it may have been easy to attend every family gathering and party before, setting realistic expectations for yourself and your baby is important. Don’t feel pressure to do everything or be everywhere – prioritize what is most important to you and your new family.
For example, when I was a new mom, I let all of our family come to us on Christmas morning so we could enjoy our own unique traditions with our new baby. It was less stressful and allowed us to create memories in the comfort of our own homes.
Prioritize Self-Care
The rush of the holidays seems to amplify after having a baby. With all of the shopping, cooking, and hosting, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. But as a new mom, self-care is crucial for your physical and mental well-being.
Make sure you take breaks when needed, ask for help from friends or family members, and don’t feel guilty about saying no to certain events or obligations. Remember – you are still recovering physically and emotionally from childbirth, so give yourself grace and prioritize your own needs. Take time to enjoy a peaceful bath or take a short walk to help you recharge your energy and refresh your spirit.
Document This Season Of Life
Taking pictures and documenting this special season of life can bring so much joy and nostalgia in the future. As a newborn photographer, I have captured countless holiday-themed sessions and even offer a Santa experience for new moms and their families. These photos will be cherished for years to come and are a great way to remember your baby’s first holiday season.
While you can always take your own photos, having a photographer who is with you from beginning to finish can make a world of difference as a new mom. For example, with my studio sessions, you’ll have access to my client wardrobe (which has a variety of styles and sizes), along with complimentary makeup and hair for Mom. I’ll help you coordinate outfits and feel your best without putting in the hours to get yourself ready or go shopping (because who has the time to do that as a new mom?). This allows you to take the stress out of planning outfits and ensures that you look and feel your best for your holiday photos.
Set Boundaries
One of the best ways to survive and enjoy the holidays as a new mom is by setting boundaries. This may mean saying no to certain events or limiting the number of guests at your home. It’s important to prioritize what will make you and your family feel comfortable instead of trying to please everyone else.
For example, if you’re going to have a newborn baby around the holidays and don’t feel comfortable having people around, make that clear to your family and friends. Or, if you need some alone time with your baby during a holiday gathering, communicate that boundary to others. Those who care about you will understand and respect your needs.
Don’t Compare Yourself To Others
It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other moms or families during the holiday season. With social media showcasing seemingly perfect moments, it can feel like everyone else is enjoying a flawless holiday experience. However, it’s important to remember that what you see on social media is often just a highlight reel created to only show the best parts of life. Behind those perfectly staged photos are real lives filled with ups and downs.
Instead of measuring your experiences against others, focus on what truly matters: creating your own special memories and traditions with your family. Embrace the unique moments that make your holiday season special, whether it’s baking cookies together, enjoying cozy movie nights, or simply spending quality time with loved ones. Celebrate your family’s uniqueness, and cherish the memories that you build together, as they will be what you treasure most.
Take Advantage Of Online Shopping
Having a newborn can make holiday shopping a bit tricky. Between feedings, nap times, and the chance of a meltdown in public, it can get super overwhelming. But hey, there’s good news! Online shopping is here to save the day. You can knock out all your holiday shopping without ever leaving the house.
Online retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart offer fast and convenient delivery options, making holiday shopping a breeze. You can also take advantage of curbside pickup options for groceries or other essential items. Small businesses also offer online shopping options, so you can support them while avoiding the crowds.
Remember The True Meaning Of The Holidays
Amidst all the chaos and busyness of the holiday season, it’s important to remember the true meaning behind it all. For some, that may be religious traditions and celebrations, while for others, it may simply mean spending quality time with loved ones. Whatever it means to you, hold onto that and let it guide you through the holiday season as a new mom.
Wrapping It Up
Being a new mom during the holidays can be challenging, but with some self-care, prioritization, and boundary-setting, you can make it through and enjoy this special time with your new baby. Remember to take lots of pictures, set boundaries, and focus on creating memories that are meaningful to you. Most importantly, don’t compare yourself to others, and stay true to what matters most in this season of life. Happy holidays!
Want even more resources? Check out some of my other posts below
- 5 Reasons to consider a full-service DC newborn photographer
- 6 Best private preschools in DC for your child’s education
- Where can I find mommy and me classes in Northern Virginia?
Stephanie Honikel is a distinguished DC & Northern Virginia newborn photographer, specializing in maternity, baby, and family photography. With a keen eye for capturing timeless moments, she has been recognized as one of the Best Maternity Photographers in DC for 2024 and Best Newborn Photographers in Alexandria, VA in 2024. Stephanie’s work emphasizes safety and emotional connection, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed session experience. She offers a full-service approach, including professional hair and makeup, wardrobe options, and custom artwork. Reach out today to book your session!
