Inspiring Mother Series : Elaina Bellis

Model + creative director Elaina Bellis, mama to angel Lincoln and twin girls Quincy and Rowe, shares the joys of being a mom of twins who are best buds, how integral the care from her labor and postpartum doulas was for the preparation, birth and early days postpartum, and her must-haves items to wear in pregnancy and post-birth.

Elaina, Quincy and Rowe wear the sister katie mom + babe sets in green + navy.

What’s your current mood? How are you feeling and doing?

My current mood, is happy and tired. Allergy season has got me knocked out this year, but no complaints. Life is good and I am grateful.

What is something (or someone) you found indispensable during your pregnancy or postpartum period?

My doula, Kate Danson and my postpartum doula McLean McGown. Both of those women supported me immensely! Honestly, I don't think I could've done pregnancy without Kate by my side or knowing she was a phone call away with any question I had. Also, during our birth, knowing she was there to support James was also so huge for me. I think postpartum support is even more important, because your hormones are coming back to normal and you've got a new baby (or in my case babies) to care for and having a postpartum doula to support and care for you is so needed for all moms. I was able to focus on the babies and she took care of me. It was heaven.

Do you have any daily tips or secrets that make the work/life/family juggle just a little bit more manageable?

YES! 30 min workouts in the morning. I am my best self when I get to move my body a little bit each day. I feel better and am more at ease in my mind when I can move. It's sort of like a meditation practice for me. I'm calmer and feel better when I get to move!

What is/was your favorite thing to wear during pregnancy/postpartum?

Mens vintage overalls during pregnancy, I lived in those! A good robe for postpartum is key, for the first 6 weeks you're home doing skin to skin.

What is your self-care ritual (including any favorite products!) that you preserve for yourself?

The white algae mask from Osea! Hands down my favorite facial mask. I love taking a bath and doing a mask, feels special!

It is such a crazy time and so many parents are struggling now. Is there anything from this time that has surprised you or that you have benefited from? Any words of wisdom to share with our communities?

To be totally honest, I loved this time. It made me realize how special life is and how nice it is to slow down and spend more quality time at home. We are so lucky to have twins, who love to play together and are the best of buds. I know not everyone had the easiest time this last year, and I just kept thinking of that and not taking any of it for granted.