Doula Client Testimonials

Blossom and Birth provides a variety of support services, including birth doula services and postpartum doula support in Halifax, Bedford, Dartmouth, and the surrounding areas of Nova Scotia. 

From information throughout the pregnancy to face-to-face meet-ups and home visits to help us prepare, we couldn’t have been happier working with Alyssa. Choosing someone to be present at your child’s birth can be daunting, especially if you haven’t encountered their work before. However, our apprehensions quickly faded the moment we met her. For the birth itself, we would not have managed without more physical and emotional scars if it hadn't been for her support. Our birth plan was executed perfectly, and we always felt in control and informed about our options, thanks to her guidance. Alyssa helped me feel involved in the process (hey, someone has to hang the lights!). In what could have been a stressful experience, she significantly reduced our anxiety levels. 

- John (partner) 

Serendipity is often described as finding something unexpectedly wonderful. When I first met Shandelle, I had set goals for breastfeeding and needed an extra pair of hands during the chaotic week after my husband returned to work. She quickly understood what we needed to transform our stressful house back into a home, and soon, she became a treasured part of my week. When feeling overwhelmed as a first-time mother, Shandelle listened to my fears and provided the right information to empower me in making choices for myself and my family. From 6 weeks to 5 months, I gained confidence in motherhood, was breastfeeding successfully, and was able to both navigate the day and enjoy every moment—thanks to her postpartum doula support. 

I never anticipated the depth of reliance we would develop on her, or how our family would grow beyond one with the arrival of our baby. Finding Shandelle was indeed serendipity, and we feel fortunate to have made that connection. 

- Kathryn 

My first childbirth experience was positively enhanced thanks to Laura. She served as a warm, calm, and guiding voice, easing the anxieties of embarking on uncharted territory as new parents. We felt supported throughout our journey and truly value Laura’s expertise. 

- Patricia 

Shandelle assisted with my third delivery. My first labor lasted 26 hours, and my second required a c-section. I can't thank Shandelle enough for her knowledge during baby #3! After being sent home from the hospital due to contractions, I quickly reached out to her in pain, and she instructed me to return to the IWK. I cannot stress how important her presence was—my delivery occurred within 2 hours! Additionally, I was terrified of needles, and Shandelle helped communicate with the nurse when complications arose. She was my anchor during excruciating pain, providing comfort and guidance. Ultimately, her calming support allowed me to shift focus and handle the intensity of contractions without an epidural, turning what I expected to be a horrible experience into the best delivery of my life. 

- Lana 

Amazing! Shandelle instilled so much confidence in me throughout my pregnancy and birthing journey. With her extensive knowledge and approachable personality, I always felt at ease. Unfortunately, just before my birth, the pandemic hit, and while she couldn't attend in person, she was incredibly supportive through text and phone calls, ensuring I had what I needed. I cannot recommend her enough! 

- Charlotte 

Feeling nervous about my labor and delivery as a first-time mother, I was encouraged by my doctor to hire a doula, noting that those who do often use less pain medication and report more positive experiences. Initially, my partner was hesitant, perceiving it as a challenge to his role, but after our first meeting with Shandelle, he recognized the benefits of having a skilled support figure in the delivery room dedicated to both of us. Throughout my pregnancy, I could freely discuss questions or concerns with Shandelle, who was always available to help. The moment labor started, she was right there with us and remained until our daughter was born and breastfeeding began. Shandelle is knowledgeable, compassionate, and a joy to work with. I would highly recommend her birth doula services to anyone considering the presence of a doula during their pregnancy and delivery. Thank you, Shandelle! 

- Kate 

I can't express enough how grateful I am to have had Shandelle as my doula. As a first-time mom, I was anxious about the journey ahead. My water broke at just 32 weeks, and although I didn’t have time for prenatal classes, she visited me in the hospital, providing necessary support and information every day until delivery. Her quick responses alleviated my worries, and she was like a good friend throughout the entire process. I wholeheartedly recommend her and would hire her again in an instant. 

- Melinda 

We secured Shandelle’s services late in my pregnancy, around 36 weeks. With my husband frequently traveling, I worried about how to manage things if he was away during labor. Our first meeting with Shandelle was fantastic; she helped alleviate my fears, bringing valuable literature that demonstrated how having a doula could be beneficial, even with my partner present. My husband, initially apprehensive, found Shandelle comforting and informative. After hiring her, I felt reassured, knowing I could handle labor even if my husband wasn’t around. Her initial techniques for support and her practical help, such as getting water, proved invaluable. Though my labor led to a c-section, Shandelle, along with the nurse and midwife, maintained clear communication and provided consistent support through some tough decisions. 

I sincerely appreciated Shandelle’s compassion, presence, and knowledge throughout my experience—the perfect choice for anyone seeking extra support in their journey. 

- Megan 

Shandelle was introduced to us through the Nova Scotia Doula Association. From the moment we met, her friendly demeanor and professionalism stood out. She thoroughly addressed our questions, providing detailed insights about what to expect during pregnancy and on our daughter’s birth day, making her an ideal match for our family. During the birth, Shandelle was a constant calm presence, offering reassurance and support, especially when my daughter faced complications that required her transfer to the NICU. While my partner and family left to accompany our baby, Shandelle stayed with me, discussing what was happening and what would follow. 

In the postpartum period, she continued to check in with us regularly and I would love to work with her again if we expand our family. I highly recommend her dedicated and caring doula services. 

- Chelsey 

After meeting Shandelle, my husband and I knew we wanted her support during our first pregnancy. Her factual approach and calmness were precisely what we needed as anxious first-time parents. In the early months, Shandelle consistently followed up after my appointments and was just a message away for questions or concerns. 

When my water broke at 5:30 AM, Shandelle was there to set expectations for the following hours. When my contractions slowed, she provided exercises that successfully got us back on track. Once we reached the hospital, she offered unwavering support for over 12 hours, guiding us through welcoming our son into the world. 

Shandelle was our personal expert coach throughout this pregnancy journey, and we are incredibly grateful for her guidance as we became a perfect family of three! 

- Christene H. 

Shandelle’s unwavering support throughout my pregnancy and delivery made all the difference. She provided us with unbiased, factual information to empower my husband and me. Her comfort techniques and alternate positions helped immensely during labor. Laboring at home with her support kept me in the right headspace, and her care right after my baby girl was born was exceptional. I can’t recommend Shandelle enough for anyone seeking support during their pregnancy. 

- Erin G. 

Shandelle was the epitome of care, attentiveness, and expertise. From our first meeting, I knew she would enhance our pregnancy and labor experience, arriving prepared with statistics and insightful answers to our many questions. Having a doula eases many concerns during pregnancy and labor; rather than turning to the internet, you have a knowledgeable birth coach advocating for your best interests. Shandelle consistently checked in on us and was always quick to respond to our inquiries, standing by our side during labor! For anyone having a baby, especially for the first time, hiring Shandelle is one of the best choices you can make. 

- Katie C. 

I hesitated to hire a doula for my second pregnancy until I met Shandelle. Her positive energy and enthusiasm for labor and birth were infectious. While initially seeking a doula for an unmedicated birth, she became a vital source of strength and support toward the end of my pregnancy, ready to answer questions and calm my fears. Shandelle was instrumental during labor, and her presence continues to be a joyful part of my life and my daughter’s. I wouldn’t imagine going through another pregnancy without her at my side! 

- Laura Slaney 

As a first-time mom aiming for a natural birthing experience, I recognized the need for someone with Shandelle’s expertise to guide me. From our first meeting, each moment spent with her throughout labor and delivery was invaluable. I achieved my goal of an unmedicated birth, a feat I’m certain I would’ve struggled with had she not supported and encouraged me every step of the way. Not only do you receive the services of a doula, but you also gain a lasting friendship with Shandelle. 

- Melanie K 

I cannot express how amazing my experience was with Shandelle as my doula. From our initial meeting to her immediate availability when I went into labor, Shandelle was present for my husband and me throughout. Adjusting my birth plan during the 30+ hours of labor was daunting without her support, but her comforting reassurances allowed us to navigate those stressful moments. Our bond continues as we keep in touch with updates and baby pictures! 

- Jill Crowe 

My husband and I are incredibly grateful for having hired Shandelle as our doula. As first-time parents, we recognized the importance of having someone educated on the labor and delivery process by our side. The support Shandelle provided enhanced our entire experience. We would have managed but with her help, everything was significantly better. Mere gratitude doesn’t fully capture how we feel about Shandelle’s support! 

- Robyn Moffatt 

Shandelle was simply incredible. I cannot recommend her highly enough. She blends professionalism with a personal touch that fosters comfort and confidence. This was my third birth, and it was the most exceptional experience. As someone who struggles to trust my instincts, her unwavering belief in me made all the difference. I achieved the birth I envisioned, thanks to her dedicated approach focused on my wishes. The experience transformed me, giving me newfound confidence. I feel truly fortunate to have had her during such a miracle moment in my life. 

- Amy Crosby 

Shandelle is AMAZING! We are thrilled with our decision to hire her as our doula. She possesses a wealth of knowledge and shares it in a way that empowers us to make decisions that feel right. She is readily available for questions, tips, and check-ins throughout our pregnancy. My labor progressed incredibly well, and Shandelle's assistance in guiding me through new positions and breath control during contractions truly made a difference. Investing in her support was one of the best choices we made! 

- Joelle Badman 

I could not have navigated my labor without Shandelle. Her deep knowledge of the birthing process equipped me with the information necessary to make empowered decisions. Shandelle’s unbiased, sensitive approach helped me feel confident going into the experience with clear birth wishes. She was an exemplary birth coach, assisting me throughout the night while I labored, helping me with comfort techniques and ensuring support. I cannot recommend her highly enough! 

- Tessa Roselli 

After moving from Ontario to Nova Scotia and away from our support network, we were eager to find a doula to help us welcome baby #2. Shandelle listened keenly, asked insightful questions, and remained attentive throughout labor—even during some challenging nights. Her ability to provide options, while remembering our earlier discussions, made all the difference. Shandelle is a fantastic doula and a wonderful asset to the profession! 

- Chrissy Lackner

I’m going to preface this endorsement by saying that my husband and I are both planners, and we spent some time on the fence about hiring birth doula services to assist us through pregnancy and labor. Although we had very few birth preferences and were generally happy to let things unfold, after our experience with Shandelle, I can’t understand why anyone would choose to go through this process without a doula.

Shandelle provided incredible support to my husband and me as we welcomed our little boy into our family. From our very first meeting, we felt she was the perfect fit for us. Shandelle is completely non-judgmental, highly knowledgeable about birth resources, and possesses a wonderful sense of humor, all of which created a calming presence during our prenatal meetings and throughout labor. It’s clear that she is meant to do this work. Labor itself turned out to be quite fast and overwhelming. Shandelle arrived at 1:00 in the morning, just after my first contractions began. She supported us during early labor and ensured we left for the hospital at the right time. At the hospital, she kept my husband and me calm and informed as we progressed to labor and delivery, quickly deciphering the “doctor speak” so we felt comfortable with everything happening. Afterward, she also stayed to provide postpartum doula support, helping us establish breastfeeding and offering additional coaching during our post-natal visits. Shandelle is a fantastic problem solver, always ready to share personal stories, and she has proven to be an excellent baby snuggler. Her presence has positively impacted all of us, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking Halifax doula testimonials. Thank you, Shandelle!!  

-Kasia Stolarz

Words cannot express how much we appreciated Shandelle's presence, mentorship, and advocacy throughout our journey. Her support in our decisions, without any judgment, was invaluable. Both my husband and mother echo this sentiment, and having her support meant the world to us. 

          -Shannon Kam

Shandelle's birth doula services were just what we needed before, during, and after the birth of our son. Her calming presence was especially comforting during the intense moments of labor and delivery, reminding us of the positive Halifax doula testimonials we had heard. We can't thank you enough, Shandelle!    

          -Nicole Barela

From a Dad's perspective, I cannot thank Shandelle enough for the amazing support she provided to my wife and me, from pregnancy through labor to postpartum doula support. She was consistently available to answer my questions and her guidance was essential during labor. She described every aspect of the process and provided me a much-needed conversation partner. If you are considering hiring a doula, Shandelle is truly the best. THANK YOU SHANDELLE!   

           -Chris Tilley