Dress for the Nines Maternity Blog

Posted by hillary on 01/13 at 08:22 PM

The baby sign language class was great!

The Baby Sign Language Basics with infant sign language expert and best-selling author, Monta Z. Briant was incredible! She is full of great information and an excellent public speaker. The class had great flow and everyone was interacting with the signing.
I highly recommend Monta’s book, Baby Sign Language Basics. To get the books or to find out about more classes:
please visit http://www.babysignlanguage.net or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Posted by Allison on 01/12 at 08:08 PM

Come Listen and Share Birth Stories

Natural Birth Stories in Dress for the Nines
Sunday January 17th, 2010
noon to 3pm
If you are pregnant or not you don’t want to miss this event. It is presented by the Natural Birth Project and will feature families that will be sharing their natural birth stories. It is a great opportunity to ask questions to the expert panel and gain information about giving birth. Free with RSVP- .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Check out the Natural Birth Project Website:
http://www.naturalbirthproject.com

Posted by Allison on 01/05 at 05:02 PM

Winter Sale

Here’s to a New Year!

It’s official our Winter Sale has begun.

-15% off any purchase until January 4th. Can buy online with code D4TN
Loves You!

-Pants/ bottoms $49.00 with purchase of regular priced shirt.

-Hot Milk Nursing Bras 75% off and receive a free undies with purchase
of Hot Milk bra (while supplies last).

- Amazing SALE rack of items 75% off!

**********************************************************************
Hours for the last week of January as follows:

Today Tuesday the nth 10-PM
Wednesday the nth 10-PM
Thursday the 1st - closed
Friday the 1st- closed

Resume normal operating hours Saturday the 2nd.

Cheers to 2010!

Posted by Allison on 12/29 at 11:53 AM

The last week of 2009!

HOURS OF OPERATION:

MONDAY 28TH   10-2PM
TUESDAY 29TH   10-3PM
WEDNESDAY 30TH   10-3PM
THURSDAY   31ST CLOSED
FRIDAY   1ST CLOSED

SATURDAY the 2nd Resume Normal Business Operating Hours

Health, Happiness and Cheers to the New Year 2010!

Posted by on 12/28 at 02:31 PM

Cultivating your Intention for the New Year + Vision Board Workshop!

Mark your Calendars for this great event!

Focus: Cultivating your Intention for the New Year/ + Vision Board Workshop!

~Guided Meditation and Exercises in creating vision/intention
~ Discussion about the health benefits of creating intention
~ Teaching on creative expression through pregnancy and health benefits
~ Creating Vision Boards through collective women’s sharing to inspire creativity

Healthy Snacks will be provided and $5 Donation for materials and time offered is recommended.

Jalene Nardella, HHC, LMFT
Jalene is a Holistic Health and Nutrition Counselor as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Her private practice beautifully blends her rich background and training of more than 14 years to offer a truly holistic health practice. Jalene received her nutrition training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City, and is Nationally Certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. She also holds a Masters Degree in Counseling from San Diego State University, as well as many years of post-graduate studies in mind-body techniques. Jalene offers health and nutrition counseling as well as marriage and family therapy. She leads workshops on integrative health topics, facilitates experiential group programs, and provides wellness consulting. She is passionate about inspiring others to live healthy, authentic, and dynamic lives. Jalene specializes in women’s health, healthy pregnancy and parenting, as well as feeding the whole family.

Posted by on 12/23 at 12:26 PM

Pre-Natal Yoga is back in Dress for the Nines!

Prenatal yoga will be taught by Birte Lightner on Sunday December 27, January 10 and January 24. All classes begin at 1pm and we are asking for a $5.00 donation for the teachers time.

Birte Lightner holds a degree in Sports Science and a Ph.D. in Education. She has a wide range of experience instructing movement and personal fitness in a supportive nurturing way. Birte has directly experienced the effect of yoga’s benefits during her pregnancies. When not on the mat, Birte enjoys spending time with her family by the ocean.

Benefits of prenatal yoga include:
• Increased overall strength and flexibility of the spine, alleviating back pain
• Improved circulation, which provides more oxygen to the baby and reduces swelling and inflammation throughout the body
• Focused breathing techniques to help ease fear and anxiety during labor
• A supportive and safe network for women to share their stories
• Most importantly, a chance for moms to bond with their growing baby

Posted by Allison Andrews on 12/07 at 11:35 AM

Sell your old Maternity Clothes here!

Come to Dress for the Nines Sunday December 13th to Kick off our consignment section! Bring your old maternity clothes and swap with other moms for something NEW that’s FREE!
Light food and beverages will be provided.

The best part is if you don’t end up trading all your clothing you can leave it on consignment at Dress for the Nines and make a little extra cash during the Holiday season.

The way Dress for the Nines Consignment works:

The items have to be able to be re-sold, light wear and in great condition.
Dress for the Nines will split the profit with you 50/50.
After 30 days you can pick up the items or they will be marked down 20%
After 60 days if not sold items need to be picked up or you can relinquish them to Dress for the Nines and we will donate them to a local Woman’s shelter.

Please feel free to call the store for more details 619-299-0260

Posted by Allison Andrews on 12/04 at 03:05 PM

Holiday Window Display is up!

Happy Holidays from Dress for the Nines. This is our first Holiday season and we are loving every minute of it!

Thank you for shopping with us!

Posted by Allison on 12/03 at 12:13 AM

Donate Peanut Butter Receive 10% Discount

We need your help!

Give hunger and homelessness a big KA-POW!
By donating a jar of peanut butter NOW through Thursday, December 3!
Dress for the Nines has been asked to help Feed America and we need
your help in collecting peanut butter. If you bring in a jar we will
give you 10% off your purchase!

NOTE: All peanut butter donations will be given to Feeding America San
Diego’s Backpack Weekend Wellness Program- which currently serves over
1,400 hungry children per week at six schools around San Diego County.

Posted by hillary on 11/28 at 04:29 PM

Happy Thanksgiving!

We want to wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Posted by Allison on 11/25 at 06:54 PM

Holiday NEWS & Gift Ideas

Hello Moms and soon to be Moms!

I know many of you are getting ready for the Holidays and we have
great gift items you might want to add to your wish list!

We recently started carrying Pamela Mazone organic knits. She is one
of our customers mom’s and creates the cutest knit booties, hats and
gloves for infants. They can be customized in any color you can dream
of. Right now we have a bunch in great unisex colors. price range
$25-40.00

Mimi Kim Jewelry - personalized necklaces with your little ones name,
birth date or whatever you would like. You can add gem stones or fresh
water pearls. This is a great gift for any mom! $80-$110.00

Mommy Care has added new products and we are carrying them!
Organic Perineal massage oil for labor preparation, Organic baby
massage oil, organic post pregnancy firm cream, and the organic
stretch mark prevention cream. I love the products, not only do they
work, they smell clean and are safe for mom and baby.
$14.99- 29.99

Stella and Dot Jewelry  will be here until Saturday 21st. Great
jewelry that comes in a little teal box to your home or to a loved
ones home. Great gifts for friends/ family out of state.
Price points $25.00 to $150.00.
A must see!

**********************************************************************
Finally, the exciting news!

We will be closed Thanksgiving, but will open at 9am the day after to
start our HUGE SALE!

Friday the 27th -Sunday the 22nd
all bottoms = Pants, Skirts, Capris are ONLY $49.00

This includes denim!

Mark your calendars and see you early Friday morning for the pant
blowout sale!

Posted by Allison Andrews on 11/18 at 03:05 PM

Go Red- Save the Date!

Did you Know….

Heart disease in women is the NUMBER ONE killer. Yes, #1. I didn’t know this until the lovely Ladies of Go Red stopped by for a chat. Let me tell you they have an incredible lunch eon planned. It includes auction items, shopping area, free health screenings, and (my favorite part) Project Red Fashion Show!

Hotel Del Coronado
February 12th, 2010
10:30am-1:30pm

more information or to buy tickets please go to :

American Heart Association
9404 Genesee Avenue, Suite 240
La Jolla, CA 92037
Office: 858.410.3834 Fax: 858.455.0020

http://www.americanheart.org

Posted by Allison Andrews on 11/10 at 02:15 PM

Great Resource to share, connect and learn

I love this site because you can read reviews fro Doctors, Midwives, Birthing Centers, etc.

Please check it out and see if your practitioner is on there. If not you can add them.

http://thebirthsurvey.com/

Posted by Allison on 10/28 at 03:42 PM

Pacificord Sponsored Classes for Parents to be

Every Wednesday Night we have a FREE class for Parents to be.
Some of the Topics are:
Breastfeeding Basics
Baby Care
Preparing for Child-Birth

Check out the in-store events calendar and if you would like to come please remember to register on Pacificords website:

http://www.pacificord.com/2_3c_Pregnancy-Prenatal-Childbirth-Cord-Blood-Stem-Cell-Classes.php

Posted by Allison on 10/22 at 04:59 PM

Hot Milk Nursing Bras on “The Doctors TV”

Check out the HOTmilk fitting on “The Doctors TV” great to see hear the mothers concerns, then feeling the “lift” both support and feelings with HOTmilk. We carry HOT milk Nursing Bras and maternity Bras. Come in for your fitting!

http://thedoctorstv.com/main/procedure_list/673%20

Posted by Allison on 10/22 at 04:35 PM

Women Who Mean Buisness Awards

Women Who Mean Business Awards will take place honoring women here in San Diego on October 27th, 2009.
Allison Andrews of Dress for the Nines and APA Consulting was nominated for the 16th annual WWMB awards. (What an honor- there are some amazing women!)
Awards will be given for Community Service, Courage , Exemplary Achievement and Lifetime Achievement.
The Keynote Speaker is Meg Whitman, Former eBay President & CEO and California gubernatorial candidate.

Registration Options:
1. Online at http://www.sdbj.com
2. By phone at 858-277-6695
3. By email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
4. By Fax to: 858-277-6398
5. By mail to:  San Diego Business Journal
              4909 Murphy Canyon Road #200
              San Diego, CA 92123
Cancellation not accepted 7 days prior to event.

Women Who Mean Business Awards
11:30 to 2:00 p.m.
(Registration begins at 11 a.m.)
Town and Country
Hotel & Convention Center
500 Hotel Circle North
San Diego, CA 92108
Lunch will be served.

Posted by Kyle Olewnik on 10/20 at 04:41 PM

Re- Cap from Mini Maternity Photo Shoot

Yeterday wasn’t a normal Thursday in the store. It was transformed to a photo studio, it was like being part of a magazine photo shoot! The mom’s that signed up were gorgeous and must have done this before. It turned out the lovely the natural light in the door way made the environment picture perfect. Ashley of Ventana Kids (who is beging her 2nd trimester) was the photographer and came prepared. Props, back drops, and ideas were used to make these pre-holiday photo shoots special.

We look forward to doing this again in our store and next time- you should join. I will post some of the shots Ashley took as soon as I recieve them. In the mean time take a look at my behind the scenes photos.

Posted by Allison Andrews on 10/16 at 11:43 AM

Can’t make the Stella &  Dot Trunk Show?

Hi Ladies,

If you can’t make the Stella & Dot event at the Store on Nov 14th or Nov 21st no worries you can still shop online.

Below are the directions to my virtual trunk show which is open until Nov 24th

Thanks!

The How To’s:
-  Go to Sarah e-boutique http://www.stelladot.com/sarahdrohan
  Once there:
-  Click Can’t make the Trunk Show “find your hostess’ link in the top right hand corner
-  Type in my name, “Allison Andrews” in the pop-up box
-  click on “Allison Andrews Party”  (it will be listed with the party date of ( Nov 14th ) - that is just a space holder date and not relevant)
-  click “continue”
Now you are ready to shop, enjoy!
-You will receive the party shipping rate of $5.95
-Make sure you have your items shipped directly to you not the host

A little Background on the company (in case you are interested):
Stella and Dot is a San Francisco (Burlingame) based jewelry company that uses a more modern approach of the direct sales business model. The co-founder of Stella & Dot, Jessica Herrin was one of the original founders of http://www.weddingchannel.com when she was just 24 years old; Stella and Dot is her latest venture.  The co-founder, Blythe Harris was the head of Banana Republic jewelry merchandising.  And the lead creative director, Maya Brenner is called “jewelry designer to the stars” whose other lines are carried in stores like Fred Segel and Henry Bendal.

Posted by Allison Andrews on 10/07 at 02:02 PM

Barry’s Boot Camp has started a Prenatal Boot Camp Class!

Posted by Allison Andrews on 10/05 at 05:32 PM

BOLD Red Tent Event in La Jolla Oct.18th

BOLD Red Tent Event on October 18th, 2009 from noon to 5pm  $15 online and $20 at the door! 

About the Event
The BOLD Red Tent Event in San Diego is an opportunity for women of all ages, backgrounds and communities to join together and share their birth experiences, stories, joys, fears and concerns about birth in society today.  The BOLD Red Tent Event is part of Birth on Labor Day, or BOLD, a women’s initiative and movement to empower and educate women and families about birth and birth options. 

Participants will be invited to share in small groups with other women in a nurturing, loving and healing environment. Participants are invited to share in one or more of three ways:  sharing with other women at the BOLD Red Tent, documenting their own personal birth story, or by expressing their birth story through art.
Women of all ages and backgrounds are invited to share in this event that will move, touch and inspire your mind, body and soul

Enjoy the day and experience:
•Share your birth story and connect with other women in private, beautiful and unique Red Tents

•Guest Speakers & Workshops

•Yoga Session to Invigorate, Relax and Restore

•Silent Auction with amazing products and services

•Art Expression Area for expressing birth through art

•Local Women-centered businesses

◦Entertainment, food & drinks


Location:

La Jolla Woman’s Club
7791 Draper Avenue
La Jolla, California 92037

About BOLD
BOLD is a global arts-based movement inspiring communities to create childbirth choices that work for mothers. We do this through: 

Education

•Informing and empowering women about their birth options
•Providing a nurturing environment for new activists to learn strategies for social change
•Reaching out to diverse populations and meeting them where they are
•Using the arts to support new & creative ways of educating people about maternity care

Truth

•Encouraging the examination of evidence-based data
•Helping individuals and communities express their own personal truths about birth
•Using a multi-sensory, Arts-based approach to telling and hearing information & experiences about birth

Action

•Providing a vehicle for local community action
•Encouraging new activists in local communities
•Bringing conversations about birth to diverse forums
•Communities taking action to foster local change
•Communities taking their message to people and institutions that can affect change

www.boldaction.org  

*****
“We have a secret in our culture, and it’s not that birth is painful. It’s that women are strong.” - Laura Stavoe Harm

Posted by Allison Andrews on 09/24 at 05:28 PM

Two Store’s ONE Location

Posted by on 09/24 at 04:12 PM

Two Store’s ONE Location

Posted by on 09/24 at 03:39 PM

Fall Maternity Trends

Maternity fall trends

1) Bold and Colorful-
Bright harvest colors, bold prints are the rage this winter. Not only in your apparel, but in diaper bags, slings, and belly bands. Don’t shy away from thee prints or the bold colors, be brave and have some fun dressing your new curves.

2.) Organic and Eco-Friendly-
Dress for the Nines has a large selection of “green” products. We even color code the hangers to make it easier to find. If you haven’t embraced this trend it’s time to try on some bamboo. It is the new silk! Bamboo is great because it is super soft, but also absorbs and drys quicker than cotton. Also the bamboo fiber is a natural anti bacteria. Who dosn’t love that?

3.) Diaper Clutches-
Mommy’s have the best bags now. I sell more of our Timi and Leslie bags to non- pregnant women then you could ever guess! These convertible diaper bags come with a mommy clutch for fast trips and quick clean ups. Our sister store (across the street), Style Child sells Petunia Pickle bottom diaper clutches that are out of this world! Imagine full size diaper bag 1/2 the size -great uh?

4.) Sexy and Sensual-
Baby it’s cold outside… Time to come in doors and snuggle up with sexy maternity and nursing bras that embrace your new sexy curves. Hot Milk has just what you are looking for! Great two piece nursing bra sets that make a great present to you ...and your partner. Happy Holidays!

5.) Embellishments in the simple details-
Basic tees and long tees that are easy to wear, but interesting as well. Two-tone stitching, puckered sleeves or fun hardware. Noppies has rich harvest color basics with fun details that can take a basic tee and dress it up. Noppies is very affordable as well.

6) Long sleeve tops with skirts-
There is nothing cuter this fall then being pregnant and wearing this combo. It is a one two knock out! This classic fall look is very flattering on the maternity body. Dress it up with tights and boots and you are ready ladies to warm up the cold weather.

Posted by Allison Andrews on 09/17 at 01:14 PM

It’s getting Hot our there, but cool inside Dress for the Nines

With the heat of summer on us, We wanted to remind our great shoppers that its always a cool 72 degrees in here!
We also have marked down all our sumer/ spring fashions, so if you need to beat the heat and save come in and see us!

Don’t forget about our home delivery, internet, and phone service we offer.

Posted by The ladies of Dress for the Nines on 09/05 at 01:39 PM

Official clip form NBC

FALL PREVIEW!

http://www.nbcsandiego.com/station/as-seen-on/Maternity_Fashion_San_Diego.html

Posted by Allison Andrews on 08/27 at 04:36 PM

Dress for the Nines on NBC channel 7 Morning News

We were lucky to be featured on NBC ch.7 on August 27th to share new fall fashions.
Thanks to Amie we filmed the live broadcast and want to share it with you. As soon as NBC posts the official live show we will update our press page with that.

Thanks and Here comes Fall!

watch the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lh2_ZSh7I5Q

Posted by Allison Andrews on 08/27 at 11:49 AM

30 % off all regular priced merchandise

To make room for fall merchandise we are going to offer 30% off all regular priced merchandise starting this TUESDAY the 18th at our Mommy Happy Hour 5pm and will go until SATURDAY the 22nd to closing 6pm!

Take advantage of this sale, there are new pieces that you’ll be upset if you don’t get at this discount.

Also this is a great time to get that item you had your eye on…

It includes Diaper Bags, Clothing, Candles, Nursing Covers, Music, Nursing Bra’s, Skin Care, Ergo Carriers, EVERYTHING but exsiting sale items and can’t be combined with any other awesome discounts.

Posted by Allison and Kyle on 08/12 at 12:44 PM

Reproductive Wellness -Acupuncture & Integrated Medicine

At Reproductive Wellness our practice specializes in the treatment of women’s health issues.  One of the main times in a women’s life that we can assist them is during their pregnancy.  Acupuncture has a long history of treating pregnancy related problems.  In our office the two main reasons acupuncture can help treat many pregnancy related concerns is due to increasing blood circulation to the affected area of concern and regulating the nervous system.  As blood is allowed to circulate properly we are able to bring more nutrients to the area which allows the body to heal itself.  When the nervous system is regulated you allow the body to relax without the constant stimulation.  This allows us to treat conditions such as nausea or vomiting, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and depression. 
Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can play a vital role in the comfort of a pregnant woman. There is strong evidence to support that acupuncture is highly effective at treating some of the most common problems experienced during pregnancy including morning sickness, heartburn, insomnia, water retention and sciatica.

Here is a list of some of the problems that we often treat during pregnancy:
* Nausea and Vomiting
* Heartburn
* Constipation
* Hemorrhoids
* Edema and Swelling
* Urinary Tract Infection
* Pelvic Pain
* Neck and Back Pain
* Sciatica
* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
* Leg Cramps
* Fatigue and Exhaustion
* Insomnia
* Anxiety and Depression

Acupuncture for Childbirth

Using acupuncture we are able to provide natural pain relief during labor however acupuncture is more commonly used to induce labor.  There are several points that stimulate contractions and influence cervical ripening.  As women get closer to labor we begin Pre-Birth treatments that start when a women starts their 34 week of pregnancy.  During this time in their pregnancy we assist their bodies in transitioning toward labor to make this a smooth and easy transition.  We help the cervix to dilate which will allow the body to naturally begin regular contractions.  If needed there is also an acupuncture point that has been found to turn a breech baby.  Research has shown that beginning in the 32 week we can turn a breech baby 78% of the time.

Postpartum Acupuncture

Many women feel depleted after the birth experience.  Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help the transition of those first few months after birth to ensure a quick recovery. Postpartum care focuses on the physical, emotional and psychological recovery of the mother from the effects of pregnancy and labor, as well as encouraging breast feeding.

Here are some of the postpartum disorders that can be treated with acupuncture:
* Fatigue
* Postpartum Depression
* Mastitis
* Insufficient or Excessive Lactation
* Post Operative Healing
* Night Sweats

Marc Sklar
Clinical Director
Reproductive Wellness
Acupuncture and Integrated Medicine

2425 Camino Del Rio S. #180 San Diego, CA 92108
Phone : 619-265-0291

Posted by guest Marc Sklar on 08/05 at 12:38 PM

Best of 2009

Dress for the Nines recieved the Best of award in San Diego Magazine! Woohoo we couldn’t be more proud and we have only been open for 4 months!

Please pick up the issue and we want to thank you for shopping with us and all your votes!

Posted by Allison and Kyle on 07/28 at 04:49 PM

Vote for Dress for the Nines for A-List

Dress for the Nines has been nominated on 10news.com for the A-list for the Best Maternity Store in San Diego. We would really appreciate it if you could please take a moment and go online and vote for us it’s just 1 simple click.

Please follow this link to place your vote
Vote for Best Maternity Store

Thank You!

Posted by on 07/25 at 04:33 PM

Canned food drive for Canstruction going on Now!

Dress for the Nines has a collection barrel in our store for a canned food drive which is going on until the end of July. Your food donation is requested and will assist Homefront San Diego and Set Free, two charities that are committed to helping military families and the homeless, respectfully.

This is also in conjunction with Canstruction. Canstruction is an event where teams build amazing structures and art out of canned food. Canstruction is taking place July 17-19 and is open to the public. It’s located at Horton Plaza Mall. For more information you can contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or visit the website at http://www.canstructionsd.org

Posted by Allison Andrews on 07/11 at 10:29 AM

Chiropractic for the Pregnant Mama!

I wanted to share and introduce with all of you my Chiropractor, Dr. Margie. I had a very severe injury last year and have started going to Dr. Margie to help heal myself. She recently found out she is pregnant and had great information to share with me that I think you all could benefit from hearing. I’m excited to also announce that Dr. Margie will be coming into the store on July 25th and August 22nd to talk more on natural health topics during pregnancy.
Take it away Dr. Margie…

Chiropractic for the Pregnant Mama!
Pregnancy is THE MOST natural event a woman can go through in her life. Pregnancy is normal and our bodies have been doing this for centuries without lots of outside intervention. And that’s exactly how Chiropractic views Pregnancy – natural, normal, and not classified as a “disease”. With this approach, Chiropractic care is not only safe for pregnant mamas, it’s a must for all expecting families. 

What many people do not know is that Chiropractic is the largest natural healing profession in the world.  This means, we do not use any drugs or surgeries in the body – we look at the body as a whole and assist in the body’s healing abilities.  The way we accomplish this is by analyzing the Central Nerve System of the body – your brain, spinal cord, and nerves.  This system is responsible for the entire functioning of your body, so if any interference is found in the Central Nerve System, you are not healthy as you can be.  These points of interference are called Subluxations, and only Chiropractors are trained in the analysis, detection, and adjustments of Subluxations.  So, from this description, you can see that everyone is a good candidate for a Chiropractic check-up – from young babies and children, to our most mature generation!

Pregnancy offers different rules – a woman is urged not to take any medications, caffeine, alcohol, etc.  So, what is a pregnant gal to do when she experiences mood swings, food cravings, lack of energy, nausea, hip and low back pain, headaches, or reflux?  Although these symptoms may be common during pregnancy, they are not normal.  There is great hope – in our experience, everything on the list of pregnancy symptoms may be due to a Subluxation.  And when your Chiropractor determines it is, Chiropractic Adjustments will not only alleviate your discomfort, but will actually improve your overall functioning throughout your pregnancy.  This means not only are you happy, comfortable, and full of energy, but your baby is growing in an environment that is functioning and working at its best!  And since Chiropractic uses no drugs or surgery, Chiropractic Adjustments are totally safe for the pregnant mama and baby!

Dr. Margie Smith
The Chiropractic Lounge
655 G Street, Suite H
San Diego, CA 92101
858-279-7300
619-237-1168 fax
http://www.chiropracticlounge.com 

Posted by Dr. Margie Smith and Allison Andrews on 07/07 at 08:35 PM

Private Beauty Event with LIERAC Paris

Posted by on 06/22 at 12:12 PM

Why bank cord blood?

Lately I’ve been learning and hearing about Cord blood, Blood banks, and saving the Umbilical Cord Blood. I didn’t have a clear position on this topic, so I decided to start at the beginning with a simple question: what are all of these things?

“What is cord blood?
Bone marrow, peripheral blood and umbilical cord blood constitute the three primary sources of stem cells. Cord blood, which, until recently, was discarded along with the umbilical cord and placenta, is non-controversial and provides an extremely rich source of certain types of stem cells. For umbilical cord blood, there is a 15-minute window of opportunity to collect the newborn’s cord blood and safely cryopreserve it for “biological insurance.” With over 8,000 documented life-saving transplants to date using cord blood stem cells, it’s easy to see why more and more parents are deciding to bank their babies’ umbilical cord blood.” -pacificord.com

I was also lucky to meet a representative from Pacificord at the BabyTime Expo, who helped give me very useful information on the topic of cord blood banking and her company.

My next question was, why?
Instead of my version of why, I thought I would pull from Pacificord’s website.

“Banking your newborn’s umbilical cord blood stem cells can be one of the smartest, farthest-reaching decisions you can make when it comes to the health and wellness of your newborn, and to your own peace of mind. Knowing you’ve taken steps to safely store these incredible, life-affirming cells - and that they’re just a phone call away - can put any parent’s mind at ease.  The body’s “master cells.”  Umbilical cord blood stem cells can be used in transplants to treat a variety of diseases, including leukemia, sickle cell disease, and metabolic disorders. In fact, cord blood stem cells are used to treat over 70 diseases, including several forms of cancer. In the future, this number is very likely to increase given the number of clinical trials and research being performed using cord blood stem cells.

Furthermore, stem cells from your baby’s cord blood are free from the ethical questions and moral controversy that has been part of our decade-long national debate over stem cells.

Another benefit of storing your child’s cord blood is the potential for those stem cells to be used by other family members. The success of cord blood transplantation depends on the tissue compatibility (human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching) between the donor and the transplant recipient.* Thus, when the donor is also the recipient, a perfect match is guaranteed and no rejection will occur. Among immediate family members, the chance of your child’s cord blood stem cells matching a member of your family is much higher than for someone outside the family. ”  - pacificord.com

I was very impressed with Pacificord’s approach to the collection process and the benefits of storing your child’s blood. Please feel free to do your own research and if you find any other facts, you can always send them my way and visit Pacificord.com.

Pacificord will be in Dress for the Nines every Wednesday providing free prenatal classes. It begins at 7pm and goes until 9pm. More information on the topics being taught can be found on our in-store events calendar.

Posted by Allison Andrews on 06/20 at 01:01 PM

10% Off Your Total Purchase!

Stop in on Tuesdays from 5-7 pm for Mommy Happy Hour and receive 10% off of your entire purchase!

Posted by on 06/16 at 02:23 PM

Dress for the Nines partners with an amazing yoga wear company!

June 14th is the start of the Dress for the Nines and lululemon athletica Prenatal Yoga Series.
lululemon athletica will also have a Trunk Show from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and class will be from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.  lululemon athletica will continue with class from 1:00 to 2:00 pm every other Sunday afternoon in Dress for the Nines.

Prenatal Yoga Series Information:
Instructor: Jennifer Johnston will be teaching the entire series. She is a new mom herself - she just had a baby girl!
Link: www.lululemon.com/lajolla

Posted by Allison Andrews on 06/03 at 05:31 PM

Maternity San Diego

We are so excited to be one of the first independent boutiques in San Diego. Maternity clothing in San Diego hasn’t always had options… majority of the options don’t offer a wide selection of quality goods at affordable prices. We arn’t alone in new maternity stores in San Diego, Modish in Lajolla is another new maternity boutique that we recommend checking out if we don’t have what you are looking for. Tammy is fabulous over there and has great mommy to be knowledge.
Well Welcome to our website and store and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Posted by Allison and Kyle on 05/22 at 02:59 PM

Ventana Kids

We are so lucky to have Ventana Kids in our life and store. Their beautiful Moms, Dads, and Babies adorn our walls and add so much to our maternity store. We highly recommend that you invite them to come to your home and capture the moments that count. They specialize in kids, maternity, new baby, and family photo journalism.
In the month of August, we are looking forward to having an in-store photo shoot with Ventana Kids. It will allow you to have some fun, model some very belly flattering maternity clothes, and save some money on their incredible photography skills.

Keep you all posted, but in the mean time check out their website to see for yourself how talented they are at photo journalism!

http://www.ventanakids.com

Posted by Allison Andrews on 05/21 at 05:23 PM

What are Doulas? How do I get one?

1. What is a doula?
A doula is a trained, non-medical support individual for childbirth. The doula works with women prenatally and in labor, staying with them through the birth and a little bit after. There are even after-birth doulas that will come in the evening and help you put the baby to sleep. A doula should support a woman’s birth decisions- natural or medicated. A doula can be a great resource for information on all types of birthing styles, care and general birth knowledge. Doulas do not perform any medical or clinical tasks such as vaginal exams, blood pressure, or fetal monitoring.

What Wikipedia says a Doula is:
“A doula is an assistant who provides various forms of non-medical support (physical, emotional and informed choice) in the childbirth process. Based on a particular doula’s training and background, the doula may offer support during prenatal care, during childbirth and/or during the postpartum period. A birth doula is a care provider for labor. Thus a labor doula may attend a home birth or might attend the parturient woman during labor at home and continue while in transport and then complete supporting the birth at a hospital or a birth center. A postpartum doula typically begins providing care in the home after the birth. Such care might include cooking for the mother, breastfeeding support, newborn care assistance, errands, light housekeeping, etc. Such care is provided from the day after the birth, providing services through the first six weeks postpartum. In some cases, doula care can last several months or even to a year postpartum - especially in cases when mothers are suffering from postpartum depression, children with special needs require longer care, or there are multiple infants.” - http://en.wiki.org/wiki/Doula

2. Why use a doula?
It is said that most women need continuous labor support to have a positive birthing experience. Although OB nurses are experienced in dealing with a laboring woman’s emotional and physical needs, but with shift changes, coffee breaks and heavy paperwork, it isn’t guaranteed you will have them to yourself through the labor process. Midwives may be able to offer more labor support, but their focus is on the clinical duties. It can be very comforting to know you have another woman to depend on, who will stay by your side throughout the labor process and postpartum. A doula isn’t meant to replace the father, but to add support to the mother and help in others ways than the father or birthing partner would. They should be a team for the mom. There are many great books about fathers and Doulas out there to check out. In the April/ May issue of Fit Pregnancy:
Research has shown that having a labor doula present during birth can reduce the:

· Cesarean Rate by 50%

· Length of Labor by 25%

· Use of Pitocin by 40%

· Use of Pain Medication by 30%

· Need for Forceps by 40%

· Requests for Epidurals by 60%

4. How to Find a Doula?
There are many great resources out there to find the right Doula for you. Hospitals, birthing centers and doula networks can give you great refferals. Just make sure to do your homework and find one that fits your needs. We have listed some resources below.

3. Questions to ask all Doula
-What training have you had? (If a doula is certified, you might consider checking with the organization.)
-Do you have one or more backup doulas for times when you are not available? May we meet her/them?
-What is your fee, what does it include and what are your refund policies?
-Tell me about your experience as a birth doula.
-What is your philosophy about birth and supporting women and their partners through labor?
-May we meet to discuss our birth plans and the role you will play in supporting me through birth?
-May we call you with questions or concerns before and after the birth?
-When do you try to join women in labor? Do you come to our home or meet us at the place of birth?
-Do you meet with us after the birth to review the labor and answer questions?

5. Resources we recommend for more information

-http://www.dona.org/
-http://doulanetwork.com/
-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doula

Posted by Ladies of Dress for the Nines on 05/19 at 02:27 PM

Dress for the Nines gets written about

Neens aka the Small Brown Marketing Guy recently interviewed and wrote a blog about the Dress for the Nines. Check it out and find out what else this guy finds interesting.
http://neensmarketing.blogspot.com/

Posted by Allison Andrews on 05/11 at 12:53 PM

Life size logo

Thanks to Art by Tasha.com, Dress for the Nines famous prego girl came to life. She now graces the wall of the store. Tasha also did the murals in Style Child boutique and several little kids’ rooms in the SD, OC area. To see more examples of the art Tasha can do to enhance your children’s bedrooms or home, please visit http://www.artbytasha.com or call 619-708-0473.
She also does super neat belly castings and will paint on them. The belly castings make a great art keep sake. For more info on this you can contact me at the store at (619) 299-0260 or contact Tasha.

Posted by Allison on 04/23 at 10:56 AM

Grand Opening Party for the Boutique!

Dress for the Nines opened it doors on April 10th, 2009 and threw the grand opening party on April 25th, 2009. It was a great event! We had give-a-ways from photographers, restaurants, and our neighbor boutiques. April was a great month and the response we received from all the happy moms about our maternity boutique was overwhelming! If you are not in the San Diego area, we thank you for visiting the site and hope you enjoy the shopping experience over the web. For those of you in Southern California, please stop in and say Hi to us! On Tuesdays we stay open one extra hour, until 7pm. If you like puppies, I usually have my lil guy on the long days.

Posted by Allison Andrews on 04/22 at 09:59 PM