Third Trimester Checklist: What to Do Before Baby Arrives


For the mom who wants to feel prepared (and avoid last-minute stress!)


The third trimester flies by—before you know it, baby is here! This checklist will help you feel ready, stress-free, and fully present.


1. Set Up the Nursery (or at Least a Cozy Baby Space)


2. Pack Your Hospital Bag (Or Birth Space Essentials)

  • Essentials for baby:
  • They won't need much, a few diapers and wipes (but the hospital has that too!), something to wear for the trip home, and a swaddle blankie.
  • Most importantly: your carseat. And make sure you know how to do the harness up!
  • Essentials for you:
  • Comfy things to wear during labour and after birth (socks, PJs, slippers)
  • Phone charger, headphones and a playlist for labouring with (pro tip: slow, emotive songs that make you feel connected to your partner work great!)
  • Hygiene essentials: toothbrush and paste, lip balm, a simple moisturizer
  • A comfy pillow - because let's be honest, the hospital ones aren't the best. And a nice cozy blanket in case you get cold easily.
  • Here's a comprehensive list by Pomegranate Midwifery from East Van.


3. Prep for Postpartum Life

  • Stock up on freezer meals or quick snacks. I LOVED following Pinch of Yum's freezer meal prep list that they created for their own postpartum days with super yummy and easy meals that can be popped into an instant pot or a slowcooker.
  • Set up a basket with postpartum essentials - my favourite brand has been FridaMom for your down under regions postpartum. They have a nice cooling foam to support healing that you can layer in with your pads, they also have an amazing bottle for cleaning "down there" while you're not supposed to wipe yet.
  • Think about what YOU could need postpartum as well, read more here - a resource from The MotherFlock.


4. Book Your Newborn Photos (Before Baby Arrives!)

  • The best time to book is before birth so you don’t have to think about it later - photographers can pencil you in around the 2 weeks after your due date time period. And since you'll be home in the newborn bubble just snuggling, photographers like me can just come over for 1-2 hours on a weekday that works - usually tons of availability there!
  • Sessions are relaxed and at home—no need to stress about cleaning up your home or finding the perfect outfit. I'll send you a prep guide and a mood board that'll show you that a cute lounge suit or a simple tee and pants/skirt are all you really need.



Focus on what matters most: soaking up these last moments before baby arrives.


If you want to document this season, I’d love to help create timeless, relaxed newborn photos you’ll cherish forever.