"Kathryn and her Optimums-To-Be group [now called Optimum Bumps] has been the best thing I have found since being pregnant. My husband found it while searching for antenatal classes as we couldn't afford NCT and there was just nothing else around. I have not only made friends with other ladies who are expecting but I have gained confidence in myself and belief in myself and my abilities and learnt so much about pregnancy, birth, babies etc. I always said I wanted a C-section and when I fell pregnant I was determined that is what I wanted - until this group made me realise and believe in myself that giving birth is natural and that I can do it. Whenever we have discussed a topic Kathryn has almost immediately put an article online that relates to that topic with so much information and you realise there is more than one option out there. The first night I was nervous but needn't have been. She is welcoming and kind and you come away feeling informed and empowered. There is never a time when you think that anyone is pushing their views onto you and that you must do it their way. No question is ever silly and if you ask a question about something Kathryn will have a look online and put something on her Facebook page. It has been a source of inspiration and I am grateful to Kathryn for this group."

Julie, 2011

"Kathryn has helped me to borrow slings on two occasions. She was very knowledgeable and explained, demonstrated and helped me to try on wrap slings and mei tai carriers. I just wish I had found her when my son was newborn as I had bought a carrier that was unsuitable for me and it exacerbated a joint problem, meaning I was unable to babywear for several months; being able to test and try out different slings and carriers enabled me to use one that spread my son's weight and so protected my joints. Thank you, Kathryn."

Laura, 2012

"Kathryn, just wanted to say thank you for all the info you have given me over the last few months regarding pregnancy, and labour. You made me more aware of the side effects of pain relief, and opened up my mind to other things such as positioning whilst in labour as well as induction, delayed cord clamping and natural delivery of the placenta. This labour was an amazing experience, completely different to my first. I was much more aware of my rights and what I wanted. I managed to go into labour naturally after a stretch and sweep, and had no interventions at all and only used Entonox, which was a massive achievement for me as I have a low pain threshold! You definitely made a difference."

Gemma, 2012

"The sling library has been a life saver in my house. When my little boy was small he had dreadful colic and reflux. The sling library helped me find the right sling for us, so I could get things done and help my little man, who never wanted to be put down. Since then we have hired lots of slings and always found the advice and help fantastic in finding the right sling for us. Now at nearly 8 months, what we need in a sling is different from when he was a newborn. However Kathryn and the sling library are still there, with loads of advice and slings for us to try. I have recommended the sling library to everyone I know."

Becky, 2012

"I went to a few of the optimums-to-be [now called Optimum Bumps] group meetings. I'm on baby number 4 and still learnt things. Each week there is a different subject about pregnancy. But also you can have any question answered. You can meet lots of other pregnant mummies of all ages and weeks of pregnancy. Kathryn who runs the group is lovely and will help you with anything. She also has lots of equipment for birth you can hire from her. I enjoyed my times there."

Karen, 2012

"It was great trying on all the slings you have-it was like shoe shopping only better!"

Krissy, 2012

"I hired Kathryn as a postnatal doula after the birth of my second child. I was having a planned caesarean and even though Kathryn hadn't experienced this herself, she was supportive of my decision and even came to an antenatal appointment I was nervous about. Postnatally my recovery was very difficult and stressful. Knowing that we had Kathryn coming round to help with things around the house, and to support me if I needed it, put mine and my partner's mind at ease. Kathryn also helped me choose a sling that perfectly suited mine and my daughter's needs. I am now a babywearing convert!! Thanks so much!"

Ally, 2013

"Totally recommend Kathryn's group [Optimum Bumps]. We have a lovely time each week. I have learnt so much I didn't know. It has changed my mind on a lot of things to do with birth and raising children, because now I feel I have the information to make informed choices, rather than just what everyone else does. Just having somewhere to ask silly questions is brilliant, especially when my friends get bored of hearing yet another conversation about babies and pregnancy."

Kim, 2013

"I went to my first [Optimum Bumps] meeting last Wednesday. There was a nice, informal atmosphere, but I came away feeling I knew a lot more. Kathryn is really knowledgeable, and friendly. The meeting was about breastfeeding, and we were able to meet breastfeeding mums, and learn first-hand the pros and cons, rather than getting a lecture. Will go again."

Kelly, 2013

"Kathryn has an amazing selection of slings and an incredible amount of knowledge. Her consultations are thorough and productive and her hires great value and always immaculate. I can't recommend her highly enough. The only downside is my new found sling addiction!"

Nicky, 2013

"Kathryn took care of our placenta so well! She was professional and clear when she came over to explain what to do with the placenta once it was delivered, and she was very prompt in picking it up once we called her. I also appreciated the photos she sent us of the whole process and was very pleased with the product she returned. I'd definitely recommend working with her to other mamas. Thank you Kathryn!"

Beatrice, 2013

"I'm sat here reading all the resources that Kathryn has loaned me. The books are invaluable, the more I read the more empowered it makes me feel. I now feel I can have a conversation with my consultant, and feel confident with my knowledge and decision making. THANK YOU."

Lisa, 2013

"The service [placenta encapsulation] I received from Kathryn before, during and after the process was fantastic. Easy to contact, and quick to visit and provide the goods. I opted for the placenta smoothie and capsules. I was amazed that Kathryn turned up so quickly after we contacted her, a couple of hours after the birth. The smoothie was 'whipped up' before my very eyes and tasted just like a delicious, refreshing berry smoothie. I then received the capsules three days post birth. And I can honestly say that the difference they have made to my postnatal experience this time has created a far more positive experience. My mood has been more stable and controllable. My energy greater and my ability to cope with the sleepless nights better. The quality of my sleep has also been a lot better. I have been taking two capsules a day (morning and lunchtime) and feel good. After my first birth, I spent weeks in a haze of sleeplessness and mood swings, and was worried as to how I would cope this time, having a toddler to care for too. But this was so much better and I can only put it down to the pure goodness my body has, and continues to receive, right from a few hours post birth."

Nicola, 2014

"I contacted Kathryn about placenta encapsulation about 3 weeks before my baby was due and was worried that I may have left it too late to organise. I was therefore extremely happy when she informed me that everything could still be arranged. Even though I live some distance from her she was able to travel to me for an extremely reasonable rate and she made the whole process very easy for me. I chose a smoothie as well as the capsules and I was amazed at how quickly she was able to get to us and prepare the placenta after the baby arrived - I had my smoothie (which was delicious) within 3 hours of the birth and the capsules were back with me 24 hours later. I relied heavily on them during the first 6 weeks, and am convinced they made a big difference to me whilst coping with a newborn and a 4 year old who likes to wake me up frequently in the night! I would thoroughly recommend Kathryn and the excellent service she provides - Thank you again!"

Roz, 2014

"So knowledgable, supportive & helpful. Totally invaluable for me as not doing NCT classes. Can't thank you enough."

Em, 2014

"Really informative and helpful. It's lovely to feel supported and to meet other mums to be."  [Optimum Bumps]

Mary, 2015

"I tried, but I couldn't quite find the words to fully express how much your support has meant to us. . . You took my mind from a place of fear to a place of safety, and enabled me to have a positive birth that I would have only dreamed of and never thought possible without your help. I have no doubt in my mind that if it hadn't been for your support I would have had postnatal depression again."

Laura, 2015

"I would like to say a huge thank you to Kathryn for our private sling consultation. So very helpful and knowledgeable. As we are so new to sling wearing it was hugely beneficial to have a crash course including how to carry safely. It also provided us with the opportunity to try several different types and then rent them too. Thank you again for your time, you totally went the extra mile!"

Steph, 2015

"Thank you for all that you do with Optimums-To-Be [now called Optimum Bumps]! I am very grateful for the weekly sessions and the wealth of information you have shared with me. The Swindon HomeBirthers meets have also been invaluable! I would not have managed my labour & home birth without the support of everyone I met along the way. Thanks again!"

E, 2016

"The C-Section Optimums-To-Be [now called Optimum Bumps] session was great when I attended last year. Although I didn't want another C-Section it was realistic to prepare for one. It was great talking to mums who had different experiences of C-Sections, getting birth plan ideas and getting an understanding of 'gentle' C-Sections. In the end I did have a second one with my breech baby and it was as good as it could have been - my birth plan was adhered to and we had skin-to-skin and latching straight away. Thanks again, Kathryn Beale."

Jo, 2017

"Thank you so much for yesterday [Optimum Bumps does slings] - I really felt like I learned a lot, despite having read up on it all beforehand as well. It was invaluable to try on all the different types of slings and carriers and be able to ask questions. And thanks for going over time as well, really appreciated since the event was free!!"

Lizzie, 2017

"Fab fitting service and beautiful bras. I had really ill fitting bras after being measured at Mothercare but Kathryn ensured I had the most comfortable bras I've ever owned and they are actually pretty too!"

Gemma, 2018

"I never knew so many nursing bras existed! And so many pretty ones too. Kathryn's service is super speedy and she is lovely I would totally recommend her to any nursing mother out there! I think this is the first time I've ever worn a properly fitted bra!"

Claire, 2018

"Thank you to Kathryn Beale from Optimum Doula. We managed to find very comfortable and pretty nursing bras. Lovely selection with variety of colours and styles and with a small fee she can come out to your house so you busy mums can stay put with your little ones."

Alisa, 2018

"So fab being able to try up to 100 different slings before I buy, really grateful Kathryn provides this service. And my daughter was delighted to find a child size sling to use in the holidays!!"

Naomi, 2018

"My husband and I sought antenatal support from Kathryn before our first child. What was so amazing was having a more personal, tailored experience that I don't believe we would have got from a class. Kathryn was able to come to our home at a time that suited us. She stayed as long as we needed for each of the sessions which meant we could ask all the little questions without any pressure. The ability for us to borrow a fantastic array of books, and particularly the hypnobirthing DVDs, was also really helpful. I would highly recommend Kathryn. She has a lovely, calm and open personality and has a plethora of knowledge that made us both feel confident about the birth of our first child. Thank you Kathryn for everything!"

Michelle, 2018

"I gained a great deal from these sessions [Optimum Bumps]. It empowered me to make informed decisions and gave me the confidence to push for the birth that I wanted. I remember fondly climbing into your birthing pools. I felt so much better prepared for having attended the groups, especially with regards to breastfeeding and babywearing. Plus I made some lovely friends along the way."

Hollie, 2019

"OMG! This is what a properly fitting bra feels like. Amazing. I'd thoroughly recommend seeing Kathryn and getting a properly fitted bra. She is very professional, has loads for you to try on and provides very quick service if you need to order more."

Helen, 2019

"Finally good quality bras that fit me for nursing. Service was fantastic. I had a home visit as I can't drive. I wanted my boobs to be as comfortable as possible due to damaged nips from poor latching (we are trying very hard to correct it) and that's exactly what I got. Very pleased, thank you!"

Amber, 2019

"I employed Kathryn to be my Doula in May 2019. I was due my third baby and for various reasons my husband was unable to attend the birth. Kathryn is a lovely lady and she supported me throughout my pregnancy with visits to my home, website recommendations and birthing books. I felt apprehensive about giving birth again, as I had a traumatic birthing experience with my second child. However, Kathryn's reassurance enabled me to remain calm, which resulted in a positive birth experience. I highly recommend her services."

Gillian, 2019

"Great advice about which slings and carriers to use. And all via video, which was great for us during lockdown! Feel more informed about which one to order and how to use safely."

Cassy, 2020

"Just before lockdown I panic bought two M&S, poorly fitted nursing bras. They did an okay job, seeing as M&S do not do my size. But how amazing it feels to have my breasts in the right place and supported. I feel like a new woman!  I was able to receive five nursing bras, via contactless drop off and collection, to try and had a winning two. Thank you Kathryn."

Samantha, 2020

"A huge thank you for helping me with my first nursing bras and also for being so helpful with delivery. It's hard for everyone during lockdown, so thanks for taking this particular stress away."

Hannah, 2021

"[Optimum Bumps] provided a lot of useful information. Thank you for holding the group and definitely recommend it!"

Jayne, 2021

"My baby and I visited you at Optimum Corner when we were struggling with painful breastfeeding back in March when she was 10 weeks old. I just wanted to say a massive "thank you"! You were the first person to look in her mouth and spotted tongue tie straight away. We booked in with Baby Acorn Clinic and osteopath Liz as you suggested.  The pain is now completely resolved and we are happily and comfortably breastfeeding! I am certain that without visiting the support group we would have had to stop our breastfeeding journey. Thanks again"

Katie, 2022

 

"I hired Kathryn as our Doula for the full birth package last year and she was incredible. All throughout pregnancy she provided me with the most up to date and non bias information, for us to then go and make informed decisions as a family.  Kathryn stayed at my birth for 24 hours! Yes 24! (36 hour labour) and I would’ve been lost without her. She switched between ‘doualing’ me, and then looking after my 3 year old who still asks daily ‘when is Kathryn coming round?’  She will go above and beyond for you if you choose to have her as your doula, because she cares and understands how important the care is that you receive during this time. Thanks so much Kathryn."

Dinah, 2023

"I don't know where to begin. That was the easiest bra shopping I have ever done. Easy to find. A welcoming setting. Space for baby. Kathryn was very helpful and knowledgeable. Would absolutely recommend Optimum Corner.  Thank you."

Jo, 2023

"I’ve been attending sessions [Optimum Bumps] for the last 3 months since I moved to Devizes and will keep attending until I give birth! The sessions have been really helpful and I don’t feel worried to ask any questions. Sometimes people bring their partners but I’ve attended most of them just me and have met friends along the way. It’s really helpful to have different subjects along the way and some (e.g. nappies or slings) you get to take part and practice. I would definitely recommend." 

Katy, 2023

"I’ve been going to Optimum Bumps since I was 15 weeks pregnant (last 20 weeks). Every session has been informative and helpful! I’ve been exposed to a lot of important topics along the way (birth plan, hospital bag, pain management, nappies, water birth planning, safe sleep etc). Kathryn is also great at taking on board any topics that you wish to cover, they are informal sessions and allow you to actually ask questions on anything. As part of this group I’ve found myself a wonderful group of mamas friends, which in itself is priceless! These sessions are certainly recommended and has helped myself and my husband prepare for parenthood and labour."

Mary, 2023

"Optimum Corner does so much to support new families and babies. From pregnancy right through to the first year. I have used many of Kathryn's services from bra fitting to breastfeeding support and absolutely recommend if you are looking for help and a bit of confidence as a new parent or carer."

Catherine, 2024