Congratulations on your growing baby bump! One of the questions often asked by expecting mothers is, "When should I start wearing maternity leggings?" While there's no universal 'right time', comfort is key when determining this.
In the early stages of pregnancy, many women can comfortably wear their regular clothes. However, as the second trimester begins, your growing belly may make your favourite leggings feel a little snug. This is often the perfect time to consider making the switch to maternity leggings.
Maternity leggings are designed to support your expanding belly with a stretchable waistband, providing much-needed comfort without sacrificing style. They can adapt with you throughout your pregnancy, accommodating your changing figure.
Remember, every pregnancy is different, and so is every body. Some women find the need for maternity leggings as early as the end of the first trimester, while others might only make the switch in their third trimester.
Some women choose to wear maternity leggings from the get-go. In this case it’s best to buy leggings with a wide stretchy band that you can fold under your bump in the early or post natal days, and over your bump when your bump is growing. Lonzi&Bean ComfiMum Maternity leggings are ideal.
The golden rule? Listen to your body. If your clothes start to feel uncomfortable or tight, it's probably time to embrace maternity leggings. They're an investment in your comfort, and let's face it, you deserve that. Enjoy this beautiful journey, mama-to-be!
Pregnancy is a unique and beautiful journey characterized by remarkable bodily changes. And among those changes, comfort becomes a top priority, especially when it comes to clothing. But, you might wonder, "Can I wear leggings during pregnancy?"
The answer is....hell, yes! Leggings can be a pregnant woman's best friend. They are stretchy, comfortable, and can adapt to your body's ever-changing shape. Most maternity leggings are designed with an elasticated waistband or a wide stretchy band that can either sit over your belly or be folded down, providing much-needed support and flexibility.
Additionally, leggings come in an array of styles and materials. Breathable cotton leggings can be perfect for a casual day out, while sleek, stylish options can be worn for special occasions. And let's not forget about workout leggings, which are incredibly beneficial if you're maintaining an exercise regimen throughout your pregnancy.
Of course, every pregnancy is unique, so what feels comfortable for one person might not be for another. Hence, it's crucial to listen to your body's needs and choose pieces that make you feel your best.
Leggings can indeed be worn during pregnancy, combining comfort, versatility, and style in one essential wardrobe piece. Pregnancy fashion has never been so chic and cosy!
Maternity leggings are a wardrobe essential that every expectant mother should consider. But what exactly are their benefits?
Firstly, they offer comfort. As your belly grows and your body changes, you need clothes that adapt to these changes. Maternity leggings, designed with stretchy, soft fabrics, accommodate these physical transformations, providing a snug yet non-restrictive fit.
The second key benefit lies in the support. High-quality maternity leggings often come with a supportive bump band or over-the-bump design. This not only accommodates your growing pregnant belly but can also provide some gentle support and pressure relief, easing discomfort associated with pregnancy.
Next is their versatility. Maternity leggings can be dressed up or down and paired with almost everything, from tunics to dresses, allowing you to maintain your personal style throughout pregnancy. Plus, they come in various materials and lengths, giving you options for every season and occasion.
Finally, the durability of maternity leggings means they can last throughout your pregnancy and beyond, often serving as a comfortable option during the postpartum period.
In summary, maternity leggings offer comfort, support, versatility, and durability, making them an excellent investment for expectant mothers. Make your pregnancy journey more comfortable and stylish with these invaluable wardrobe staples.
Maternity leggings are more than just your regular leggings - they're specially designed to accommodate and support the changing female body throughout pregnancy. But what exactly sets them apart?
Firstly, maternity leggings are engineered with features that provide extra support to your growing belly. They often include an over-the-bump or under-the-bump panel, or an adjustable waistband that can expand with your growing bump, providing a comfortable fit without being restrictive.
Secondly, they prioritize comfort. The materials used are typically more breathable and stretchy than standard leggings. This not only accommodates the physical changes your body undergoes but also ensures maximum comfort, which is paramount during pregnancy.
Thirdly, they offer a unique blend of functionality and fashion. With various styles, colors, and patterns available, maternity leggings can easily be dressed up or down to match your mood or occasion. This versatility means you don't have to sacrifice your personal style during pregnancy.
Lastly, many maternity leggings are designed with durability in mind, ensuring they last through multiple stages of your pregnancy and even into the postpartum period.
In summary, maternity leggings offer a unique combination of comfort, support, style, and durability, differentiating them from your regular leggings. They're a valuable addition to your maternity wardrobe that can make your pregnancy journey more comfortable and stylish.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should start wearing maternity wear, as every woman's body and pregnancy journey is different. Some women may experience significant weight gain and a growing belly early on in their pregnancy, while others may not show until later. The most important factor to consider is your comfort level. If you find that your regular clothes are becoming tight, uncomfortable, or restrictive, it might be time to explore maternity wear options.
During the first trimester, you may not notice significant changes in your body, and your regular wardrobe may still fit comfortably. However, some women experience bloating or mild discomfort as their bodies begin to change. For these women, opting for looser clothing or purchasing a belly band, which can help extend the life of your pre-pregnancy pants, can provide relief. It's essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed.
The second trimester is typically when most women begin to show a noticeable baby bump. Your abdomen will continue to expand, and you may find your pre-pregnancy clothing no longer fits or provides the support you need. This is an ideal time to start investing in maternity wear, such as maternity jeans, dresses, and tops designed to accommodate your growing belly.
By the third trimester, it's likely that you'll require a full wardrobe of maternity wear to ensure maximum comfort and support. Look for clothing with features like stretchy fabric, adjustable waistbands, and built-in belly support. As your due date approaches, you may want to consider purchasing nursing bras and tops that will make breastfeeding more convenient after your baby is born.
1. Comfort: Ensure that the clothing you purchase is made from breathable, stretchy materials that provide ample room for your growing belly.
2. Adaptability: Choose pieces that can be worn throughout your pregnancy, with features like adjustable waistbands and ruched sides that accommodate your changing body.
2. Style: Look for fashionable options that make you feel confident and stylish during this special time in your life.
3. Versatility: Invest in maternity wear that can be dressed up or down, allowing you to wear the same pieces for different occasions.
4. Longevity: Choose maternity wear that transitions into post-pregnancy outfits and nursing attire. Focus on comfort, adaptability, and breastfeeding-friendly designs like wrap-style tops and adjustable features. Opt for stretchy, high-quality fabrics to ensure longevity. This approach creates a stylish, functional wardrobe for pregnancy, nursing, and beyond.
5. Budget: Plan your maternity wardrobe within your budget, considering a mix of essential items and a few statement pieces.
Conclusion
Every pregnancy journey is unique, and the decision to start wearing maternity wear is a personal one. However, it's important to prioritize your comfort and make adjustments to your wardrobe as your body changes. Maternity wear designed with comfort, adaptability, and versatility in mind can make all the difference in how you feel during this special time in your life. By investing in quality pieces that can transition into post-pregnancy and nursing attire, you can create a stylish, functional wardrobe that meets your needs and budget. Remember to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed, and enjoy this exciting journey of motherhood.
]]>Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process that allows mothers to nourish their babies with their own milk. However, many new moms struggle with what to wear when breastfeeding, as it can be challenging to find clothes that are both comfortable and practical for nursing.
When choosing what to wear when breastfeeding, it's essential to pick clothes that allow easy access to your breasts. This means opting for clothes with buttons, zippers, or life panels that can be easily opened for breastfeeding. Avoid clothes with complicated designs or layers that may make it difficult to access your breasts.
Nursing tops and dresses are specially designed for breastfeeding, with easy access to your breasts and discreet nursing panels. These garments come in a variety of styles, from casual t-shirts to elegant dresses, so you can choose something that suits your personal style.
A good nursing bra is a must-have when breastfeeding, as it provides support and makes it easier to nurse your baby. Look for a bra that is comfortable, provides good support, does not have under wire and has easy-to-use nursing clips.
Loose-fitting clothes are an excellent option for breastfeeding, as they provide both comfort and accessibility. Flowy tops and dresses are great choices, as they allow you to move around freely while also making it easy to breastfeed.
If you prefer more privacy while breastfeeding, consider accessorizing with a nursing cover. Nursing covers are designed to provide coverage while you breastfeed, and they come in a variety of styles and designs, so you can choose one that suits your taste.
When choosing what to wear when breastfeeding, it's best to keep it simple. Avoid clothes with complicated designs or layers that may make it difficult to access your breasts. Opt for basic, comfortable clothes that are easy to move around in and make it easy to nurse your baby.
What you wear when breastfeeding is all about finding the right balance between comfort, accessibility, and style. By following these tips, you can find clothes that make breastfeeding easier and more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on bonding with your baby.
]]>Since popular retailers like Woolworths discontinued their maternity wear line and other chains such as Truworths and H&M offer limited ranges, South Africa has seen a rise in local maternity wear brands. In this post, we'll share our favourite South African brands for breastfeeding and maternity wear:
Affordable Everyday Maternity Wear: Cherry Melon Cherry Melon is your go-to brand for affordable everyday basics like maternity tops, pants, jeans, shorts, and breastfeeding pyjamas. Known for comfortable and well-priced clothing, they also have stores in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Pretoria. Bellysimo is another brand offering a great range of everyday comfort wear.
Maternity Wear for Working Moms: Momsy For working moms, Momsy is a top choice with its classic style and beautiful colour palettes, making for stylish maternity outfits. They even offer maternity swimwear!
Maternity and Breastfeeding Underwear: Mamanoo Mamanoo is our favourite brand for maternity and breastfeeding underwear, providing the widest and prettiest range of maternity panties and breastfeeding bras, including options for fuller busts.
Maternity Sleepwear: Hannah Grace Hannah Grace has the perfect hospital-ready maternity and breastfeeding pyjama sets for expecting moms.
Stylish Maternity Dresses for All Occasions: Lonzi&Bean Whether you're looking for a wedding guest maternity dress, a maternity shoot outfit, or a comfy everyday dress, Lonzi&Bean has an extensive range of maternity dresses that double as breastfeeding dresses post-baby. Their timeless style ensures you'll wear these pieces even after your pregnancy. Lonzi&Bean also offers high-quality over and under belly maternity support leggings. Their range is available online on their website, Takealot, or in-store at 'Oh My Baby' in Menlyn Pretoria. You can also visit their home-based showroom in Wilgeheuwel, Roodepoort for fittings and purchases.
Happy shopping, mama! Discover the best breastfeeding and maternity wear South Africa has to offer with these fantastic local brands.
]]>On Sale you’ll find a variety of Black Friday deals with up to 70% off maternity tops, breastfeeding tops, maternity vests, breastfeeding vests, maternity dresses, breastfeeding dresses, maternity leggings and maternity underwear.
Black Friday deals have been live on our website since 7 November and will continue until Friday 25 November 2022. On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 November we will be continuing the Black Friday fun at the Flair Baby and Toddler Market taking place at Stadia in Centurion, Pretoria where shoppers will receive 15 off when spending R500 or more and 20% off when spending R1500 and more on maternity or breastfeeding clothing on the Lonzi&Bean stand.
We hope to see you online or at the Flair Market during November.
]]>Over the past few months our business has taken some twists and turns, but before we go too far into it, we just want to let you know that WE ARE NOT CLOSING DOWN.
We are two childhood besties who started this business 7 years ago. Claire (Bean) has been involved in the operations and marketing while Ilona, based in London (and also the brainchild of the business) has handled the creative.
Starting and running a clothing brand in South Africa and manufacturing locally is not for the faint hearted and as with every business, comes with a whole host of challenges and we have contemplated throwing in the towel a number of times. Alas, we have somehow managed to keep the business afloat (albeit barely) whilst both running full time day jobs AND still remaining the bestest of friends! Cheers to that!
As much as we have built a reputable brand and our customers have come to love and trust Lonzi&Bean, we have struggled to get to work. Despite keeping our overheads to an absolute minimum, the cost to run the business in its current form is not viable. We know that this is not unique to our business but there had to come a time where we had to make some big decisions.
When we started the business, we acquired an investor but had made little headway with paying back the initial loan and at financial year end this year, we made the decision to sell off all of our stock to clear as much of our debt as possible and subsequently close the business.
It appears it’s not that easy to simply throw away a brand that has become known and loved by so many moms over the years. It just doesn’t seem right! So….now that we have made progress with paying our loan debts, ilona has graciously agreed for Claire to continue the brand that we have poured our hearts and souls into. With Ilona based in the UK it doesn’t make sense for her to continue so she has decided to withdraw as a partner…..although she will always be the ‘Lonzi’ in Lonzi&Bean.
After running this business for 7 years, we have paid our ‘school fees’ and have a pretty good idea now of what works and what doesn’t. Claire will therefore be making some changes by simplifying some operations and production lines. This will mean that certain lines will be discontinued and we will be focussing on our best sellers.
The Clearance Sale will be running until 31 May (this time for real…no extensions) so grab a bargain while you can. Thereafter some items will only be available via Takealot and other prices on www.lonziandbean.co.za will go back to normal.
Some beautiful new dresses are already on the production line so keep an eye on your inbox and social media.
From the bottom of our hearts, to each and every customer who has bought a garment, taken the time to tell us how much you love your things or simply shared the Lonzi&Bean love with your fellow preggy friends, THANK YOU!
Breastfeeding with my first baby back in 2007 never came easy...in fact it was downright awful. To my horror neither did it with my second and as a result, both rounds only lasted a couple of weeks.
My boy, Matt was born in 2013. I managed 3 months of breastfeeding and pumping for him and ironically gave up on the day before he started symptoms and landed up in hospital with RSV. I stupidly felt guilty at the time, thinking it was my fault that he got sick🙄.
After he was discharged, 3 weeks didn’t pass by where he wasn’t sick, mostly with tonsillitis. Our ENT was at a loss as Matt was too young to have his tonsils removed and all the antibiotics surely weren’t doing his little body any favours. After at least 12 bouts of tonsillitis, I had exhausted all resources, except one. Relactation!
Relactation is the process by which a mother reestablishes breastfeeding after having stopped for a period of time (weeks or even months)
I didn’t even know back then that there was even a term for it. I just had this ‘crazy’ idea that MAYBE breast milk was the answer. Matt was 15 months old at the time and 12 months had passed since he was last breastfed. Out of desperation, I started searching the internet for information on how to go about producing milk again. Alas, there was nothing related to the information I was searching for. Eventually I contacted La Leche League via their Facebook group, It didn’t appear to be something that was very common but I managed to get some guidance from a lactation consultant.
She suggested I put Matt to the breast again to start stimulating milk production again. Apparently, if you have given birth, regardless of whether you actually breastfed, your body can produce milk even after the fact. To be honest, I never bothered trying the boob route as I thought it would be a waste of time. Instead, I got a script for Eglinol and took 3 tablets a day and started pumping morning and night. I can’t remember exactly how long it took but I do remember that by one month I was expressing 100mls a day! I used a Medella Swing Electric Breast Pump which was fantastic as it has a stimulation setting, but I believe there are loads of other great brands available nowadays.
Of course Matt wouldn’t drink the milk that I had slaved to produce for him but I managed to sneak it into his porridge and down his gullet.
Now I can’t say whether the breast milk was indeed the miracle cure or if my child just coincidently grew out of this sicky phase, but the month after I started the breast milk again marked the end of the tonsillitis. He is now 8 and, touch wood, his tonsils have never given us a problem since. Who knows!
Why consider relactation?
In conclusion, it is possible to produce milk after the fact if you have given birth at some point. Whether you weren’t able to breastfeed in the early baby stages and want to give it a bash later on...or maybe you had COVID and want to feed the family your antibodies in their morning coffee🤷♀️🤣 Relactation may be something to consider. It requires time, patience, support and a cooperative baby (or a good breast pump in my case)
If you would like to give relactation a try, my advice would be to get support and guidance from the likes of La Leche League.
Links:
https://www.llli.org/breastfeeding-info/relactation/
Love Claire (Bean)
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A belly support band can be worn when you sleep and is especially advised towards the end of your pregnancy. A belly support band will support your back, pelvic and hips while you sleep. Sleeping with a pillow in-between your knees is also recommended (on your side) and a pillow supporting your belly.
Exercising with a belly support band while pregnant is also advised. Gravity tends to pull your heavy belly down and this can be made worse, especially during standing exercise. The extra support from a belly band will make exercising easier and you are less likely to get injured.
]]>As breastfeeding moms, we want to be able to attend weddings and functions and feel pretty, but don’t want to spend half the evening in the bathroom with our formal dress over our head so our baby can feed.
We started Lonzi&Bean back in 2015 to solve the wardrobe challenges we had while pregnant and breastfeeding. Our number one challenge being that we weren’t able to find maternity and breastfeeding friendly dresses for weddings and events that were beautiful, comfortable and flattering..
Lonzi&Bean have dressed many pregnant and breastfeeding bridesmaids, wedding guests and function guests over the years. Probably our most successful style to date has been our MaxiMum Maternity Breastfeeding Dress. The style has not changed since we started the brand in 2015 but the colours and prints have. These long maternity maxi dresses are made from almost 3m of beautiful stretchy fabric, making them super flowy, comfortable and elegant. The discreet breastfeeding panel means that no one will know you’re wearing a breastfeeding dress and you can feed your little one conveniently whilst still looking glam.
We suggest a beautiful dress or top that has easy boob access to feed on the fly. This should have a cross-over, zip or button down top for easy breastfeeding. Stick to stretchy fabrics with lower necklines. Depending on your level of comfort breastfeeding in public, a shawl that can double up as a breastfeeding cover can be a pretty accessory and come in handy to keep baby from distractions while breastfeeding in noisy and busy spaces.
]]>Finding maternity wear that is comfortable and flattering whilst not being frumpy can be a task on its own, but finding nursing and maternity wear for plus size ladies can be even harder. There aren’t a huge amount of shops that stock clothing for plus size ladies and even more so, ones that specifically stock maternity wear for plus size moms.
Lonzi&Bean realised this need for Plus Size Maternity Wear in South Africa and as a result, the Lonzi&Bean Curvy Maternity Range was born in 2017. We have steadily been adding to the range since then and now have a selection of plus size maternity tops, plus size maternity dresses and plus size maternity leggings in sizes up to 5xl (46).
We always love to hear what our Plus Size moms are looking for in terms of plus size maternity and nursing wear. We welcome any suggestions and feedback so we can improve our range and cater for the market accordingly. Feedback can be sent to claire@lonziandbean.com.
Love
Lonzi and Bean
Xxx
]]>If you’re looking to buy maternity leggings but aren’t sure if they’re worth it? The answer is yes, yes and yes again! If you only buy one item for your maternity wardrobe during your pregnancy, leggings should be it. They are the comfiest thing you’ll wear.
Whether you buy our Lonzi&Bean Maternity leggings or another brand, we strongly recommend going for a pair that can be worn over-the-bump or under-the- bump. That means that you’ll get wear out of the leggings from the early stages of your pregnancy right through to after baby is born.
- Leggings with an elastic at the top of the band can only be worn when you’re pregnant and generally aren’t ideal for the earlier stages of pregnancy and then when you get too big, they tend to dig in to the top of your belly.
- Over-under belly leggings can however be folded over when your bump is still small and can be pulled over your belly later on or worn under the belly if you feel like you need extra support when your tummy starts to feel heavy.
- Once baby is born you can’t fold them over again and wear them as normal leggings. They are also particularly good for C-Section recovery as they are gentle on your scar whilst providing support for your postpartum tummy.
- Choose a pair of leggings that are made from a good quality stretchy yet supportive Cotton Lycra fabric so they will last you through all these stages.
- The fabric should not be see-through around the bum area, if it is it either means that the fabric is too thin or the leggings are too small.
- Wearing leggings that are too small will also decrease their lifespan as the stitching will be under tension and is more likely to cause little holes.
if you’re still unsure whether Maternity Leggings are worth it, try on a pair of our Lonzi&Bean ComfiMum maternity leggings and we guarantee that you’ll put the pants you’re wearing in the shopping bag and will walk out wearing ours and won’t want to take them off again. And remember, leggings are pants;-)
About Lonzi&Bean
After two best friends Ilona (Lonzi) and Claire (Bean) realised that they could not find affordable, quality maternity clothing, they decided to crelate the brand Lonzi & Bean. Lonzi & Bean supplies maternity and breastfeeding clothes that are flattering, as well as comfortable and will not cling to your boft. Garments are locally manufactured in South Africa. Visit www.lonziandbean.co.za for more info.
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- Firstly, maternity wear is aimed at a group of moms that will generally only wear the maternity clothing for a certain period of time, either while pregnant, breastfeeding or both.
- Not all pregnant moms wear maternity clothes during their pregnancy either and opt for bigger sizes of conventional clothing instead. This means that maternity wear brands are only targeting a small pool of potential customers which in turn means that the volume of maternity wear items which are produced will generally be smaller than that of a conventional clothing brand.
- The higher the volume of one style of clothing that is produced, the lower the price per garment. In turn, the less you produce, the higher the price.
- Furthermore, maternity wear is specialised. Not all pattern makers can make patterns for maternity wear and not all CMT factories can make the specialised garments. For example, many maternity clothing items have rouching at the front and back to accommodate a pregnant belly. The dip in a maternity dress or maternity top at the front needs to be longer so that the hem line appears to be level with the rest of the dress when factoring in a belly. Breastfeeding panels make for more complex manufacturing. Every process involved in the CMT (cut make trim) process is charged for. Every seam, every gather, every button hole.
Manufacture in South Africa in particular is very challenging for maternity wear brands as there simply aren’t enough local CMT factories that can produce the required quality and the smaller quantities that are often required. Importing maternity wear can also be costly due to high shipping costs, exchange rates, high import duties and quantities purchased all affect the price to the end customer. The above also applies to boutique clothing brands who don’t supply the masses.
Bearing in mind that maternity wear can be pricey, try and buy items that will last longer than just a few months. Look for quality items that can be worn for both pregnancy and breastfeeding or post-partum. There are a number of brands like Lonzi&Bean that sell maternity dresses and tops that not only have a breastfeeding panel for discreet breastfeeding but are also pretty and flattering enough to wear as a normal dress afterwards and no one would know the difference. Quality and longevity is key when it comes to making the right maternity clothing purchases.
]]>Lonzi&Bean Maternity and Nursing is delighted to announce that we will be exhibiting at the Flair Baby and Toddler Market taking place at the Idlewild Country Estate in Olifantsfontein, Pretoria from 5 – 7 November 2021.
‘We have exhibited at a couple of the Flair Markets since 2016 and we have always loved the vibe of the show. After the lack of events over the past 18 months we are super excited to be able to engage with our mommy customers in a face-to-face environment again’ – Says Claire, co-owner – Lonzi&Bean
Flair Baby & Toddler Market is South Africa’s largest baby and toddler market catering for all stages of pregnancy and early parenthood. The carefully selected vendors made up of unique and original local brands promises a shopping experience for moms and dads like no other.
Flair Market Product Categories”
Lonzi&Bean will be exhibiting maternity clothes and nursing wear for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. Expect to see our gorgeous range of nursing dresses, maternity dresses, maternity and post-natal leggings, maternity tops, nursing vests, maternity bras and Julie Kay belly bands.
Join us along with other amazing exhibitors from 5 – 7 November 2021 at the Idlewild Country Estate in Pretoria. For more information visit https://www.flairmarket.co.za/
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‘Lonzi&Bean is a brand that fits in very well with the essence of our store. I’ve had my eye on the range for a while and am delighted to have them on-board now. The range is designed with longevity in mind, which will last you throughout your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey, the quality of fabric and clever designs ensures this.’ Ane – Owner, Oh My Baby.
The store showcases and sells a collaboration of products designed and manufactured by South Africans. Their goal is to empower women in business, and other local entrepreneurs who have created small businesses in designing and manufacturing maternity wear, baby clothes, decor, baby toys and accessories.
‘Lonzi&Bean has primarily been an online store for the past 6 years, however we find that not all customers are comfortable shopping online and would like to touch, feel and try on our garments. We could previously only only offer this service to customers based in Johannesburg who can make an appointment to try on at our home-based showroom. Now we can offer the same service to moms based in Pretoria looking for maternity and breastfeeding-friendly clothing, at the ‘Oh My Baby’ store. The lovely store vibe, friendly staff and generous-sized change room which includes a breastfeeding area takes the stress out of shopping.’ Says Claire – Co-Owner of Lonzi&Bean.
The following Lonzi&Bean Maternity and Breastfeeding Wear items will be available in-store:
‘Due to the size of the Lonzi&Bean range, we can’t stock all items, however if there is something specific a customer is looking for they can simply request it to be ordered.’ Adds Claire
Contact details:
The ‘Oh My Baby’ store is located at entrance 2, Parking Level 2 near Starbucks and next to Cotton On Kids.
Oh My Baby
084 275 4478
info@ohmybaby.co.za
www.ohmybaby.co.za
Lonzi&Bean Maternity
071 688 4065
admin@lonziandbean.com
www.lonziandbean.com
If you are expecting a baby or new parent and want to everything about things breastfeeding, this is the event for you!
They’ve rounded up an incredible panel of breastfeeding experts and mamas who are on the same journey as you. Did we mention that there'll be very cool breastfeeding prizes to be WON, alongside some even cooler SAVINGS.
All you have to do is stay tuned on the IGTV channel!
🤱🏽 Dr Bongi Hill aka Ndibambe is our amazing host for the 4 live sessions.
🤱🏽 Lynne Bluff, registered Nurse and Midwife and editor of Expectant Mothers Guide talks about your milk supply after giving birth. Essential viewing.
🤱🏽 Mama-to-be Nuriyah Gallow aka #TheGallowGirls reviews our #MadeForMe nipple cream, breast pump and breast pads.
🤱🏽 Specialist Psychiatrist Dr. Bavi Vythilingum chats LIVE to us about the psychological aspects of breastfeeding.
🤱🏽 We'll host a LIVE session with doula Chifunilo Mulusa on breast engorgement.
🤱🏽 Nashieta Marais, mum-to-be as well as the woman behind #keepingupwiththeceez debunks some of the breastfeeding myths for us. You'll laugh!
🤱🏽 New mama Buli Makhubo who you all know as #buli_makhubo, shares tips and tricks on how to store your liquid gold with our range of milk storage products and more.
🤱🏽 Dietician Naazneen Khan will be talking to us LIVE about your diet whilst breastfeeding.
🤱🏽 Physiotherapist Candice Jane Langford joins us LIVE on postpartum rehabilitation, after giving birth.
🤱🏽 Lactation consultant Calli Ostrofsky shows us how to get a good latch for you and your baby.
🤱🏽 Tshepiso Tracey Tshabalala aka #miz_traycee_sa reviews our bottle warmer, bags and pumps.
follow @tommytippeeza and @lonziandbeanmaternity on Instagram for more info.
https://www.instagram.com/lonziandbeanmaternity/
https://www.instagram.com/tommeetippeeza/
In 2015, the pair decided to launch a maternity line that would allow women to buy the kind of maternity wear that they wished they could find when they were pregnant and nursingtheir babies. They named the company Lonzi & Bean, after their childhood nicknames, and started their successful online store.
By this time, Ilona had relocated to the UK and was working as an advertising art director in London and Claire was working as magazine publisher and exhibition organiser. “Ilona takes care of the branding, advertising and design, and I take care of the production, sales and general day-to-day running of Lonzi & Bean,” Claire explains. “We both felt very strongly about ensuring that all of our products are locally manufactured,” says Ilona. “As a result, we know that we are not only servicing our customers with a great product but are also creating jobs.”
The business has remained a side hustle for the working moms over the past five years and has continued to tick oversteadily. In late 2019, Lonzi & Bean opened its first physical store in Randpark Ridge, which offered customers the opportunity to browse through the clothing and try garments on. “We were happy with where the business was going, but it remained a part-time enterprise for both Ilona and I over the years,” says Claire
A big shift in energy, however, came in the wake of theCovid-19 related lockdown measures implemented in March of this year. “Being in the events industry, my full-time job fell away and I had no choice but to throw myself into Lonzi & Bean,” says Claire. “I have always clung to the security of full-time employment and becoming a full-time entrepreneur has always felt a bit daunting! The lockdown provided a much-needed push, and I am really grateful that we have been able to use these adverse times to strengthen our business. I am loving working on Lonzi & Bean full-time from home, in-between trying to home school my children. These are crazy times, and it feels good to be able to provide our customers with a much-needed service while being available to support my family.”
With Ilona permanently based in the UK, the team is used to working remotely and the online maternity shop is ideally positioned to serve expectant moms during this pandemic. “Most expectant moms are exercising extreme caution at this time. We have always had a strong online presence, which has positioned the business well during lockdown,” says Claire.
“In April, Ilona and I took a critical look at the business and decided to close down the physical store and focus on online sales. However, customers are welcome to make an appointment to visit us from our home-based store inFourways should they wish to try on and browse through our clothing. We are extremely sensitive to the risk of exposing expectant moms to the virus, and are using every imaginable precaution to keep our clients safe!”
For more information visit www.lonziandbean.com or email claire@lonziandbean.com
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- A mystery discount of between 15% - 100% off any in-store clothing purchase
- A LifeBaby South Africa Water Floatation and Infant Massage Voucher for the first 50 customers.
- The first 50 customers will receive a baby & mom goodie bag for every customer including items from Bennetts, Eye Q South Africa and Justine - South Africa, among others.
- Refreshments
- A lucky dip gift with in-store purchases over R1000. Gifts include: a Babywombworld South Africa Doube Breast Pump, a LifeBaby South Africa gift hamper, Bennetts baby hampers, a beauty treatment from Calmer Health & Skincare, Momi Baby bags, Survival CPR infant First Aid Course, a Precious Cargo car seat safety & fitment consultation, Lonzi&Bean Maternity Baby Rompers, Lonzi&Bean Maternity gift vouchers and Splice hair salon vouchers.
Hands-free parenting just got easier with the launch of LapBaby . An ingenious seating solution that takes baby-wearing to lap level has launched in the South Africa.
Designed to keep baby secure whilst seated on the lap, LapBaby enables parents to carry on with everyday activities, whilst nurturing and comforting their baby.
LapBaby frees both hands so that the parent can easily interact with their child to aid early cognitive, physical and social development. Ideal for multitasking, LapBaby also presents a range of other advantages to the parents, providing a simple solution to ‘one-handed’ mealtimes, working from home, and socialising with friends.
LapBaby is extremely versatile and can make a great travel companion, particularly on flights. It's also fantastic for wheelchair-bound or disabled parents, making cuddles that much easier.
Created for babies aged 3-months and upwards, LapBaby incorporates inspired features, with a universal attachment strap to accommodate baby’s favourite toy, teether or soother, and a wipe-clean, detachable lap protector.
Made with comfort in mind, the adjustable, padded waist belt incorporates Velcro for quick, easy fitting, and sturdy clip fastenings for security.
LapBaby is both compact and lightweight and comes complete with a useful storage pouch, which can be easily stowed in a changing bag or the shopping basket of a stroller. Produced in a neutral colour way for unisex appeal, LapBaby retails in South Africa at the introductory price of R490 and is available exclusively from Lonzi&Bean Maternity and can be purchased here: www.lonziandbean/products/lapbaby
LapBaby is the brainchild of mumpreneur, Chloe Roberts. Married with two young children (1yr and 3yrs), Chloe has spent the past 15-years working in the music business. Always one to have ideas, Chloe’s eureka moment came shortly after the birth of her first child in 2013 when trying to wrap a present. Chloe created an early hand-sewn prototype, which she then used on a flight to Greece. Not only was her daughter safely secured and comfortable on her lap, but she found the whole experience much more enjoyable as she was able to use both hands to engage with her daughter. Once other mothers and grandparents started approaching her in restaurants to ask where they could purchase one, she realised she'd created something rather ingenious and began designing and developing a marketable model.
]]>Welcome to the most wonderful yet terrifying of week of your life so far.
One word - intense.
The first 24 hours. There'll be blood, milk, tears, sweat and a whole host of bodily fluids to deal with, you'll cry tears of pain, tears of joy, tears of relief, tears for no reason (other than the fact that you just created and birthed an actual human). You'll simultaneously experience utter love and utter exhaustion like you never could have imagined. You'll be riding on a cloud of excitement and adrenaline, and spend a lot of time staring at your new, perfect little being.
Over the next week, tiredness and hormones start to seep in - you'll probably question your decisions, whilst trying to process the contradictory advice of well meaning friends and family. You'll be tired, oh so tired. It takes a while to get over birth, whichever way you do it and you need to rest...your new, tiny little human however, does not care about that. It'll want to be with you, near you, on you as much as it can, it's helpless without you - and it knows it.
Your boobs will hurt, you'll wonder if the latch is right, (it hurts for 10 days even if you have the best latch in the world) and days 3-5, as your milk comes in, you'll probably be the blubbering mess that is 'The Baby Blues'. Don't worry, it passes (if it doesn't pass after 2 weeks, seek help).
You won't really know what you're doing, but what you will know that it's your job to protect and care for that baby, whatever it takes.
Visitors or no visitors? Some people like to be left alone with their new arrival and some feel isolated and want loads of visitors (This was me). Have a think about it and be sure to tell people what you think you'll want. Also - it's ok to change your mind!
Having both done this twice over, Lonzi&Bean have put together a list of first week essentials to help get you through that insane first week from hospital to home. This doesn't include what you'll need for baby, this is just about looking after number 1. It's fine to spend the first week holed up in bed with your new baby - but you'll need to have the following within easy reach, in your hospital bag and then at home...
1. Tissues (Loads)
2. Maternity pads (Or good nighttime pads like Always Night)
3. Chewing gum (For when brushing teeth is a luxury!)
4. Antibacterial hand wipes (There'll be lots of uses for these)
5. Face wipes & wet wipes (Good for a quick refresh)
6. Sweets & snacks (For midnight energy)
7. Nipple cream (Lanisnoh is great)
8. Breast pads (From day 3)
9. Disposable or big dark coloured panties (1 or 2 sizes bigger than usual).
10. Magazines (Some informative, some trashy)
11. Lip balm (hospitals are warm & your lips dry out during labour)
12. Shower gel/soap (antibacterial like Protex or Dettol is a good idea)
13. A few clean pairs of front opening PJs (You'll be in them for a few days)
14. A soft, stretchy feeding bra
15. Deodorant & dry shampoo (For when that shower remains elusive)
16. Lots of water or juice (To replenish a lot of those lost fluids)
17. A notepad & pen (For thoughts, & remembering which boob you last used)
18. Pre-cooked/frozen ready meals
19. Rescue Remedy (Bean swears by this!)
20. Hairbrush & hairbands
Plus of course, champagne, a couple of good nursing tops from Lonzi&Bean :) oh, and a sense of humour!
Good luck and enjoy this wonderfully life-changing time.
Lonzi&Bean
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The reason Claire and I decided to start Lonzi&Bean was because we couldn't find what we wanted to wear when pregnant and nursing our babies. As we went on, we got more and more requests from curvier mums-to-be and we discovered that it was near impossible for these ladies to find maternity wear that was not only comfortable, but flattering too. Being a company run by women for women, we wanted to be the ones who did something about it.
Meet CurvyMum, our new plus-size maternity wear range for ladies size 18-26. All the same Lonzi&Bean style and comfort but just a little larger, with small tweaks like slightly longer sleeves, as the feedback we got was that that the tops of the arms were an area many wished to cover.
The range currently consists of leggings and skirts which can also be worn after pregnancy, short sleeved maternity tunics, full length maternity & nursing maxi dresses for that special occasion and long-sleeved maternity & feeding tops.
So far, the response has been fantastic, and we are also hearing that many plus size women prefer to buy online rather than trying on clothes in a shop. We look forward to helping many more plus-size women feel supremely confident and completely comfortable on their journey to motherhood.
Well 'Curvy Mums' of SA, we're here, its time to look and feel fabulous when your body and life are changing like never before :)
You can find the range here, with prices starting at R395.
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