A lesson I learned from Rosie

Recently I was able to speak with designer, educator, maternity concierge, and star of Bravo's Pregnant in Heels, Rosie Pope. I was so excited for this opportunity because I (like everyone else) love Rosie! She is genuine, creative and brilliant! She could be your best friend and at the same time she is taking over the maternity world!

For those of you not familiar with Rosie's story, I will catch you up briefly... Pope came onto the maternity scene in 2008 when her clothing store in Manhattan first opened. She first discovered a large void for stylish and wearable maternity clothes as she and her friends began to think about starting their families. Instead of complaining about the lack of options, Pope got to work and started creating chic looks for the women in her life. As things took off, Pope found herself getting ready to open her first store as she was about to give birth to her first child.

Once her store opened, she realized a void in education for pregnant women as well as those who have just given birth. Once again, Pope took it upon herself to start offering classes in her store. As things grew, she opened her studio, MomPrep, two blocks away from her clothing store. She now offers everything from prenatal yoga, infant CPR classes to debates between experts in the field (such as a doula vs. an anesthesiologist).

If that weren't enough, her maternity concierge services began as women began coming in the store and asking questions. As she began to be asked consistently about things like baby proofing and finding a nanny. Pope had no idea that there was even a need for a service like this, but just like everything else, she took it upon herself to fill this void. Now, you can go to Pope for a variety of needs before or after your baby is born.

Before I get to the style tips, the lesson that I learned from Rosie is to be a doer! Her success has been based on her ability to identify voids in the market and to fill them well. She is obviously a caring and talented person, but her resourcefulness in acting on these ideas is what I admire most. Plus, she is building her empire while starting a family... very impressive!

If you haven't watched Rosie's show yet, you must watch the season finale of Pregnant in Heels - Tuesday on Bravo. I guarantee that you will fall in love with Rosie too!

*P.S.  Check back tomorrow for style tips while expecting and after you have the baby... straight from Rosie!

                                  - Allison

*Photos courtesy of thedailybeast.com, thestyelist.com, bagsnob.com & momstrendnyc.com