Maressa Shepard, SM, BA
Maressa is a passionate mama to five amazing children. Her journey into birth work began at just 12 years old when she watched her first birth and felt an undeniable call to this sacred field. After her first two births ended in cesareans, she embarked on a mission to find a provider who would support her dream of a VBA2C. Against the odds, she welcomed her next three babies vaginally, a testament to determination and resilience.
In 2021, as her children were growing at lightning speed, Maressa picked up a camera to capture life's fleeting moments. Her newfound passion for photography led her to birth photography, and she quickly fell in love with documenting these powerful and intimate experiences. Driven by a desire to support families during labor, she became a certified doula, finding joy in both capturing and assisting during births.
The spark for homebirth ignited a profound sense of purpose in Maressa. She eagerly sought opportunities to assist midwives, leading her to immerse herself in midwifery research and hands-on experience. As the New Year approached in 2023, Maressa took stock of her future aspirations. It was clear that her heart was set on becoming a midwife, and she is excited to embrace this next chapter of her journey with unwavering dedication.