North End-Based Business Delivers Gift Bundles to New Moms

By Becca Manning

A North End entrepreneur is bringing stress relief, fashion and the element of surprise to new moms and mothers-to-be with her mail-order business Baby Bump Bundle.

Launched early this year, the Web-based company offers a variety of gift packages ranging from $30 to $68 each with items that are fun, fashionable and useful as women navigate each trimester of their pregnancy, breastfeeding and new motherhood.

North End resident Michelle Levine started the company with then South End resident Mairead O’Callaghan, who now lives in Norwell. They were inspired by a care package O’Callaghan received when she was pregnant, containing fun items like pickles, ice cream and Prego tomato sauce and thought, wouldn’t it be nice for all pregnant women to receive something fun in the mail?

“Pregnancy involves so many changes—gaining weight and hormones and all the research you have to do—and at times it can be really stressful,” Levine said.

Together, they started Baby Bump Bundle, at babybumpbundle.com, where moms can sign up for or be gifted handpicked care packages that arrive right on schedule with each trimester of their pregnancy, or once the baby is born.

The packages include useful items such as stretch mark cream, anti-nausea lozenges and tea as well as fun, fashionable items such as a new scarf, sandals or organic, paraben-free nail polish.

One of Levine’s favorite items is a belly band that allows women to wear their old pants throughout their pregnancy.

Using sizes, due dates and other information, Levine can tailor each package to the recipient.

“The more I know, the better I can customize it,” she said.

So far, much of the new company’s expansion has been based on word of mouth, but Baby Bump Bundle has also been positively reviewed by several mom bloggers and is up for a Red Cycle 2013 Totally Awesome Award alongside big names like The Honest Company, started by actress Jessica Alba.

Though the company is still a part-time gig for both Levine and O’Callaghan, they are already considering ways of expanding their product line.

“We’re looking into doing a fitness bundle for the more active moms-to-be, with products for working out during a pregnancy, and we do want to do something for dads eventually,” Levine said.

Baby Bump Bundle ships packages throughout the United States. Learn more at babybumpbundle.com.

Know of a new business in the North End? Send details and contact information to becca.manning@patch.com.