Seattle Mom Talk

Mercae

Hi, I'm Mercae, a studio maternity and in-home newborn photographer and owner of Lilac & Ivy Photography, based in Seattle. I'm here to spill all the tea about motherhood in Seattle; what you need to know about neighborhoods, parks, things to do, annual events, where to shop, and more. I invite guests onto the show, mothers in business, to share about their journey and their business in Seattle. Get to know how to dig into Seattle as a mother. Pending mom meetups in Seattle proper!

  1. 5d ago

    14. Lifestyle Coach & Summer Activities For Mom

    Thank you to Aurelia for joining me for our chat today. Aurelia's links: https://www.instagram.com/aureliamama.co/ https://www.instagram.com/hotmamasocials/ Events: 6/26/2026 4:30 PM Art Therapy & Self Care @muva 7/31/2026 Bubbles and Bouquets at Cal Anderson Park TBD Baby Rave with @asylum TBD The Derby!Not mentioned in the podcast: June 26th -art therapy and redefining self care in the Columbia towers @muva Sponsored by Lilac and Ivy Photography https://www.instagram.com/lilacandivyphotography https://www.lilacandivyphotography.com

    24 min

  2. 12/15/2025

    13. The Happiness Hack For Teens

    Today I discussed https://www.smilesfunbooks.com/ Email: hello@wonderbrain.orgInstagram: www.instagram.com/heywonderbrain Interested in booking a cherry blossom photoshoot this Spring? Submit an inquiry here: www.lilacandivyphotography.com www.instagram.com/lilacandivyphotography

    45 min

  3. 08/04/2025

    12. Small Steps, Big Shifts with Rachel Vanderwielen

    In this heartfelt episode of Seattle Mom Talks, I sit down with postpartum wellness coach Rachel of Baby Steps Wellness to explore how new mothers can reclaim their well-being through the gentlest, most accessible approach—micro-habits and mindset shifts. We unpack the realities of postpartum life, from the pressure to “bounce back” to the overwhelm of even thinking about self-care. Rachel shares powerful insight into why tiny, intentional actions—just seconds long—can create real, lasting transformation during one of the most tender seasons of motherhood. We also dive into the emotional side of wellness: dismantling all-or-nothing thinking, confronting mom guilt, and practicing self-compassion in the chaos. Whether you're a sleep-deprived mama wondering where to begin or simply in need of gentle encouragement, this episode is a loving reminder that you don’t need a major overhaul—just one baby step at a time. Visit www.babystepswellness.com to learn more and explore her free postpartum resources. https://babystepswellness.com/freebies

    34 min

  4. 07/21/2025

    11. Tips & Tricks to Finding a Nanny in Seattle

    Learn how I went out and changed childcare providers, tips, tricks do's and don'ts.

    20 min

  5. 07/14/2025

    10. Great Biking Trails and Summer Updates

    Find out about a few great biking trails and summer updates!

    16 min

  6. 04/21/2025

    9. Where to go this summer - Seattle spray park, beach or pool?

    Seattle, summer activities, family outings, beaches, spray parks, wading pools, parenting tips, outdoor fun, photography, autism awareness In this conversation, Mercae Benge shares her insights on summer activities for families in Seattle, focusing on beaches, spray parks, and wading pools. She discusses the importance of outdoor experiences for children, especially for those with special needs, and emphasizes safety and accessibility. Mercae also reflects on her personal journey as a mother and her photography business, highlighting the joy of capturing family moments. takeaways Navigating summer with kids can be challenging but rewarding.Seattle offers a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities.Safety is paramount when enjoying public spaces with children.Spray parks provide a fun and safe alternative to crowded pools.Wading pools are great for younger children and offer a controlled environment.Planning ahead can make outings more enjoyable for families.Accessibility is an important consideration for public parks.Personal experiences shape parenting approaches and choices.Community resources can help families find suitable activities.Photography can capture and preserve precious family memories.Summer Fun in Seattle: A Parent's GuideExploring Seattle's Best Family ActivitiesNavigating Summer with Kids in SeattleThe Ultimate Guide to Seattle's Outdoor Fun"I would love for us to be a little more poolside living.""Just do what's manageable.""Safety first.""Don't put them in dark swimsuits.""I really love the Seattle Spray Parks.""Wading pools are super great shallow pools.""You will never regret just being aware of where your kids are.""Every mom listening to know that you are so loved." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Summer Adventures 02:47 Exploring Seattle's Beaches 06:04 Seattle Spray Parks: A Family Favorite 08:49 Wading Pools: Safe Options for Kids 12:04 Navigating Public Pools 14:55 Personal Reflections and Business Updates https://lilacandivyphotography.com/blog/where-to-go-this-summer-seattle-spray-park-beach-or-pool/ www.lilacandivyphotography.com/portfolio

    36 min

  7. 03/03/2025

    8. Where to see Spring blooms in Seattle

    Feel free to learn more about my photography business here: www.lilacandivyphotography.com www.instagram.com/lilacandivyphotography

    16 min

  8. 02/28/2025

    7. Why I Am A Family Photographer

    www.lilacandivyphotographer.com www.instagram.com/lilacandivyphotography

    19 min
See All (14)

About

Hi, I'm Mercae, a studio maternity and in-home newborn photographer and owner of Lilac & Ivy Photography, based in Seattle. I'm here to spill all the tea about motherhood in Seattle; what you need to know about neighborhoods, parks, things to do, annual events, where to shop, and more. I invite guests onto the show, mothers in business, to share about their journey and their business in Seattle. Get to know how to dig into Seattle as a mother. Pending mom meetups in Seattle proper!

Information

  • Creator
    Mercae
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mercae
  • Show Website
    Seattle Mom Talk