Natalie ward, ibclc, BS, founder
The Milky Mermaid LLC was conceived by Natalie Ward of Wilmington, North Carolina with the goal of improving the quality of life of nursing mothers in and around the Wilmington area (including Wrightsville Beach, Ogden, Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Leland, Wrightsboro, and Castle Hayne). A UNCW Business Mgmt graduate and mom of two, rambunctious, young children(9 &11), Natalie recognized the lack of resources and support available to expecting and breastfeeding parents.
Collaborating with her mother, Gretta Blythe, of Lactation Concierge Services in Charlotte, North Carolina, she set out on a mission to provide in-home lactation support. Her own breastfeeding experience and struggles, along with watching countless friends and family members struggle and often abandon the hope of meeting their goals, made it clear that breastfeeding may be natural but it isn't always easy. In fact, sometimes it can almost seem impossible.
This led to the inspiration to change careers in her early 30’s, from Bank Management and Finance to the Health Services Field, more specifically Lactation. Something that can help our babies with life-long health benefits is a priority and a commitment, but can be such a traumatic and difficult experience for so many of us. She is available to offer support, education, hands-on help, and compassionate care to all families she serves!