Hi, I’m kidder connell.

Do you find yourself in the midst of one of life’s sacred transitions? As a professionally trained Birth Doula & certified End of Life Doula, I can help bring your hopes and dreams for your care come to fruition.

Kidder has been serving the city of Richmond as a Birth Doula since 2016 and as a portrait photographer since 2013. She is a certified professional Birth Doula through the organization ToLabor and is has received her education and certification for End of Life Doulaship through the University of Vermont.

A mother of 4 small children, Kidder fills most of her time with her family in the garden, exploring nature, trying new recipes or tucked away in the local library. Her passion for doulaship stems from a deep love of people and the importance of relationships.

 
 

What People Are Saying

 

“Kidder was a phenomenal resource to me during my first pregnancy and labor. She provided amazing care to me at home and encouraged us with the progression of labor. Her presence continued during my postpartum period both at the hospital and later at home. I can remember having my post labor bath and smiling/laughing/remembering what had just happened in the crazy 6 hours prior.”

— birth doula client

“…Her support during the birth of my oldest daughter was very special. Her experience as a mother, her soothing voice, and gentle demeanor were invaluable for my first birth!…Beyond all this, she took professional photographs during labor that are my most prized possessions. The only disappointment of my second daughter’s birth was living too far away to include Kidder in the experience as well. ”

— birth doula client with photography

“Giving the client what they’re looking for while providing an expert eye for a spectacular outcome is such a tricky balance, and Kidder Connell has found that every time I’ve worked with her. She’s not just passionate about quality photography, she is passionate about people, and helping them capture and preserve moments of their lives.”

— Portrait PHotography client

“Cannot say enough about Kidder and how much of a difference she made in my birth  - for me and my partner.

I ended up going into labor a week before my due date when my original doula was not able to be in attendance. Kidder was our backup and gave us the care and attention as if she was our doula from the very beginning. 

My birth experience spanned over three days and Kidder’s support allowed me to get through some exhausting and trying moments.  She consistently provided a calm and supportive environment - which all contributed to a wonderful experience in the end.  We couldn’t have done it without her and are so glad to have this new friend in our life.”

— birth doula client

“My husband and I agree that the best choice we made for our prenatal journey with our daughter was hiring Kidder to be our doula - her kind and nurturing personality combined with her extensive knowledge and resources throughout my pregnancy really were a rock to lean on throughout. From the moment we met with her for an initial consultation, I knew she'd be a great fit for us; we were a little nervous to have our first baby, I had the dream to have a unmedicated birth, and Kidder inspired the confidence to make that a reality and constantly reminded me how strong the woman's body is to be able to not only create life, but give birth in the way that you choose to do so and advocate for yourself!
The day of the birth of our daughter was truly magical - my husband and I realized that though we had wonderful care providers in the hospital, only Kidder was with us from the moment we arrived to the very end, holding us and guiding us and giving me the peaceful birth experience we envisioned. We are so grateful for her!”

— birth doula client

My partner and I are so grateful for Kidder’s doula support in our recent VBAC. We could not have done it without her. She made it a truly supportive, magical, empowering birth experience. We now tell everyone that they need Kidder at their birth! Kidder was very calm and knew exactly what to do in the heightened stages of labor. My birth happened very fast, and she orchestrated things so quickly and calmly that I never had to question what to do next. She drew a bath, set up lights, put on soft music, diffused essential oils, which were all things that I wanted and didn’t have the headspace to ask for in the moment. She was clear and helpful telling my partner how to best support me with different methods- pressure points, running water over my back in the tub, and helping me into different positions. Her calm words of encouragement helped me concentrate on bringing my baby into this world, and she reminded me that I could do it. Kidder was knowledgable on moving my body through labor to bring my baby into the right position. She used a peanut ball to help move a cervical lip and that did the trick to bring baby out. I felt comforted, safe, and respected during the whole birth knowing that Kidder was there. Not only was she an incredible doula, she’s also an incredible photographer and seamlessly and unobtrusively documented the birth! I did not even notice her taking photos. The images are beautifully composed and photojournalistically capture the emotions of our birth. We will cherish the photos forever. Kidder genuinely cares about the experience, wishes, and desires of her clients. She is a wonderful advocate and I highly recommend her!

— birth doula client with photography