Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Gambon.
Hi Lisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Cleveland. I spent time teaching, domestically and internationally, and working in the financial industry. I am married and a mom of 4. My family is my everything and God has blessed us immensely. My first 3 pregnancies were standard, but I had a pretty traumatic experience with the birth of our youngest child back in 2018. After a physically and emotionally draining 24-hour labor, I ended up being rushed in for an emergency C-section.
This was a very different experience than I had with my other children. The following days were even more challenging—recovering from surgery, managing pain medication, and coping with limited mobility all while trying to care for a newborn. It really impacted my ability to bond with my newborn in a way I was not prepared for.
Skin to Skin bonding is one of the most important activities a mom can do with her newborn. The mental and physical heath benefits for both mom and baby are significant. The 60-90 minutes after delivery is known as “The Golden Hour” and it is a unique period where these benefits are maximized.
During one of those early moments of bonding, I attempted to practice skin-to-skin with my son. In my exhaustion, I dozed off—and my newborn slipped from my arms. Thankfully, he landed on the bed, unharmed. However, I was devastated and overwhelmed with guilt, fear, and frustration. How could I have let this happen?
Out of this difficult experience, a purpose was born: I envisioned a gown that would provide new moms with both comfort and security—a design that could be worn from labor through postpartum recovery, allowing for safe, supported skin-to-skin bonding. Thus, Skin to Skin Gowns was created.
Designed for laboring, delivery, late-night feedings, and everything in between, my gown offers new moms peace of mind so they can focus on what truly matters—bonding with their baby.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is hard anytime, but especially when it is a bit outside of your wheelhouse. I understood the importance of this idea and just kept working at it. I needed to figure out things I’ve never even thought of before, like how do design a garment, how to get a tech pack produced, how to source material, how to find a manufacturer. Needless to say it has been an amazing learning experience. Thankfully, there are MANY hidden gems in Cleveland that have helped me along the way. I had no idea Cleveland has such a cool textile scene!
The other challenge is just getting the word out. I keep chipping away, one post, reel or story at a time!! As I talk to expecting moms, I am surprised by how many don’t know about the benefits of skin to skin bonding and don’t know that you can choose what you wear in the hospital. Most moms-to-be just assume you have to wear a plain old hospital gown when you have a baby, which is not the case in most situations. I love taking to mom groups and have met a ton of awesome folks in the birth worker industry.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
There are special clothes for all kinds of momentous occasions; weddings, graduations, proms, etc.
I want the Skin to Skin Gown to be what women choose to wear when they welcome their new baby into the world.
Mom’s can put the gown on when they get to the labor room. It is extremely comfortable and feminine as well as discreet (it covers your butt!) Mom’s can walk, bounce and stretch all through labor while being covered and comfortable.
In addition to being comfortable, the Skin to Skin Gown is functional. There is a large front slit that allows easy access for fetal monitoring and pelvic exams. The wrap style back opens fully to allow mom to get an epidural if they choose.
Once delivered, the baby can be placed directly on mom’s chest for immediate skin to skin bonding. Our patented bonding panel can be pulled up across baby’s back and shoulders to gently secure baby and prevent it from rolling off mom’s chest.
The gown is machine washable and can continue to be worn even at home. Daily skin to skin contact is recommended for mom and baby and the Skin to Skin Gown can support moms as they continue this practice up to 3 months.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
My gowns are available directly through my website www.skintoskingowns.com. I love advocating for moms and helping them prepare for the postpartum experience of pregnancy. Postpartum specifically is not discussed openly and honestly enough. Many moms really struggle during this time and need support. Simple practices like skin to skin time can have really profound effects on the health and well being of both mom and baby.
Pricing:
- $139.00
- 30% off code: HiddenGem
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.skintoskingowns.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skintoskingowns
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skintoskingown
