Known as the "New Mommy Country Club," the Motherhood Center has been helping Houston moms and families for 25 years. It was founded by Gabriela Gerhart, a baby nurse who noticed a lack of resources for new mothers and hoped to become a hub of education and information. Fast forward 25 years, Gerhart's vision has evolved into a one-stop shop for everything from pre and postnatal massage to educational classes for the whole family, and assistance with in-home childcare services.
We sat down with Gerhart to find out more about Houston's one-of-a-kind resource for moms and families.
How does it feel to be celebrating 25 years?
It is remarkable that what started as a concept with no precedent has grown into a thriving business serving over 50,000 families in the Houston area. Every day, I feel honored to work with my team and support our clients on their pregnancy and parenting journey.
When I founded the Motherhood Center in 2000, access to information and services was limited. Even Google was in its infancy, and pregnancy and parenting were not widely discussed. Now, 25 years later, these topics are part of media, politics, and boardroom conversations. With so much information available, having a trusted place to ask questions, find resources, and receive unbiased, study-based guidance is something our clients truly value.
How has the Motherhood Center evolved?
One of my goals in creating the Motherhood Center was to recreate the village atmosphere I knew from my small hometown in Czechoslovakia. I didn't see that kind of support when I arrived in America, especially in a big city. I knew no one here, but now, 25 years later, I have built a village for both my clients and myself. Many of our clients have become dear friends, and helping to lay the foundation for their families is something I am proud of.
Now, we see a third generation coming to the Motherhood Center. Young moms I once helped as a baby nurse are returning for Grandparents' Refresher classes, while their children attend pregnancy education, parenting classes, prenatal yoga, newborn care classes, massages, and Mom and Baby Yoga. The babies from 25 years ago are now bringing their babies to us.
Who is the ideal client for the Motherhood Center?
Our ideal client is a newly expecting mother seeking guidance and support throughout pregnancy and motherhood. Many are busy professionals looking for a reliable support system that offers wellness, education, and childcare.
The journey often begins with prenatal yoga and fitness, massages, and educational classes. Clients utilize our breastfeeding support, new mom and dad groups, and newborn care services to ease the transition into parenthood. One client even called our services "better than jewelry" for a push gift. After the fourth trimester, our Nanny Placement and Family Assistant Services and Babysitting Services complete the support system.
Clients often form lasting friendships in our Mom and Baby Yoga classes and Meetup groups. Many are international or new to Houston, and our bi-monthly Baby Bump Socials help them connect. Attendees, including high-profile families, professionals, and entrepreneurs, find a welcoming community at the Motherhood Center. motherhoodcenter.com