Mariah Maddox

Mariah Maddox is Motherly's Essays Editor. She is a passionate storyteller who shares her testimonials of motherhood, marriage and life through words and photos. Mariah is also a self-published author of "Beckoning of the Wind: An Ode to Motherhood." Instagram LinkedIn Website

Motherly Stories

To the mama who doesn’t think she’s ready for two under two

You are stronger than you know.

Viral & Trending

Photographer calls out dads’ behavior for family photos in viral TikTok

"It absolutely drives me insane that these men are complaining, because as a mom and a wife and a photographer, I know that this mom booked the shoot because her husband never takes photos of her and never takes photos of her and her kids."

Baby Shopping Guide

14 newborn photo outfits for your baby’s first portraits

You'll be sure to adore!

Mental Health

Winter blues got you down, mama? A therapist shares 4 ways to boost your mood

"It's time to turn your home into a cozy haven and create spaces in your home that you look forward to re-charging in."

Child Learn & Play

I want to limit screen time—but sometimes it’s the only break I get

As the realities of parenthood set in, tiny bits of screen time have become a saving grace in those desperate times of need.

Food

Two words that can radically improve a new mama’s life: Meal Train

While there are tons of things that you can gift to new parents, consider the gift of taking a load off of their shoulders.

Entertainment

4 podcasts I listen to as a Black mom

They are the anchor that keeps me connected to myself—and gives me reassurance that I am not alone on this journey of parent and motherhood.

Pregnancy

Sometimes pregnancy is the worst, so let’s stop romanticizing it

Because not every woman has a “perfect” pregnancy.

Entertainment

Having a Black Ariel shows that representation isn’t just important—it’s attainable

It's a reminder that all we ever have to do is show up as our authentic selves—and believe that the rest will fall into place.

Viral & Trending

Mom shares teacher’s powerful message in viral TikTok: ‘I don’t see their milestones, I see who they are’

I advise you to grab your tissues and prepare for the waterworks before you press play—because this one's gonna hit you hard, mama.

Entertainment

Gisele Bündchen’s quotes about it being ‘her turn’ are highlighting a huge societal problem for moms everywhere

Can we just agree that women don’t receive the same support or backing that we so often put out there for men?

Self Care

How to build an intentional morning routine to help find yourself again

Because motherhood is often a rush—but that doesn't mean you have to get lost in the thick of it.