Meet Shelly Ward | Owner of Hello Baby Imaging, Sonographer & Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shelly Ward and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shelly, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I started working at my first job as an OB Sonographer in Rexburg Idaho I immediately fell in love with obstetrics. While working there I found out that I was pregnant with my first baby. The care I received was incredible! My coworkers were amazing during all my ultrasounds, I just loved my whole experience! Shortly after having my oldest daughter, I made the decision to take a break from work and stay home with her. I absolutely love being able to stay home with her, but I also missed scanning so much! We moved back here to Arizona in 2021 and again found out I was pregnant! My experience was a complete 180. Every ultrasound was like a whirlwind it went by so fast. I felt rushed at every appointment and didn’t feel like I even had the chance to see my baby during my second pregnancy. That’s when I knew I wanted to create a space for moms to get top quality care while also giving the time and attention every ultrasound deserves. A space where they can actually have time to ask questions, as well as bond with their baby.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Hello Baby Imaging we provide ultrasound to expecting parents in a comfortable and intimate environment. Being not only the business owner but the only sonographer, I can truly say that this business is so much more than just a business. I care deeply about every family that walks through the door and I have been able to be a part of so many big moments with them. From first pregnancies to last. I’ve cried alongside women over the loss of their baby. I have celebrated with those struggling with infertility and loss finally getting the chance to hear their baby’s heartbeat for the first time. When you come in to see me you are instantly apart of the Hello Baby family, not just another patient or client to be seen.

One of the most exciting things I have been able to experience since starting is getting to know so many amazing women. From midwives, doulas, and other sonographers to the mothers who come in to see me. It has been inspiring to be surrounded by these amazing women and learn from them and their experiences.

Even though we have only been open for a few months now, I would say the biggest challenge I have faced so far is finding the right work/life balance. It is so hard to not feel the mom guilt when I put more time and energy into the business, and not feel the pressure of needing to do more when I take a step back from the business to focus more on being a mom. I feel the constant pull between the two daily, but I have also learned that it is good to have my daughters see me work hard and do something that I am so passionate about! I hope that I can be an example to them to take chances on themselves and what they are passionate about in their future!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ll be honest I’m a little bit of a homebody, and I usually will take a night in playing games over going out, but I would definitely suggest paddleboarding on the salt river or wake surfing on Lake Saguaro. I love seeing the wild horses on the river, getting some sun, and not worrying about life while on the water. Next on the list would be Alta climbing gym. My oldest daughter recently has following in her dad’s footsteps and has found a love for rock climbing and Alta has one of the best kids’ areas for rock climbing that I have ever seen! Endless amount of fun for the kids! (Also great during the summer when it’s so hot!!) As for food, the Queen Creek Olive Mill is a must if you’re in the area! Not only is the atmosphere amazing, but so is the food!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that come to mind that have helped and supported me throughout this venture! I have been so blessed to have such an amazing family surrounding me and cheering me on, which is huge when there is so much doubt that can come along with starting your own business. With out hesitation my husband, parents, in-laws and siblings have stepped up to help me in any way they can to see my vision of Hello Baby Imaging come to life. My parents have always been big supporters and they have done such an amazing job raising me and teaching me by example how to put in the hard work to get what you want. My dad, a very successful business owner himself, loves to remind us that “Hard work pays off”. And it’s that example that my parents have set for me of hard work and dedication that has helped me to pursue this business! Second, my former employer at Jack and Jill fetal photos, Amber. Because she hired me on even though I was five months pregnant at the time, I was able to learn more about this type of business and make lasting relationships with families in the area which helped immensely when I purchased Jack and Jill and started Hello Baby Imaging.
Last, I believe my husband deserves his own special shout out. When I came to him with the idea of starting Hello Baby, without hesitation he was on board, and has been my number one supporter since day one. And I definitely would not be able to be doing what I am without his extra help and support!

Website: https://www.hellobabyimagingaz.com/

Instagram: @hbimagingaz

Image Credits
Madi McBride