17 Autumn Wedding Trends You’ll *Fall* Head Over Heels For

There’s just something about the air turning crisp and leaves turning gold that make fall weddings SO special. If you’ll be tying the knot this upcoming season, you’ll want to take a look at these gorgeous fall wedding trends. From pops of copper and deep, rich Pantones like plum and cranberry, these romantic trends will ensure your wedding captures the *magic* of autumn.

1. Marsala Bridesmaid Dresses: Swap out summertime corals for deeper romantic shades like marsala or plum. You can pair this gorgeous dark cranberry trend with dainty gold accessories to match. (via Lukas & Suzy VanDyke / Artfully Wed)

2. Metallic Cakes: Give your wedding cake a metallic finish with edible gold foil. The shimmery and unexpected pop of gold will complete your wedding’s glam aesthetic. (via Cake Ink /Paper & Lace)

3. Dark Green Suit: Go modern by dressing your partner up in a dark green tux this fall. You’ll both look striking when the vibrant green contrasts with your lacy white ensemble. Throw in muted gold accents like a tie and tiara to complete the look. (via M&J Photography / Love My Dress)

4. Floral Braid: Whether you’ll be rocking an updo or wearing your hair down, incorporate leafy greens into your braids for an ethereal woodland fairy feel. Balance it out with a wine-colored lipstick and you’re all set. (via Whiskers and Willow Photography / Green Wedding Shoes)

5. Pops of Cranberry: Fall is all about pairing light with dark, as this glam bouquet shows. Combine soft pastels and peaches with pops of plum and cranberry to get this eclectic yet complementary feel. (via Lauren Peele Photography / 100 Layer Cake)

6. Lanterns: Up the cozy factor with this camping essential. Hang your lanterns from trees like shown above or scrawl numbers onto them to use as table numbers. (via Hopkins Studios / The Knot)

7. Copper Accents: Offset those rich autumn shades with hints of copper throughout your decor. Think: cutlery, copper-rimmed glasses and plates and lights with copper fixtures. (via Lauren Love Photography / Pure Wow)

8. Floral Wreath: Bring a unique flower arrangement to your wedding with a floral wreath. This one would look good hanging from a tree, ceiling or propped up for wedding signage. (via Lauren Kinsey / Southern Weddings)

9. Gilded Leaves: Whether you’re planning on an indoor or outdoor ceremony, fall leaves are a must. To incorporate this natural element into your decor, spray paint them metallic gold and hang them using fishing wire. (via Mod Wedding / Pinterest)

10. Sequined Tablecloth: Dazzle your guests with gorgeous sequined linens. As dreamy as they are during the day, they’ll look absolutely stunning under the evening lights. (via Harmony Hilderbrand Photography)

11. Ayajewellery Gold Tiara ($95): For a more regal but equally romantic feel, trade out the leafy crown for a gold tiara. Copper works as well, but you’ll want to stick to the warm-hued metallics as opposed to silver or chrome.

12. Gilded Pumpkin Accents: Pumpkins and fall go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise they look great as fall wedding escort cards. Elevate ordinary gourds with a fresh coat of metallic gold or copper spray paint. (via Intimate Weddings)

13. Naked Cakes: It doesn’t take much to make a statement — nope, not even frosting. Give your wedding cake a minimal touch by nixing the frosting/fondant and using natural garnishes like flowers to dress up your cake. (via Ashley Cook Photography / Hey Wedding Lady)

14. Seating Chart Windows: This upcycled set of thrifted windows ain’t too shabby. Add calligraphy to similar thrift home parts or a lucite/acrylic sheet to display your seating chart. (via Kelsey Stewart / Wedding Chicks)

15. Sparklers: Amid the soft glow of string lights and lanterns, let guests contribute to the evening’s lighting with sparklers. Set up a booth or table decked out in *sparkles* to fit the theme. (via Jake and Necia Odening / LovelyFest Event Design)

16. Warm Drinks: Though bubbly is good year round, a warm drink does wonders on a chilly autumn night. Treat your guests to warm bourbon-spiked apple cider that’s served in these fitting apple “cups.” (via Best Photography / Green Wedding Shoes)

17. Pumpkin Decor: Turn heads with the stunning contrast made between a stark white pumpkin and a fall-inspired flower arrangement that features bold pops of color. Use medium-sized pumpkins as an eye-catching centerpiece or smaller ones to line the aisle. (via Deer Pearl Flowers)

Which of these charming ideas will you incorporate into your fall wedding? Follow us on Pinterest for more wedding ideas and inspo!

I know it's extremely early, but I'm getting all the fall feels right now. Starbucks just dropped pumpkin spice and Target set out their fall and Halloween decor, meaning my body is 100% ready to curl up with a cozy book and indulge in the seasonal goodness. One of the best parts of fall for me is the outfits – I can really start dressing (phew, no more shorts)! Anthropologie fall dresses are absolutely top-of-mind when it comes to the changing seasons, and the retailer has so many cute options to shop right now. These 11 Anthropologie fall dresses will stylishly take you into autumn and set up your fall outfits for success – shop 'em below!

Anthropologie

The Katerina Button-Front Dress

My favorite thing about fall is the cozy color palette that comes along with it. This dress' floral pattern is flooded with warm oranges and serene greens that make matching it with your fave cardigans and jackets a total breeze. The v-neckline is universally flattering, too, while the buttoned waist hugs your figure in perfectly.

Anthropologie

Maeve Short-Sleeve V-Neck Swing Mini Dress

Another must-have component for any fall dress is comfort. This swing mini keeps things very comfortable, since it's fairly free-flowing against your body. The contrasting stitching along the edges and pockets supply a good amount of structure, though, so you're not totally drowning. This pick would look so chic with a power duo of tall black boots with white socks peeking over the edges.

Anthropologie

AFRM Aisla Mesh Midi Dress

For those warmer fall days, this mesh dress saves the day. It surely won't be missed anywhere you wear it, thanks to the bold polka dot pattern. Though bold in pattern, the neutral color palette sets the stage for endless pairing opportunities. This pick has some nice coverage all around the body, plus it arrives ready to wear with a light lining underneath!

Anthropologie

Conditions Apply Chloe Maxi Slip Dress

Immediately yes. If you want to stun on your next date night this fall, this slip is the one! The silhouette is simple, but what really makes this piece shine is the swirly stripes of color. The deep jewel tones are fall's perfect fit! This dress comes with removable adjustable straps to let you customize your look, and you can dress it up even further with a chic leather jacket and neutral heels.

Anthropologie

PAIGE Kelsee Sleeveless Mini Dress

Along with baggy jeans and denim jackets, I truly haven't been able to escape denim. Fall is *the* time to step out in it! This denim mini dress feels super playful for farmer's market outings or even a low-key day in the park. It has some nice structure to it, thanks to the multitude of pockets and the collared neckline, so it can easily be worn for more formal occasions, too. The tie belt is the real gem of this piece, cinching your figure in in the most flattering way.

Anthropologie

Maeve Short-Sleeve Collared Button-Front Knit Mini Dress

This Anthro dress is oh-so retro and oh-so comfy. Its knit fabrication allows it to generously stretch and move with you, never once restricting your figure. The green and white colorway is quite a stylish departure from your expected fall oranges and browns, so your look will most certainly stand out. This mini buttons up all the way, giving you room to experiment with leaving one or two open at the top to perfect your get-up.

Anthropologie

Pilcro Short-Sleeve V-Neck Smocked Babydoll Mini Dress

Peter Pan collars are already huge, and they're going to be everywhere once fall is officially in full swing. This plaid babydoll dress takes on the trending neckline with plenty of ruffles, eye-catching stitch work, and puff sleeves for a playful, yet sophisticated effect. It's made to boast a loose fit, so it's a no-brainer when it comes to picking out comfy fall 'fits. I'd absolutely style this pick with cowgirl boots and a knit cardigan to amp up the Western vibes.

Anthropologie

The Tobie Button-Front Pleated Shirt Dress by Exquise

Leopard print is another major fall fashion trend for 2024, and there are tons of ways to style it in a polished (not gaudy) way. Case in point is this pleated shirt dress that acts as a statement piece all on its own. The pleats land right around the waistline, stylishly drawing in your figure where you might crave a lil' more definition. The top half of this design is refined by a collar and button-up styling before falling into a flowy midi-length skirt – the perfect pairing for ballet flats!

Anthropologie

The Maya Ruched Cowl-Neck Dress: Textured Edition

I'm convinced that chocolate brown looks good on everyone. This Anthropologie dress is a great comfy piece to don for the office or happy hour, since it's high-coverage around the neckline. The leg slit along the side adds a bit of spice to your ensemble, making room for you to show off your go-to fall boots! This pick is stretchy throughout and flaunts a bit of ruching around the midsection to define your bod.

Anthropologie

The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Dress by Maeve

This femme dress fits like a glove. It's undoubtedly vintage inspired, boasting adorable cap sleeves and a sweetheart neckline before falling into a flared skirt. The pattern highlights tons of tiny little raspberries, which will turn heads everywhere you take this piece. The fabric is fairly stretchy while still providing some structure to your look. For fall, wear it with a denim jacket and white sneakers for a no-fail casual-but-cute outfit.

Anthropologie

The Fleur Strapless Maxi Slip Dress: Linen Edition

Everyone needs a reliable (and high-quality) black maxi. This linen pick is very straightforward in design, boasting a strapless look that'll look iconic with any fall layers you already have in your closet. From denim jackets to colorful cardis, this Anthro dress is a total wardrobe staple to pair with your faves.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If there's one thing about Gilmore Girls fans you can count on, it's their passion. They love the quirky one liners, memorable moments, and are usually either Team Jess or Team Logan (sorry Dean...). Give any Gilmore Girls lover in your life the chance to transport themselves to Stars Hollow this holiday season — without having to make the trek to Washington, Connecticut or the Warner Bros. stage in Hollywood. These Gilmore Girls gift ideas are fun, thoughtful, and very cozy, which are also three hallmarks of the series itself! From a coffee mug that Luke Danes would approve of to the perfect gifts for Taylor Swift fans, this Gilmore Girlsgift guide will make you say "Oy with the poodles already!"

Keep reading for 24 Gilmore Girls-themed gift ideas for 2024.

Amazon

The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir

Get all the behind the scenes info you could ever dream of when you pick up Kelly Bishop's new memoir!

Hot Topic

Loungefly Gilmore Girls Icons Mini Backpack

I was absolutely gagged the first time I saw this backpack. Tiny pizza slices, both the Luke's Diner and Chilton logos, AND the gazebo? I need this, like, right now.

Sunday Best

Sunday Best Peggy Sweater

Consider this white cable knit sweaterthe Rory Gilmore sweater for the season. I cannot stop wearing mine. It's super soft and the perfect medium weight (meaning you won't be cold but you also won't feel weighed down). It's also not itchy at all. I love wearing it with jeans, or tucked into trousers or a skirt.

Amazon

Cotton Baseball Hat

For a more subtle nod to the fashion on the show, a blue baseball cap gives major Luke Danes vibes without having to walk around wearing Gilmore Girls merchandise. Wear it with a crewneck and oversized coat now (hello '90s "It" girl!) and a tee shirt come spring.

Book of the Month

Book of the Month

Channel your inner Rory with the Book of the Month subscription service. The cool part about someone else picking out the books is that you'll find titles — and authors — you didn't even know to look for.

Nordstrom

Espresso Martini Statement Earrings

It wouldn't be an episode of Gilmore Girls without a cup of coffee, or a martini at one of Richard and Emily's Friday night dinners. Combine the two iconic beverages with these statement earrings! They're bold, they're quirky, and they'll be the talk of all your holiday parties.

Etsy

Stars Hollow "Autumn Festival" Travel Poster

Nothing screams Stars Hollow like a festival, and this autumnal poster celebrates the best parts of small town life. Whether you choose to display it in a gallery wall or on a bookshelf, you'll feel like you're coming home every time you look at it.

Etsy

Luke's Diner Mug

With a Luke's Diner mug, you can pretend you really are in Stars Hollow. Bonus points if you're also having a big stack of pancakes!

Etsy

Gilmore Iced Coffee Glass Cup

If you're more of an iced coffee fan, even in the winter (I wonder what Luke would have to say about that?), grab a glass with a super cute design. Not only do I love that Rory and Lorelai are featured in the design, but the color palette is beautiful, too!

Maisonette

Gina White Poodle

Getting your little into the Gilmore Girls spirit? They definitely need a lovable stuffed dog. Again I say, "Oy with the poodles already!"

Handker Bandanas

Colorful Bandana

For another low-key nod to the ultimate BFF's, grab a bandana in your favorite color (like this one that uses untreated, non-GMO cotton!). In true Y2K fashion, Sookie and Lorelai wear bandanas throughout the show, so this is a super fun way to incorporate their style into your own closet this winter.

Etsy

Dragonfly Necklace

A delicate dragonfly necklace is a beautiful layering piece that will add summer cheer to the dreariest of winter days and remind you of Dragonfly Inn at the same time. The fact that dragonflies represent new beginnings is just the cherry on top.

Etsy

Gilmore Girl Eras Shirt

Have you been binging Gilmore Girls during the day and watching Eras Tour TikTok livestreams at night? This T-shirt has your name written all over it. My personal favorite detail is that Kirk is in the debut square.

Etsy

Stars Hollow Christmas Festival Sweatshirt

There's nothing like layering a turtleneck, a crewneck, and a bunch of jewelry for a trip to your corner coffee shop, so swap your go-to crewneck for this festive Stars Hollow one! The gazebo is instantly recognizable for Gilmore Girls fans and just looking at the design makes me want to say, "I smell snow."

Walmart

Gilmore Girls: Complete Series Collection

One of my favorite Christmas presents in recent years was the full Gilmore Girls DVD set. This 42-disc DVD set has every single episode and even more hours of unaired clips, behind the scenes features, and episode commentaries. I'm geeking out just thinking about it.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: The Official Cookbook

Gilmore Girls recipes are always delicious, and always pretty easy (after all, Lorelai and Rory basically only eat takeout and Luke's!). The official cookbook will let you put your own spin on the food you seen onscreen, and then you can have a truly meta experience by eating your meal while you watch the Gilmores eat theirs.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: Trivia Deck and Episode Guide

Tried-and-true Gilmore Girls fans will love diving into this trivia book. Because this game (which features 200 questions) has an 88-page episode guide and goes through every. Single. Episode. Worth it!

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: At Home in Stars Hollow

TBH, I think kids books are great for book lovers of any age. The art and simple storytelling really get my creative juices flowing. At Home In Stars Hollow will make you (or a family member or friend) love Gilmore Girls in a whole new way!

Cande Craft Company

Stars Hollow Scented Candle

This all-natural soy candle has every scent a Gilmore Girls fan will love: coffee, sweet cream, and vanilla. It's cozy and balances sweet and bitter in a really intoxicating way.

Amazon

Lorelai and Rory Gilmore Plush

Okay, I'll be honest. I want these plushes for myself! The design is a hilarious nod to the season one episode "The Lorelais' First Day At Chilton" and even features a tiny coffee mug and tiny book!

Rock Em Socks

Gilmore Girls Socks

Now that we're in knee-high boot season (which I FINALLY bought), I like to wear super fun, colorful, and chaotic socks. Grab a pack of Gilmore Girls socks to take some Stars Hollow magic with you no matter where you go.

Etsy

Gilmore Girls Themed Blind Date with a Book

For this bookish blind date, you'll receive a Rory-themed read, a tea bag, a bookmark, and stickers. You really can't go wrong.

Favorite Child

Stars Hollow Books Tote Bag

Carrying your favorite books in a tote bag with the Stars Hollow Books logo feels like it's meant to be.

Amazon

Have I Told You This Already?: Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember

Lauren Graham's collection of essays will give you a glimpse behind the curtain as she offers thoughtful stories about life, aging, and the industry.

Which gifts from this Gilmore Girls gift guide will you be buying for your friends (or yourself)? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

The fashion girlies are loading on the leopard this year, and while the bold animal print may remind you of the rock and roll icons of the 1970’s or send you way back to Snooki’s Jersey Shore era, you have nothing to fear this time around. The leopard print trend has been resuscitated, quiet luxury-style, covering chic pieces from slip dresses to outerwear, and there’s plenty of ways to style the pattern that don’t feel overly cheugy. These 11 leopard print pieces have me so excited to try out the trend for fall. Scroll on for some absolute must-haves, paired with the coolest ways to wear ‘em.

Anthropologie

Damson Madder Dion Leopard Carpenter Cargo Pants

Leopard print jeans are perhaps the lowest-risk way to try out the pattern, especially with this subdued pair. Where some leopard print pieces really boast the pattern with bright colors and high contrast, these are less flashy, but still noticeable. They flaunt a high-rise fit and wide cargo pant legs. I'd style these with a fitted black top and black ballet flats to tie the look together.

Reformation

Reformation Bella Skirt

I fell victim to the great leopard print midi skirt trend back in 2019, and this piece definitely reminds me of its more mature, grown-up sister. This maxi-length skirt from Reformation falls all the way down to the floor, providing a very sleek and chic feel to your silhouette. It's a great contender for a 'night out' outfit – I'd wear it with simple kitten heels and a tiny tank to really up the pattern.

Dolce Vita

Dolce Vita Notice Stitch Sneakers

Not ready to rock full-on leopard print? Opt for some stylish sneakers like this pair from Dolce Vita. They boast the same sporty flair as the famed Adidas Sambas, but certainly have a bit more personality, thanks to the mixed materials and playful stitching. I'd wear these with some black wide-leg jeans and an oversized graphic tee to give real cool girl energy.

Mango

Mango Leopard Knit Cardigan

This leopard printed sweater is everything, and not just because of the foxy pattern. I think the clean-cut hems and slightly-cropped sleeve length really play up the spots in an elevated way, plus you can fuss around with the front buttons to find your utmost perfect fit. Wear this baby with some black capris and kitten heels to achieve a super chic model off-duty look.

Target

A New Day One Shoulder Midi Dress

For an easy one-and-done, this midi dress is the way to go. It's made to have a bodycon fit, so it'll flatter your figure perfectly. As opposed to your basic slip dress, this one flaunts a fun one-shoulder shape with a bow tie at the top. Plus, you get a little bit of sexy edge from the leg slit on the side. A true statement piece! I think it'd look divine with dark red ballet flats and a lightweight black cardigan that you can leave on or easily take off, weather permitting.

Anthropologie

Damson Madder Lily Carpenter Mini Skirt

Another denim leopard print iteration – I simply love to see it. Mini skirts are the most versatile garment you can keep in your closet cross-seasonally, since they look great styled with sandals and winter boots alike. This printed one boasts ample pocket space and an ideal length for sophisticated and casual moments alike. For fall, I'd style this skirt with tall riding boots, tights, and a crisp white button-up shirt to channel an office-ready 'fit.

Dolce Vita

Dolce Vita Silvie Shoulder Bag

The best part about this leopard print purse is that it's reversible – one side is covered in spots, and the other is solid black. This two-toned quality can come in super handy on days you don't necessarily want to wear all-out leopard. The print won't be the only thing turning heads, though. This bag is fitted with both silver and gold hardware as well as an asymmetrical body shape to make your look stand out from the rest. Since it's so bold, I'd definitely pair this piece with a classic little black dress or just jeans and a white tee to let the bag speak for itself.

Sézane

Sézane Betty Cardigan

This Merino wool cardi mimics a jacket, but feels insanely soft. The collar, front pockets, and buttons polish the look up superbly. You could easily wear this pick alone or layered on top of a basic tank. I think it'd look so chic alongside some dark-wash wide-leg jeans and platform sneakers.

Gap

Gap Leopard Belt

For a small touch of leopard, this sturdy belt from Gap does the trick. It's an unexpected pop of pattern that'll work well against a monochromatic all-black 'fit.

Ganni

Ganni Leopard Cotton Poplin Peplum Tie Blouse

There are so many iterations of this tie-together blouse out there, but Ganni truly did it first. They've certainly hopped on the leopard print trend with this piece that's all about flowy-ness. The puff sleeves, roomy round collar, and peplum silhouette make for an uber-comfy wear. I'd pair this top with black barrel jeans to shape the look even more, then finish everything off with some eye-catching sneakers.

Zara

Zara Animal Print Tulle Halter Dress

This halter dress has a sultry plunging neckline and an open back, so it's definitely the best fit for cocktail hour or a late-night party. The leopard print has some variation throughout the fabric, so it doesn't feel too repetitive or cheapy. I think some sleek heels and plenty of gold jewelry would work amazingly well with this piece.

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Angelina Jolie has always been mother — but she's also a literal mother to six kids whom she clearly cares about fiercely. Since she first adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax to giving birth to Vivienne and Knox, it's always been evident that her children are her entire world. While she rarely talks about her children (especially given her highly contested divorce at the moment), Angelina shared a little slice of her feelings on motherhood, insights on her children, and more with Good Morning America.

Here's what Angelina Jolie had to say about her kids — including which one of them is the most private!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Angelina opened up about her feelings for her family while chatting about her new movie Maria with Good Morning Americaon November 21, 2024. Host Michael Strahan asked Angie about if there's anything she loves as much as her character loves singing, and she replied that it's her "motherhood."

"It’s my happiness. You can take everything else away from me," she said. "I could — nothing else matters."

When asked about her sons' involvement in Maria, Angelina explained that despite their involvement behind the scenes, they're very uninterested in a life in the spotlight. She said, "None of my children want to be in front of the camera. They're quite private."

Angelina elaborated, "Shiloh's extremely private. They weren't born with privacy, so I hope they can have that."

This interview comes after Angelina and Knox attended the Governor's Awards with her on November 18, 2024. His rare appearance shocked so many — including Brad. Daily Mail reported that Pitt found the timing "suspicious."

The source said, "'She is trying to get under his skin after his recent win and using Knox to do so is odd. Knox wants nothing to do with Hollywood and has no communication with Brad."

Despite the weirdness, the source also said, "He [Brad] believes that, in time, his children will come back into his life."

How many kids does Angelina Jolie have?

Angelina Jolie has six children. She adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, and later gave birth to Vivienne and Shiloh. She shares her children with Brad Pitt, most of whom aren't on good terms with him at the moment.

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Just how expensive is it to have a baby in 2024? One woman sharing her experience on social media has sparked a much-needed conversation about financial transparency when it comes to starting (or growing) a family.

Josephine Anderson, who posted a video on her Instagram @fosterthevalley, outlined the costs of her uncomplicated vaginal birth, and TBH, it was shocking.

The financial breakdown of her experience (with Cigna for insurance):

  • Routine office visits (including 2 ultrasounds): $1,266
  • Labs: $3,440.81
  • NIPT genetic testing: $15,319.36
  • Anatomy scan: $1,270
  • RhoGam: $360
  • Hospital for mom: $23,722.10
  • Hospital for baby: $7,402.80
  • OBGYN for delivery: $5,000
  • Epidural: $5,720
  • Breastfeeding support: $2,589.78
  • Pediatrician: $209
That all racks up to a whopping total of $66,299.85. After insurance was factored in (her deductible was $3,000 while her max out-of-pocket for in-network expenses was $11,000), the total cost for her uncomplicated vaginal birth was $4,788.98. Forbes Advisor reports the average cost of having a baby in 2024 is $2,854.

Instagram

Josephine’s video warranted thousands of comments, most of which were appalled by the costs of her experience:

“This needs to be shared in SexEd classes,” one commenter wrote.

“The US medical system is BROKEN,” another said.

“And people are still confused why more women are choosing to remain child free… we literally can’t afford it,” another user commented.

Mart Production / PEXELS

Brit + Co spoke with Wendy Colson RN, IBCLC and CEO/Founder of BOOBIE Superfoods to gauge if Josephine’s costs were typical for the care she received. Colson has significant insight into how insurance works not only from an employer’s perspective, but from personal experience as a patient with breast cancer.

“The $4,788.98 net amount she mentions is realistic given that her deductible was $3,000. If she had chosen a plan with a $1,000 deductible – which is a common ceiling for good coverage – the same scenario would have cost her around $2,789,” Colson said. “The video highlights the importance of understanding what you're getting with an insurance plan, especially when you anticipate major life events like childbirth.”

Sarah Chai / PEXELS

Colson primarily attributes unanticipated costs for medical care (like in Josephine’s case) to patients that choose their insurance plans with, well, no real plan.

“Many [people] opt for the [plan] with the lowest paycheck deductions without fully evaluating the benefits,” Colson said.

There’s often a tradeoff between paying less per paycheck and receiving your desired benefits: for example, if you elect to contribute less money towards your insurance per paycheck, you may end up paying more out of pocket for things like doctor’s office visits and prescriptions.

“Making an informed choice is key to saving money in the long run,” Colson continued. “In short, it's crucial to consider both the immediate costs (like paycheck deductions) and the potential future costs (like deductibles and copays) when choosing an insurance plan.”

Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Another major cost Josephine mentions in her video was 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave, which cost her a total of $18,000 (in lost income).

Per the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in 1993, moms have a legal right to up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that the act was designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, accommodate the legitimate interests of employers, and promote equal employment opportunity for men and women.

Matilda Wormwood / PEXELS

It all sounds great until you realize the time off is indeed unpaid, which doesn't really aid in the amount of money parents end up owing after all is said and done in the pregnancy and childbirth processes.

Only 13 states plus the District of Columbia offer paid maternity leave. When you compare the United States’ laws to that of other industrialized nations, they don’t exactly measure up.

Colson says Sweden’s maternity leave policy is “one of the most generous,” offering 390 days of paid parental leave (shared between parents) and 80% of wages covered for a significant portion of the leave. In Germany, mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave plus a tax-free, income-based allowance straight from their insurance provider.

Jonathan Borba / PEXELS

Though it’s likely that US laws will never be that generous in terms of paid maternity leave, there are a few things you can do to make the blow of medical costs hurt a little less, says Colson.

“My advice is to be your own advocate,” she says. “If you’re planning to have a baby, start by understanding what your state provides in terms of paid leave to avoid surprises after delivery.”

To keep the cost of having your baby (if you’re planning to have one) transparent and free of surprises, Colson recommends:

  • Asking your physician’s office for a detailed breakdown of insurance billing codes, including:
    • Office visits
    • Lab work
    • Epidural (and the anesthesiologist’s separate fee)
    • Hospital admissions
    • Specialist consultations during admission
    • Optional procedures like circumcision, if desired
  • Email the insurance billing codes to your insurance provider, who can help calculate your out-of-pocket costs and deductible

“Having a baby is priceless,” Colson says. “By planning ahead – understanding your insurance options, healthcare costs, and available benefits – you can ensure peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: your growing family.”

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