Balancing Motherhood and Career: My IWF Atlanta 2024 Experience

Today was a day of extremes, balancing highs and lows that epitomize the challenges of being a working, breastfeeding mother in 2024. Let me share the rollercoaster ride that was my day at the International Woodworking Fair (IWF) in Atlanta.

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The Emotional Ups and Downs

This day saw me hiding in an elevator, tears streaming down my face, feeling the weight of trying to do it all and the burden of embarrassment that comes when I just can’t. I found myself escorted out of a trade show by security, simply because I was pushing my infant in a stroller. In the privacy of a breastfeeding pod, I called my therapist for an emergency session, trying to regain my composure. Frustration boiled over at times during the interactions I had with people just “doing their job”, leading to words I regret.

But this day was also filled with moments of grace and resilience. I started my morning by helping a colleague, driven by my love and respect for her as a fellow human being. I managed logistics for our family vacation, ensuring groceries were delivered to our rental while my supportive husband took care of the rest and the other 6 kids. On my flight in the evening, I was the calm mom with a sleeping baby, gracefully handling a last-minute change that stuck me in the middle seat with a lap baby.

The Reality of Being a Working, Breastfeeding Mother

Even in 2024, women face immense challenges in balancing career and family. My industry, despite its claims of being family-oriented, still has a long way to go. The Georgia Congress Center, where IWF is held, is generally accommodating to nursing mothers with clean facilities, changing tables in most restrooms and a private pod for breastfeeding. These pods offer outlets to charge your phone, ample space to spread out, and mirrors to freshen up, providing a much-needed haven for nursing mothers on the go. However, the event itself, under its current management, seems to lack true inclusivity for mothers.

Today, I had the disheartening experience of being escorted out of the show floor because of my baby. This event, which touts diversity, equity, and inclusion, failed to live up to its promises. It felt like a slap in the face, especially when considering that the management enforcing these rules is a woman herself.

The Contradiction in Messaging

My experience today starkly contradicted the messages and images that my industry promotes. I came to IWF at my own expense, eager to catch up on things I’ve missed because of my maternity leave and to reconnect with colleagues and showcase my adorable, well-behaved baby. Despite knowing that bringing a baby to a work-related event might raise eyebrows, I trusted the industry's family-oriented reputation and I was technically off the clock which means my responsibilities as a mom are first priority.

But the reality was harsh. The event's management was more concerned about liability and strict rules than supporting a working mother. I offered multiple solutions, from signing a waiver to staying away from heavy machinery, but each was dismissed. The lack of empathy and support and inability to come up with a mutually beneficial solution was disheartening.

The Complexities of Breastfeeding While Traveling

Traveling as a breastfeeding mother adds a whole new layer of complexity. It’s not just about attending the event but managing the logistics of feeding your baby. Bringing a breast pump, storing milk, and ensuring proper refrigeration can be a nightmare, especially in an unfamiliar city without access to reliable facilities.

The Georgia Congress Center’s breastfeeding pods were a lifesaver, providing a private and clean space to nurse. However, nursing in public spaces still draws unwanted attention and, in some cases, outright hostility. Regular business attire isn’t always conducive to breastfeeding, requiring careful planning and attire choices to ensure easy access.

The messages we hear are clear: “Breast is best,” “We need more women in woodworking,” “We are family,” and “You can have a career and be a great mother.” Yet, the reality of my experience today starkly contradicted these ideals.

How Do I Do It All?

When people find out I have seven kids at home and a full-time career, they often question me: “HOW do you juggle it all?! You seem so happy, I am confused.” It makes me laugh. The truth is I am happy because I choose to be. My attitude is the only thing I can control in most situations, today was no exception. And the HOW? I do it by committing to being Honest, Open, and Willing—willing to fail because that’s what it takes to be a success.

The Struggle Continues

These experiences are why many women in male-dominated industries like woodworking throw up their hands in frustration. It's a constant battle, even when you have a supportive spouse and a progressive company. The industry's surface-level commitment to family and inclusivity doesn't match the on-the-ground reality.

Today was tough, but it was also a reminder of why I continue to push for change. The road is long and challenging, but every step forward matters. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can shed light on these issues and inspire change, not just in my industry but across all sectors where women are still fighting for equality and respect.

Despite the challenges, I remain committed to my career and my family. I believe in the values my industry claims to uphold and will continue to hold it accountable. To all the working mothers out there, juggling your many roles with grace and resilience, know that you're not alone. Together, we can make a difference.