Hi, I'm Maribel. A DONA International Certified Doula and Birth Photographer based in Southern California. My work lives at the intersection of stewardship and artistry—offering both grounded support and honest, meaningful images that reflect the real story of your birth. Whether I’m holding space at your side or quietly documenting the moment, my intention is the same: that you feel safe, seen, and empowered throughout your journey. Clients often tell me I bring a calm, reassuring energy and photographs that help them remember not just what it looked like, but what it felt like to bring their baby into the world. This calling lights me up like no other profession ever has, and I’m honored to walk alongside you, offering heart, skill, and presence every step of the way.
Bachelor of Arts in International Studies (2005)
Birth Doula Certification, DONA International (2024)
Birth Becomes You, Birth Photography (2022)
Spinning Babies (2025)
Bereavement Support (2025)
Infant 1st Aid & CPR (2025)
DONA International
English, French, Spanish
Doula care will include various prenatal meetings, text and call support for any questions that come up between meetings, my Pregnancy, Labor and Postpartum Workbook, and additional material that should help make your life easier as you plan and prepare for birth and the postpartum phase, in-person labor and delivery support, and a postpartum follow-up visit. The photography portion includes documenting during labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum.
Maribel was amazing. As a first time mom, Maribel listened to my goals and wishes to have an epidural free delivery. She provided my husband and I the support and guidance pre baby, during active labor and available for extra support post baby. I was fortunate to have Maribel give me direction for Hypno birthing which I was also very interested in. I successfully gave birth to a beautiful baby boy without an epidural - couldn’t have done it without Maribel’s help. We genuinely appreciate her time, sincere personality, and professionalism. She is very sweet, patient and we were so lucky to find her!
- Jignisha Patel
As a first-time mom, I can’t express how grateful I am to have had Maribel by my side throughout my pregnancy and birth journey. From our very first meeting, she brought so much warmth, wisdom, and genuine care to every conversation. She wasn’t just a doula she became a essencial support for both me and my husband. Maribel guided us with her deep knowledge, no question was too small, and no concern went unheard. She helped us feel prepared. Having Maribel as our doula was truly a gift.We truly believe every new parent should have a Maribel, her heart and expertise made all the difference for us. Thank you, Maribel, for being such a meaningful part of our story.
- Kely Julio Gonzalez
Maribel gave us such an incredible experience! She was very professional, friendly, and her photos were extremely tasteful -- they really captured the essence of our baby's birth in wonderful and tasteful detail. She is absolutely worth every penny!
- David Gilmore
Our experience with Mari was great. She is kind compassionate and a great guide in this journey. Even though we ended up having a belly birth, her support before and during birth was crucial. She was great advocate for us as an immigrant couple and she reminded us of home as we shared heritage as Latinx. We will recommend Mari, wholeheartedly to anyone looking to better their pregnancy and delivery journey
- Gabriela Ucros
From the start, Maribel was an exceptional guide. She helped us create a detailed birth plan and, most importantly, coached me on how to provide support for my wife throughout birth. She was great at making both of us feel prepared and included. When the time came, Maribel's expertise was a lifesaver. We forgot our birth plan in the rush to the hospital, but she had copies ready to go. Her hands-on comfort measures, like massage and guided stretches, assisted with keeping my wife comfortable throughout labor. Maribel is a dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring professional. If you are considering hiring a doula, I highly recommend her. She was an advocate for our family and helped us have a positive birth experience. Thank you, Maribel!
- Chris M
Working with Maribel has been such a privilege because she brings such care and consideration to every client and projects a contagious calm into every situation. Her birth photography is absolutely stunning, but what is even more impressive than the final product is how you barely notice her doing her work in the background of birth. I have always been one to shy away from birth photography because I didn’t want to be distracted and feeling watched or like I have paparazzi around me, but Maribel is so subtle and able to take photos so quietly as she blends into the background. I can say with full confidence you will probably not even notice her there is she is working in her birth photographer capacity. As your doula on the other hand, you will definitely feel her presence in a very positive way!!!
- Natalie Vaughn
I cannot recommend Maribel Orellana enough. She supported me through the birth of my third baby boy, and the experience was nothing short of beautiful. From the very first moment she arrived, Maribel brought a calm, warm presence that made the hospital feel more like a safe, comforting space. She made sure the atmosphere was peaceful — so much so that I almost forgot I was even in a hospital room. Maribel was by my side the entire time, holding my hand, applying pressure to my back to ease the pain, and gently encouraging me every step of the way. One of my biggest goals was to have an unmedicated birth — something I hadn’t been able to experience with my first two sons due to pressure from the hospital staff. This time, Maribel made sure my voice was heard. She advocated for me, reminded me of my strength, and helped me achieve the peaceful birth I had always dreamed of. The most unforgettable moment was when both Maribel and I welcomed my baby boy with our hands. It was powerful, emotional, and something I will cherish for the rest of my life. Not only was she an incredible doula, but we’ve also become great friends since then. I will always be grateful for her support, her strength, and her heart. I’ve already recommended her to my friends so they too can experience the beauty of childbirth with someone as dedicated and compassionate as Maribel by their side. If you’re looking for a Spanish and English-speaking doula who truly listens, advocates, and cares — look no further. Maribel is the one.
- Tabatha Vejar
Maribel brings so much presence to her role as a doula. Even outside of the birth space, her support feels meaningful and attuned. She holds space and never rushes the process. Although she is a birth doula, her work starts during pregnancy and carries on to postpartum. She is thoughtful, thorough and generous with the time she dedicates during her multiple appointments. Her photography is also stunning. It’s not just technically beautiful (though it is); it’s emotional, artistic, and intentional. There’s a reverence in the way she approaches it that really sets her apart. I could tell by the way her eyes lit up the first time she shared with me what this meant to her, that she is passionate about it. I also recommend checking out her other work. I was super impressed by the realness and depth of her travel photography. 💗😎🫶🥹
- Jessica Izquierdo
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