Guided by experience, grounded in trust, and grown through community.
Our work is rooted in the steady act of showing up. What began with a commitment to thoughtful birth care has since expanded to a collective of practitioners united by a shared mission: to create a world where individuals, families, and communities feel truly supported—not just in birth, but in all the transformation that follows.
Melanie Russell
Founder + Doula + Childbirth Educator + certified Lactation Counselor
I fell in love with birth through my own experiences — having 4 babies in five years, each journey unique and transformative. My births taught me my own strength, the magic of my body, and my calling to support others through this life-changing rite of passage. My original career plans in fashion and graphic design took a backseat as I became a Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Certified Professional Birth Doula. In 2008, I began teaching A Brighter Birth classes from my own living room, quickly realizing that families weren’t just looking for education — they needed trusted resources and care that aligned with their values.
For almost 2 decades now, I've attended hundreds of births, taught thousands of families, and supported countless new parents through postpartum challenges. But I've also continued to connect people with even more resources so they can find support through all of life’s transitions — because the need for support and community doesn't end at birth.
As a mother to six now and the founder of ABB, my mission remains the same: to meet parents where they are, respect their specific needs, and ensure they feel safe, supported and empowered in pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
What people are saying
Melanie was born to be a doula. She’s incredibly intelligent, patient, strong, and a fantastic listener. With just a few short questions, she was able to grasp the type of birth experience we wanted, never impeding with judgement or alternate beliefs. She knew when to be strong; she knew when to be gentle; she knew when to step back, and; she knew when to step forward – all without instruction, allowing me to labor. I cannot promise future clients that she can provide you with the exact labor experience you want (no one can!), but I can promise, without hesitation, that you will be SO grateful Melanie Russell was in the room while you were laboring your child into the world.
We’re expanding!
We’re always expanding, whether you want to join our Collective in Richmond or open A Brighter Birth in your city — reach out to us!