For the mom-to-be: Baby planners and maternity wear

There's a lot of uncertainty about having a baby. Which crib? Toys? Stroller? What about the rest of the gear? What about eco-friendly products?

Women used to rely on their mothers, their sisters, their aunts or their friends for answers to these questions. But sometimes it's best to let the professionals take over.

Baby planners -- a.k.a. baby concierges, a.k.a. maternity consultants -- are increasing in number, and, naturally, they seem to be thriving in Los Angeles. Read Heather John's report to get the scoop on the folks who "take the labor out of your delivery."

Then check out the latest in maternity wear. Being pregnant doesn't mean you have to look like you're wearing a sack. In fact, the sartorial landscape for pregnant women is only getting better.

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-- Alice Short

Photo: Ellie Miller, left, and Melissa Gould started a baby planning business in Studio City almost six years ago. Credit: Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times