Birth Doula Business Essentials: What You Need to Get Started
Doula Business Essentials: What You Need to Get Started
You've finished your Doula training and your certification - but are you actually open for business? Starting your Birth Doula business is an exciting journey, but knowing what you truly need to succeed can feel overwhelming. Beyond certification and passion, there are key essentials that will help you build a sustainable, profitable business—not just a hobby.
In this blog post, we’ll touch on the must-haves to get started while leaving room for growth as you build your dream Doula career. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. A Clear Doula Business Model
Before diving into logos and social media, get clear on how you want to operate. Ask yourself:
Will you be an independent solo Doula or work under an agency or collective?
Do you want to specialize (e.g., birth, postpartum, bereavement, fertility)?
Will you take virtual Doula clients?
Pro Tip: Choosing your business model early helps define your pricing, services, and branding. Need help deciding? Save yourself some time and let’s map it out together — book a Clarity Call!
2. Legal & Financial Foundations
👉 Treat your doula business like a business from day one.
Register your business as the correct business entity for you: do you want/need an LLC or just sole proprietorship.
Get a new bank account—keep personal and business finances separate.
Use an invoicing system to track payments and a system for tracking expenses.
Have a solid client contract (YES, even for friends and family!)
Want a done-for-you checklist? Download my free guide: 'From Passion to Profession'!
3. A Standout Brand & Online Presence
👉 Your brand isn’t just a logo—it’s how people experience your business.
Secure a business name & domain.
Get listed on DoulaMatch, Bornbir, BeHerVillage.
Have a simple, mobile-friendly website (or start with a Linktree).
Set up an Instagram & Facebook business page and your Google Business Profile.
Need branding and design help? Grab this step-by-step resource to help you create and elevate your business content and materials. 'Canva for Doulas - A DIY Branding & Design Guide'
4. Smart Marketing & Networking
👉 Referrals and visibility = more bookings!
Attend networking events for birth professionals.
Offer free mini-trainings in local pregnancy groups.
Get to know other Doulas in your area - offer to meet up for coffee and see how you can support one another.
Want to master marketing? My mentorship program walks you through how to attract the right clients—let’s make it happen!
5. Essential Tools to Stay Organized
👉 Don’t let admin tasks slow you down!
Client Management System: you can go the electronic route or just use paper and file folders to start. The main thing is to keep good records right from the beginning on each client.
Scheduling App: Calendly or Acuity may come in handy or go old school and use Google Calendar or a paper datebook.
Graphic Design: Canva for branding, social posts, and marketing. If that is new to you or you need a refresher then be sure to get my guide!
Not sure what tools are right for you? Several of them offer a free trial for you to test it out.
Final Thoughts
Starting a Doula business is more than just attending births—it’s about creating a foundation that supports your passion AND your income goals.
Ready to go from passion to profit? Book a Clarity Call today and take the next step toward building your doula business!
Don't forget to grab your FREE copy of 'From Passion to Profession - a Guide for New Birth Doulas'
