Marnie Horton

Bedrest Doula

Postpartum & Infant Care Doula

Marnie has a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Michigan State University, and a graduate certificate from the Integrative Holistic Health and Wellness program at Western Michigan University.

She is a certified Postpartum & Infant Care Doula through ProDoula, a certified meditation teacher, and provides support based on her holistic philosophy to meet one’s needs on each level: emotional, mental, and physical. She strives to develop trust and safety in her relationship with each family. She brings a sense of humor and warmth, and will meet each individual where they are, from a non-judgmental place of compassion. As a holistic health practitioner, she has numerous tools and resources available that can help clients manage their stress and wellbeing.

Marnie embraces diversity and inclusion and recognizes and celebrates the differences that exist among individuals. She highly values creating an environment where everyone feels understood, valued and respected.

Marnie is a born nurturer, with over 30 years of experience in childcare, which includes her own four children: Jack, Evan, Luke and Chloe. She understands that having a baby can be an overwhelming experience and feels passionate about supporting and empowering women and families through this transition.

Marnie lives in Grand Rapids and enjoys spending time in nature with her husband and two dogs, lively euchre games with friends and family, cooking, reading, travel, and yoga. She is thrilled to be a member of the Gold Coast Doulas team and feels honored to be able to assist parents as they welcome a new baby into their family.

Marnie is booked and is not currently accepting new clients.

Testimonials

Gold Coast delivered and then some. We had birth doulas and postpartum doulas and I’d use them all again in a heartbeat. They made pregnancy and postpartum not just manageable, but beautiful, by helping me and my husband navigate all the ups and downs so we could focus on the new life that joined our family. Even my mom, who was initially skeptical of the benefit of doula support, was beyond grateful for each and every one of them after our time with our doula team concluded.

Stephanie O. in Rockford

This in-home support service, with our incredible caregiver Marnie, was a thoughtful gift from a four-time mom, Liz, who tried so hard to warn me about how rough postpartum life is. We received consistent care twice a week for 2.5 hours. As a first-time mom and a total people-pleaser, I honestly had no idea what a doula should do and struggled immensely to ask for help. Marnie was a gift because she was gentle, yet she intuitively prompted and guided me to the exact moment of support I needed each week. She didn't wait for me to ask; she just knew. Marnie’s dedication was comprehensive. She used every minute perfectly, tackling practical tasks like dishes and laundry and providing wonderful baby support so I could finally get a nap or a shower. Crucially, she offered support I didn't even know I needed: she would, without pressure, bring me food, fill my water, and help manage my separation anxiety when I needed to step away. Even gentle conversation and constantly affirming me—telling me I was doing great as a mom—was a lifeline. If you are a new parent, especially one who struggles to ask for help, you must request Marnie. She is an outstanding professional whose consistency and kindness made a challenging phase manageable. We are eternally grateful for her service.

Jennifer G. in Grand Rapids