Today we’d like to introduce you to Boyona Graham.

Hi Boyona, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

When we’re little, our moms and dads are our entire world, and it’s hard to accept that they have flaws. I, too, struggled with this, especially when it came to my mom. I loved her deeply, but I often wished she could be stronger, more assertive, and able to free herself from situations where her independence and voice were overshadowed. I promised myself that I would never allow the same to happen to me, striving to be fiercely independent.

However, everything changed when my husband and I welcomed our first child. Before becoming a mother, I had never even changed a diaper. I had to immerse myself in books, videos, and advice just to figure out the basics. Stepping into motherhood was far more overwhelming than I ever anticipated. I battled postpartum depression and anxiety, even with a supportive husband who took shifts, shared responsibilities, and helped me in every possible way.

During those challenging days, I often thought of my mother. She raised me in a foreign country where she didn’t speak the language, with little to no support from her partner. She was a young woman, much like me, facing enormous challenges alone. I felt a deep sadness and guilt for expecting perfection from her. There were countless moments when I thought I couldn’t handle motherhood, only to realize my mom had done even more under far tougher circumstances. Over time, I came to see her as one of the strongest people I’ve ever known.

Inspired by her resilience, I began intentionally training my mind to be stronger, much like exercising a muscle. Every day, I noticed growth and felt empowered to embrace life fully and give back to others. After the birth of my second child, life became even more hectic as I balanced work and two kids. Despite the challenges, I felt a strong desire to support other moms—especially those navigating the early days of motherhood. I wanted to make the journey of preparing for a newborn less overwhelming and give mothers a much-needed break.

This passion led me to create Nesters PDX. My experience as a first-time mom made me realize how many other mothers out there could use a little extra support during one of life’s most complex and transformative experiences: becoming a mother.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

When I reflect on each decade of my life, there are always moments where I think, Wow, I really made it through that. While I strive to leave past hurts and traumas behind, becoming a parent has been a profound eye-opener. It’s made me realize how much my upbringing—the environment I grew up in, the lessons taught by my parents and peers, and the way my brain was wired as a child—shapes who I am as a parent today.

There are countless moments when I find myself at a crossroads, asking: Do I want to teach my kids what I was taught, or do I want to create a new path? In times of exhaustion, frustration, or burnout, I notice how the past can creep into the present. It’s a constant battle, one that requires intention and effort.

I had my baby 10 months ago, and while I still navigate postpartum depression and anxiety, I also juggle being a mom, a working mom, a wife, and all the challenges life throws my way. It’s a lot to manage, and some days feel overwhelming. Having come from an abusive family and a hostile environment, I’ve struggled with resolving conflict calmly—something that I’m not proud of, but one I’m working hard to change.

This journey has been deeply reflective, and while it hasn’t been easy, I’m grateful for the supportive community I’ve found along the way. Because I understand the hardships so intimately, I’m inspired to help others who might be facing similar challenges as moms. Despite the difficulties, I feel fortunate to have this awareness and the opportunity to use my experiences to uplift and support others.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Nesters PDX?

At Nesters PDX (www.nesterspdx.com), we specialize in supporting moms and moms-to-be during one of the most transformative journeys of their lives: beginning of motherhood. We understand the challenges that come with preparing for a newborn and the ongoing demands of parenting, which is why we’re committed to making this journey as stress-free as possible.

Our services are designed to help parents feel supported, prepared, and empowered. We offer customized solutions that cater to the specific needs of new and expectant mothers, from creating a nurturing environment at home to providing essential resources for postpartum care.

Baby Ready — $99
Included in the service:
– Sterilize bottles
– Sterilize pumping gears
– Untag, wash, and hang baby clothes
– Untag and unpack baby shower gifts
– Set up bottle and diaper stations
– Create a list of hospital bag must-haves.
– Create a checklist, along with tips and resources, all in one location

Baby Ready Plus — $150
Everything Baby Ready package plus,
– Purchase missing and/or last-minute items (unpack and sanitize if necessary — same day or return service based on product availability)
– Light baby room decor

What sets us apart is our deeply personal approach. Nesters PDX was born from my own experiences as a first-time mom, navigating postpartum depression and anxiety, and juggling the complexities of motherhood. Because I’ve been there, I know how valuable a little extra help can be—and I’m passionate about offering that support to other moms.

We’re most proud of being a brand that prioritizes community, compassion, and empowerment. At Nesters PDX, we see every mom as strong and capable, and our mission is to give them the tools, space, and encouragement to thrive.

For anyone preparing to welcome a baby or simply looking for a helping hand in the early days of motherhood, we’re here to help. At Nesters PDX, we believe that no mom should feel alone in her journey—and we’re proud to be a part of this life-changing chapter.

For more information, visit: https://www.nesterspdx.com/services

What was your favorite childhood memory?

One of my favorite childhood memories is from those carefree summer days when my mom would take my older sister and me to visit my grandmother’s house. Her home was a perfect haven for us—her yard was spacious for running around, and we’d venture out to get groceries in her neighborhood or pick fresh lettuce to make kimchi. After a day of fun, my grandmother would prepare a feast that filled the table. We played until darkness fell, and that’s when the real magic began. My grandmother would spray the room to chase away the summer mosquitoes, then lay out layers of blankets across the floor. We’d all cuddle up together and turn on traditional Korean ghost stories. I remember being both terrified and thrilled, and my grandmother would laugh, saying the spooky tales helped cool us down on those sweltering summer nights. Looking back, I feel so grateful for the loving woman who filled my childhood with so much joy. Though she has since passed away, her memories remain as sweet and vivid as ever.

Pricing:

• Baby Ready – $99
• Baby Ready Plus – $150

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nesterspdx.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nesterspdx/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nesterspdx