September Bucket List for Moms-to-Be (and New Moms!)
Looking for trimester-by-trimester pregnancy and postpartum ideas? This September bucket list for moms-to-be is filled with seasonal fun, practical tips and newborn must-dos.
Pregnancy and postpartum are such special seasons of life, but let’s be honest — they can also feel overwhelming. That’s where a little bucket list comes in handy! Think of it as a gentle guide to help you focus on what really matters each trimester, while also making space for the cozy fun that September brings.
Whether you’re in your first trimester and just figuring out what’s ahead, rocking your baby bump in the third trimester, or navigating those early newborn days, here are trimester-by-trimester bucket list ideas to keep you grounded, intentional, and even a little festive this fall.
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September Bucket List for Moms-to-Be (and New Moms!)
From hospital bag prep to cozy fall maternity photos, these ideas help you enjoy each stage.
🌱 First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)
The first trimester is full of big changes — emotionally, physically, and mentally. Use September as a chance to set yourself up for the months ahead.
Bucket List Ideas:
- Start a pregnancy journal or use milestone cards to track your early weeks.
- Begin researching prenatal vitamins and healthy routines (hello, cozy fall soups packed with veggies).
- Schedule your first prenatal appointments and confirm your due date.
- Take a gentle walk outside to enjoy the changing leaves (great for energy and mental health).
- Start a private Pinterest board with nursery inspiration.
- Treat yourself to a cozy fall maternity sweater (because comfort is key right now).
- Talk with your partner about early baby prep (finances, registry wish list, etc.).
- Try a calming fall activity like making a simmer pot or journaling with a cup of tea.
- Begin mapping out your postpartum plan with the 5 Steps to a Positive Postpartum Workbook
🌸 Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27)
Energy usually returns, and September is the perfect time to soak it up. This is the trimester to get moving on big plans while still feeling relatively comfortable.
Bucket List Ideas:
- Announce your pregnancy to extended family and friends (a fall pumpkin-themed photo shoot makes it extra fun!).
- Start your baby registry.
- Take a prenatal yoga or water class to support your changing body.
- Schedule your anatomy scan and prenatal screenings.
- Go apple picking or visit a pumpkin patch for sweet bump photos.
- Begin working on the nursery or organizing baby clothes.
- Learn about feeding basics and research lactation consultants by you who take your insurance to be prepared if you need extra support when baby arrives
- Take a weekend getaway babymoon before travel gets tougher.
- Research childbirth classes and book one for late 2nd or early 3rd trimester.
🌻 Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40+)
It’s almost baby time! This trimester is all about final prep, slowing down, and soaking in those last bump moments.
Bucket List Ideas:
- Brainstorm a bump-friendly Halloween costume
- Pack your hospital bag (don’t forget cozy socks and Chapstick).
- Tour your hospital or birth center if you haven’t already.
- Take fall maternity photos with the gorgeous September light.
- Wash baby clothes, sheets and swaddles in free and clear detergent.
- Stock your freezer with easy meals for postpartum.
- Finalize your birth plan and discuss it with your provider.
- Install the car seat and have it checked by a certified tech.
- Enjoy a fall date night with your partner, like a cozy dinner out or a movie marathon.
- Practice relaxation techniques for labor (deep breathing, affirmations).
- Start preparing for bringing baby home and your healing by enrolling in The Fourth Trimester Toolkit to be fully ready.
🤱 Fourth Trimester & Newborn Stage
Welcome to life with your baby! The fourth trimester is all about healing, bonding and adjusting. September gives you a cozy backdrop for slowing down and leaning into this season.
Bucket List Ideas:
- Take newborn milestone photos with a cozy fall blanket.
- Try one of our Easy Pumpkin Crafts for Toddlers with older siblings while baby naps.
- Schedule your newborn photo session (pumpkins make adorable props).
- Wear matching fall pajamas for your first “family photo” at home.
- Give yourself permission to rest
- Start a gratitude list to capture small wins and sweet moments.
- Ask for help with meal prep and household chores — let loved ones support you!
- Take a stroller walk to soak in crisp September air with your baby.
- Join a virtual new mom support group
- Capture your first family holiday photo together (even if it’s just in your living room with a pumpkin).
Final Thoughts on the September Mom-to-Be Bucket List
Every trimester (and the newborn stage) comes with its own challenges and joys. This September, use this bucket list as a gentle reminder to stay intentional and enjoy the season you’re in — whether you’re prepping a registry, baking a pumpkin pie with your bump, or snapping your first family photo.
✨ Don’t forget: The Fourth Trimester Toolkit and The 5 Steps Workbook are here to make your pregnancy and postpartum journey smoother and help you feel more prepared, so that you can thrive during the newborn stage and beyond.
You’ve got this, mama — and what a beautiful September it will be.
