Why I Developed the Birth Lines Memory Books (And What Makes Them Different)

When I started Birth Lines, my entire focus was on my hand-drawn ultrasound illustrations. I spoke with parents every day who wanted to capture their pregnancy and baby period in a way that truly felt meaningful. Through those conversations, I kept hearing about memory books — and especially what was missing from them.

After about two years, a new idea began to take shape — not because I wanted to make a memory book, but because I felt there was room for something better: something timeless and complete. Something you don’t just fill in… but keep for life. That’s where a new chapter of my company began (literally ✨).

What I Felt Was Missing in Existing Memory Books

While working with ultrasound illustrations, I spoke with many parents. Again and again, I heard that existing memory books often didn’t meet their needs. Important moments were missing, while other questions felt forced. Some prompts might have been relevant at the moment, but weren’t something you’d want to read back as a meaningful memory years later.

One of the biggest gaps I noticed was inclusivity. Almost all memory books assumed a traditional “mom and dad” family setup. For single parents or families with two moms or two dads, there often wasn’t a suitable book. That needed to change. Every family deserves a place where their story fits naturally and completely.

I also noticed the design. Many memory books looked very childish — but this is a book you keep and re-open as an adult. It should be timeless, something you’re proud to keep on your shelf.

That became the beginning of my new project — one that ultimately took years of work. I gathered experiences from parents and conducted extensive research into what already existed. Where were the opportunities? What could be better? From these insights, I began developing a memory book that truly aligned with the Birth Lines vision.

My Vision: A Memory Book You’ll Want to Keep Forever

From the start, I knew this memory book had to be more than just a collection of questions. It needed to be the memory book you’d want as soon as you find out you’re expecting.

A book you don’t just tuck away in a drawer but something that becomes part of your life and that you open often. I wanted parents to feel free in what they wrote. Some moments call for long stories, others for only a few words. That’s why I chose open-ended prompts and plenty of writing space, no pressure, no strict format. Because every pregnancy and every parenthood journey is unique. 

The book is written from the parent to the child, in “I” and “you.” Even during pregnancy. This makes it feel as though you’re telling your story directly to your child.

And just as importantly: there needed to be space for real life. Not every pregnancy feels like sunshine and rainbows. Uncertainty, sadness, and hard moments deserve a place in the story too.

Timeless Design & Carefully Chosen Materials

The design had to fit seamlessly with the recognizable Birth Lines style: calm, minimalist, and timeless. Neutral colors ensure the book suits any home and any family.

I intentionally chose a linen cover with gold foil. Something that feels luxurious, because it holds something precious: your memories. The title The Beginning of Your Life immediately tells a story: it reflects the parent’s perspective, capturing the story for the child in every detail, from title to prompts and overall structure. 

All illustrations in the book are hand-drawn by me in the minimalist Birth Lines style, subtle and supportive, enhancing the content without distracting from what truly matters: your story. 

A Conscious Choice for European Production

Quality and ethical production were essential when developing this memory book. That’s why I consciously chose European printing partners known for high-end materials and fair working conditions.

This ensures not only a beautiful final result but that each book is responsibly made. Not a disposable product, but a true time capsule.

A Book That Grows With Every Unique Story

While developing the content, I kept asking myself the same question: What would I want to read back later?

My own mother took countless photos and videos of my childhood. Those are some of my most precious memories today. But how special would it have been to read her thoughts and feelings in her handwriting? That feeling is what I wanted to capture in this book.

So I deliberately avoided a rigid timeline of how every child “should” develop. Each chapter stands on its own. Parents can fill in what’s relevant at that moment, without a fixed sequence of ages or milestones. Because every child develops at their own pace.

Designed for Every Family

Inclusivity was central throughout the design process. That’s why the book speaks only in “I” and “you,” without assuming a specific family setup. It’s suitable for single parents, families with two moms or two dads, and every other kind of family.

If there’s a second parent or another important person, there’s space for them too, in a way that fits every unique situation.

The Beginning of a Lifelong Story

The Birth Lines memory books were born from one clear desire: to create a place where memories can be preserved in a meaningful, honest, and timeless way — not only for now, but also for later.

For the moment when your child opens the book and reads your words. Your handwriting. Your story. The beginning of their life, told by you.