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Market Square => Faire and Family => Topic started by: FortuneRose on August 04, 2008, 10:41:20 AM

Poll
Question: Do you find it offensive/inappropriate for someone to nurse while at faire?
Option 1: Yes-always offensive
Option 2: No-Never offensive
Option 3: Only if uncovered
Option 4: OTHER
Title: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 04, 2008, 10:41:20 AM
If you placed "other"  please explain.

Curious to see what others feel about the situation because I do have a nursing son and will be attending the festival.
(felt the family area was the best to post this)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Trillium on August 04, 2008, 10:46:35 AM
OK...I said other only because I personally don't find it offensive if you do not cover up, but I do feel it is best if there is some sort of covering for the sake of children and others who may be offended if they notice.  Also to thwart off the off-color comments from drunks or other idiots.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: CatAshtrophy on August 04, 2008, 03:45:32 PM
I can only recall seeing somebody nurse once at faire. She was on a bench in the area of the women's restroom that was concealed from the rest of the faire. She was covered, but the restrooms did not spell good and it was boiling hot there. She and the baby must have been roasting. She seemed embarrassed at the bathroom line being right next to her. I would not have been offended in the slightest if the woman be somewhere where she and the baby wouldn't roast and have to smell the restrooms even if she wasn't covered. It can be awfully warm at faire to have to wear a blanket. Her baby's comfort and her own beliefs about breast feeding should matter most. 
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 08, 2008, 09:17:31 AM
Nursing is the most natural thing in the world.  Every other species does it without any embarrassment at all, so why should humans feel shame or be shamed?  I nursed both of my children anywhere I needed to, including in church.  (I didn't go to faire at that time, but I can assure you I would have nursed them there, as well!)  I did always have a light-weight blanket with me to drape across when necessary, but on those really hot days, a nice piece of lace works just as well.  It offers a modest bit of privacy while still allowing for comfortable air flow.

Good luck and cherish those moments!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Hoowil on August 08, 2008, 10:32:56 AM
My wife nursed at faire. I'd suggest trying to be soemwhat descrete, just for your own comfort. I don't mean hide in the loo, but find a nice shady spot where you can relax. If anyone makes comments, justy say you're giving a demonstration on period baby feeding.  :)
I blows me away that so many people have issues with this (not necassarily here, but in general). Its natural, and the absolute best thing for you're child.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: nliedel on August 08, 2008, 11:45:06 AM
It's food from a special sweat gland. That's it. American's can be so funny about it. Just be discreet because drunken men are not always gentlemen and never feed your kid in the loo. I know I won't eat there. No one should.

Heck, with Herne (preemie, would not take to the breast) I pumped in the car. I didn't want to explain the whooshing sound to anyone :)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on August 08, 2008, 12:07:12 PM
I think the key is to be discrete about it.  You cannot just "haul one out" and pop it in the kids mouth all "out there" like that.  Discretion is your best friend.

Though, I have personally witnessed a woman (non-caucasion descent) whose FIVE YEAR OLD walked over to her, opened up her blouse, opened the nursing cup on her bra and began feeding himself.  I don't know about you, but when the kid can "haul it out" for you, it's time to stop nursing them. 
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 09, 2008, 12:38:55 PM
Quote from: PurpleDragon on August 08, 2008, 12:07:12 PM
I don't know about you, but when the kid can "haul it out" for you, it's time to stop nursing them. 

Yep!  Kinda like that whole pacifier (binky, nuk, etc.) thing...when the kid is old enough to pull it out of his/her mouth in order to speak in a complete sentence, throw the blasted thing away!  I see so many parents these days who just don't know how to say, "You're a big boy/girl now...you don't need that anymore, it's just for babies." 
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: nliedel on August 09, 2008, 01:23:43 PM
Worldwide the average age of weening is two and a half. That means it's the norm in some countries to go much later.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: verymerryseamstress on August 13, 2008, 08:31:57 AM
Fortune Rose, at your request, I have already completed two new sketches for nursing bodice designs.  I'm hoping to make prototypes of them.  If you email me (at my regular email address) your measurements, I'll make them to your size and you can do a test run with them for me.   ;D
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 13, 2008, 09:18:51 AM
Quote from: verymerryseamstress on August 13, 2008, 08:31:57 AM
Fortune Rose, at your request, I have already completed two new sketches for nursing bodice designs.  I'm hoping to make prototypes of them.  If you email me (at my regular email address) your measurements, I'll make them to your size and you can do a test run with them for me.   ;D

Ah, I LOVE being the test run guinea pig!  No seriously, I love it!   lol!  Kind of the same thing about the pregnancy cropped bodice.  Ah, fun times.  Once hubby gets home I'll be shooting over some measurements.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 13, 2008, 09:48:43 AM
Quote from: nliedel on August 08, 2008, 11:45:06 AM
It's food from a special sweat gland. That's it. American's can be so funny about it. Just be discreet because drunken men are not always gentlemen and never feed your kid in the loo. I know I won't eat there. No one should.

Heck, with Herne (preemie, would not take to the breast) I pumped in the car. I didn't want to explain the whooshing sound to anyone :)

HAHAHA!  The "Whooshing sound"...  ah yes...  "don't mind me, I'm playing the part of a milking cow."  Thank goodness when I was still working there was a lactation room to use.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Femme Falchion on August 13, 2008, 01:36:43 PM
Lady Rose...do what your comfortable with and let your heart be your guide.  You already know the answer to your question!

I was pulled over once for speeding while my hospital grade double electric breast pump was working away.....I had a great hands free system!   :) ;D


Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: tigerlilly on August 14, 2008, 08:24:39 PM
I nursed my 5-month-old baby at TRF last year with no problems.  I try to be fairly discreet, but IMO if the chain-maille girls in thongs are a-ok then no one should have a problem seeing me feed my baby.  I made a chemise with a deep inverted front pleat like a nursing nightgown, and my bodice closed with hooks and eyes instead of laces.  Easier to get in and out of.  It was pretty darned obvious I was nursing, but I seriously doubt anyone could actually see anything.

Of course, now the wee bairn squirms and switches sides and plays "peekaboo" so much I wouldn't try it in public.  :D
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: verymerryseamstress on August 15, 2008, 07:38:04 AM
Rose, I have your new bodice cut out.  It may be a few days before I have a chance to sew it, but it should be done within a week or so.  :-)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 15, 2008, 07:48:39 AM
Quote from: verymerryseamstress on August 15, 2008, 07:38:04 AM
Rose, I have your new bodice cut out.  It may be a few days before I have a chance to sew it, but it should be done within a week or so.  :-)

Wow, that was quick!  I'm really excited!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Adriana Rose on August 17, 2008, 04:28:10 PM
When Little Bit was nursing we only went to fair for one day. But I wore an embroderd peasent blouse and my nursing bra.

I was lucky that I had a shop to go and nurse in but while working fair I have had several women ask if they could nurse in a quite spot and I have no problem letting them nurse in my shop!

I am totaly fine with nursing your baby in public but for the love of god please cover up your boob! I know its natural and all that jazz but still not every one needs to see your boob!

But for the nurseing mommy just ask a shop and they most likely will be more than happy to let you sit in a quiet spot, or in a dressing room.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 19, 2008, 10:09:46 AM
Quote from: Adriana Rose on August 17, 2008, 04:28:10 PM
When Little Bit was nursing we only went to fair for one day. But I wore an embroderd peasent blouse and my nursing bra.

I was lucky that I had a shop to go and nurse in but while working fair I have had several women ask if they could nurse in a quite spot and I have no problem letting them nurse in my shop!

I am totaly fine with nursing your baby in public but for the love of god please cover up your boob! I know its natural and all that jazz but still not every one needs to see your boob!

But for the nurseing mommy just ask a shop and they most likely will be more than happy to let you sit in a quiet spot, or in a dressing room.

I can see where you're coming from, but at the same time there are women in chainmail showing more than a nursing mother with a child attached and bodices far too tight pushing everything up for the world to see.....     And is it fair to say a child should be fed under a blanket when it is already 90+ degrees outside?   Don't get me wrong, I'll be finding myself a nice shady place that isn't the center of a crowd, show, or random entertainment...  but I don't think I should be making my child fry while he is trying to have a meal. 

::stepping off my soapbox::
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 19, 2008, 10:11:43 AM
Quote from: CatAshtrophy on August 04, 2008, 03:45:32 PM
I can only recall seeing somebody nurse once at faire. She was on a bench in the area of the women's restroom that was concealed from the rest of the faire. She was covered, but the restrooms did not spell good and it was boiling hot there. She and the baby must have been roasting. She seemed embarrassed at the bathroom line being right next to her. I would not have been offended in the slightest if the woman be somewhere where she and the baby wouldn't roast and have to smell the restrooms even if she wasn't covered. It can be awfully warm at faire to have to wear a blanket. Her baby's comfort and her own beliefs about breast feeding should matter most.  

That is my opinion as well.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Blue66669 on August 19, 2008, 12:49:50 PM
I nursed my daughter at TRF, and I was lucky enough to have a friend that was a booth owner with a back room. I was able to go into a cool private place to feed my daughter. Quite frankly, people out at TRF see more of me when I'm fully clothed in my garb than when I was nursing. I say, just find a semi-private place to do it, then get it done. If you feel the need, you may look into going to the first aid tent/building, because it's normally cool there, and it's very private and safe from drunkies.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 19, 2008, 01:17:32 PM
Quote from: blue66669 on August 19, 2008, 12:49:50 PM
I nursed my daughter at TRF, and I was lucky enough to have a friend that was a booth owner with a back room. I was able to go into a cool private place to feed my daughter. Quite frankly, people out at TRF see more of me when I'm fully clothed in my garb than when I was nursing. I say, just find a semi-private place to do it, then get it done. If you feel the need, you may look into going to the first aid tent/building, because it's normally cool there, and it's very private and safe from drunkies.
Thats a great suggestion!  Thank you, I didn't even think about that
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Trillium on August 19, 2008, 01:22:38 PM
Something I just thought about, using a sheer material for a cover-up instead of the heavier receiving blankets.  It will offer you a bit of modesty and still give the wee one plenty air circulation.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: tigerlilly on August 19, 2008, 05:26:22 PM
Quote from: blue66669 on August 19, 2008, 12:49:50 PM
I nursed my daughter at TRF, and I was lucky enough to have a friend that was a booth owner with a back room. I was able to go into a cool private place to feed my daughter. Quite frankly, people out at TRF see more of me when I'm fully clothed in my garb than when I was nursing. I say, just find a semi-private place to do it, then get it done. If you feel the need, you may look into going to the first aid tent/building, because it's normally cool there, and it's very private and safe from drunkies.

I never would have thought of the first aid tent!  What a great idea.  I will definately keep that in mind should the need arise, since Wiggles McSquirmybutt now insists that as much of Mommy be exposed as possible.

My main concern would be harrassment by drunks.  As for everyone else, if they can't stand the sight of reasonably discreet breastfeeding, then tough titty!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on August 19, 2008, 06:46:46 PM
Quote from: tigerlilly on August 19, 2008, 05:26:22 PM
Quote from: blue66669 on August 19, 2008, 12:49:50 PM
I nursed my daughter at TRF, and I was lucky enough to have a friend that was a booth owner with a back room. I was able to go into a cool private place to feed my daughter. Quite frankly, people out at TRF see more of me when I'm fully clothed in my garb than when I was nursing. I say, just find a semi-private place to do it, then get it done. If you feel the need, you may look into going to the first aid tent/building, because it's normally cool there, and it's very private and safe from drunkies.

I never would have thought of the first aid tent!  What a great idea.  I will definately keep that in mind should the need arise, since Wiggles McSquirmybutt now insists that as much of Mommy be exposed as possible.

My main concern would be harrassment by drunks.  As for everyone else, if they can't stand the sight of reasonably discreet breastfeeding, then tough titty!

Thats how my son is too.  He HATES being under a blanket or cloth of any sort.  I think a big part of this is because I've never covered him while feeding.  And now, if I try, he screams bloody murder!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: verymerryseamstress on August 21, 2008, 07:33:26 AM
Is the sight of a breastfeeding child really that offensive that we have to resort to burying our babies under heavy blankets to shield the eyes of those who are bothered at the sight of a human breast? 

Aren't the images of murder and war shown on the evening news much more disturbing than a breastfeeding mother?  Or have we become too desensitized to those images to notice?

Just take a minute to ponder:  Why are boobies offensive?  Why are breastfeeding babies offensive?  I don't understand why anyone would be offended at seeing such a normal, natural occurrence.  I thought we'd come a long way since the days of the Puritans, but maybe I'm wrong. 

We see boobies every day.  We've all got 'em.  Is it really such a big deal?
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 21, 2008, 08:07:27 AM
Not in my eyes, VeryMerry.  I breastfed both of my children, and would never trade that experience for anything in the world.  (Although there are days when I would now gladly trade these teenagers! LOL!)

There is something very natural and right about seeing a woman breastfeeding her child.  It tells me that all is not lost with this modern society.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Celtic Lady on September 20, 2008, 06:50:55 PM
Quote from: verymerryseamstress on August 21, 2008, 07:33:26 AM
Aren't the images of murder and war shown on the evening news much more disturbing than a breastfeeding mother?  Or have we become too desensitized to those images to notice?

It's sad that we (in this country) have no problem with the violence shoved in our faces by the media industry.... music, movies, games, news, etc. yet the human body in it's natural state is considered wrong. In other countries they have no trouble with the human body. Violence is deplorable to them. I remember an incidence that happened in the UK where a group of boys (about 12 years old or less) stoned a 2 year old to death. The whole community was so appalled and in shock.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on September 22, 2008, 11:29:10 AM
Quote from: Celtic Lady on September 20, 2008, 06:50:55 PM
Quote from: verymerryseamstress on August 21, 2008, 07:33:26 AM
Aren't the images of murder and war shown on the evening news much more disturbing than a breastfeeding mother?  Or have we become too desensitized to those images to notice?

It's sad that we (in this country) have no problem with the violence shoved in our faces by the media industry.... music, movies, games, news, etc. yet the human body in it's natural state is considered wrong. In other countries they have no trouble with the human body. Violence is deplorable to them. I remember an incidence that happened in the UK where a group of boys (about 12 years old or less) stoned a 2 year old to death. The whole community was so appalled and in shock.

Ugh, my stomach just churned at that part of what you said.  Oh my goodness, I cannot imagine.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on September 22, 2008, 11:37:59 AM
I just got a GREAT idea for a new booth to open at every faire.  "The WetNurse", a safe haven for nursing mothers to be unharrassed and nurse their wee ones in private air conditioned comfort ;)  Hmmm.. what to charge for this, and would they faires allow it because it technically wouldn't be "period" as it were... Hmmmm... So much to think about and research... Hmmmmm
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Blue66669 on September 22, 2008, 12:06:39 PM
Ok, PD, you and me can do this together!!!!

Mothers pay a 20.00 per day fee, get a wristband, and that would cover them for the entire day of feeding. We can make a back room, with big comfy chairs and a hidden AC and fans up in the ceiling behind a lattice. We could put a small window unit in and cover it with a grate and put it into a box near the ceiling or something like that. Cover the walls in fabric and the floors in rugs. Nice soft pastel colors, and lots of pillows. Nursing mothers only, fathers of course would be welcome as well. Other children would need different supervision, but of course, if there were nowhere else for them to go, we would not turn them away. We'd have to have a separate area where the kids could play ren games, like bean bags or something silly like that...


OMG...... can you smell the smoke coming out of my ears?????
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on September 24, 2008, 01:17:13 PM
Quote from: blue66669 on September 22, 2008, 12:06:39 PM
Ok, PD, you and me can do this together!!!!

Mothers pay a 20.00 per day fee, get a wristband, and that would cover them for the entire day of feeding. We can make a back room, with big comfy chairs and a hidden AC and fans up in the ceiling behind a lattice. We could put a small window unit in and cover it with a grate and put it into a box near the ceiling or something like that. Cover the walls in fabric and the floors in rugs. Nice soft pastel colors, and lots of pillows. Nursing mothers only, fathers of course would be welcome as well. Other children would need different supervision, but of course, if there were nowhere else for them to go, we would not turn them away. We'd have to have a separate area where the kids could play ren games, like bean bags or something silly like that...


OMG...... can you smell the smoke coming out of my ears?????

There is something very similar to this that has been established, however not seen at a renaissance festival (other outdoor events, yes)...  but they do not charge.

I can, personally, say that as a nursing mother, even with the lure of airconditioning, I would not in a million years pay $20.00 to nurse my son for 15-20 minutes a few times in the day I would spend at the festival.  Thats the same amount as my ticket to get in.  I'd rather take the stamp the gates offer when you leave to be readmitted and go to my car if I wanted air conditioning that much.

Donations, maybe....  a charge that high...  crazy.   
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Blue66669 on September 24, 2008, 01:25:08 PM
Ok, so maybe I was being greedy there at first....

10 bucks for weekend access????

(my kid ate and ate and ate, so paying 20 bucks for a cool place to feed them throughout both days wouldn't have bothered me so much)

Would a thrown in garb readjuster sweeten the deal?
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on September 24, 2008, 02:01:53 PM
Sorry Blue,

I'm inclined to agree with FortuneRose on this.  Charging a fee for that would be somewhat rude.  However leaving a donation bucket or box/bin for the mothers to utilize would be more pleasing to them, and could possibly generate more capital than actually charging a fee. 

There is another possibility if you really wanted to charge for services, you could get a contract with the faire to sell water and juice and such things non-alcoholic for the mothers and toddlers that are often tagging along with mommy and little brother/sister. Then of course you would be subject to the food handling laws of the state whereas if it were just an "open" venue where the ladies could find some privacy to feed their children without having to leave the faire would not be subject to such laws.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Blue66669 on September 24, 2008, 03:17:06 PM
You guys are no fun....

Ah well, back to the drawing board!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on September 24, 2008, 03:45:09 PM
Quote from: blue66669 on September 24, 2008, 03:17:06 PM
You guys are no fun....

Ah well, back to the drawing board!

That my dear is a GROSS misrepresentation and I resent that ;)  I'm LOADS of fun. ~giggles~ 

Besides, I'm sure we could come up with a good idea, then the only problem becomes implementation ;)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Bugsy on September 26, 2008, 03:11:02 PM
ooo, I'm kind of a 'lactavist activist'  ;D

It's how babies eat.  And babies should be able to eat whenever they're hungry.  There is an artificial substitute (bottle), but no one should be forced to use a substitute when it comes to feeding an infant.

Covering up.  No, they shouldn't have to if they don't want to.  It would be awesome if a breastfeeding baby was a normal thing to see, but it will never get that way if everyone covers up.  I would never ask someone to put a glove on their hand while they eat their turkey leg.  and as someone said, at the faire, there is way more boobage walking around than a nursing baby.

and if anyone complains, just tell them "if you don't like it, put a blanket over your head, or wait in the bathroom until I'm done."
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on September 30, 2008, 12:11:42 PM
Quote from: Bugsey on September 26, 2008, 03:11:02 PM
ooo, I'm kind of a 'lactavist activist'  ;D

It's how babies eat.  And babies should be able to eat whenever they're hungry.  There is an artificial substitute (bottle), but no one should be forced to use a substitute when it comes to feeding an infant.

Covering up.  No, they shouldn't have to if they don't want to.  It would be awesome if a breastfeeding baby was a normal thing to see, but it will never get that way if everyone covers up.  I would never ask someone to put a glove on their hand while they eat their turkey leg.  and as someone said, at the faire, there is way more boobage walking around than a nursing baby.

and if anyone complains, just tell them "if you don't like it, put a blanket over your head, or wait in the bathroom until I'm done."

I, too, find that I am a lactavist activist......  I never cared if a woman nursed her child in public (covered or uncovered) and never really had much to say on the matter, but now that I am a nursing mother I am all "Where is the nearest nursing sit in... I'll be there!"   lol!

As far as the tent or area at faire for  nursing mothers...  I honestly believe you will do best if a donation bucket is there, rather than a forced charge....   
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on October 01, 2008, 10:56:13 AM
Quote from: FortuneRose on September 30, 2008, 12:11:42 PM
I, too, find that I am a lactavist activist......  I never cared if a woman nursed her child in public (covered or uncovered) and never really had much to say on the matter, but now that I am a nursing mother I am all "Where is the nearest nursing sit in... I'll be there!"   lol!

As far as the tent or area at faire for  nursing mothers...  I honestly believe you will do best if a donation bucket is there, rather than a forced charge....   

Can a man be a lactavist activist?  If so, then put me on the list.  I firmly believe that one of the major problems in this society is that people are too bloody "prissy" for thier own good.  Women cannot breast feed their children because it is "lude", children cannot play dodge ball because they might get hurt, everyone gets a trophy just for participating.

By allowing a mother to breast feed her child, there is more of a bond developed there and that child is less likely to become one of the many sad statistics out there of teenage pregnancies, or drug addicts because there is more chance that communication is there, and maybe just maybe that child will be brought up in a disciplined home instead of being allowed to walk all over the parents.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Blue66669 on October 01, 2008, 11:07:12 AM
Well, I suppose I'm a lactavist activist- and I made sure that nobody ever got close enough to me to have a problem with the fact that I was breastfeeding. Most of my friends knew that I had a deadly aim with that stuff!!! Well, one night I was at a nightclub, in the bathroom, hand expressing into a cup from the bar. A guy walked into the bathroom (it was that kind of club) and started screaming, "EWWWW, that's so NASTY!" So, I shot him in the face with a steady stream of breastmilk and told him if he didn't like it, GET OUT OF THE LADIES RESTROOM!!!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: PurpleDragon on October 01, 2008, 11:37:11 AM
Quote from: blue66669 on October 01, 2008, 11:07:12 AM
Well, I suppose I'm a lactavist activist- and I made sure that nobody ever got close enough to me to have a problem with the fact that I was breastfeeding. Most of my friends knew that I had a deadly aim with that stuff!!! Well, one night I was at a nightclub, in the bathroom, hand expressing into a cup from the bar. A guy walked into the bathroom (it was that kind of club) and started screaming, "EWWWW, that's so NASTY!" So, I shot him in the face with a steady stream of breastmilk and told him if he didn't like it, GET OUT OF THE LADIES RESTROOM!!!

I knew I liked you for a reason ;)  You're EVIL!!!! ;)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Bugsy on October 01, 2008, 11:57:32 AM
It's October!!!  breast cancer awareness month!

so, I thought I'd share.  seems like a good thread to put it in!

(http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g224/klozier4/bf.jpg)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: ADraeger on October 02, 2008, 09:43:53 AM
I can't help but respond because my husband and I were discussing this topic yesterday.  Breastfeeding is beautiful.  Mother should be able to breastfeed her child however, whenever, wherever she chooses.  I agree with most of you on here.    I've always been shy about my skin in public, and I imagine when I have a little one to feed, I'll either have to deal with the blanket or go out to the car (both of which are a pain according to my newly blessed sister-in-law),so..I love the idea of a breastfeeding tent!  I agree again though... either donations or freely provided by the RenFaire (after all, I've paid at least $17.00 a ticket at every RenFair I've been to.. surely that can warrant a nice little tent).
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Catherine DArtois on October 21, 2008, 08:50:50 AM
I remember nursing mine.  One day I had actually gone to an out-of-the way corner to nurse and an older gentleman (around 80 maybe) gently patted me on the shoulder, smiled, and said "now there's a good mama."  It felt nice to hear.  When I think about it though, fewer people actually noticed I was nursing when I did NOT remove ourselves from life's action and go into a corner.  I nursed Chip the Magik Dragon while sitting on a stone wall at TRF and NOT A SOUL could tell.  I just slipped my chemise down from one side (LOVE the elastic) -- which his head a period baby bonnet completely obscured and even pushed up to look almost exactly symmetrical to the other side.  As several others have put it -- my "girls" were more covered than so many others walking by!  I think the whole deal is this: the chain mail gets guys drooling and they all WISH they could get one and ... well... the fact that the little guy has one just drives them nuts!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on October 26, 2008, 08:21:34 PM
well, our season here is officially over as of last weekend.  I went a few different times and each time I did nurse my son.  I just found a nice shaded tree to sit under.  No problems at all.  I won't have to bother with this next season...  but who knows for future festivals...  down the road I may have wee-one number two. 
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Alice the Cook on November 05, 2008, 06:08:00 PM
I was blessed.  I worked in an encampment setting and my son was about 2 months old when he enjoyed his first fair.  I would nurse in the open of the encampment, but kept my son and breast modestly covered. 

I remember there was a male patron that would come by each day and began watching me nurse my son.  I asked one of my male friends to tell him to shove off and his oogling was a bit much.  It was good that my friend asked him to go away as if my husband caught him, I'd probably be writing a different story.

Alice the Cook
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Ranna on November 13, 2008, 11:44:39 PM
I breastfed my children in public but I never took my kids that young to the fair (but if I had it wouldn't have stopped me from feeding them.  Lacing up that damn bodice can be such a pain though!).  I was modest about it and would throw their cuddle blanket over my shoulder but I was more focus on my kids to notice any looks.  I had a friend one time pitch a fit cause I had to feed my son one day when we were out shopping together.  The next time I her and her boyfriend over I baked them a chocolate cake.  The secret ingredient?

Yep, breast milk.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: renniemommy on January 28, 2009, 02:53:49 AM
I have two kids who I breastfed anywhere they were hungry. I worked at faires all over the country and never had a problem, except for a little one weekend show in the DEEP south where the craft coordinator told me "we don't expose our children to that sort of thing, you'll have to use the restrooms" (i.e. the privy!) I was always careful to sit away from crowds and use a blanket to cover but, she had an issue I guess. Luckily, I responded politely, "it is illegal in this state to ask a woman to refrain from breast feeding in public, thank you." I decided not to return to that show the following year. As a roadrennie mom and booth owner, I suggest if you feel uncomfortable in the general public, ask a boothie if you can use their area, most of us are parents and pro-nursing and have no problem giving someone a place to appease a hungry renrat!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Dinobabe on January 28, 2009, 11:40:31 AM
I don't know about other faires but I seem to remember that Bristol has a mommy room with changing tables, wipes, couches, etc.
I like the family restrooms that I am seeing in some public places now.  That way a mom or dad with a gaggle of kids can use the restroom together, or an elderly couple can help each other out.  I wish more public places would have things like these.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Jademozingo on June 28, 2009, 01:01:37 AM
I voted other, simply because I believe some amount of discression, modesty should be used.  Simply baring yourself in the midst of a crowd is disturbing in our culture.  Now, finding a nice shady spot slightly appart from the crowd would be what I would recomend.  Or even a trip to your car and air conditioning with a cool bottle of water oppertunity to change diaper and so forth.  Possibly even a healthy snack for mommy as well.  Not to mention if I went in garb while nursing I would have had spare blouses and access to these would have been beneficial for me.  Now as this is my first season, and my son decided that he was too busy to nurse at around seven months (being able to check things out while drinking from a bottle was preferable to my curious boy) and he is three now.  I did try to be resonably discreet, department stores were always willing to allow fitting rooms (also good for bottle fed babies that need a quiet spot!), malls have mommy-baby rooms for nursing and changing, restaurants have corner booths.  I never had an issue where I couldn't find somewhere atleast semi-private.  As natural as nursing is, our culture isn't ready for people to be walking around half topless and nursing.  As much as we expect respect for nursing our children, we should respect others as well.  Balance people!

That nursing tent would be a good idea, in my opinion and I could see expanding the idea to include others that need privacy and such (people needing injections for medical reasons, needing a cool place due to medical reasons, baby changing in a comfortable area, etc) add in water (disposable cups, water cooler or something) I would be willing to pay 10 for a weekend for acess simply for diaper changing.

Jade
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Gwen aka Punstergal on June 28, 2009, 09:31:44 AM
I'm not nursing anymore (the kiddo's two), but I nursed her at faire and I'll admit, I'm probably a little less discreet than most (still, my darlings BIG head covered up more of my breast than half the costumes I've seen people where at TRF!!)

My rule of thumb was, find somewhere COMFORTABLE. Screw hiding in the loo- it's way to hot and nasty in there, for mommy AND the baby. Get comfy, do your business, don't make a big deal about it, and most folk don't even notice that you're nursing at all. When someone does- smile. Mostly, they keep walking. In the odd case that someone just HAS to stop and ogle, I'd make wisecracks- "Just stopping for a nip, girl's got herself a drinkin' habit she does".
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: HawkMom on June 28, 2009, 04:09:38 PM
I see no problem with nursing in public.  But, the curious stares and the 'freak out' factor makes it very uncomfortable for some women and babies.  One agricultural fair I work at has a 'nursing mothers lounge' next to the womens room and dairy barns (sort of makes sense). 

A friend of ours was telling us that in many countries there are still professional 'wet nurses'.  Women who breast feed many babies during their lifetime that are not their own.  His wife was from a Southeastern Asian country (I don't remember which) and her mother was a wet nurse for years.  Advantages to mom as well as babies:  Works as a contraceptive (well most of the time), and my favorite side effect:  NO MENSTRUAL CYCLES!!!

A New England friend of mine told me she loved nursing her son until about 2.5 years of age.  She loved the closeness, the convienence, and best of all no f****ng periods!!!   She had to quit when her son got into the terrible twos and would not take no for an answer for a request for 'mommy milk' during a dinner party.  Her son, being a typical two year old tore her shirt open saying "I WANT MILK NOW!!!". So, he was immediately weaned. 
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: dbaldock on June 28, 2009, 04:28:01 PM
While not at faire, there was a young mother nursing her infant son in the cafe at Fry's Electronics (near NASA) here in Houston a couple of weeks ago.  She was over in one corner with a baby blanket over her shoulder covering the baby while he had lunch.  Then she put him in his car-seat/carrier in the shopping basket and continued her shopping.  All very low key and relaxed, and nobody seemed to be paying any attention.  I wouldn't have noticed if I had just been walking through the cafe, but I was sitting in the opposite corner eating lunch and happened to be looking around at the other customers.

Take Care,
David Baldock
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: FortuneRose on July 01, 2009, 11:43:48 AM
Thank you all for your responses.  This year we won't have the nursing factor as my son decided he was no longer interested at 13 months (now 18 months) but I did nurse him last year.  Most of the time I just found a shaded tree to sit under and actually used a large skirt that I didn't want to wear layered any longer and kind of tented us a bit.  Not enough to fully cover his body because, good blazes, it was hot! Just enough to give us both a bit of privacy.  Other times I did walk with him cradled and just used a very light lace-like receiving blanket to cover part of my shoulder. 

After having dealt with this subject, I still feel the same as before....  If you don't want to see me nurse my child... turn your head and find another pair of tatas without a child attached to stare at (cause lord knows, there are TONS of them at the festival and many are more distracting than my child adorned ones)   This is not to say I am telling women to run around with their top completely off or any such nature, but if you don't want to use a blanket, so be it.  I understand, its HOT!   I think I also felt more comfortable because I had my hubby with me and it wouldn't have been wise for a drunken person (or otherwise) to oogle with him around.


Thanks again, guys, for all your responses though.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on July 01, 2009, 07:27:26 PM
Reading this helps cause My little one is due in August and I will be taking him to fair TRF and I will be Nursing him. Thankfully I know people with shops and places I could go and sit with the little one.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on March 27, 2010, 02:46:14 AM
I breastfeed him at TRF and I will do it again at Scarby
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on September 13, 2010, 10:02:02 PM
well Scarby went good and now TRF is coming back up and i am still nursing him this should be fun :)
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: LadyFae on September 13, 2010, 10:20:17 PM
Labor Day weekend at MNRF I ended up nursing the baby a few times.  I made my nobles gown this year to easily hook and unhook in the front for ease of access (thought one day I boosted the girls up enough that all I had to do was pull down my chemise a bit, but I digress.)  I found a nice flat rock to sit on a couple of the times and covered her a bit with my hanging sleeves.  Worked perfectly.  =)  I did see one gal nursing her son as she walked around with her group.  I am pretty sure most people didn't have a clue that she was breastfeeding- it just looked like the baby was sleeping.  I've done that in the past so I'm all for doing whatever you need to and whatever works!  =D
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on September 13, 2010, 10:28:14 PM
I nursed him at scarby and almost everyone thought that he was asleep so if you know how to wear them the right way you can get away with it and no one knows and still do what you need to do.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Becky10 on September 13, 2010, 10:34:42 PM
As my sociology professor says "milk producing, life sustaining breasts!"  

That's what they're there for and I dont see why mothers should hide in uncomfortable corners or in bathrooms (no way!) because they've been hyper-sexualized by wiggy individuals, especially at faire where it seems just about everyone has everything hanging out. Some people just need to get their perspectives straightened out. I don't have kids and don't really want them but fully respect  and understand nursing mothers.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: LadyFae on September 13, 2010, 10:37:48 PM
Thank you Becky.  I love when non-parents understand!  =) 
LadyKat- I know exactly what you mean!  I've nursed my girls while walking through Target many a time and SO many times people want to come see the sleeping baby!  Even then some haven't realized what was REALLY going on!  LOL!
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on September 13, 2010, 10:41:24 PM
 for all nursing moms out there Thank you

I keep getting hey he is 1 now when are you going to stop?
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: THELADYKAT on September 13, 2010, 10:46:03 PM
Quote from: LadyFae on September 13, 2010, 10:37:48 PM
Thank you Becky.  I love when non-parents understand!  =) 
LadyKat- I know exactly what you mean!  I've nursed my girls while walking through Target many a time and SO many times people want to come see the sleeping baby!  Even then some haven't realized what was REALLY going on!  LOL!

right then you are like um he is not sleeping  :)
oooo

I had a old lady at trf last year who was grabbing at his foot and talking about how sweet and her daughter and her daughter keep trying to tell her the baby was nursing
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: Shandi on September 14, 2010, 08:09:30 AM
There is nothing wrong with breast feeding, some discreation is needed.
My story :)
My very shy husband and I had just done a puppet show on the beach of a lake at a SCA event many years ago when this lady comes up with a 5 or 6 year old child, the woman isn't wearing much as it was. The little boy crawled into her lap and and took out the breast and began nursing all the while cuddling with her other breast. My hubby turned so red I thought he was about to pass out. He was mortified and the lady just kept chatting with him and all he wanted to do was run away, he's a gentleman and continued to listen to her talk as he looked anywhere but at her. I still giggle at his response. I still think breast feeding a child that has a full set of teeth is really pushing it, there is a time to wean them.
Title: Re: Nursing While At Faire
Post by: LadyFae on September 14, 2010, 10:23:42 AM
Quote from: Shandi on September 14, 2010, 08:09:30 AM
There is nothing wrong with breast feeding, some discreation is needed.
My story :)
My very shy husband and I had just done a puppet show on the beach of a lake at a SCA event many years ago when this lady comes up with a 5 or 6 year old child, the woman isn't wearing much as it was. The little boy crawled into her lap and and took out the breast and began nursing all the while cuddling with her other breast. My hubby turned so red I thought he was about to pass out. He was mortified and the lady just kept chatting with him and all he wanted to do was run away, he's a gentleman and continued to listen to her talk as he looked anywhere but at her. I still giggle at his response. I still think breast feeding a child that has a full set of teeth is really pushing it, there is a time to wean them.

I'm with you all all counts here.  And oh, your poor hubby!  LOL!  Good for him, though, for making it through!  =)