Meet the Founder Behind Lunnie, Pretty and Powerful Postpartum Nursing Bras
Sarah Kallile is no stranger to bad nursing bras, in fact, she created her own iteration after not being able to find what she wanted in the market. Today, we got the chance to speak with this mother of 3 and inventor behind the Lunnie nursing bra, what we’re deeming the perfect bra for new breastfeeding mothers. Lunnie has recently been restocked after selling out of their first run, so get yours now at lunnie.com.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m a mom to three girls - ages 4, 2 and 3 months. I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. Before starting Lunnie, I spent the majority of my career working in marketing at early-stage tech startups in San Francisco and Seattle.
My husband and I moved to Dayton, OH five years ago for a work opportunity and started our family here. My California girl roots definitely show in the winter time as I’m still afraid of driving in snow!
Outside of my family and work (95% of time), I love spending time with girlfriends, reading books, and watching Seinfeld reruns.
Can you share the story of Lunnie? The process to creating the bra, your design inspo, etc?
While breastfeeding my daughter, I felt frustrated with my frumpy nursing bra and how it functioned. I wanted a better alternative that was chic and leakproof. I asked friends and searched online. But I couldn't find what I was looking for.
Because of my startup background, I wanted more data. I sent a survey to fellow moms to gather their insights on nursing bras. Within days, I received hundreds of responses. My findings concluded that 84% of moms are dissatisfied with their nursing bra! This problem isn’t unique to me - it’s a universal pain point.
These initial survey respondents became the early members of my Lunnie Hive community and product testers. I created the very first nursing bra prototype with the help of my mom Sue, a former seamstress and garment industry professional. Over the course of a year, I iterated and tested six prototypes before nailing the final design. I always describe Lunnie as a community-led brand as these moms truly informed every aspect of this bra to perfection.
What makes Lunnie different from other nursing bras?
Lunnie has a sewn-in leakproof layer that is up to 6x more absorbent than leading nursing bras and pads. The leakproof layer is very thin and completely invisible to the wearer. The non-removable cups allow for the bra to reshape perfectly with every wash and feed. This functionality is unlike anything on the market. In fact, I’ve filed two patents for it!
In addition to being technically superior, the bra itself is gorgeous. It has a flattering v-neck design, uses soft modal cotton, pretty gold hardware throughout, and no wires for all-day comfort. I love reading moms’ glowing reviews on the Lunnie bra and how it makes them feel good!
I designed this bra while I was breastfeeding my then 5-month-old second daughter. Now I’m nursing in it everyday with my 3-month-old third daughter. I can confidently say the Lunnie bra stands up to the wear test and beating that nursing bras receive, without compromising form or function. I’ve never had a leak show through. And I feel amazing wearing it!
As a startup founder, we imagine life is busy, what does a typical day look like for you?
Since my youngest daughter is only 3 months old, I’m usually up 1-2 times nursing her during the night. When I wake up, I drink coffee first thing! I get my girls breakfast and ready for the day and drop my 4-year-old off at preschool. I have a babysitter over 3-4 mornings a week while I get Lunnie work done and have meetings. Then I’m back to preschool pickup. I devote my afternoons and evenings to my girls. After bedtime, I check back on work and try to tie up loose ends for the day.
It’s not perfect and many days can be overwhelming, especially as a solo entrepreneur. But I’m slowly figuring out ways to delegate and get more help.
You just had your third baby. How is it the third time around? Any advice for new moms?
Just when you think you know it all as a third-time mom, these babies know how to humble you! My third daughter had colic for the first two months which was a new experience for us. I also had two bouts of mastitis. It was a rough start!
But having been through the newborn experience before, I know everything is a phase and nothing lasts forever. When things feel overwhelming, I try to remind myself to take things one day at a time.
Another change this time is I’m more appreciative of the amazing things my body is doing rather than obsessing about losing baby weight quickly. I’m still wearing maternity clothes and will be for awhile - and that’s perfectly normal! After all, this body grew, birthed, and breastfed 3 babies in 4 years. That’s the REAL pretty + powerful.
What’s next for Lunnie?
After selling out my first production run, I’m excited to share that the Lunnie nursing bras are finally back in stock!
My goal for 2023 is to expand my inventory line, as well as add team members. As a female founder, I make it a priority to work with other women and working moms whenever possible.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
One of the best things about starting Lunnie is meeting other inspiring moms and female entrepreneurs. Taking the first step in starting Lunnie was the absolute hardest part. But once I did, I was amazed at the generosity of this Lunnie Hive community and greater female founder community. I truly wouldn’t be here without the support of other women and I’m forever grateful for that!
You can follow along on Lunnie’s journey by following them on Instagram @lunniehive.