GCM Mom: Meet Lauren Holder
This week we're excited to introduce you to Lauren Holder, a Gulf Coast mama, children's author, and soon-to-be mom of two! Lauren calls Long Beach home, where she's embracing the beautifully chaotic season of raising little ones while preparing to welcome another baby in just a few weeks. Between chasing a toddler, writing books, and soaking up every moment with family, she's proof that motherhood is equal parts messy, meaningful, and full of joy.
After leaving her full-time job earlier this year to stay home with her daughters, Lauren has been pouring her heart into her lifelong passion for writing. Her very first children's book is about to be published—a dream she's been sharing with the world since May. When she's not writing or spending time with her family, she helps part-time with Events with A. Rose and enjoys encouraging other moms through her journey.
For Lauren, one of the greatest gifts of raising a family on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is the incredible sense of community. She loves that her girls are growing up surrounded by faith, close-knit family, and traditions that have been passed down for generations. One of their favorite places is Madison Farms, where weekends are spent swimming, visiting the animals, gardening, and gathering with loved ones—including her cousin Colt, the inspiration behind her upcoming children's book.
When it comes to local favorites, Lauren has plenty to recommend. You'll likely find her grabbing a Southern Vanilla from Cat Island Coffee or a white chocolate mocha from BankHouse Coffee before stopping by Southern Bagels for what she says are the best bagels on the Coast. She also loves supporting Third Gen Hair Studio, spending time at the newly renovated War Memorial Park, and enjoying the peaceful waterfront views that make the Gulf Coast feel like home.
Lauren believes children thrive with consistency and encourages parents to embrace routines while making time to read together whenever possible. The best parenting advice she's ever received? "It's okay to be a little messy." As a mom in the trenches of toddlerhood with another little one on the way, she knows firsthand that perfection isn't the goal—showing up with love is.
If she ever gets a rare kid-free Saturday, Lauren isn't overthinking it—a full spa day with a manicure, pedicure, and a little relaxation is at the top of her list.
Above all, Lauren says she's grateful for the little life she's built and for her husband, who continually goes above and beyond to support their growing family. We can't wait to cheer her on as she officially becomes a published author, and we're so excited to feature her as this week's GCM Mom!
Follow Lauren's journey:
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/LaurenHolderWrites/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenholderwrites
Thanks for getting to know this week's GCM Mom!
We're so grateful to Lauren for sharing a glimpse into her family, her heart for motherhood, and her exciting journey to becoming a published children's author.
Looking for more inspiring local moms, family-friendly adventures, and Gulf Coast resources? Be sure to explore our other GCM Mom Features, browse our Family Fun guides, and check out our latest local events happening all along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. You never know—you might just discover your family's next favorite outing or meet another incredible Coast mama along the way!
