Mamas Connect
Overview
Mamas Connect was my capstone project at Epicodus, created as part of a 6-month intensive Javascript, CSS, and Design program. As one of my earliest prototypes, it reflects my initial exploration of UX design and front-end development.
The goal was to design a platform that addressed a common challenge for new moms: feeling isolated and seeking nonjudgmental, supportive connections. The app aimed to foster both online and in-person communities by featuring a messaging center, a blog, and a live calendar of local meetups and kid-friendly events.
Research & User Stories
To ensure the platform met real user needs, I began by conducting research with new moms, defined as parents with at least one child under the age of 3. This included in-person interviews and online surveys, focusing on their top needs, media consumption preferences, and ideal product features.
Based on the insights gathered, I developed three User Personas: the Power User, the Casual User, and the Mama Mentor. These personas helped guide the design process and ensure the platform catered to a range of user goals and behaviors.
Wireframes & Prototyping
I started by sketching wireframes with pencil and paper, focusing on simplicity and usability. Each screen was designed to serve one primary task, ensuring a clear and intuitive user experience. I then translated these sketches into digital wireframes using Sketch and created an interactive prototype in InVision. The prototype included all main screens, from account creation and login to the messaging center and event calendar.
Below are the original wireframes and website mockups. I used Sketch for prototype design and Angular and Firebase for development.
Style Guide
To create a welcoming and modern aesthetic, I developed a style guide with a warm color palette, approachable typography, and custom icons and illustrations. These elements were designed to evoke a sense of carefree joy and community, aligning with the platform’s mission to support new moms.
Key Takeaways
Mamas Connect was a formative project in my design journey, marking one of my first attempts at combining UX research, visual design, and front-end development. While it was an early prototype, it taught me the importance of user-centered design, iterative prototyping, and the power of design to address real-world challenges. Looking back, I’m proud of how this project laid the foundation for my growth as a designer and developer.
