WHAT EVERY EVENT PLANNER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LACTATION SPACES

Discover the essentials for making your event truly inclusive for mothers and families.

When planning an event, inclusivity often focuses on accessibility, diverse programming, and dietary needs—but one area that’s still overlooked is providing adequate lactation spaces for nursing mothers. A well-designed lactation space is more than a logistical checkbox; it’s a statement that your event values every attendee’s comfort, dignity, and ability to fully participate.

An effective lactation space should be private, clean, and welcoming. The design should reflect your event’s commitment to care, using thoughtful touches such as comfortable seating, climate control, electrical outlets, and surfaces for personal items. Accessibility is key—whether you’re hosting indoors or outdoors, the space should be easy to locate without navigating through crowded or disruptive areas. Clear signage and inclusion in event maps make the experience seamless for attendees.

Functionality also matters. A good lactation space accommodates different needs—nursing, pumping, and storage. This means adequate lighting, refrigeration, proper lighting, and a quiet environment away from excessive noise. For larger events, consider multiple units or spaces to ensure minimal wait times and reduce stress for mothers who may be on a tight schedule.

Compliance and Care

Beyond comfort, there’s the important matter of legal compliance. Many regions have laws requiring lactation accommodations, and not meeting these can result in penalties or reputational damage. By proactively providing compliant spaces, private, shielded from view, and free from intrusion, you protect your organization and build goodwill.

Partnering with a provider like MilkSpace® can simplify this process. Our mobile, turnkey units meet federal and state breastfeeding accommodation requirements, ensuring mothers have a safe and dignified place, whether your event is a one-day festival or a multi-day conference.

Experience and Engagement

In addition to meeting legal and logistical needs, lactation spaces create opportunities for engagement. By branding the space with your logo or sponsor messaging, you show that your organization or partners value family-friendly experiences. This can foster lasting connections and positive word-of-mouth among attendees.

Including lactation spaces in your planning also sends a broader cultural message—that your event is a place where every voice and every need matters. This resonates with not just mothers, but with families, colleagues, and communities who value inclusivity.