Hayley Williamson on Choosing Solo Motherhood, Donor Conception, and Letting Go of the Life She Thought She’d Have

In this episode of Her Kind of Brave, Chloe and Kellie sit down with Hayley Williamson, a photographer and solo mum who chose to have her daughter through donor conception.

Hayley shares the turning point that led her to stop waiting for the “right” partner and start exploring motherhood on her own. She walks through the reality of the donor conception process, including choosing a donor, navigating IUI, and the emotional highs and lows that come with fertility treatment.

This conversation also explores the mental and emotional side of pregnancy and postpartum — including miscarriage, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the pressure of doing it all alone. Hayley speaks openly about the moments that challenged her most, from pregnancy uncertainty to the realities of solo parenting without a partner to share the load.

She also reflects on how becoming a mother shifted her relationship with herself, removed the pressure of finding “the one,” and allowed her to build a life that feels aligned and deeply her own.

Guest Bio: Hayley Williamson is a photographer and the founder of Beloved Stories, where she captures intimate, connected moments for families and mothers.

At 38, Hayley made the decision to become a solo mum through donor conception, welcoming her daughter Nive into the world. Since then, she has navigated the realities of single motherhood alongside running her business, while openly sharing her experience to help other women feel less alone.

Through her story, Hayley offers a grounded and honest perspective on choosing a different path — one shaped by self-trust, resilience, and the willingness to build a life that feels true.

Find her at:

Instagram: @_belovedstories

Website: https://www.belovedstories.au/home

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