Congratulations to political journalist Jessica Mutch-McKay and her husband, Iain McKay, who welcomed a baby girl into the world on the night of Halloween.
Jessica presented her “Halloween treat” to her followers on social media today with a gorgeous photo of herself holding her baby, which she captioned: “Welcome to the world little Margaux McKay.
“A Halloween treat born on the 31st of October at 6.58pm – just in time for a breaking news banner. We are smitten. Photo captured by her Dad basking in a rare glimpse of Wellington sun.”
The name Margaux is of French origin and means ‘pearl’.
Wee Margaux arrived fairly promptly after Wellington-based Jessica went on maternity leave at 38 weeks.
The political journalist told Woman’s Day earlier this month that along with the trademark nausea, tiredness and discomfort that comes with pregnancy, hers had been made memorable by media scrums in the halls of Parliament, chasing less-than-accommodating MPs down corridors, and trying to keep her 10-week pregnancy a secret during an intense work trip to China surrounded by annoyingly observant journalist pals.
“Broadcast journalism is definitely an interesting career choice during the various stages of pregnancy,” Jessica joked.
Jessica and her “hipster bodyguard” hubby, diplomatic protection officer Iain McKay, got married just over a year ago and had been hopeful of getting pregnant quickly.
“We felt it was time for a baby,” Jessica shared. “I’m 35 and you don’t know how long these things take. Thankfully, everything went to plan. It’s much easier for us to have a baby in a non-election year!”
Jessica and Iain found out they were expecting just before Jessica flew out to China in March, to accompany Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her delegation on a trade visit.
The happy couple had been excited to meet their baby and now that she’s here, they’re nothing short of smitten.
