Kendall Long Reflects on Her First Mother’s Day: 'Motherhood Has Transformed Me in Ways I Never Expected'

In her mama era.

Bachelor Nation star Kendall Long Sagely introduced fans to her partner Mitchell Sagely in 2022, and the two got engaged in 2023.

The two have since gotten married and welcomed their first child together, daughter Elise, earlier this year. 

Now, Kendall is sitting down for an exclusive interview with BachelorNation.com about her first ever Mother’s Day and what it means for her to be a mom.

We are so happy for Kendall and we’re wishing her and all the other mamas out there the happiest Mother’s Day.

Check out our full interview with Kendall below.

Bachelor Nation: Hi Kendall! First of all, congrats on your beautiful baby girl and happy first Mother’s Day. We are so happy for you and your family. What has life been like since welcoming your daughter?

Kendall Sagely: Thank you so much! Life has been wonderfully chaotic since welcoming Elise! Having a newborn is already a full-time job, but we added a little extra excitement by buying a home at the same time. I was literally signing the papers while I was in labor at the hospital! Between caring for a newborn and diving into renovation projects, our hands (and hearts) are full. It’s a lot, but we’re so grateful and excited to create a space where Elise can grow up and make lasting memories.

BN: Yes, that is a lot all at once, even more to celebrate! What has surprised you most about motherhood?

KS: I always knew motherhood would be a lot of work, but wow, it truly is a full-time job in every sense! What’s surprised me the most, though, is just how much I’ve come to rely on and admire my husband, Mitch, through it all. I always knew he’d be a great dad, but seeing him in action has blown me away. He’s so hands-on and so natural with our daughter. It melts my heart watching them bond. It’s been such a beautiful surprise to fall even more in love with him through this journey.

BN: That is so beautiful and wonderful to hear. Do you have a favorite part of being a mom so far?

KS: My favorite part of motherhood so far has been watching Elise grow and discover the world around her. Every day she learns something new, and it’s incredible to see little pieces of me and my husband in her, whether it’s in her expressions or the way her personality is starting to shine through. It’s amazing to realize she’s becoming her own little person, and I’m constantly in awe of how much love I have for her.

BN: What a special, magical journey it is! How would you say motherhood has changed you?

KS: In a beautiful and unexpected way, motherhood has brought me a deep sense of peace. It feels like I’ve stepped into the role I was always meant for. I’ve always known I wanted to be a mother, and now that I am, everything just feels right — like my purpose has become crystal clear.

BN: Kendall! You’re going to make us cry! Now, if we weren’t emotional enough, what milestones are you looking forward to as Elise grows?

KS: Everyone always says babies grow up so fast, so I’ve really tried to slow down and celebrate all the little milestones along the way. Right now, Elise is starting to make all kinds of new sounds, and I’m so excited for that magical moment when she lets out her very first laugh. She already smiles when we make silly animal noises. It’s honestly the cutest thing ever! So I know that giggle is just around the corner, and I can’t wait!

BN: It’s the absolute cutest! What does being a mom mean to you?

KS: Being a mom means everything to me! It’s about unconditional love, patience, and the joy of watching your child grow into their own person. It’s a role that challenges me, inspires me, and fills my life with so much purpose. It’s of course not always easy, but every moment, big or small, feels incredibly meaningful. It’s such an honor to be a guiding hand, a safe place, and a constant source of love.

BN: She is so lucky to have you as her mom. What is your proudest moment as a mom so far?

KS: Elise is almost 2 months old, and one of my proudest moments so far has been watching her become so engaged with the world around her. She’s starting to lock eyes with us and make the sweetest little sounds like she’s really trying to communicate. Sometimes it even feels like she’s trying to mimic our voices, which is just incredible to witness. Seeing her connect with us in those early, intentional ways fills me with so much pride and awe.

BN: How sweet! And as a parent, what do you hope to teach your daughter?

KS: One of the things I’m most excited to share with Elise is my love for the natural world! Anyone who knows me knows how much I nerd out on bugs, animals, and plants, and I can’t wait to pass that wonder on to her. I picture us exploring the garden together, pointing out insects, walking along the beach to discover tide pools, and making countless visits to the natural history museum. My hope is that she grows up with a deep curiosity and appreciation for nature, just like her mama!

BN: Oh, we cannot wait to see the two of you enjoy nature together. Do you have any advice for fellow new parents or parents-to-be?

KS: The best advice I can give to fellow new parents is to stay present. It’s so easy to get caught up in the to-do lists and daily chaos, but don’t let those tasks steal the little moments that really matter. Be patient with your baby, and with yourself. I’ve learned to give myself grace and accept that life moves more slowly right now and that’s actually such a gift. These early days are fleeting, and the magic is often found in the quiet, simple moments we might otherwise overlook.

BN: That is great advice! We all could slow down and enjoy the little moments a bit more. Thank you so much for chatting with us, Kendall. We so appreciate your time, we know how busy it is as a new mama! And happy Mother’s Day!