Tips and Tricks for Designing Your Baby Nursery

Welcoming a tiny human into your life can feel daunting and amazing all at the same time. Creating your baby's nursery doesn't have to be complicated. The most important thing is to create a space that invites you and your baby to relax and enjoy. After all, you will be spending lots of time in there together. Not sure how to get started, and have fun while doing it? Here are some tips and tricks....

-DECIDE WHAT KIND OF VIBE YOU WANT... Do you want the room to feel light, minimal, and soft? Bright, loud, and playful? Feminine, masculine, or gender neutral? Spend some time on Pinterest to see what styles you are drawn to. Start with color inspiration, and make a pinterest board of your own to collect ideas.

- SETTLE ON A BUDGET...Whether you are wanting low or high end, it is helpful to know how much you would like to spend before making furniture and decor selections. You can even create a spreadsheet to keep track of your spending as you plan and purchase each item.

-PICK OUT A RUG...A rug will add a lot of personality to the space. If you have wood flooring, opt for something plush and/or soft. It will be a cozy space for your baby as he/she learns to sit/crawl/and walk. If you have carpet, opt for a flat weave. It can add color to the room without too much bulk.

-NEXT, THE CRIB...Making the crib your investment piece for the room is always a good idea. Safety standards have evolved over time, so it's not an item to buy vintage or bring back your own from childhood. Some thing to consider when selecting a crib is if you want one that you can eventually convert into a toddler/full size bed. Going gender neutral may be helpful too, if you are planning on having another baby in the near future. Pick a crib that suits your personal taste and style.

-SELECT THE REMAINING FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE NEEDED...Crib mattress, bedding (soft to the touch is best), dresser/changing table (a regular dresser with a changing pad that can be added on top, or a freestanding changing table will do), storage (open bins and baskets for blankets, books, toys, etc., wall shelves for supplies that need to stay out of baby's reach), cozy lighting for nighttime (a night light or lamp), curtains (blackout shades are nice for darkening the room at nap time).

THE NURSERY CHAIR...Chances are, you will spend most of your time in the chair that you choose. You'll sit here to rock, feed, read, laugh, maybe cry your eyes out at 3 AM, cuddle, and sing to your little one. It will be an important place for bonding. Choose a chair with arm rests, one that is roomy enough for when your baby reaches toddlerhood and still wants to cuddle up on your lap. This is an item that you could buy new to pass down as a family heirloom, or shop vintage/used and repurpose. Consider placing a small table nearby to hold your things and/or a lamp, and don't forget an ottoman, so you can put your tired feet up and take a rest. Also, a blanket nearby so you can get really cozy.

REMEMBER, THERE ARE NO RULES YOU MUST FOLLOW WHEN DESIGNING YOUR NURSERY...there is no "perfect" way to design this space. As long as you love it and it brings you joy, then it's perfect for YOU and your baby...your little oasis from the outside. Have so much fun decorating, and congratulations on your little one!