A Dreamy Space for A Little Dreamer

Nursery Planning & Tips  

1. Start with a Theme & Color Palette

When we began planning, we knew we wanted a theme that reflected our family’s personality and values: a space that's as clean and minimalist as it is empowering, creative, and inspiring to push personal (and global) boundaries. We wanted Sofia surrounded by family photos and books/toys focused on mental and emotional intelligence, as well as healthy physical growth. With every decision I made, I prioritized originality, usability, and safety.

To start things off, I collaborated with Hubble Agency to design a custom wallpaper that beautifully ties together my chosen color palette. If you're interested in doing the same (but different—lol!), feel free to reach out for more details!

Gallery Wall: I bought these white photo frames and printed photos in black & white to hang on top of our custom wall paper.

As you buy things to help the growth of your mini, stay away from things that may do the opposite. I choose not to use a baby swing (which can delay sleep training, as babies should learn to self-soothe), or purchase any toys with batteries (besides the toxicity factor and safety issues, I didn't want my daughter to become dependent on electronics).

2. Focus on Practical & Functional Furniture/Decor

When picking furniture, I learned that functionality is just as crucial as aesthetics, especially if you have the goal to get your baby to sleep 12 hours a day by 12 weeks old (like I did)!

We chose a minimal, clean convertible crib, along with a comfy rocking chair that doubles as a reading nook. 

Crib: We chose a convertible crib that can grow with our daughter. The Storkcraft crib linked is the most affordable option with the best reviews.

Soft, cozy textiles are a must-have in any nursery. From plush rugs to comfy blankets, textiles not only enhance the aesthetic but also create a warm, inviting environment.

Swaddles/Blankets: Kambia Kids swaddles and blankets are equally as useful as they are beautiful. You can save 50% on your swaddle or blanket by using the code NURSERYBLOG at checkout.

Blackout curtains are essential for sleep training—they create the perfect dreamy atmosphere for naps! I always ensure the room is dark, cool (around 68–72°F), and enhanced with a sound machine to set the ideal sleep environment.

3. Embrace Minimalism and Organization

A clean, tidy nursery truly makes a world of difference. While it’s tempting to buy all the gadgets, embracing simplicity will make your life easier—trust me, you’ll appreciate it during those challenging early days! I keep essentials within easy reach, while everything else is neatly stored in a closet or drawer. I love using drawer organizers and adorable storage baskets to keep everything in order! My daughters can easily access their toys, fostering independence while keeping clutter at bay.

Breastfeeding Tip: I keep a mini-fridge and bottle-warmer in the nursery so I don't need to go downstairs at night! I prep bottles the early-evening beforehand, so at night when it's time, we just warm the bottle, feed, burp, change and head back to bed. 

Lastly, one of my favorite organization hacks is to keep the bottom drawer of the changing table free for outgrown clothes. Instead of letting the inevitable piles of outgrown clothes take over the nursery, I dedicated a drawer to them. Kids grow so fast, and having a convenient spot for these clothes really helps keep things tidy and makes life much easier! Whenever you have a free moment to spare, you can gather all those clothes and donate them (or add them to a storage bin for the next mini)!

4. Prioritize Safety

As exciting as creating your nursery is, safety must come first! Ensure that furniture is anchored, cords are out of reach, and materials are non-toxic. Be sure to check your smoke alarms and make sure they're properly working. I even have these ascetically-pleasing fire extinguishers in the laundry room upstairs and pantry downstairs. I use a baby monitor to watch my baby, even while they sleep. Additionally, review the age guidelines on toys. This way, you can rest easy knowing your little explorer is in a safe environment. 

I love how our nursery turned out! You can find all the photos shot by @emilyfurney here!

It’s a joyful space filled with love, warmth, and endless possibilities for play and dreams -- both, the imaginative and the literal kind, when baby is sound asleep. I hope these tips inspire you as you embark on your nursery planning journey. Remember, make part a step towards creating a nurturing environment for your little one to grow and thrive. 

I’d love to hear your favorite nursery hacks and what makes your little one's space special! Let’s share the love and wisdom of parenthood together. Here’s to joyful naps, imaginative play, and endless cuddles! Stay tuned for more Kambia Kids adventures—until next time!