I first discovered blogs when I was pregnant with my son. A high-risk pregnancy landed me on bedrest and I was forced to stay connected via the internet. Unlike most moms-to-be, I researched, registered, and shopped online without ever seeing a product. These days, I still do most of my research and shopping online.
During Oscar weekend, I had an opportunity to get an inside look on the ultimate star treatment during Jayneoni Moore’s Pre Oscar Studio. Also known as the Boom Boom Room, this is the ultimate gifting suite for celebrities and their families and featured some of the latest products for moms and tots. During the suite, I had an opportunity to speak with several brand representatives and even managed to get a few items to review. So apart from the fact that these items are deemed “must haves,” I thought I’d share my personal experience for those of you looking for fabulous and functional products.
I’ve attended two other events hosted by Jayneoni Moore, and she truly is the expert on the best products for families. When she’s not planning her hugely popular Hollywood showcases, she’s busy designing childrenswear. Jayneoni Moore New York is “a collection of sophisticated, classic, fashion inspired clothing for little girls sizes 2t to 6t.” While the line has not officially launched, you can see a preview on her site. And…this spring, the style expert is planning to open Plum’s Imaginaporium, “an indoor children’s wonderland playcenter and gorgeous party destination.” I can’t wait to see it!
In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing detailed reviews of some of my favorite companies represented at the event. But here is a preview:
Spanx: I haven’t left the house without shapewear in 3 1/2 years. And while there are dozens of shapewear companies on the market (many of which I’ve reviewed here on my site), I still find Sarah Blakely’s Assets line to be my favorite in terms of comfort and shaping. The company recently launched a swimwear line, complete with built-in shaping to provide control where you need it most. They also have Spanx for Men…I’ll let you read all about that! : ) Review pending.
Baby Gourmet: My daughter is in that in-between phase where she wants to eat “real” food, but isn’t eating enough of it to sustain her. Thus, we’re still mixing it up with baby food. While I’ve dabbled in homemade baby food, I have stopped feeling guilty about using store-bought baby food. My daughter actually doesn’t like most store brands. However, when I gave her one of the purees, she ate about half of it. I think she enjoyed feeding herself, and while it was messy, it kept her entertained. Baby Gourmet’s 100% organic baby food is available in 3 stages and free from added sugar, salt, thickeners, or fillers. It’s only available in Canada at present, but you can order it in bulk online. Review pending.
Playpants: I can’t believe I have yet to get my daughter a pair of bloomers! Playpants are the “original modern bloomers” for children ages 0-3. These Canadian made bloomers are made from 100% cotton, cotton/linen, or 100% GOTS certified organic cotton/recycled hemp, are available in modern prints and solids, and suitable for boys and girls. They’re available in select US boutiques, in Canada, and online. Review pending.
Turtle Toppy: Protect your little ones in style with Turtle Toppy’s stroller and car seat covers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wanted to throw a blanket over my infant daughter to keep her warm and germ-free. Unlike blankets, these covers include a breathable mesh, are available in adorably hip fabrics, and designed to fit car seats and strollers to at T. Review pending.
HippMAMA: I laughed when I heard that Shannon Wyszynski, the creator of The HippMAMA tool belt stuffed pacifiers and cell phones in her bra because I can totally relate! These days, with the scare of breast cancer, I stuff the cell phone elsewhere (as in the black hole that is my purse) but still continue to house the pacifier in my bra, despite the odd stares from strangers. Fortunately, busy moms can have everything at their fingertips with the HippMAMA toolbelt. While I would need a diaper bag for a day out with the kids, the toolbelt is perfect for short trips to the store or the park. Review pending.
School Zone: I truly believe that parents are the best educators of their children. But sometimes, it’s nice to have a little assistance. School Zone has been producing children’s educational products for over thirty years. The company recently added iBook titles for the iPad to their collection of age-appropriate workbooks, software, and flash cards. Review pending.
Dapple: The line of natural-based cleaning products was founded by two moms who wanted an effective solution for cleaning those items that go into a child’s mouth. The entire line of dish, laundry, and toy/surface cleaners are free from phtalates, parabens, dyes, and SLES. Review pending.
Toe Blooms: Dress up those adorable tootsies with the perfect accessory! I think Toe Blooms ties for cutest baby product. Wear them on bare feet or over socks. Review pending.
Little Diva Tutus: Every little girl deserves a tutu. And while there are a number of adorable options, none are as moving as those inspired by Layla Grace. Perhaps you followed her story… Her mother designed a bright, colorful layered tutu in celebration of her daughter who lost her battle to cancer. Little Diva Tutus donates $15 for each tutu sold to the Layla Grace Children’s Cancer Research Foundation. Review pending.
Skinfix: Lotions, creams, and pastes are abundant. But Skinfix’s secret formula, comprised of minerals, botanical extracts, vitamins, and other natural ingredients, promises to fix it. Diaper rash? Chapped lips? New tattoo? Skinfix will fix it! Review pending.
Lil Kiddies Creations: The adorable children’s boutique offers custom onesies with original applique, headband and bootie sets. They also offer “Lil Parties” concepts for your child’s next birthday party or special event.
My Little Pony: They’ve undergone a makeover but continue to delight little girls across the country. Children can engage in a world of pretend play by collecting all six friends. Review pending.
Exederm: If your child suffers from eczema, dermatitis or sensitive skin, Exederm may just be the solution. The line, which includes a baby bath, lotion, oil, shampoo, and moisturizer is free from fragrance, parabens, lanolin, dyes, propylene glycol, SLS, and phthalates. Review pending.
PaigeLauren: The ultra comfy, chic children’s wear line features soft fabrics, classic cuts, and a bold palette. Right now, you can save 50-75% off their Fall/Winter line. I spotted dresses for $9.00 and bodysuits/rompers for $7.00. Review pending.
Babybot: With over 1,000 of the trendiest baby products on the market, Babybot seeks to offer a unique shopping experience. The products are modern and beautifully designed. Go ahead and take a peek…you’ll love what you see!
Like Book: I love the idea of a book that tells my child each thing I “like” about him/her. I think children need to hear and see how much we adore them…everything about them…from their laugh to their dimples. The concept is simple, yet profound and the company is aiming to change the world, one “like” at a time. Review pending.
LeapFrog: The “leading designer, developer and marketer of innovative, technology-based educational products” gifted celebrities and their children with the Shapes & Sharing Picnic Basket and Count & Scan Shopper, emphasizing the importance of active, imaginative play.
Cutie Covers: This is no ordinary blanket. These chic, cozy covers keep your baby warm and germ-free. They attach securely to the car seat and can double as a blanker. Review pending.
DiaperBuds: Have children, will travel. These individually wrapped and vacuum sealed diapers fit conveniently into your purse or pocket for those times when you need it most.
Zoe Organics: The company strives to offer products for moms and tots made from pure, organic ingredients. Check out their Baby Balm, which can be used anywhere to help heal dry, chapped skin.
The Sugar Fairy Bakeshop: Who knew that such beautifully handcrafted desserts could melt in your mouth. Their baked goods are made with the freshest ingredients. There is no dieting here!
Wean Green: Carry your tots favorite snack or freeze some of that homemade baby food in their eco-friendly Wean Cubes. Made from 100% recyclable glass, these containers can withstand fire heat and ice!
Colortime: Tired of throwing away your child’s art projects? Check out Colortime’s wearable, usable crafts including backpacks, pillow cases and t-shirts. Tip: This would make a great birthday party activity. Review pending.
Oh Baby: The company’s baby care line includes a lotion, wash, bubble bath, sunscreen and diaper cream made with natural ingredients, including antioxidants, vitamins, and soothing anti-inflammation botanicals.
Lollacup: When it’s time to ditch the bottle, transition your tot to this eco-friendly, valve-free, straw cup, suitable for infants over the age of 9 months. Review pending.
Smart Mom Jewelry: Only a mom could design something as fashionable and functional as teething jewelry. I rarely wear real jewelry for the same reason she developed the line. They’re fashionable, chewable, and most importantly, they stay put! Review.
No compensation was received for this post. I received samples from several of the companies listed above.
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Thank you for including Little Diva Tutus and our very special Layla Grace tutu!
– Melissa
Great list! I’ve never seen a lot of these and i am always hunting for great baby gift ideas for my site.