From decorating the nursery to getting all the key kit, making sure you’ve got everything ready for your baby’s impending arrival can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. If you’re expecting and are not sure where to start, read on… 

GIVE THE HIGH STREET A MISS  

Let’s face it, traipsing around busy shops when you’re pregnant isn’t very enjoyable. However, ordering the bigger things like a pram or a cot online can seem like a risk. Luckily (thanks to the wonders of technology!), there is now a much smarter way to shop. Well-loved baby retailer Stokke has launched a clever new service that allows you to skip the puffy ankles, whilst also removing the uncertainty of online shopping. The ‘Stokke Virtual Showroom’ gives you the experience of shopping in-store without having to get up off your sofa or schedule an appointment, which simply is a luxury these days. All you need to do is click the ‘Shop Live’ button on their site and one of their product experts will live video call you, ready to demo the products you really need to see before committing to buy. And no, you won’t need to change out of your trackies or sort out your messy mum-bun, as you don’t have to enable your camera if you don’t want to.

GET AS MUCH ADVICE AS YOU CAN

If this is your first baby, it can be difficult to predict which items you’ll really need and what could end up just being a waste of money. Ask friends who are parents what they got the most use out of and what is just gathering dust in a cupboard or draw. Thinking about your lifestyle is key here, so before you purchase a big item make a checklist of essential features that it has to have (for example, does your stroller need a big basket for trips to the shops – or good suspension for off-road walks?). This is when speaking to a product expert with in-depth knowledge at a brand like Stokke can really come in handy.

BUY THE BIGGER ITEMS IN ONE PLACE

It can be tempting to shop around, but purchasing everything for your baby in one place has some big advantages. Firstly, once you find a brand that you like and trust, it saves a lot of time that could be better spent resting and nesting. Secondly, it ensures that all of your baby kit will work together (for example, you’ll need to make sure your car seat fits your stroller frame if you’re investing in a travel system). Stokke has everything from cots to high chairs and strollers and can hold your hand through the whole shopping process with their ‘Virtual Showroom’ service.

MAKE THE INVESTMENT ITEMS COUNT

It can be hard to think past the newborn phase when you’re expecting, but little ones really do grow so fast. Look for items that are multi-functional and also grow with your child. This will ensure you get your money’s worth and it’s better for the environment too. Design classics like the Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair can be used from birth all the way into adulthood – so are really worth investing in. It’s surprising how many big items you often can’t use anymore once your baby is past six months of age, so do your research before you buy.

KEEP IT FUN

Preparing for your baby’s arrival can be stressful – with never-ending to-do lists and things to get ready. Remember it’s a special and exciting time, so it’s important to enjoy it! Ask for help if you need it – as clever short-cuts like Stokke’s ‘Virtual Showroom’ service can really take the load off.