From nursery essentials to hospital bag saviours, Melbourne-based stylist and soon-to-be mum of three Sarah Pickersgill-Brown shares her tips for preparing for the arrival of your little bundle of joy.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or have little ones at home, preparing for a new baby is one of the most exciting (and overwhelming) experiences that absorbs your thoughts for the better of nine months. Ahead of the birth of her third child, Sarah Pickersgill-Brown shares her insights on how to make bub’s arrival as seamless as possible. From the softest clothes to time-saving appliances, here is the best way to welcome your newest bundle of joy.
Little outfits for your little bundle of joy
When choosing clothes for little ones, opt for breathable and stretchy fabrics that are made to move. Organic cotton rompers, sets and accessories from David Jones Collection and Grown will keep bub cool and ultra-comfy – perfect for everyday exploring. Fill mini wardrobes with playful prints and oh-so-cute hats, shoes and socks to accompany them on all their adventures.
“I’ve slowed right down and really tried to savour each stage as much as I can and not rush the time away. Mentally I’ve been able to relax so much more without worrying about doing every little thing perfectly.”
Sarah Pickersgill-Brown on her second pregnancy.
Rock-a-bye baby
Set your bub up for sweet dreams with a kitted-out nursery that’s equal parts functional and comfortable. For Sarah, the ultimate nursery is a multipurpose space with room for sleeping, changing, feeding and playing. “My nursery essentials are a cot with a matching dresser/change table filled with nappies and creams in the drawers. And, of course, teeny, tiny baby clothes folded in drawers or hung,” says Sarah.
Plush furnishings and accessories in a dreamy palette will bring warmth and comfort to the room – essential for late-night feeds and restless bubs.
“A mother’s intuition is an amazing thing and rather than comparing your experience of motherhood to other first-time mums, talk to your own mum or trusted friends if you need advice. Comparison is the thief of joy and the more you can avoid comparison, the more joyful the early days of motherhood will be. And be kind to yourself, in all areas.”
Sarah Pickersgill-Brown on her advice for first-time mums.
Pack your bags
From bub’s first outfit to the staples that will make you feel at home, prepare for your bundle of joy by packing your hospital bag with comfort in mind. For a bag that delivers on both practicality and style, Sarah loves Prene’s The Sunday Neoprene Tote Bag – a three-piece set with ample room for all the essentials (plus a few little luxuries).
Airy light pieces for mum and the little one will keep you both cool and relaxed, while luxurious robes, blankets and beanies can be layered for extra comfort. Ultra-soft outfits designed for cuddles are perfect for the precious first moments between mum and baby.
“In my hospital bag, I’m packing underwear including comfortable nursing bras, beautiful pyjamas, toiletries, and something comfortable, that I feel great in, to wear home.”
Sarah Pickersgill-Brown on her hospital bag essentials.
Spoil mum and bub
When it comes to shopping for a new parent and their bundle of joy, think of thoughtful and practical gifts that will make a difference in their day. Whether it’s an Ergobaby Carrier made for on-the-go adventures, a Skip Hop Activity Centre designed for play or the littlest clothes that deliver on cute and comfort, opt for treasures that they’ll turn to every day. Snuggly toys are also sure-fire favourites, bound to become bub’s new best friends.
If you’re overwhelmed by options, give them the gift of choice with a David Jones Gift Card. “I’d recommend a voucher to David Jones with all the beautiful baby brands because shopping for darling little baby clothes is so much fun. I always think of vouchers as being the gift of guilt-free shopping,” says Sarah. Discover more baby shower gift ideas and get inspiration for your bundle of joy with our Babyshower Gifting Guide edit.
