10 Tips for Creating a Beautiful Nursery for Your Newborn

As a maternity and newborn photographer in the Baltimore, MD, area, I have seen many mommas creating beautiful nurseries throughout the years. Some have been simple and practical, while others have been extravagant and full of decorations. However, all of them have one thing in common – they were created with love and care for the new little bundle of joy. In this blog post, I will share with you my top 10 tips for creating a beautiful nursery for your newborn. Whether you are a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Start with a Theme or Color Scheme

Before you start buying furniture and decorations, it’s important to decide on a theme or color scheme for your nursery. This will help you create a cohesive look and ensure that everything matches. Some popular themes for nurseries include animals, nature, and sports. If you prefer a more subtle approach, you can choose a color scheme and incorporate it into your decor. For example, if you want a calming nursery, you may choose shades of blue or green. Once you have a theme or color scheme in mind, you can start shopping for furniture and decorations that fit the look you want to achieve.

When choosing a theme or color scheme, it’s important to think about the future as well. Your baby will grow up quickly, and you don’t want to choose something that they will outgrow in a year or two. Choose a theme or color scheme that can grow with your child and that you won’t tire of seeing every day.

Invest in Quality Furniture

The nursery is where you and your baby will spend a lot of time, so it’s important to invest in quality furniture. This includes a crib, changing table, and dresser. Look for furniture that is sturdy and well-made, as it will last longer and be safer for your baby. It’s also a good idea to choose furniture that can be converted as your child grows. For example, a crib that can be converted into a toddler bed and/or full bed will save you money in the long run. Also, make sure to choose furniture that is made from non-toxic materials and has no sharp edges or corners.

When you are shopping for furniture, don’t forget about storage. You will need plenty of space to store diapers, clothes, and toys. Look for furniture that has built-in storage, such as drawers under the crib or a bookshelf that doubles as a toy box.

Add Personal Touches

A nursery should be a reflection of your personality and style. Adding personal touches to your baby’s nursery will make it feel more special and unique. This could include family photos, a special blanket, or a handmade mobile. You can also create a gallery wall with your favorite portrait of your baby, or even artwork. You can add a few of your favorite children’s books. These little touches make the nursery feel more like home.

Choose Soft Lighting

The lighting in your nursery is important for creating a calm and soothing atmosphere. Soft lighting can help your baby feel more relaxed and make it easier for them to fall asleep. Look for lamps or light fixtures that have dimmer switches, so you can adjust the lighting as needed. You can also add some twinkle lights or a nightlight for a cozy feel. 

When choosing lighting for your nursery, think about the different types of lighting you will need. You will need bright lighting for changing diapers and soft lighting for feeding and bedtime. Look for lighting that is both functional and beautiful.

Don’t Forget About the Walls

The walls in your nursery are a blank canvas that you can use to create a beautiful and welcoming space for your baby. There are many ways to decorate your walls, from paint and wallpaper to decals and artwork. You can hang portraits of your maternity photos and newborn photos in the nursery as well. When choosing wall decor, think about the overall theme or color scheme of your nursery. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of decor to create a unique and beautiful space.

Add Comfortable Seating

You will spend a lot of time in your baby’s nursery, so it’s important to have comfortable seating. This could include a rocking chair, glider, or comfortable armchair. Many moms like a stool to use with the chair in the nursery, for comfort while feeding baby. Look for seating that is comfortable and supportive, as you may be spending a lot of time sitting in it.

When choosing seating for your nursery, think about the different types of activities you will be doing. You will need a comfortable place to feed your baby, rock them to sleep, and read stories. Look for seating that is versatile and comfortable.

Keep Safety in Mind

Safety should always be a top priority when creating a nursery for your baby. There are many safety guidelines that you should follow when choosing furniture and decorations for your nursery. For example, you should make sure that your crib meets current safety standards and that the mattress fits snugly. You should also avoid using bumper pads, as they can be a suffocation hazard, and avoid using window blinds with cords. Also,  make sure to secure all furniture to the walls. Following safety guidelines will help keep your baby safe and give you peace of mind.

Create a Functional Layout

The layout of your nursery is important for creating a functional space. You will need to think about where to place the crib, changing table, and other furniture. It’s also a good idea to create a designated space for diaper changing and feeding.

For example, you could place the crib near the window to allow for natural light, and place the changing table and dresser near the closet for easy access to clothes and diapers. You could also create a cozy corner with a bookshelf and glider for reading stories.

Have Fun!

Creating a nursery for your baby should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, themes, and decor. This is your chance to create a space that is both functional and beautiful. When designing your nursery, have fun with it! This is your chance to create a space that reflects your personality and style. Many parents dream of creating a nursery one day, and now is your chance! 

In conclusion, creating  a beautiful nursery for your newborn can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options and ideas out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. But fear not, with these tips, you can create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Then you can sit back in that glider and gaze at the beautiful nursery you created for your babe!

And to get a head start on wall art for your nursery, be sure to book your professional maternity and newborn sessions in the Baltimore, MD, and Washington, DC, areas with Angela Singleton Photography! With years of experience and a passion for capturing this special time in your life, I will work with you to create beautiful and timeless images of your baby bump and your newborn. Contact me soon to schedule your sessions so you have one more thing checked off your baby-to-do-list!