The Momma Society ABC 2015 Kids Expo Awards
We have been back from our trip to Las Vegas for almost a week now, yet admiration for all of the neat products and brands from the ABC 2015 Kids Expo are still whirling through my head. Products created to make life easier as parents, products to keep our children safer, and products that help our environment-- the innovation was inspiring.
Today, I'm sharing my picks for the best of the show. So many neat items, but these products and brands I just can't seem to get out of my head.
The Best Collaboration
Inspired by vintage luggage, Quinny unveiled an amazing collaboration with Rachel Zoe launching in 2016. From cognac leather handles, to white in just the right places, to tassel details--the whole collection left me drooling. The carseats and strollers will be launching exclusively with Nordstrom in time for Spring next year.
The Best Innovation for New Parents
How many times have you lugged your baby in their infant carrier across a parking lot while your arm ached in pain? Invented by a dad, LugBug is an ergonomic handle that attaches to your infant carrier and disperses the weight with its' innovative carrier. Say good-bye to forearm pain! You bet this will be on my shopping list for a baby #2 down the road. The handle is available for pre-order now and priced under $40.
Dad's Choice
What do you get when you put a simple twist on an every day product to make life a little easier? You get my husband's seal of approval. SnapPower is a neat new product that eliminates the need for a nightlight by incorporating it directly into the outlet. They're so simple to install and they automatically light up when they sense dark. We installed them in our hallway and love them. My bumped and bruised knees from those late night feedings thank you.
The Best of Decor
It's no secret that I am a lover of color and pom-poms. Petit Pehr has currated an incredible collection of nursery decor and storage inspired by and created in India. From vibrant canvas storage bins to beautiful felted mobiles, their collection is the perfect mix of classic and playful. I'm also loving their ABC's quilt and sweet animal pillows .
The Best of Diaper Bags
From beautiful muslin swaddles in trendy prints, to the non-diaper bag, Little Unicorn is an all around winner. Their Brookside tote looks more like something from Celine than a diaper bag. It's simple, chic, filled with interior pockets and a must-have for a new momma. The sophisticated Routunda Bag is also lust-worthy, especially in the new burgundy color. All of their diaper bags are priced under $100.
The Best of Sleep Innovation
Part co-sleeper, part lounger, part play mat, the functions of the DockATot are endless. This soft mattress creates a cozy and safe atmosphere for newborns to transition from the womb to the world. It even comes in a larger size for toddlers. The beautiful array of prints match any decor, so it can blend seamlessly with your home. Brody clearly gave this two thumbs up!
The Best of Skin Care
Developed by dermatologist, Dr. Amy, this baby skincare line is geared toward combating nearly every common skin condition. From eczema, to baby acne, to cradle cap, they have a solution. Their products are all made in the USA and tested by a team of dermatologists, so parents can set their worries aside.
The Best of Health Products
This products joins the rankings of the Nose Frida, a bit gross, but so necessary and effective. Maybe I'm the only one that has my finger up Brody's nose or ears trying to get all of the gunk out (TMI, I know), but this little tool does it for you. The little Oogiebear stick is designed with a loop on one end and a scoop on the other to remove both sticky or dried substances. So simple, yet so effective.
The Best of Apparel
Organic, playful, and original--Finn + Emma takes the prize for cutest apparel and accessory brand at ABC this year. Their collection puts an twist on classic pieces. Their toys and accessories are equally beautiful. The also make the best gift sets. And best of all, their whole team was so genuine and kind. I love when the team behind the brand is as amazing as the brand itself.
The Best of Toys
Mixing simple shapes, with a beautiful design, Manny + Simon has created a collection of wooden toys that any baby would love for years to come. Their push toys were beautiful, as well as large, colorful and fun.
The Best of Feeding
As we are starting Brody on solid foods, I'm realizing how fun feeding can be. Oogaa adds an extra layer of excitement to mealtime with their silcone plates, bowls, and utensils. Instead of just making the airplane noise when you feed your little one, you can use a cute airplane spoon. In addition to the great aesthetic, their products are very versatile. You can stick the bowls directly in the oven to bake with, you can write on their lids with erasable markers, and their silicone baby spoons have actually become one of Brody's favorite teethers.
The Best of Bath Time
The first of its kind, the Primo baby shower chair is designed for bathing your little one in the any shower. The seat is similar to a high chair with a 5 point harness and adjustable recline. I'm already wishing hotels had these to borrow because bathing a baby in a hotel shower is quite the balancing act. This item will be hitting stores soon.
The Best of Toddler Gear
From lunch boxes to mini backpacks, SoYoung has created a beautiful line of eco-friendly, modern accessories. With their signature coated linen exterior, their collection features bright silhouettes of some of children's favorite things. To note: the adorable dinosaur lunchbox and the super cute pink birdie backpack.
The Best of Swaddles
One thing we learned at the expo was that swaddle blankets are everywhere! Nearly every brand has their version of the classic swaddle and they're all insanely beautiful. But what set Petite Namaste apart was the detail that went into every swaddle. Each swaddle is hand block printed and gorgeous. Some of the swaddles that have multiple colors, go through 3 or more stamp layerings. The lengthy process creates an original swaddle that is beautiful and practical. Their elephant prints were my favorite!
The Best of Sustainability
Green toys takes classic children's toys and creates them using 100% recycled plastic. They transform milk cartons into cars, tool sets, and play food like it's magic. Quite a few pieces in their toy line are very baby friendly, earning the age rating of 0+ or 1+, which can be hard to find. My picks include the pink dump truck (hey, I grew up with all brothers!) and the fun play foods like this salad set.
The Best of Baby Proofing
Who says babyproofing has to be unattractive? European brand, Qdos has created a line of baby safety products that are beautiful and functions. From their crystal clear acrylic baby gate (i'm still dreaming about it), to their well designed stove covers, they've really set themselves apart by creating products that integrate seamlessly into your home. Be on the lookout for this brand in the US in the near future.
The Best of High Chairs
Well known for their baby rockers and swings, 4Moms is entering the high chair market in 2016. Their sleek high chair features a magnetic tray and magnetic bowls and plates. Say good-bye to your little ones throwing their plates full of spaghetti on the floor. Now if we could just invent a way for the food to stay in the bowl :)
The Best of Technology
One product that I've shouted praised for as a new mom has been the Snuza Hero. This little device clips onto the baby's diaper and sets off an alarm if it doesn't sense your baby breathing. I truly credit this device for helping calm some of my new mom anxiety in our first months as parents. As if the Hero wasn't great enough, they're now coming out with the Snuza Pico. The Pico connects with your iphone or ipad and will track your baby's breathing, sleep position, temperature and more. It's an amazing all-in-one device launching next year.
So there you have my picks for the best of the best! I'll be back later this week recapping all of the baby + kids trends for 2016.
Don't forget I'm on periscope @MommaSociety talking all things baby.
