The Flight

We took a direct flight from San Francisco to Rome. If you can avoid a layover, DO IT. I am not sure there is data to back this up, but it seems like air travel in this day and age is usually delayed. I cannot think of anything worse than sitting through a delay with a real life energizer bunny to miss a layover! We experienced a three hour delay but didn’t sweat it because we were flying straight to Rome. If you have control over it, I also suggest an evening flight. It was approximately 12 hours of flying time from SFO to FCO, but Emilio slept for 4-5 hours. He has never slept on an airplane, but with the help of some Benadryl (I consulted my pediatrician on this before we left) he eventually fell asleep once he realized it was past his bedtime and his crib was no where in sight! This REALLY helped break up the monotony of being in the air. The last three hours of the flight felt the longest. Emilio has no interest in watching shows unless it is a music video on YouTube. Streaming doesn’t work 32,000+ feet in the air and he gets frustrated with screen grabs because he cannot tap and swipe to navigate a recording. Stickers (get the biggest pack you can find), window clings, and Trader Joe’s freeze dried blueberries SAVED me the last few hours. I made room in my carry-on bag for books, a coloring book and crayons, multicolored pipe cleaners, painters tape, and Play-Doh. Maybe those items would entertain your child, but they did not do it for Emilio. Before I conclude this portion of the article, I need to make it abundantly clear how invaluable the Baby Zen Yo-Yo stroller is. It folds so compactly that you can fit it in the overhead compartment, or underneath the seat in front of you on the airplane. Better yet, you can roll your little one right onto the plane and fold it in the aisle when you get to your seat! I am not sure of the dimensions on competing strollers that are marketed for travel, but I have never seen this done with another brand. 

When in Rome

We had a car service to pick us up from Rome–Fiumicino International Airport and drive us to the hotel we were staying in for the night. The same driver would drive us to the train station the next morning. I knew we would be falling over with luggage as it is that I made the decision to leave our carseat (and the giant backpack that accompanies it) at home. We requested that the car come equipped with a rear-facing car seat. This was definitely the right decision but I cannot stress the importance of double checking and re-confirming that the car will arrive with a car seat installed. Trust me, you cannot ask enough times. We stayed at the Hotel d’Inghilterra when we arrived and when we departed Rome. We REALLY like the location. It was not close enough to walk to from the train station (which is why we booked the same driver the following morning to transport us to the train station), but it sure was fun to explore the “neighborhood” and bop around the cafes and restaurants. Where there is cacio e pepe, there are the Kaplans. Being a Roman dish, it was only fitting to go out for a bowl or two. We enjoyed Dilla Ristorante for pasta on our way in. It is a quintessential Italian eateery with cute outdoor seating area and gourmet homemade pastas. On our way out, we dined at Antica Birreria Viennese. The beautiful floral facade totally drew us in. The food was not quite as “gourmet,” but the menu was more diverse and included pizza…Emilio’s request! My favorite meal in Rome, however, was breakfast at D’ Angelo! They served delicious egg dishes, coffees, pastries, and best of all Maritozzi. OMG. You cannot visit Rome without indulging in this delectable pastry. It is not heavy even though it sounds like it. It’s a light and airy sweet bread filled with cream. Literal heaven in your mouth. Now regarding the stroller and the cobblestone streets – totally doable. Emilio is a city boy and used to walking so it wasn’t necessary for our time spent in Rome, but we did notice multiple other families with Yo-Yos maneuvering just fine. 

Getting to the Amalfi Coast

Our first stop on the itinerary was the town of Amalfi. Technically you can drive, but there are so many high speed train options out of Rome. The train ride is about 1 hour and 10 minutes compared to a four hour drive. Traveling by train also allows you to avoid the whole car seat issue. We booked a direct train to Salerno (the closest station to our destination) but unfortunately a fire was obstructing the road from Salerno to Amalfi. We diverted to Naples at the last minute. There are two rail lines you can choose from and three ticket classes to choose from. If you are not ready to commit to a departure time in advance, you just take what you can get class-wise when you finally buy a ticket. We bought tickets less than 24 hours before on our way to and from the coast. I was not about to test Emilio’s patience (especially after a 12 hour flight and nine hour time change). The “Club” level was all that was left for both trips. This is the most “boujee” of the three classes. They were about 325 euros total, about $110 per person, and included complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and food. The Freeciarossa line was more luxurious of the two but they are both adequate especially for such a short ride. I arranged via the concierge at our hotel for a driver to pick us up from the train station in Naples and chauffeur us to the resort. It was a 1.5 hour windy and twisty albeit a beautiful ride. If you are prone to car sickness like I am, take non-drowsy dramamine! Yikes. I am so thankful Emilio did not inherit this trait from me! 

Hotel in Amalfi

I knew the first leg of the trip would be the most exhausting. I wanted us to be able to veg out and re-charge our batteries. A resort with all of the amenities was most suitable to do so. After much research I debated between Hotel Santa Caterina and Anantara. I chose the latter because by the looks of it, it just seemed more kid-friendly. Anantara was closer to Amalfi center, and the cutest little waterside playground! This one-of-a-kind property is built into the cliffside of an ancient convent. There are only 52 rooms, giving it a “boutique-y” feel with all the bells and whistles of a luxury resort. There is an impressive outdoor gym with panoramic coastal view, a lovely spa, several dining options, and a GORGEOUS infinity pool with breathtaking view. We really enjoyed spending the day at the pool and then strolling down to Amalfi center. Due to the cliffside architecture, you must go down some stairs to reach sea level and the center of town when on foot. Alternatively, Anantara offers a shuttle on demand and makes it really easy to get to and fro. Really there was not one thing I didn’t like about this hotel. I still miss our breakfasts with Marcelo and the delish omelets that were conveniently included in the room rate! The room was very elegant, and best of all, the AC was powerful (I cannot say the same about the AC in Rome or Positano). I would absolutely stay at Anantara again.

Where to eat in Amalfi 

La Locanda Della Canonica at Anantara was the best pizza I ate in Amalfi. The tables line the “Walk of the Monks” on a beautiful terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Taverna Buonvicino a hidden gem in the middle of town near the main cathedral – you will need Google Maps to navigate here. The cute courtyard and its twinkling lights is just SO inviting. You will not find pizza here, though the fried bruschetta could satisfy a craving for some ‘za. We ended up eating dinner here twice because the ambiance was so special. I must note, this is not the place to go if you are short on time.

Lo Smeraldino is not fancy, but it is right on the water, near the playground, and it opens at 6:30 – a little earlier than most restaurants nearby! This is a great option if your little one is craving a pizza. We ate dinner here, then hit the playground before finishing off the night with dessert from Savoia.

Savoia is your one stop shop for gelato or sweet treats. I went daily for the simplest, yet most delicious thing. A butter cookie with Nutella filling. Decadent. Jonathan was infatuated with what looked like a croissant muffin drenched in RUM.

What to do in Amalfi

Besides pool time and eating and indulging, you can easily catch a ferry to Positano, Sorrento, or Capri for the day. Since we were continuing on to Positano and Capri for extended stays, we went to Ravello for half a day instead. This town sits higher up the coast from Amalfi and is reachable by car – about a 30 minute drive. Just as you would imagine, the views are awesome. There are no cars allowed in the town, so you will be dropped off and then proceed by foot. You can definitely bring a stroller with you, but remember to take the path to the right when it forks. Otherwise you will be stuck with a bunch of stairs. We steered to the left and schlepped the stroller up several flights of stairs to Villa Cimbrone! Funny now, not so funny then! There we toured the lush gardens and enjoyed a snack at the cafe. If you stay till closing, eat dinner closeby on the terrace at Hotel Villa Maria. This spot was very kid friendly and even had a changing table in the bathroom!

Getting to Positano

The hotel concierge in Positano scheduled a transfer from Anantara to the hotel with this company. I highly recommend utilizing the concierge wherever you stay to assist you with booking of car services. It was an easy but twisty drive! We were in the car for 45-ish minutes. The time passed quickly because our driver Mario was kind enough to play Pepas the entire time! If you do not arrange for a private car, you can get there by taxi or ferry. We always choose the path of least resistance when Emilio is with us, and one major benefit of a private car is that they can pick you up right outside the hotel lobby.

Hotel in Positano 

Due to the cliff-like nature of Positano, many hotels are for adults only. I found Hotel Marincanto through a mommy blogger and I am very happy I did! Like I said earlier, we had a stay planned to the famous Le Sirenuse before Emilio was born in 2020. Sadly they do not allow children under five, so that re-booking had to wait. Marincanto is SO close by – only a couple of restaurants separate the two hotels, and the property is kid friendly. Hooray! I booked a standard room with a sea view and terrace knowing we’d only be there for the weekend, but long story short, we were going to have to switch rooms mid-stay so they upgraded us to a suite FREE OF CHARGE to avoid us having to switch. Now THAT is service. There are not enough words to describe how massive the Prestige Suite was. The terrace was enormous. The hot tub overlooking the water in the sprawling bathroom was ridiculous (for lack of a better word). The dressing room…I legit want it for my own home. If you did not see the room tour on my IG story, do yourself a favor and check it out on my Italy story highlights. The other thing that attracted me to Marincanto was that it is the only hotel with direct beach access. I knew we would not be spending time in the sea in Amalfi so getting into the water in Positano was a top priority! Now direct beach access in Positano comes with a lot of stairs…and I mean A LOT. Being from San Francisco and regularly climbing ginormous vertical hills, it takes a lot for me to remark about the steepness of something. This descend and ascend was HELLA steep. Don’t forget your water shoes or sunscreen in the room! But the reward is worth the effort in my opinion. I cannot even describe how invigorating the sea felt on a hot summer day. The room rate included a breakfast buffet with all the essentials, as well as made-to-order egg dishes. Marincanto checked all the boxes for us.

Insider tip: From my experience, room inventory in Italy is not always updated in real-time. It is always worth emailing the hotel of interest and and inquiring about a stay before “giving up” hope!

Where to Eat in Positano 

L’Incanto is where it’s at if you are hanging out at the beach. OH EM GEE we REALLY enjoyed the food here. The menu was extensive with appetizers, salads, pizzas and pastas, cocktails, and fresh fruit. We dined here two consecutive days for lunch. Our friends told us to order “Nerano” pasta as much as possible on the Amalfi Coast. This dish is actually named after the small Amalfi town where it originated. It is spaghetti in a light but creamy provolone sauce topped with fried zucchini. It was lip-smacking good and we were happy to see it on the menu at L’Incanto. Emilio loved the pizzas and the fruit platters were so refreshing after being in the sun. 

If you are looking for dinner with a view, Ristorante da Costantino IS the spot. This family run restaurant sits at the top of Positano – request a window seat. Have your hotel help you coordinate a complimentary shuttle to and from the restaurant. You gotta try the cheese crespelles and let me know how they are. Somehow I did not do my research ahead of time to know they were a must-have item! I was dying for meat and opted for a steak. It was was served in an oil and garlic sauce that was so tasteful. I absolutely dipped bread to finish the remaining sauce. Licking your plate is not socially acceptable, but if it was…

Angelo Pasticceria is a great spot to grab and go, or enjoy a quick coffee. This standing-only cafe is diagonally across from Marincanto and we hit it up a handful of times. I appreciated the smoothie assortment, and Emilio loved the juice menu. It was this very spot where Jonathan and I ate our favorite sandwich on the trip – we picked the wrong day to share! It was a simple caprese sandwich on fluffy focaccia bread, but boy was it GOOD! 

Hotel in Capri

I absolutely adore Capri. It is a magical place. I could stay there forever. It was a small town feel, the people were friendly, it was chic, and the shopping was phenomenal. The store owners were greeting Emilio on a first name basis by day three. But I am certainly NOT the only person who feels this way! We met several people who have been visiting the Island annually for 20+ years. SEVERAL repeat travelers. With that said, book your hotel as far out as possible so that you are guaranteed the accommodations of your choice. We are SO spoiled that our very special friends from SF are from the Island. They gave us so many insider tips that guaranteed an unforgettable vacation, including where to stay. There are a few larger scale hotels on the outskirts of the island. But if you are like me and thrive in a metropolitan atmosphere, I recommend staying in the heart of it is all! Our friends recommended: Hotel Minerva, Hotel Mamela, Hotel Villa Brunella…if you look on a map, all of these hotels are centrally located and nearby each other. This trip was not planned far enough in advance so my first choice, Hotel Minerva, was already booked. I looked for other options in the same vicinity and came across Casa Morgano. I ultimately chose them over Mamela because the room had a bathtub. When you are traveling with a young child, these “minor details” become not so minor! I knew we would be spending the least amount of time in our room in Capri, so as long as the hotel was in the proper “zone,” had a sea view and a bathtub, I was happy. Casa Morgano checked all the boxes! The personnel was so kind, and we loved the location. It sits on Via Tragara – a beautiful street with immaculate villas and a gorgeous terrace with sweeping view.

Insider tip: From my experience, room inventory in Italy is not always updated in real-time. It is always worth emailing the hotel of interest and and inquiring about a stay before “giving up” hope!

Where to Eat in Capri 

Breakfast and Libations

Our room rate included a breakfast buffet but we were eager to do as the locals do! We ended up dining at Il Piccolo every morning. I genuinely miss it! We befriend the servers and they knew what to order upon our arrival. It felt so much like the neighborhood coffee shops we frequent in SF. Emilio eats a very balanced diet at home but he was on a carb-full meal plan in Italy! He LOVED a Nutella croissants and steamed milk for breakfast. We enjoyed the omelets and caprese sandwiches as well. But what I really looked forward to each morning was an iced cappuccino. I do not know how they do it. It tasted like chocolate. I asked several employees and it was made abundantly clear that there is not a “secret chocolate ingredient” mixed into their espresso. It just tastes THAT good. OH MY GOSH. Coffee in the states simply does not compare to the cappuccino in Capri. This little cafe is perfectly situated in the square – a great place to people watch and it is open all day. If breakfast is not your thing, hit it up in the evening for a cocktail while the sun sets. 

Gelato and/or other savory/sweet treats

Buonocore has established quite a reputation. The smell of freshly made waffle cones alone will lead you here. Brace yourself for the line at the gelato window…or wait till the last ferry departs and the streets clear of day trippers. But not only is the gelato divine, they offer a large assortment of pastries and savory snacks (pizza squares and sandwiches as well). We enjoyed the gelato of course, but on our last day on the island, Jonathan tried a cannoli and could not believe his tastebuds LOL.

Insider tip: skip the gelato line all together and walk inside for other savory and sweet treats.

Drinks

I already mentioned Il Piccolo, but it is a very special cafe in the square that transforms into a bar in the evening. If you are looking for something more unique, Capri Rooftop at Hotel Luna is spectacular. The view is sweeping. I couldn’t believe my eyes quite frankly. We got in without a reservation and were seated further from the view, but they allowed kids and we still had a great time. The Catwalk drink is SO refreshing and delicious. My suggestion would be to make a reservation so that you are guaranteed a table with a view, and enjoy a cocktail and snack before your dinner reservation. Another rooftop option but with a city view is that of Hotel La Palma. A hip atmosphere, catchy music, and great assortment of cocktails. If you follow me on Instagram, this is where I wore my new Pucci outfit – the same print Beyonce is wearing on tour!

Dinner

There are so many delicious restaurants in Capri. I wish we had more time to try them all. As most of Italy, many close after lunch service around 3:00 pm and then reopen at 7. Just throw your toddler’s schedule out the window! I will list all of our friend’s recommendations later, but we went to the following:

Villa Verde is where all the celebrities flock to who visit the island. There is quite an impressive photo montage on display of the celebs who frequent this spot. It is a garden atmosphere in the heart of Capri, where you will find all the pasta and pizza your heart desires. Everyone seems to genuinely enjoy working at this restaurant and Franco, the owner, is so hospitable. If you are a fan of truffle, the tartufo pasta is insane, and if you are a meat lover, the bolognese is the best I have ever had. But don’t let me get ahead of myself. You cannot dine at Villa Verde without trying the Buffalo mozzarella. 

Panorama just like its name alludes to, boasts a sweeping view and a great offering of pastas and pizzas. If you make a reservation ahead of time, you can request a table on the terrace. The fungi and Margherita pizzas were our favorite here. The vibe was pretty casual and the personnel was over-the-top friendly with Emilio! This was his favorite dining experience in Capri.

Insider tip: Add a ball of burrata to your pizza – you will not be disappointed. 

Da Paolino is a very unique experience reachable via taxi. Wine and dine under a lemon grove at this special Capri eatery! Try the mozzarella appetizer grilled in between lemon verbena leaves. We were there with another family and all shared plates and a lot of wine. Definitely save room for the dessert room! Yes, you read that right, a “temptation” room full of miniature desserts that you can fill your plate with!

Insider tip: request a reservation on the website here – you will need your passport handy. 

Bianca…this place really impressed us. We asked Antonella at the Pucci store where we should go dressed to the nines, and she suggested Bianca. After 10 days of pizza and pasta, we were pleasantly surprised by the meat and fish-heavy mediterranean menu! All of our meals were memorable in Capri for different reasons but this was our most memorable meal for food. Everything we ordered was SO good. We started with a burrata appetizer, but for my entree, I ordered a roast chicken and deep fried eggplant dish that came with a side of tzatziki. If this was available in SF, I would order it weekly. Jonathan tried the catch of the day which included hummus and pesto- two Kaplan favorites. He devoured it. We also tried a rice and chicken and fish side that was tasty too. The portions were not huge – you could easily share the plates family-style. Emilio was totally content with his “Not a pizza” Margherita pizza. The dough does not rise – it is cracker thin, but it will still satisfy a pizza craving.

Other highly recommended restaurants include: Le Grotelle, Aurora, Zagara (Anacapri), Il Riccio

What to do in Capri 

Like I said before, I knew we would be spending the least amount of time in the hotel room in Capri because there is so much to do and see! I am going to go in depth regarding the activities we participated in, but I’ll list more from our friends’ recommendations afterwards. The shopping is a given in Capri. The impeccably clean (and stroller friendly streets) are lined with some of the world’s most luxurious boutiques as well as local artists and retailers. I was immediately sucked into the children’s store Russo because I wanted to buy Emilio an Emilio Pucci item. Can you blame me?! After that, I found myself in the women’s Pucci store but THAT experience deserves a blog post of its own. Stay tuned! 

The shopping is great, and the restaurant and cafe hopping is fun, but if you have your mind set on taking a dip into the perfectly blue Mediterranean Sea, then you need to visit a beach club. Now these beaches are not your typical Floridian sandy beaches. They are rocky (do not forget your water shoes), but SO refreshing, all-inclusive, and actual paradise. We had such an incredible day at Lido del Faro (the lighthouse). I cannot recommend it enough. It is about 20 minutes by cab from Capri square, but well worth the travel time. You will walk down a winding path from the cab stand, but don’t fret – paradise awaits and it is stroller friendly. There you will have access to beach chairs, a saltwater pool, changing rooms and bathrooms, and a delightful waterfront restaurant. There is waiter/waitress service with many adult beverages, and virgin libations alike, flotation devices for lend, and they will help you call a cab upon your departure. Remember, this is not a sandy beach. You will reach the water via stairs. You will be treading water. I brought an infant life vest for Emilio and borrowed a “noodle.” It was an experience of a lifetime to immerse as a family in that heavenly sea. A reservation ahead of time is safest, but if you forget, have your hotel concierge call the morning of.

Insider Tip: the sun stays out all day on this side of the island. Plan to stay at Lido Del Faro till sunset. 

Other notable beach clubs include: La Fontelina, Marina Piccola (if you have kids you can wade into the water here), Marina Grande (another option if you have children since you can wade in), Gelsomina a lovely pool popular for adults and children alike. Contact your hotel concierge for transportation options. 

Fold the stroller and visit Anacapri by bus or taxi for a quaint little day trip. This town is just 10 minutes up the hill from Capri square, and has a plethora of stores and restaurants to tempt you. It is a little more low key than the town of Capri itself. Aside from a pleasant stroll, you can take a chairlift (just like a ski lift) to Monte Solaro at the top of the island. Here you can admire the view and jaunt down the Pizzulungo walk. Emilio was overtired and stubborn when we went to Anacapri (this only occurred once on our two week long trip) so we didn’t push it and ride the chairlift. But we did enjoy a light lunch at Il Solitario. Another notable restaurant in Anacapri is Zagara, and it is located across from a playground! Make sure you check the park hours – it was closed around lunch time. 

Rent a boat or visit the Blue Grotto. The water was choppy when we were on the Island. There was rain in the forecast a couple of days before our arrival. We did not get to tour the island by boat, although we felt totally satisfied with what we saw on land! Your hotel concierge can help arrange this for you. Some beach clubs and restaurants are more easily accessible via boat so it is worth looking into. We were disappointed that due to thee water level the Blue Grotto was inaccessible. This I hear is quite the unique experience. You legit paddle into a cave on a tiny boat. Think twice if you suffer from claustrophobia. I hear the water is incredible to swim in inside the grotto. Our friends advised us to go late – after 5 pm once the ferry traffic clears. This way you can experience it without the crowds. We will definitely make this a priority on our next trip…because there will be another trip – I loved it that much!

Closing Remarks:

I am still dreaming about our vacation…it was truly extraordinary. And if you follow my recommendations, you too can experience a trip of a lifetime! Just remember, when you travel to a country that is not your own, take a deep breathe and trust the process. There were a few times especially with our luggage where we thought, “well this would be handled way differently in America…” but everything ended up working out. If you are traveling with a toddler, remember they are resilient. They will adjust when they get home if bedtime is 3 hours hours later than normal. If they miss a nap, squeeze in a catnap in the stroller. Every time I think I am ready to publish this article, I remember another detail that could be helpful to a family traveling to the Amalfi Coast. If there is something that I missed and you’re dying to know, just leave me a comment below, and I will gladly make an edit. Safe travels!

The post Vacationing in the Amalfi Coast with a Toddler appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

The Process

Emilio Pucci, aka the “prince of prints” had impeccable taste in color. I picked some of my favorite Pucci hues and created a vision board using Canva. Regardless of the theme, this party planning practice will make your life waaaaay easier when you approach vendors. I simply sent the balloon artist and cake designer my palette, and they color-matched the two perfectly. As for the poochi part, we tied in (no pun intended!) puppies by incorporating twisted balloon dogs. Sticking to the scheme of things, I added pops of shimmering gold, a photo backdrop, and pastel floral arrangements. I LOVE how it turned out, but more importantly, Emilio had a very sweet day. I am already brainstorming Emilo’s Poochi Party 2.0 – can you tell I am a first time mother?! LOL.

The Outfits

As for our attire…it is shockingly difficult to find little boy’s pastel clothing – maybe it is just the time of year. I discovered “Dad and Me” outfits on the Children’s Place website, and the quality surpassed my expectations! I chose lavender gingham shirts for the boys and oxford dress pants for Emilio. This will not be the last time I order from the Children’s Place. They looked adorable if I say so myself! Finally, the time has come…I’ve been waiting for a special occasion to invest in my very own Pucci piece. I decided on a scarf because they are so versatile. You can tie them into a top, wear them in your hair, or adorn a purse with one. I tied my latest prized possession into a halter top (tutorial coming soon) and paired it with periwinkle flare pants. For years to come whenever I wear my Pucci scarf it’ll remind me of Emilio’s special day.

The Vendors

No birthday party is complete without balloons and cake. I used Sparky’s Balloons for my 30th birthday celebration and they were reliable, so I hired them for this event too. The online ordering process was very easy. If I can avoid a conversation with someone and do it all myself your business will have my patronage for life. They outdid themselves with this assignment, and three days later the number one column is still standing and cuter than ever. As for the cakes, I cannot say enough about Shiva Cake design. She was able to accommodate me with relatively short notice and she DELIVERED! Not only were the cakes works of art, but they were SO delicious. This was the first time Emilio indulged in a sweet treat and it lived up to the hype. His “smash cake” was vanilla buttercream flavor and featured whole banana slices. The adult cake was the same except we opted for chocolate. I’ve been eating cake all weekend and never felt “stuffed.” Somehow these cakes are light and fluffy but PACKED with flavor.

Shop the Post:
They Boys Outfit: Baby Shirt | Adult Shirt | Emilio’s Trousers | Jonathan’s pants

My Look: Scarf | Pants

Emilio Pucci Party Decor: “1” Cake Topper | Crown | Custom Plates and Napkins | Sequin Table Cloth | Gold Letter Balloons | Water Color Letter Banner

The post Emilio “Poochi” Party appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

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Shop the look:
Dress | Belt | Necklace | Earrings | Bracelet | Booties

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The post 2021 Black Friday Sales and Promo Codes appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

A Cozy Corner

First things first: designate a corner of the room for the baby’s sleep space. And while you’re at it, make it on mom’s side of the bed. No disrespect to dad, but mom is baby’s world those first few days earth-side. Once you pick a spot, slap a “label” on it with some wall decor. Maybe you have a beautiful name sign to hang, or perhaps wall paper or a wall decal. Regardless, stick with the style or theme you’ve already established in your master bedroom. It is important to remember that we are designing a temporary space. Whatever additions you make should look good with or without baby gear! I chose the latter, and adorned the baby’s corner with a beautiful metallic gold tree decal. As far as sleeping…(or lack there of LOL) I am so happy with my decision to go with a “mini crib.” Not only does it fill the space perfectly, but it is on wheels and converts into a full size crib. It can therefore double as a bedside bassinet, and a corner sleep solution. I have so many good things to say about this piece of furniture but, I’ll save my comments for a comprehensive product review.

Changing Station

If this post is relevant to you, then you have a lot of dirty diapers in your future. No nursery nook is complete without a changing station. Many stylish changing tables exist, but if you need to save as much space as possible, you can easily transform your chest of drawers into a diaper changing station! I accomplished this by topping my dresser with a changing peanut, and these luxe diaper caddies. Don’t forget, your reclaimed changing station can also function as an armoire. I moved my belongings out of the dresser and into the platform storage bed so that I could easily access the baby’s clothes instead. Don’t forget a diaper pail for your changing station – a nursery nook essential to keep your room fresh! This is the one I recommend.

Sitting Area

Ok, we have the crib covered and a changing area, now let’s talk about seating arrangements. If you have the space, I highly recommend adding a plush glider or rocker to your nursery nook. The newborn stage is nothing short of exhausting. The days are long and the nights are even longer. Having a comfortable spot to cat nap is imperative. But if you don’t have the floor space (we didn’t), consider a supportive reading pillow for your bed. I transformed the window sill into a plush lounging area, and I’ve truly enjoyed story time here. Your nursery nook is now complete! For a list of items in my newborn survival kit click here.

Shop the Post:

Nursery Nook: Wall Decal | Mini Crib + Mattress | Bed Skirt | Fitted Sheet| Canopy | Faux Fur Rug | Changing Peanut | Diaper Caddy (long) | Diaper Caddy (large) | Sound Machine | Diaper Pail | Baby Monitor | Good Night San Franciso – Book

Outfit: “Going out” PJs | Shoes | Earrings

The post Your Guide to Creating a Nursery Nook in your Master Bedroom appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

Click the Pink to Shop.

Feeding

My Brest Friend will become your loyal sidekick just like the name suggests. This item is the smartest nursing pillow on the market. I have tried the Boppy and the Niche Organic Cotton Feeding Pillow (love this for lounging with baby on the couch instead). My Brest Friend beats them all. To begin, it’s very dense – supportive for both you and your baby. It also features an adjustable waist…think of it as a foam strap-on shelf with a waterproof cover. You can easily wipe it down after each use with a wet wipe. Save yourself the laundry and add this item to your baby registry STAT. 

The Haakaa Manual Breast Pump with Suction Base perfectly compliments my favorite pillow. This gadget is essential to ensure a dry milk “let down.” Better yet, it is compact and completely cordless. When your little one is nursing on one side, pop the haakaa on the other breast and collect that liquid gold. Due to the pump’s shape, your little one can kick it off if you’re feeding in the cradle position. Consider a football hold instead. I can only speak to my experience with this product, but Haakka also makes a round shaped “milk collector.” The only thing is I cannot imagine the suction being as strong. Speaking of, make sure you buy the manual breast pump WITH the suction base and lid. The base makes it so it can’t tip over on your nightstand or countertop and obviously the lid helps preserve the milk. 

Diaper Changing

The more your baby eats, the more dirty diapers you discard. I LOVE my Ubbi Diaper Pail. Not only is it odor locking, but it is aesthetically pleasing – I have the marble one. It offers a sliding lid with a child proof lock, and the steel construction makes it easy to wipe clean (although I put the dirty diapers in GG’s poop bags before discarding them in the pail). Supposedly it holds 35 diapers but I definitely fit more than that in there!

It’s funny, once you become a mother you become totally desensitized from bodily fluids. So while I don’t mind applying diaper rash preventative cream with my finger to my baby’s bottom, the Baby Bum Brush is a great alternative. It’s made out of flexible silicone and super easy to wash.

You will never do more laundry in your life than the amount of laundry you do when you have a new baby. I CANNOT BELIEVE CLOTH CHANGING PADS ARE LEGAL. Save yourself the hassle and time and buy the Keekaroo “peanut changer.” This thing is BRILlIANT. I don’t know exactly what it is made out of, but it feels like a really thick, soft, buttery rubber that is water-resistant and supremely easy to wipe clean and dry. It’s also light enough to move from room to room if you need more than one safe space to change diapers in your home. Simply put, there is no better way to change diapers! TAKE MY WORD FOR IT!  

Ok, Jonathan doesn’t have an opinion about many baby items because he knows my preferences will outweigh his. Just being honest. So, when he does voice an opinion, it is usually noteworthy! From his mouth to your ears, Water Wipes are the bomb! They are pricier than the other brands, I can’t deny it, but they clean better because they are wetter and you’ll only pull one out at a time. If you know, you know…. This alone makes the steeper price tag worth it. You will end up wasting half the wipes out of the less expensive package because 5 wipes come out with one pull! Spend more and waste less with Water Wipes.

Sleeping

Living space in San Francisco is SACRED! Every square inch must be used thoughtfully. The Stokke Sleepi crib collection is genius. Emilio has been sleeping in the Sleepi Mini since birth. It is a great alternative to a bedside bassinet because it’s on wheels, and it grows with your baby. Thanks to the extension kit, this piece of furniture is suitable for 0-10 years of age. I feel like we’re ahead of the game because brother is already used to sleeping in a crib. See it styled here and add this sleep system to your new mom must-haves list.

While I was pregnant, I crowd-sourced on Instagram to get the lowdown on the hottest baby monitors. I chose the Nanit, and have been SO happy with my decision. I LOVE that it connects to my phone so I can check on baby as long as I have service, switch on the nightlight, snap a photo, or talk to him among other things. It also provides useful insights that will help you sleep train your little babe, and sends you push notifications when sound or movement is detected. I genuinely look forward to Emilio’s sleep summary each morning because it reassures me that we are on the right track. Hallelujah! Note: depending on your nursery setup, this item is available in floor stand, or wall mount models with optional table top stand.

While we’re on the subject of sleep, let’s talk swaddles. The Ollie is the best. Period. Don’t take my word for it though…there is a perpetual waitlist to get your hands on one because every mother in America has heard of it’s greatness. It’s crafted out of a soft and stretchy fleece-lined fabric with velcro closures. No little escape artists are gonna break out of this thing! The Ollie is highly recommended by sleep consultants everywhere. Now good luck…this is one item worth searching for!

Miscellaneous

If you follow me on Instagram, then you know I’m a HUGE fan of the BABYBJÖRN leopard collection. The Bouncer Bliss is the sole reason this article is live! It makes working from home possible. The baby carrier is pretty self explanatory, but it truly makes what could be considered the hassles of city living things of the past. 

Throughout my pregnancy and now into motherhood, I’ve made it a point to stay true to my style, but I am so glad that I did not purchase a designer purse to function as a diaper bag. The Levy Backpack by HAPP is extremely chic and functional. Whether it’s hanging on my stroller, or on my back, this lavish diaper bag never takes away from my outfit, it enhances it. Featuring multiple compartments and an optional changing pad, conveniently store all of your baby essentials and make life on the go breezy. Take advantage of Mother’s Day sales today!

The Dock-A-Tot…is it worth it? I say yes, but it is the only “lounger” I have experience with. Regardless, you need a safe place to put your new baby down when he/she is not in the crib. The Dock-A-Tot satisfies this need and is available in a variety of colors. You can easily coordinate with your nursery or home decor. I must admit it is not the most enjoyable item to launder, but it is machine washable so that is a plus. Please note Dock-A-Tot makes two docks…the Deluxe+ Dock is suitable for newborns.

There you have it! These new mom must-haves were essential to my newborn survival kit. Sharing is caring. If you know a new mom or have a friend who is expecting, help a sister out and forward her this article. Stay tuned for more baby and me content coming soon!

The post New Mom Must-Haves appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

Guest List & Invitations

Paperless Post is home to the internet’s most glamorous “e-vites.” I use this service to send out invitations for business and personal events, and it always impresses me how user-friendly it is. Aside from the large assortment of artwork, the consumer dashboard allows you to easily track your RSVP list, and send out reminders. They hit the nail on the head with this cute New Mama theme and colors!

Day of Agenda

1. Introductions
2. Game 1
3. Present presentation and nursery tour
4. Game 2
5. Goodbyes and photos

This is the schedule we followed and it made for a very smooth party flow. We started with intros. My friends are scattered across the country so our format was this: name, connection to mom-to-be, location, and parenting piece of advice. I’ll go into more detail about the games later but after the icebreaker activity we delved right into emoji pictionary. Shortly after that I did a quick showcase of Baby Bae’s gifts, and then took my guests on a tour of the nursery nook. We played another game after that, said our goodbyes and screen-grabbed a group photo! We were done by 2:45 PM and the party began at 1:00. The time of the party will likely depend on the number of attendees – the introductions took up the longest portion of the shower, and was my favorite part!

Decor & Treats

Kelly and Elise went above and beyond to make the day special. I always knew that I would incorporate Instagramable decorations because DUH. But what I didn’t know is that K&E would surprise me with a beautiful bouquet of balloons that perfectly matched the artwork on the invitation (and my balloon garland)! How thoughtful is that?! And to make the day even sweeter, they sent over my favorite donuts and gorgeous blue flowers. They spoiled me rotten!

Games & Gifts

Gift giving and receiving is fun and always appreciated, but is not mandatory. Truthfully, the company of close friends is the best gift a girl can ask for! However, Babylist makes it super easy and flexible for moms-to-be to register for must-have items online. Like you can add any item from any store to your Babylist with the click of a button. We did not allocate time to open gifts. Instead, we opted to display Baby Bae’s new wares and save the time for games! Emoji Pictionary: pure genius! Based on the featured emojis, you guess the title of the Children’s book/movie. See the Goodnight Moon example below. My generous hosts rewarded the winner with a Starbucks gift card. I cannot recommend this activity enough!

We are all new at this and there is no right or wrong way to host a virtual event. This is the format Elise and Kelly followed and it was so organized and SO fun! I could not have asked for more thoughtful hosts or a more special group of attendees. I was not exaggerating when I said they spoiled me rotten! What was your favorite activity at the last zoom “party” you were apart of? I would love to hear! Thanks for reading this article – feel free to forward it to a hostess with the mostess.

Shop the Post:
Dress (did NOT size up to accommodate the bump) | Earrings | Shoes | Balloon Arch Kit | Sequin Table Runner | Watercolor Letter Banner (available in-store) | Emoji Games

The post How to Throw a Virtual Baby Shower appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

33 Things I am Hopeful/Looking Forward to in 2021

1. Meeting Baby Bae. I am officially 52 days away from my due date and it’s hard to think about anything else! Will he look like a mini version of Jonathan?! What will his personality be like?!
2. While we are on the topic of babies, I cannot wait to meet all the covid babies in my friends group! Never in a million years did I think we’d all be parents the next time we saw each other. A lot can happen in a year.
3. I hope to celebrate my dad’s life in the most colorful way possible. When he passed away last spring we were at the peak of the pandemic. Funerals, memorials, or any “social” gathering with people outside of your home were strictly prohibited in Connecticut. He deserves a party.
4. I cannot wait to get the Covid-19 vaccine when it becomes available to me and experience a sense of normalcy again.
5. Leaving the house without a mask…the day that can happen will be one for the books. I am hopeful it’ll happen later this year.
6. To Worry less. I know what you are thinking…when you become a mother you always worry. While I understand where you are coming from, this is different. I am sick of worrying about everyone else. Will Jonathan contract the virus at work from an asymptomatic carrier? Will my mom choose the checkout line with the cashier who is unaware they are shedding the virus? Worrying about the last person to touch the doorknob…the list goes on.
7. Speaking of my mom, I cannot wait to see her again. We’ve been on separate coasts since May and Baby Bae needs his Bubbie!
8. Flying on an airplane will be a delight. It will be an “event” like it was in the olden days…so I hear!
9. I fantasize of relaxing on the beach in Hawaii. My definition of paradise.
10. But before we travel outside of California (after being vaccinated of course), I cannot wait to enjoy city life to the fullest. It has been months since we’ve been able to dine inside of a restaurant, or meet after work for happy hour.
11. Wine and dine in Napa Valley. No explanation needed.
12. I look forward to the day it is safe enough for us to introduce our son to our siblings and extended families.
13. Entertaining houseguests. When we moved to SF it was important to me to have a guest bedroom. We live across the country from our families. When they come to visit we like them to be close! Same goes for out of town friends – you know who you are!
14. Witness GG become the best big sister!
15. Attend in-person events and meetings. Zoom is great but I am OVER IT.
16. I do not mean to come off as vain, but if regular manicures are in my future I will not take it for granted.
17. Wear Lipstick…I miss it. The mask-life doesn’t really allow for it.
18. I never thought I would say this, but I look forward to the day I shop for my own groceries. Delivery is so convenient but I lack inspiration with my dinner menu when I’m not walking the aisles.
19. Simply put, shooting blog pics with a photographer will be luxurious!
20. I am hopeful I’ll be able to play field hockey next fall.
21. Resuming Spanish lessons. It is very important to me that Baby Bae is exposed to his latino heritage and that he learns to speak the language.
22. Callin’ Baton Rouge. I cannot wait to go to Tiger Stadium for a LSU football game. GEAUX TIGERS!
23. I think this goes without saying but here’s to visiting and double dating with friends when it is deemed safe to do so!
24. I cannot wait to wear my quirky outfits to more than just the living room. This HILARIOUS TikTok video is a perfect depiction of my thoughts exactly. Insert laughing emoji.
25. Dressing my baby boy – bring it on!
26. I would love the opportunity for more TV time aka on-air experience!
27. Diversifying my small business. I am looking forward to delving into a new vertical and sharing the baby products I cannot live without.
28. Joining a mom group. I can only imagine how many valuable resources would be available to me!
29. Meeting new friends. The more the merrier.
30. Attending an in-studio workout class.
31. Hosting a dinner party.
32. Eating a deli sandwich….I prefer salads to sandwiches but now that I can’t have one, (pregnant women are advised to avoid consuming deli meat because they are more susceptible to food borne illness), I crave subs constantly.
33. Wearing my high heels. If I’m rocking heels it means we are back to regular scheduled programing. I dream of the day, and I imagine you do too!

Shop the Post:
Dress c/o (Get 30% off with code GLAM30) | Earrings | Makeup – Eyeshadow and Lip Color (Get 10% off with code KELSEY) | Press-on Nails | Flower Crown | Balloons

A special thanks to Bump Biddy for outfitting me for my birthday!

The post 33 Years and 33 Birthday Wishes appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

The Gianny Tie Dye Dress is just as comfortable as it is chic. The fabric is incredibly soft, and the modest length makes for easy wear. If high heel ankle boots are not an option, consider pairing this dress with fashion sneakers. Fit assesment: true to size with a lot of stretch.

The Perla is a bump-friendly take on a classic sweater dress. It is flattering from every angle, and the pearl accents add a touch of timeless glamour. Available in white, black, red, or mustard this item is suitable for day or nighttime wear. Fit assessment: true to size with a lot of stretch.

Showing off #BabyBae in the Bae Rhinestone Dress. Could it be any more perfect?! This spicy little number epitomizes my style and taste. In real life it looks couture minus the price tag. I’m not sure what I love more; the dazzling details or the beautiful shade of pink. It hurts my heart that we will not be attending a holiday party for me to wear this. #SafetyFirst. Here’s to hoping no good outfits go to waste in 2021! Fit assessment: size up if in between sizes – fabric has some stretch. 

Shop my Bump Biddy Favorites:
1. Tie Dye Dress c/o| Umbrella | Boots (similar) | Earrings
2. Pearl Embellished Dress c/o | Purse | Headband | Earrings | Boots
3. Pink Glitzy Dress c/o | Purse (similar) | Shoes | Earrings

*Get 30% off your order with code GLAM30

The post Bump Biddy Maternity Wear & Promo Code appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.