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.

Abercrombie & Fitch | 30% off everything

Akira | 30% off sitewide with code BF30

Alo Yoga | Up to 70% off sale, 20% off new

Amazon | Black Friday Deals all day long

American Eagle | 30% off sitewide

Anthropologie | 30% off everything

Asos | Up to 80% off almost everything

Baby Gap/ Gap | 40% Off Everything + Bonus 20% Off

Banana Republic​ ​| 40% off everything

Beyond Yoga | 30% off sitewide  

Baublebar | 30% off sitewide with code BB30

Boll & Branch | 25% off with code CYBERWEEK

BOOHOO​ | 60% off everything plus an extra 10% off with code EXTRA

BuddyLove | 40% off select styles with code BLBF21

Burt’s Bees Baby | 30% off site wide and free shipping with code FESTIVE30

Buybuy Baby | Deals all week long

Carbon38 | 30% off site wide

Carter‘s | 50-60% off entire store

Express ​| 40-50% off everything

Farfetch​ ​Extra 20% off sale items

Forever 21​ ​| 30-80% off everything

Good American | 25% off sitewide with code BF25

H&M​ ​| 30% off everything

Kendra Scott | 40% off all fashion jewelry, home, etc. 25% off fine jewelry online and in store

Levi | 40% off everything and free shipping 

Lulus | Save 20-70% off sitewide

Madewell​ ​| Up to 30% off with code OHJOY

MANGO​ ​| Up to 40% off

Nasty Gal​ ​| 70% off everything

Net-A-Porter​ ​| Up to 50% off plus an extra 15% off marked items with code BLACKFRIDAY

Nordstrom | Up to 50% off select items

Nordstrom Rack​ ​| Up to 65% off

Old Navy​ ​| 50% off your online purchase

Red Dress Boutique | 25% off sitewide with code THANKS25

Sephora​ ​| Up to 50% off best sellers

Shades By Shan | Up to 60% off

Steve Madden | 30% off everything with code BF2021

Storets | 30% off everything with code BF30

Stuart Weitzman | Over 50% off when you take and extra 25% off with code SHOESBF

Target​ ​| Black Friday deals all week

T3 | 25% off sitewide

Urban Decay | Up to 30% off

Urban Outfitters​ ​| 25% off your purchase

Walmart​ ​| Black Friday deals

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

Sharing is caring…help a sister out and share this page STAT!

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.

Sales + Promo Codes

Abercrombie & Fitch | 40% off entire store

Akira | 20% off sitewide with code LUXE

Alo Yoga | Up to 70% off sale, 20% off new

American Eagle | 40% off sitewide + Free Shipping

Anthropologie | 30% off everything plus free shipping on orders of $50+

Asos | 20% off sitewide when you spend $50 or more with code MOREPLSYAY

Baby Gap/ Gap | 50% Off Everything + Extra 10% Off Everything with code GAPFRIDAY

Banana Republic​ ​| 50% off everything, online and in stores through 11/28/20 at 11:59 p.m. PT

Baublebar | 30% off sitewide with code BB30

Beyond Yoga | 30% off sitewide  

Boll & Branch | 25% off a purchase of $150 or more with code CYBERWEEK

BOOHOO​ | 60% off everything except sale and beauty

Carbon38 | 30% off site-wide and free shipping with code THX30

Colleen Rothschild​ ​| 30% off sitewide with code BF2020

Express ​| 50% off everything + free shipping 

Farfetch​ ​Up to 50% off sale items plus an extra 20% off

Finish Line | 25% off select styles with code: CYBER25

Forever 21​ ​| 30-50% off everything

Good American | 25% off sitewide with code BF25

H&M​ ​| 30% off everything

Intermix​ | Extra 30% off sale

Kendra Scott | 30% off plus 25% off fine jewelry and sterling silver collection

Levi | 40% off everything and free shipping 

Madewell​ ​| Up to 50% off with code VERYMERRY

MANGO​ ​| Up to 50% off in-store and online

Nasty Gal​ ​| 60% off everything plus an extra 10% off with code OMG

Net-A-Porter​ ​| Up to 50% off plus an extra 15% off marked items

Nordstrom | Save on more than a thousand items for women, men, kids and the home. Now through December 1!

Nordstrom Rack​ ​| Extra 40% off clearance plus free shipping

Old Navy​ ​| 50% off everything

Pottery Barn​ ​| 20% off your order plus free shipping on orders over $79 use code THANKFUL

Red Dress Boutique | 25% off sitewide with code FAMILY25

Saks Fifth Avenue​ | Spend $150 and get a $75 gift card with code BFGC20SF, plus 15% off select beauty

Sephora​ ​| Up to 50% off select items and free shipping

Shades By Shan | Up to 50% off sitewide

Show Me Your Mumu​ ​| All sale under $100

Steve Madden | 35% off almost everything with code BF2020

Storets | 30% off all dresses & onesies with code WIN30

Stuart Weitzman | 25% off new arrivals and sale items with code EXTRA25

Target​ ​| Black Friday deals all week

T3 | 25% off sitewide with code HOLIDAY25 | Ends 11/29

Urban Decay | 30% off with code UDFANS30

Urban Outfitters​ ​| Buy One, Get One 50% off in-stores and online

Walmart​ ​| Black Friday deals

Wayfair​ ​| Up to 80% off select items plus Free Shipping

Williams Sonoma​ | Select items up to 50% off

Click here for my 2020 Black Friday Sale Picks!

The post 2020 Black Friday Sales + Codes appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.