Baby Showers

Cause-Driven Registry: Matimati Baby

Next up on our Cause-Driven Registry with Nicole Ryan, we feature Matimati Baby. Matimati Baby designs and makes stylish, yet really functional, baby bandana bibs for all little ones. Matimati Baby’s “drooling for a purpose” campaign helps fight human trafficking of children in Asian countries.

It seems as though when your baby starts teething, drool gets everywhere. We mean…everywhere, all day long! You’ll be changing their soaked clothing multiple times a day, and believe us, that can get really tiring. How do you combat the constant drool battle? With gorgeous bandana bibs from Matimati Baby! Founded by a mother who was tired of seeing her son covered in drool all the time, she designed and created these super soft, thick, and adorable bandana bibs for babies and toddlers. They are completely functional and utterly stylish!

These bibs are super absorbent; each bib is made with two layers of fabric to increase absorbency. The front of each bib is made from 100% organic cotton, and the back layer is made from super absorbent polyester fleece – there is no crinkly plastic bib next to your baby’s face. The bandana bibs are adjustable in size, and have nickel-free snaps which won’t lose hold over time, like most velcro does. Matimati understands that a baby is only young once, and you love dressing them in all of their cute outfits, which is why they aim to make the most stylish and modern prints; most of them are even gender neutral, so they make perfect baby shower gifts.

Through Matimati Baby’s “drooling for a purpose” campaign the brand donates a percentage of all sales to Chain Reaction, a non-profit organization that fights human trafficking in Asia by rescuing and restoring children that have become victims. Chain Reaction works hard to protect innocent children from tike what you see here? Enter to win a bandana bib set below!

Modern Feeding Picks Roundup!

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While there is nothing revolutionary about the act of feeding a baby, there are many new modern products which make feeding a baby just a little easier – we have rounded up some of our top picks of modern feeding gear – these make great baby shower gifts or add them to your registry!

Beaugen Breast Pump Nipple Cushion: These breast pump nipple cushions are a universal fit, soft and stretchy which add comfort to your breast pump. Each package includes 2 nipple cushions which fit breast shield sizes 19mm-36mm. Make your time pumping more comfortable with these soft and helpful cushions!

PRODUCT WIDGET – ID: 579f24b9af09b16d386ff715

Silverette Nursing Cups: Are you breastfeeding your newborn? Check out Silverette Nursing Cups, which are small nursing cups made out of 925 silver to help protect the nipples while breastfeeding. Silver is a natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory element and it heals and prevents cuts, wounds, cracks, soreness and infections. These cups are essential for anyone who is having problems with painful nipples or want to use them as a precautionary measure. They are completely easy to use and no creams or lotion are needed.

PRODUCT WIDGET – ID: 57a8ff75f3e6917c3b08f2d6

Boobie Bars: Created by a nurse and lactation consultant, Boobie Bars, are a convenient and healthy snack and a wonderful alternative to taking pills and special teas to help your milk supply! Made of a proprietary blend of herbs, coconut oil, oatmeal, and fenugreek, these bars are offered in blueberry coconut, oatmeal chocolate chip, and gluten-free peanut butter! Eating just one Boobie Bar a day fulfills a daily dose of milk-boosting herbs that a breastfeeding mama needs. Throw these bars in your purse, diaper bag, or pocket so you can deliciously keep your supply up all day, no matter what you’re doing.

PRODUCT WIDGET – ID: 56d484a66336361e878a0500

Fayebeline Onesie: When we came across this super soft onesie from Fayebeline, we had to share it with you – “I’ll Have Your Finest House White” – too cute! The charcoal grey color is fashionable, on trend, and gender neutral — perfect for a baby boy or baby girl. Fayebeline uses premium, thick, soft cotton and industry-leading printing techniques to create boutique quality baby clothing.

PRODUCT WIDGET – ID: 57c83720af09b10b320a8f67

Thank you to Boobie Bars, Silverette, Fayebeline, and Beaugen for making this sponsored post possible.

Sleek & Chic Travel Picks

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We think that having great mom style isn’t just about what you wear, but also extends to your gear – especially when it comes to traveling! Today we’re featuring two of our picks for sleek and chic travel style – the guzzie + Guss Connect Stroller and the Skip Hop Highline Diaper Backpack.

The Skip Hop Highline Convertible Diaper Backpack has reinvented the diaper bag for women who refuse to compromise personal style and much-needed function. This gorgeous bag, with leather details, is truly a statement piece that can be worn as crossbody, backpack, or carried by its handles. The Highline Backpack is the ultimate convertible diaper bag because there’s a home for everything – a hidden pocket for bottles and a handy front pocket for lipstick, keys and other mama essentials. Plus, the bag comes with a tucked-away cushioned changing pad, making diaper changes on the go super easy! Fold-back magnetic top keeps bag open so you can easily grab what you need, further, it features one-handed, adjustable and removable stroller clips for on-the-go convenience. Perfect for a busy and stylish mama! This beautiful bag could easily double as a regular handbag or even a briefcase – no one will have any clue you have diapers, wipes, and pacifiers inside!

The guzzie + Guss Connect Stroller is not only handsome in every which way, but unbelievably functional, too! From adjustable handles to a reclining seat, the Connect Stroller by guzzie + Guss was designed with you and your baby’s comfort in mind. This versatile buggy comes fully equipped with high-performance tires so your family can cover all kinds of terrain. There are so many awesome features on this stroller, it’s almost hard to name them all! It has a 3-position reclining seat and 2 ways for baby to face; with so many options, baby is bound to feel comfortable and happy while you stroll. Furthermore, it has adjustable handles for the parent, so whether it’s mom or dad pushing the stroller, their back won’t hurt; with its large lower basket, you can fill up with goodies from all over or store travel accessories for on the go. Plus, the Connect Stroller is bassinet and infant carseat compatible, so you can start getting out and about in your stroller from the get-go! It’s a perfect accompaniment for traveling, shopping, or simply getting around town with your little one.

Thank you to our friends at guzzie + Gus and Skip Hop for making this sponsored post possible.

In The Nursery Roundup!

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We love sharing innovative and creative new baby products for the nursery; have you seen any of these yet? They make fantastic baby shower gifts, and if you’re pregnant, don’t forget to add these to your registry!

Nested Bean’s Zen Swaddle: Nested Bean understands that babies tend to sleep better in your embrace or with your palm on their chest. They also understand that this is obviously not always possible! What’s the solution? Nested Bean has created a one of a kind swaddle for babies – their Zen Swaddle. The Zen Swaddle simulates the pressure from your touch with lightly weighted pads on their chest and sides.

There are two options for the Zen Swaddle – The Zen Swaddle Classic is one layer of fabric, which means it is perfect for warmer months. At a very affordable price, you can have many of them, so baby won’t miss one night of sleeping well! The Zen Swaddle Premier has a double layer construction, which makes it perfect for cooler months. The Classic Swaddle features traditional baby light baby colors, while the Premier has more of a modern touch. The Swaddle is longer than most swaddles, making it most cost affective, as it will last your baby well into 6 months. They are 100% cotton and machine washable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

But, the best part of the Zen Swaddle? Parents who’ve tried the Zen Swaddle report their babies fall asleep easier and stay asleep longer within 1 to 3 nights. Win win for everyone! (Head over to Nested Bean to purchase a Zen Swaddle and receive 15% off with the code GUGU15.)

The Baby Box Co.: Inspired by the Finnish tradition of using a box for a baby bed, The Baby Box Co. has created a simple way for babies to sleep soundly, and most importantly, safely. The Bed Box serves primarily as a safe, comfortable place for infants to sleep, similar to a bassinet. Some parents keep the box next to their bed, while others use it in all rooms of the house to keep baby in while they clean, cook, or work. Once baby outgrows the box, it can easily be repurposed for clothing or toy storage! The Baby Box Co. has teamed up with some amazing baby brands, so when you order your box, you’ll get fun samples, clothing, and goodies from all sorts of wonderful companies!

Personalized Birth Announcement Pillow from Finch and Cotter: Looking for the perfect, unique gift to celebrate a new baby? We’re loving this personalized pillow from Finch and Cotter. Pick either 16×20 or 12×18, in natural or white canvas. This pillow is totally customizable – from picking the fabric you want, to the color of the text, and obviously all the information. The pillow cover comes with a faux down insert, making this the ultimate personalized baby gift.

Thank you to our friends at Nested Bean, The Baby Box Co., and Finch & Cotter for making this sponsored post possible.

Gift Idea: Unconventional Teething Picks

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By: Shana, Gugu Guru Director of Content Marketing

This teething round up comes just as my 8-month-old is cutting three top teeth at once. We managed to survive the bottom two coming in with the help of a French giraffe with cult status. Since those first two teeth, my little one has been pretty finicky, preferring objects of the non-teething variety. Luckily, these four products delivered…and then some!

Teething Egg
Made with FDA grade materials and lead/phalate/BPA/PVC free, this egg-shaped teether is the perfect size and shape for little mouths and hands. I love that it comes with an attachable clip, since my little one is also at the “throw it on the floor and watch Mommy pick it up” stage. Side note: after chewing on it, she also likes to toss around the Teething Egg and watch it wobble. The Teething Egg has held up remarkably well!

Sweet Tooth
This is the CUTEST teething toy and it smells yummy too. (Yes, I’ve found myself sniffing it more than once, which my daughter finds hysterical.) Made in the USA out of medical/food grade silicone, it is free of nasties and easy to clean. The two textures accommodate different teething stages, plus it can have a second life as a toy once teething is over. When it comes to baby things, longevity is definitely a bonus!

Mama & Little Sofia Soothing Teething Necklace
My daughter’s favorite place is in my arms, so having a great teething necklace is a given. She also loves tugging on my long hair, so the necklace does double duty: she can chew on it or keep her hands busy and out of mama’s hair (the breakaway safety clasp ensures that if she tugs a little too hard on the necklace it will safely come off). Made of non-toxic food-grade silicone it’s one way I don’t have to sacrifice style or worry about what my little one is chewing on.

Kleynimals

While not technically a teething toy, Kleynimals are perfect for teething babies who want to put everything into their mouths – including mommy and daddy’s dirty keys. (Many people don’t know that keys contain toxins like lead, nevermind the sharp edges and grime.) What I immediately noticed about Kleynimals is that they are nice and solid. These are NOT cheaply made, chintzy toy keys. They’re made of stainless steel and can even be engraved. After weeks of fixating on my jingly house keys, my daughter loves having her own animal-shaped set.

Mompreneur Spotlight: Monica Leonard of Molly’s Suds

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Today’s Mompreneur Spotlight is on Monica Leonard, the founder of Molly’s Suds. Molly’s Suds create soaps, detergents, cleaners and more which are all safe for both the environment and your skin and body, both on the outside and inside. Molly’s Suds products are made with earth and plant derived ingredients. If there’s something which needs to be cleaned, Molly’s Suds has a healthy solution for it!

GG: How did you decide to launch your business? Tell us a little more about Molly Suds.

ML: We launched Molly’s Suds in 2008, 3 years after the loss of our daughter, Molly. I was a nurse and mom to 3 at the time she was born, and never would have expected a stillbirth. Though I have a faith in God, I wondered why she was not breathing, no life at birth, what did my body do different. As a pediatric nurse, lactation counselor, and mom to 3 other healthy children, I was struggling for answers. After a few months passed, we were pregnant again, and I started doing research about stillbirths. I came across a study that would change the course of our lives forever.

It was my moment… I felt duped by the system, fooled, defeated. I found out the chemicals that we come into contact with every day are not really regulated, alter our endocrine systems, are found in the cord blood of newborns, and are passed on for generations via DNA. It was outrageous. And who knew? No one knew including my obstetrician, coworkers, and family.

I felt like I needed to educate myself more on the chemicals my family and I were being exposed on a daily basis, and see where it took me.

I started small by filling a big black trash bag with all of the toxic products we had after researching the ingredients and discovering the negative effects they have on human health.

We were not left with much on the shelves. I started to learn more about ingredient integrity, and talked to people that were on the same quest for safer products. I talked to people in the environmental science, healthcare, alternative medicine, and chemical industries; and I didn’t stop there.

I really talked about it to anyone who would listen; a lot of family and friends thought I was nuts. They believed the products on grocery shelves were all completely safe, and that the household names we all came to know and trust were just fine.

At this point, I had given birth to a healthy baby boy following Molly’s stillbirth, and I was able to find better organic or natural alternatives to use in place of the conventional brands we had been using…except when it came to laundry detergent. It was the only product I could not seem to replace comfortably. We decided to work with an organic facility to help us perfect a product I worked on for a couple years. I ultimately found my audience at farmer’s markets, mom groups, La Leche League, and other similar places, and in late 2008, at a farmer’s market in Buford, GA we sold our first bucket of Molly’s Suds – the rest is history!

GG: How do you balance work and family?

ML: Work life balance is very important to me. It can be done – we just have to set limits. I’ve had a pretty experienced journey at the game of life, and realize that we don’t get these years back. I’m manufacturing and selling laundry detergent, and so I have to remind myself, it’s not heart surgery. Emails and calls can wait. After work hours, I spend time with my family, which in turn keeps me less stressed and more productive when I am working. I also have an extremely supportive and loving husband, whom I think is the key to my success in our family business.

GG: What’s the best part of being a mompreneur?

ML: I love being a mompreneur because nobody can tell me I have to miss a field trip or performance, or find someone to watch my sick child. When I was a nurse, I missed a lot when it came to kids and family, because my shift always had to be covered. So I am thankful for the opportunity to be able to be there when I need to be. It’s hard work owning a company, and after the house winds down, I still may send out a few emails or sit on the patio with my husband to strategize. It’s good for the kids to see me working out of passion, making a difference, and allowing Molly’s little life make the world a better place one wash at a time!

Cause-Driven Registry: DockATot (+giveaway)

by Gugu Guru 1 Comment

Continuing our Cause-Driven Registry with Nicole Ryan, today we feature DockATot, the portable infant lounger designed with baby’s safety and comfort in mind.

Originally created in Europe, the DockATot is a completely unique, versatile and chicly designed product for babies to lounge, snuggle, or play in. What makes DockATot stand out from the crowd is the careful consideration the founder (a mom of two young boys) has given to the overall design, functionality and safety of the dock. The unique shape and design allow babies to comfortably lounge, play, snuggle and log in some tummy time. The idea is that your little one feels snuggled in a safe haven that feels a lot like the womb. The bumpers are made with a special air-permeable fabric that makes DockATot particularly worry-free. The DockATot is very lightweight and perfect for families who travel!

For the duration of June and July, DockATot has donated $1 for each DockATot sold to Project Night Night, an organization that helps homeless children (ages 0-12). Project Night Night donates over 25,000 Night Night Packages each year to homeless children 12 and under who need our childhood essentials to have a concrete and predictable source of security and an increased exposure to high-quality literacy materials during their time of upheaval.

Like what you see here? Enter to win a DockATot below!
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Newborn Lockdown!

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One of the reasons pregnant mamas love registering on Gugu Guru is that we simplify every product into a very real life scenario and category. We know that registering can be overwhelming, which is why we are here to hold your (possibly swollen) hand and walk you through all the different categories when it comes to new-parenthood. The first stop in newborn land is what we like to call “Newborn Lockdown” – Newborn Lockdown describes those very early few weeks when you literally don’t leave the house, whether it’s because you’re healing, breastfeeding, exhausted, or simply too nervous to take that tiny baby into the giant world! We’ve gathered together some of our favorite products for surviving those first few weeks on lockdown – and if you’re not registering or pregnant, we highly recommend buying some of these items for your new mama friend (you can thank us later!).

For Mama –

Nesting Days Carrier: In those very early days of newborn-hood, it seems like baby never wants to be put down! The Nesting Days Carrier is unique in that it can be worn two ways – wear it at home (and get a chance to use your hands again!) for skin-to-skin time with baby; it also helps pull in your stomach muscles and provide tummy support. Or, use it out and about over your clothing for a hands-free way to carry baby close to you.

Victoria’s Secret Hoodie and Sweats: We know all you want to do is lie around with the baby, so why not look adorable doing it? We are loving these super soft “Boyfriend Pants” and hoodie from Victoria’s Secret – plus, the hoodie makes whipping your boobs out for breastfeeding all day long so much easier!

Netflix: Don’t have a Netflix account? You need one now – you’ll be spending many, many long hours rocking, feeding, and shushing a baby, the least you can do is binge watch The Gilmore Girls while you do it! (We highly recommend Dawson’s Creek and Felicity, too!). A Netflix account makes a wonderful baby shower gift, as well – mama can even watch on her phone late at night!

For Baby –

Owlet Baby Monitor: It’s nerve-wracking to bring home a newborn baby, especially for first time parents! It seems as though many parents are even too nervous to fall asleep because the baby seems so tiny and new – but, Owlet Smart Sock is here to help. The Owlet Smart Sock is a bootie which your infant wears, and uses hospital technology called “pulse oximetry” to monitor your baby’s breathing. The Owlet monitor relays the information and connects to your smartphone, so even if you’re cooking dinner downstairs, you can check on your baby’s breathing.

DockATot: The DockATot is a completely unique and versatile product for babies to lounge, relax, or play in. The unique shape and design allow babies to comfortably rest, play, snuggle and log in some tummy time. The idea is that your little one feels snuggled in a safe haven that feels a lot like the womb. The bumpers are made with a special air-permeable fabric that makes DockATot particularly worry-free. The DockATot is very lightweight and perfect for families who travel!

To register for these items, head over to our registry page and add them (and many, many other must-have items) to your personalized registry!

Cause-Driven Registry: Naturepedic

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Continuing with our Cause-Driven Registry with Nicole Ryan, this week we feature Naturepedic. Naturepedic handcrafts certified organic mattresses without questionable chemicals for babies, kids and adults, providing a healthier night’s sleep for the whole family.

Naturepedic mattresses are ideal for babies and kids because they are pure, natural and chemical free. Their waterproof organic cotton cover features a luxurious organic cotton fabric with a clear 100% polyethylene food-grade waterproof coating. Most importantly, the mattresses are allergen friendly and easy-to-clean (no need to worry about spit-up, diaper blow-outs or potty training toddlers!). However, what Naturepedic is known for is their innovative natural design and intelligent mattress construction, which allows for Naturepedic to pass all Federal and State flammability standards without the use of flame retardant chemicals or barriers. This is achieved through superior product design and the use of more natural materials.

Naturepedic supports dozens of organizations like the Environmental Working Group and One Percent for the Planet, which promotes environmental stewardship and healthful wellbeing. Through healthier materials and sustainable business practices, Naturepedic builds a better planet for our future generations.

Naturepedic financially supports organizations working to make the world healthier, cleaner and more sustainable. The following organizations have recognized Naturepedic for its efforts in using healthier materials, sustainable business practices and renewable energy. While these companies have not formally evaluated or certified Naturepedic or its products, they stand with Naturepedic in their desire for a better planet: Healthy Child Healthy World Partner, Allergy Kids Foundation, The Ecology Center, Debra Lynn Dadd Recommended Products, Kids for Saving Earth, and the Environmental Media Association.

Naturepedic is a member of the American Sustainable Business Council, whom advocate for stewardship, judicious use of resources, reinvestment, and attention to sustainability through the full product lifecycle. Furthermore, through its involvement with Green America and the Green Business Network, Naturepedic conducts its business according to standards that reach beyond contemporary practices in addressing the needs of consumers, employees, communities and the environment. Blue Cure Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information on cancer prevention and treatment. Blue Cure has reviewed the Naturepedic facility and the materials used and recommends Naturepedic products.

Product Discovery: NuRoo Nursing Scarf

by Gugu Guru 1 Comment

In honor of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we’re sharing a nursing must-have item which we love: the NüRoo Nursing Scarf!

NüRoo designed this discrete Nursing Scarf to be your favorite accessory, so it’s on you when you need it. Snaps along the width of the Nursing Scarf let you customize your coverage: wrapped or draped, front and back, over the shoulder or around your neck. The signature NüRoo fabric is super soft, breathable, wrinkle free, and not distracting for baby. As an added bonus, you’ll love this fashionable scarf long after your breastfeeding days!

There are 8 different ways to wear the NüRoo Nursing Scarf – this versatile scarf comes in 8 different colors – not only can you choose your favorite color, but you can change the scarf’s look and coverage depending on what you (and your baby) need. And of course, most importantly, the scarf is machine washable and dryer safe, so you don’t have to worry about spit-up or food ruining your most loved fashion accessory!

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