Nursery Design Expert: Wendy Bellissimo
Expert Bio
In addition to being mom to her own four girls, Wendy Bellissimo is one of the world's leading nursery designers. From the set of "Friends" to the nurseries of Hollywood's top moms, Wendy has designed some of the most sought after children's rooms for celebs like Kelly Ripa and Cedric the Entertainer.
Her exclusive line of baby care and nursery products, and her new book, Nesting: Design Inspirations for Your Growing Family, are designed to help moms create the ultimate room for a child that is calming and inspiring, yet functional and practical enough to transition with baby. Wendy's work has been featured in People, US Magazine, Entrepreneur and "The Oprah Winfrey Show."
Click the links below to view all of Wendy's features, articles, and other content!
Nesting with Wendy Bellissimo
The Bump - Nursery Design Expert: Wendy Bellissimo
What I love most about nursery design is setting up a special place for a new little life that is coming into the world. When I complete a nursery, parents tell me that they love to rush home from work and sit on the floor of baby's room and dream. I can remember doing that with my own husband…four times over! The nursery truly becomes your favorite room in the house. Like any design project, it can be a challenge - and that's why I am here!
Wendy's Six-Step Nursery Design
- Step 1: Start with a blank slate! Empty out the room completely.
- Step 2: Crib linen comes first. Find a yummy pattern you love and use it to match paint colors and finishing touches. Slip a swatch in your purse so you always have it handy. At right: Wendy's Vintage Teaberry collection.
- Step 3: Select your furniture. Key pieces are the crib, changing table, armoire and a glider. For the best investment, choose pieces that can transition into toddler years and beyond easily. Look for a crib that converts into a bed, or a dresser that can double as a changing table. I have a changing table that turns into a twin bed!
- Step 4: Create storage. Look for items with multiple uses, such as fabric-lined storage baskets that can go from diaper holders to toy baskets when diapers are no longer needed. For Brooke Shields, I did a whole wall of cubbies filled with my storage baskets. It adds a special touch in the nursery and keeps mom feeling organized and together.
- Step 5: Accessorize with a few carefully selected pieces. Right now, I love the mix of new and old décor. I recently found an amazing antique cradle and vintage print to frame for the nursery. Just be sure to keep it fresh and forward by only mixing in one or two vintage items.
- Step 6: Sweeten the room with finishing touches. Framed baby photos of mom or dad, or a meaningful family heirloom, can add personality. A small child's table and chairs serves as a craft or play station for baby to grow into.
Read more tips and advice from Wendy:
Design Tip
Put large pieces of furniture away from each other, with the crib as the focal point. This will balance the room and make it seem bigger.
A Must-Have Accessory
MOSES BASKET: A Moses Basket is not only adorable, but it's the perfect first "nest" for your newborn. Its small size makes it a cozy and reassuring spot for baby - and easily portable for mom and dad.
Books by Wendy
Take inspiration from Wendy's custom-designed celebrity nurseries to create your own "dream nursery." This hardback book and DVD makes the perfect shower gift!