Balboa Baby

Have Your Pick

Dr. Sears, the pediatrician and author deemed famous for the term "babywearing," has developed and recommended a baby carrier which should have Mamas new and old carrying with peace of mind. Both the Balboa Adjustable Sling and Flexible Knit Serene Sling  have specifically been tested for safety, versatility, and comfort more than any other sling on the market.

The Balboa Adjustable Sling [$60] is one I'd definitely suggest for beginners. This sling is well made in a very comfortable cotton/spandex blend with heavy duty nylon rings and a tailored padded strap. Perfect for someone just starting out with babywearing- especially if you are unsure of what size to buy.  The patterns available are sassy, but sensible. And I personally am in love with the feel of the fabric!

The Flexible Knit Serene Sling [$150] is a bit pricey for a pouch, but I must admit it does feel like your favorite knit top. And the Chocolate Ivory pattern is as dreamy as it sounds. The Serene Sling's flexibility allows for a snug hold, but do be sure to order the correct size. As with any pouch sling, it is imperative for baby's safety to have the proper fit. Sizes run appropriate from XS to XL, but please consult the sizing chart before ordering. Being Oeko-tex certified is a nice bonus, as it makes this earthy sling even more environmentally friendly and further proves that wearing baby is good for everyone!

Win it!
We're giving away the two slings described above to two lucky winners!  To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Balboa as your subject. Let us know which sling you you'd like, along with your address. Giveaway ends 07.19.08

-Steph

Babywearing Conference

In Chicago? Into that whole babywearing thing? Or maybe just curious what we're always raving about?

Today kicks off the 2nd International Babywearing Conference at Chicago's DuPaul University. Online registration is now closed but you can register at the event for a slew of awesome sessions covering topics from how to wear your baby safely to traditional babywearing with some fun Mom and tot yoga and music classes thrown in.  If you're not interested in the classes I'd highly recommend checking out  Friday night's fashion show and Saturday's sessions and events are free and open to the public all day. Plus, there will be an exhibit hall full of babywearing and other vendors and you might even run into a few us Mama Speaks gals, so be sure to say hello.

Of course, we'll share our pictures and new finds when we return.

Ball Baby Carriers

Wave Your Hands in the Air, Because You Finally Can  

I’m sure we don’t need to remind you what proud babywearing Mamas we are. While the benefits of babywearing go on and on, the one that continues to top the list for me was regaining use of my hands. My hands, my hands! I can use them to do so many useful and fun things again, eat that T-rex!

While you’re free to venture into the rough google waters of “baby carriers” on your own, we recommend getting started with Ball Baby Carriers. Ball Baby Carriers specializes in several variations of the asian-inspired carriers like podeagis [$95] and mei tais [$70+]. My son was born large and my neck and back were already weak. I had a short window where slings worked for me and I was fearful my babywearing days were numbered when they should just be getting started. I was then introduced to a mei tai carrier and once again body balance was restored. Mei Tais allowed me to carry my then baby turned enormous toddler for hours on end without pain, still to this almost three years old day. 

Ball Baby Carriers has a great selection of mei tais including solids for the simplistic, panels for those with a bit of a wild streak all the way to their popular Overall Mei Tais. These are for the all or nothing type of guy or gal. If you love a fabric like our full on funky zebra print, then you luh-huv a fabric and want to wrap it all over you and your baby. The construction of our Ball Baby carrier is extremely sturdy with reinforced stitching in all the right places. The straps were wider and padding-free unlike what I was used to but I found this to be a blessing in disguise. The wide straps hugged my shoulders distributing the weight more evenly and prevented potential digging in to the little one going for a ride.  However they were still a little long for my 5’ 5” frame. The mei tai body was also wider and shorter which helped boost up my passenger but also made me prefer this for an older infant or toddler versus a newborn.

We know you’ll love your reclaimed full range of motion and comfort of your Ball Baby Carrier.  My only request while you’re out enjoying your pretty new mei tai while being hunted down by curious moms that must know where you got that fabulous “what is that” carrier?  Please don’t confuse mei tai with mai tai.  Mei tai should be pronounced as may-tie unless you’re going for wishful thinking.  Just send them on over to Ball Baby Carriers and enjoy the two free hands you now have to double fist all the mai tais you want.

Want it?
Enter code Mama for 10% off any order.

- Cara

Sleepy Wrap

Wrapped Up Tight

I wish someone would wrap me up and carry me around sometimes. It’s no wonder babies love to be held close! I’ve noticed an increasing trend in baby carriers lately that wraps are so in. And I’m so excited to do a whole lot of wrapping when my next baby arrives.

The Sleepy Wrap [$34] is a great way to wrap and wear your baby, especially if you’ve never wrapped before. Ultra soft and durable, the Sleepy Wrap is perfect for your baby’s first year of life and beyond. True to its name, your baby’s head will have full support while in the Sleepy Wrap- especially important when they are asleep!

The Sleepy Wrap comes in great color choices sure to compliment any wardrobe and is offered at a price that is very hard to find among good quality baby carriers. Simple instructions make learning the best tying method for you & baby a breeze. And an added bonus to wraps is that they are made for babywearers of all shapes and heights. No worries about getting the right size- it will fit every time.

Want it?
Enter mamaspeaks at checkout for 15% off your purchase. Expires 05.30.08

-Steph

 

Sprout Pouch

Wear Your Sprout Out

I think one of the reasons babywearing has become so popular is not only because of the fabulous benefits for parent & baby, but most likely because of all the great styles and options out there. It’s all about the fashion. And a Mama’s gotta look good.

Sprouting up with the slinging-their-babies set is Sprout Pouch. Designed with colors and patterns you’ll ooh and ahh over, you’ll be oohing and ahhing at the price even more. Aqua, lime, and chocolate is a divine combination creating the Caroline [$56]. Rich solid berry reversing to black is The Emily [$56] for those that want to make a less busy fashion statement. If you fall in love with the fabrics of the Sprout Pouch, you can also carry one of the very classy Mama Bags [$139]. Each bag is fully lined with a coordinating fabric and includes a vinyl-free, waterproof, washable changing pad. I confess the black velveteen of the Michelle bag made my heart flutter a bit.

Pouches are great carriers for Moms and Dads of all sizes. Sprout Pouch offers six different sizing options- choose carefully to customize your perfect fit.
Of course, comfort and durability is important, but give a gal some options (I’m all about options lately) and a trend is sparked… and possibly an addiction.

Want it?
Enter mamaspeaks for 15% off through 06.15.08

-Steph

MetroMamma Wrap

It’s All About The Bling Sling
    

There’s yet to be another wrap to come my way that is as luxurious and classy as the MetroMamma MetroWrap. It’s like your favorite tee shirt and best going out accessory all in one. You’ll not only want to wrap your baby right up in it, but you’ll be covering yourself up with this sleek, unique fabric, too.
 

Wrap carriers are so simple- just one really long piece of fabric!- but they are a little overwhelming your first couple times. It doesn’t take long at all to be wrapping your little burrito like a pro, and the MetroWrap shines above any other I’ve tried.
 

I’m honestly having a hard time choosing my favorite features… the four colors available are subtle and stylish. Select from Manhattan Black, San Francisco Chocolate, Savannah Rose, or Seattle Sage. The Original MetroWrap [$80] will accent every wardrobe, and since it is completely adjustable, it will also compliment all figures and curves.
   

For those of us with a bit more sparkly of characters, opt for one of the five Bling MetroWraps [$130] to showcase your personality. Hardcore Mamas must have the Angel Wings (and let’s face it, I’m not what you’d call hardcore and I so want that Angel Wings bling), and whether you’re the queen or your little one is the princess, the Crown bling design will be sure everyone knows you are royalty. But most importantly, every MetroWrap follows the two key rules in babywearing: keeping baby secure and keeping Mama in fashion.

Win it!
We're giving away a wrap from MetroMamma! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Metro as your subject and let us know which wrap is your favorite. Giveaway ends April 26, 2008.
 

-Steph 

Scootababy Baby Carrier

Hip and Happy

As the owner of baby sling company, I generally pass all of our babywearing gear onto the other Mama's, just because. But, even I would occasionally like a break from my ring sling. I can't tell you how long I've been searching for the perfect hip carrier only to have my many promising prospects turn out to be flops.

You may have already heard a little bit of buzz in the blogosphere about this one, but it's one thing that we are happy to jump on the bandwagon for. The Scootababy Baby Carrier [$107] combines the best features from the babywearing hall of fame to create what I'm happy to say is the PERFECT carrier for holding baby hip side. The wide, padded waist band, buckles on easily and distributes weight and support evenly across your core. Baby will be happy to perch in a lightly padded, shaped seat reminiscent of a classic mei tai. My favorite feature, and the one you can all send thank you letters of love to Scootababy for later, is the sling like shoulder cuff made of comfy stretchy fleece. It is like a little slice of babywearing heaven, my friends.

I will admit I may have wrinkled my nose a bit when I heard the Scootababy had a denim shell, but wow! The deep dark color is stylish, sleek and will hold up to all the wear and tear you can dish out. The limited edition Jellybean print provides the perfect bit of sass and while you can't really see it from the outside, we love that funky on the inside feel. We can't imagine why you'd want to take this baby off, but if you do it will fold/roll up nicely and tucks right inside it's very own pouch.

With a 34 pound, 3 foot tall, 2 year old, just about any method of carrying, from ring slinging to me trusty old arms, is a workout to say the least. Thanks to Scootababy, my back and I survived a day with a sick, sleepy boy perched atop my hip. Oh, and if your babe is a bit smaller than mine, don't worry, babies 5 months old all the way up to 40 pounds will snuggle right up with ease.

Want it?
Enter code MAMASPEAKS at checkout for free shipping through May 17, 2008.

Baby Bisou

Love At First Sight

Many babywearers can’t help but swoon over gorgeous baby carrier fabrics and designs. It’s our thing. It’s why we have more than one (or three or four) ring slings and mei tais and wraps and so on. When I first laid eyes on the beautiful modern mei tais by Baby Bisou, I wanted to marry them. They are that pretty.

            

Instantly I had to have the Avery [$125], and I wanted to design my whole living room around it with matching cushions on my couch. And even though I don’t really wear pink, I was trying to justify the Plum Blossom or Botanical Garden [each $125] by thinking that would remedy the absence of blush tones in my wardrobe. You do have the option to go plain-jane (although with these prints I don’t know why anyone ever would), but the Simple Black [$119] might be more likely worn by Daddies versus the Honey Sparrow [$125].

But enough about the loveliness of these carriers. Baby Bisou’s structure and style is functional and sturdy without any unneeded extras. It’s not heavy or bulky and, because I tend to be more a fan of straps and ties than buckles, I wasn’t sure what I’d think of the comfort with Baby Bisou. I found it super-easy to put on and get my child secure- recommended for babies aged 3 months to 40 lbs. It is very quick and convenient to use the buckle clasps as well as adjust the shoulder straps and waist before and after baby is on, too. The wide waist band gives an excellent support that I don’t have with my strappy non-buckled mei tai. Ladies will also appreciate the positioning of the buckles and straps, as it doesn’t seem to accentuate our, ahem, extra rolls and curves as some carriers can do!

I love a good Asian carrier for the back carry, and this one feels and looks good. Baby Bisou isn’t oversized, so I am really looking forward to carrying a smaller babe on front as well. I love the way Baby Bisou imitates the traditional mei tai in every way, but instead it just has buckles. It doesn’t look “commercial” or plastic or manufactured like I’ve seen with other soft structured carriers. This is the real deal with a bonus of delicious patterns and colors you’ll just want to wrap yourself (oh, and baby) up in!

Want it?
Baby Bisou is offering free shipping on all carriers through the end of March.

Win it!
We 're giving away a Baby Bisou carrier of winners choice! To enter, email giveaways@mamaspeaks.com with Baby B as your subject. Let us know which carrier is your fav. Giveaway ends March 26, 2008.

   

-Steph

Peanut Shell

      

In A Nutshell 

 

I admit that I normally have not been a big fan of pouch slings- some can be very hard to find the right size and fit, and it often just doesn’t seem right with the baby all squished up in there! But, I have come to see the light in recent months. The Peanut Shell is a comfortable, convenient, and super easy to use pouch sling. When your baby carrier fits properly and is worn correctly, it’s just bliss!

      

The lightweight cotton of the Peanut Shell has just the right amount of stretch so that the pouch is neither too loose (as I’ve experienced with other brands) or too tight (ditto). A slimmer cut on the shoulder eliminates extra bulk, and light padding on the rails is gentle on baby’s legs. Having no straps or buckles to mess with is a wonderful plus, and it folds up so tiny, neatly, and nicely right in your purse or diaper bag when you’re on the go, as we always are. I still prefer my Peanut Shell pouch over all other carriers for nursing, especially in public. 

 

Added features like a pocket and toy loop are nice, but not something I actually use. I’m just crazy about the patterns, feel, and overall ease of wearing this carrier! BoHo Chic [$49] is a popular cotton print, and for those that find patterns a bit too busy or feminine, opt for something like the solid Temptation in chocolate [$49]. I like to have my choices, so the reversible Red Yoko [$65] is more for me!

      

And I never knew Peanut Shell had wraps! Like, really fancy ones with appliqués such as the Girly Skull [$99] on black! If that’s a little too much bling bling, then choose one in just Solid Black [$69]. Nursing covers are another newer addition to the Peanut Shell line, available in many of the same prints as the slings. Make breastfeeding discreetly even more enjoyable with baby under the Lotus Nursing Cover [$29] or the yummy Mojito [$29].

 

I had also been under the impression that pouch slings were best for the smaller babes, but found it to be one of my favorite ways to wear my two-year-old! Peanut Shell is recommended for infants and toddlers up to 36 lbs. Choose the right size for you by using the helpful sizing guide. I believe the Peanut Shell is one pouch that is generous with giving you a great fit and way to wear your baby with convenience and confidence!

Win it!
We're giving away a Peanut Shell pouch (size XS) for one (erm, tiny?!) reader! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with Peanut as your subject and let us know which print is your fav. Giveaway ends midnight March 17.

   

-Steph

Nest Baby Slings

They Have Important Stuff To Carry, Too!

 

Oh my, look what just hatched at Nest!

      

Imitation is the finest form of flattery, right? Of course your son or daughter will learn by watching you early on that the things they love want to be held close, too. Most often that could be a baby doll or a “lovey” (in our case, Mr. Bear). And truth be told, sometimes that includes Legos, trucks, or even the occasional piece of food.

   

Ashlee Allen, owner, mastermind and creator of things at Nest Baby Sling has truly outdone herself this time! Debuting a whole new spring collection [$65-$85] for Mamas that is both breathtaking and fashionably fierce, she also added the Hatchlings [$25-$30] line for the little Mamas & Papas in training. Each Hatchling sling is made with the same fine impressive detail and care as the adult slings, coming in over 20 available styles! Make them walk the plank in the Arr, matey! Pirate [$25] or match Mommy in Chocolat [$25] or Daddy in Desert [$25].

 

I can’t only point out the new Hatchlings without gushing a bit over the gorgeous fresh spring set of slings for you. From the delicate Ash and Sparrow [$75 each] to the abstract Heart Nouveau [$85], you can clearly see Nest slings are a work of art, something you would see walking the high-fashion runways, if there were such a thing for baby wearers! Believe with Hope [$75], also available in Hatchling Hope [$25] created with breast cancer awareness in mind. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Susan G. Komen For The Cure.

   

All Nest slings are designed with black, silver, or colored aluminum rings in patterns and contrasting shades you would expect to see priced much higher, allowing you to carry baby in luxury without the cost. And the ultimate goal is to keep you wearing that baby close- because we all know that’s what’s best- so while you’re at it, do what’s most excellent… in style.

Win it!
We're giving away a Hatchling sling to two winners! To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com with nest as you subject and let us know which sling from the new collections is your favorite. Giveaway ends March 11.

-Steph

My Baby Nest

      

Wrap Them Up!

   

Even I, a well-seasoned babywearer, am still a bit intimidated by wrap carriers. There is just so much fabric and, well, so much wrapping! My Baby Nest [$60] gives you the look and feel of a wrap, without the fuss and confusion.
 

Made of two super-soft cotton loops and a ring-closure belt, My Baby Nest is a breeze to put on and take off, and even easier to put baby in! Simple video and written instructions for five different positions are available here. By slipping each loop over your head and forming an “X” across your body, you can quickly place baby in one of the many positions, then fasten the light-weight belt around the center for extra security and support.

      

My Baby Nest was especially designed for nursing newborns with ease and comfort. I can’t stress enough the convenience and importance of being able to breastfeed and wear your baby at the same time! You’ll have plenty of fabric to maintain your modesty as well as support baby’s precious head.

 

If you’ve found yourself unsure of the learning curve of most wrap carriers, My Baby Nest has got you covered. Available in three sizes and several colors, this carrier is perfect for Mom or Dad, and babies newborn up to 35 lbs.   

-Steph

Baby Love Slings

Try This Ring On For Size

   

The number one question I am most often asked about babywearing is which sling to choose first. While I definitely recommend finding the right style and type of carrier that works best for you, I always suggest a ring sling.   

   

I’m a new fan of Baby Love Slings ring slings [$60], with light but sturdy batik fabric and many styles and colors for every Mama’s personality. The Orange Mandala looks like the pricier slings you’ll see the celebs wearing these days, but don’t be fooled- this one is much easier on your wallet. The Baby Love Sling collection is vibrant and colorful for those with flair and also includes classic pieces with the simple bestseller Metro Black or the new Black and White Jazz.

       

View more fabrics available at Baby Love Slings here and have your carrier custom made at the same affordable price! Each Baby Love Sling is recommended for newborns up to children weighing 35 lbs, and a detailed instruction booklet is included, complete with photographs demonstrating proper use. Imagine a happy baby that cries less and has better emotional and physical development- all while Mama looks good wearing their sweet baby. We love slings. Babies love slings. Wearing your baby just makes good parenting and fashion sense.

Want it?
Use coupon code mamspeaks for 15% off a $50+ order

   

-Steph

 

Baby Hawk

Mei Tai With a Makeover

It always works out that when the baby is crying, the toddler needs something right this minute! Sit down to nurse, and of course the toddler will have to use the potty within two minutes. If you have a baby like mine, nursing and a totally mommy lover, a Baby Hawk might be right up your alley. This carrier was inspired by a mama who needed some extra arms after the birth of her second baby and believe me, I know all too well what she was thinking.

Fashion meets function when it comes to the Baby Hawk meit tai ($80). Not only will you be able to tote around baby while taking care of toddler (and sometimes even use the bathroom yourself), you'll have all the other mama's seeing green. They will be totally envious of the hot carrier you're sporting. And oh is it comfortable! The Baby Hawk is a hit with both baby and I, he happily sleeps away while I cook, do housework, or surf the web, surprise, surprise I can get stuff done!

Each mei tai comes with a "how to" manual, so you'll know exactly how to start wearing your baby. Whether you choose one of the gorgeous ready to wear styles or customize your own, Baby Hawk truly is a cure for the common carrier.

Win it!
We have an $80 gift certificate for Baby Hawk so one reader can choose the carrier they've been dreaming of. To enter, email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight February 14 with Hawk as your subject.

-Jaymi

SlingEZee

The Slinging is Easy

If you've ever been brave enough to Google slings or baby carriers, you know that there are as many contraptions out there as there are people. And even if you narrow it down to slings you have ring slings, pouch slings, open tail, closed tail, padded, unpadded- yadda-yadda-ya... Unpadded, open tailed slings are all the rage of late, but Baby Holdings, Inc., SlingEZee [$49-$55] is a rare sling, both padded and with a shorter closed tail that can keep up with the rest.

Maybe it's that this sling was my intro to babywearing as a nanny many years ago, but I've always been a closet fan of the SlingEZee. With padding at the shoulder and along the rails many Mama's swear that padded slings like this are a step above in comfort. To be honest, I don't notice much difference and have been occasionally frustrated with the extra bulk. I've found that depending on the weight of the babe you're toting the shoulder padding becomes completely compressed and therefore obsolete. And while I'm not a big fan of the padded rails along my back, when my son became the chunkiest baby I'd ever seen, the padding under his chubtastic thighs allowed him to sit comfortably at my hip.

The closed tail sling allows you to easily adjust the pouch and fit of your sling with one tug of the tail but also means you need to sure to order the size that's perfect for you and might limit any sling sharing between mom and dad. There are many styles to choose from, from classic solid basics that go with anything to the latest design collection featuring fun bold prints. The Chocolate Damask patten is my by far fave and I love the way the print camouflages the padding.

So yeah, I'm still a little on the fence about jumping into the world of the padded ring-sling, but as they go, I think Parenting Concepts are right in saying they offer the premier product.

Win it!
We have the Chocolate Damask sling pictured in Petite for one lucky Mama! To enter email giveaways[at]mamaspeaks.com by midnight January 22 with SlingEZee as your subject.

Portamee

Close to Mee

 

I'll admit it, I am an amateur Babywearer. Until last summer, I never even knew that carriers and slings outside of a Baby Bjorn existed, but once my fellow Mama Speaks friends showed me the ropes, I was hooked! I of course have formed opinions on my favorites, and the Portamee [$180] is definitely one of the best I have tried so far.

 

At first glance, the Portamee isn't as visually appealing as one might like, but it makes up for looks in comfort and ease of use. I tend to like carriers with more color and personality, but the basic black is easy to coordinate with if that’s your style. I am not a particular fan of the "rear fanny pack", but I can see why it's there.  The lower back support is phenomenal, and in order to utilize the area, the "daddy pack" was added. With all of the pockets and compartments, there is certainly no need for a bulky diaper bag (if one at all).  There are places to store diapers, wipes, pacifiers, and even a removable bottle holder, all within arm's reach.

 

The mama’s behind Portamee aren’t about to leave you (and your baby) out in the rain. They offer an optional hooded cape [$40] to keep baby’s head dry in case you get stuck in an unexpected storm. And since the it's able to be used with infants as young as 8 weeks old, the  infant headrest [$40] is also an optional accessory to make the carrier more practical.

 

The comfort of the Portamee is what ultimately sold me, my back feels great, there's plenty of room for all of my stuff, and most importantly- baby seems to like it. and that’s all that really matters.

Mama Speaks readers can get $20 off their Portamee carrier puchase through 01.30.08 with code ttw20

-Jen

Bronwen Handcrafted

Sling in Style

Every day I discover another company selling and/or making their own baby-wearing products.  Funky wraps and slings are becoming all the rage, and I’m thrilled to see more and more parents catching on to this fantastic baby item.  One such company is Bronwen Handcrafted, Inc, who create and sell a luxurious line of slings and pouches for every stylish mama.  From the Vera Wang Brocade to the vintage yet fresh Marrimekko designs, each product will have you wishing you could buy one for every outfit in your closet.   

Bronwen’s slings [$95] are constructed with quality in mind, and lightweight enough to snuggle baby close and wear under him your coat this winter.    

Independently and mama owned, Bronwen Handcrafted also has gorgeous modern quilts, baby clothing, and more.  I absolutely love the Tang quilt, and can’t wait to get my hands on one (hint hint, Santa!).    

-Arianne

The Way To Go? Ergo!

Babywearing as a "lifestyle" more than function is just coming into it's own. Even in the 20+ months since my son was born I get less looks and questions than I did in the early months when I was slinging him. Unfortunately, most people still carry their babies in the front pack style carriers that you can buy at any discount store. You know, those awful carriers that kill your back and leave your baby hanging off your chest like a stranded beetle. And not only does baby look funny, studies have shown that this position is awful for babies developing body.

As usual, a Mama stepped in to create a product to solve this problem. "The ERGO Baby Carrier's ergonomic design supports a correct sitting position for the baby's hip, pelvis and spine growth. It disperses most of the baby's weight between the hips and thighs, which helps to eliminate compression of the spine when hanging by the crotch which most other designs require. The ERGO also balances the baby's weight to parents' hips and shoulders, and alleviates physical stress for the parent." All equaling unbeatable comfort for parents and baby.

The Ergo Baby Carrier promises to be many types of carriers in one, and it delivers. Most similar in structure to a traditional backpack carrier with a little bit of Mei Tai flair, The Ergo allows you to carry your baby on your front, back or hip as your little one grows. For babes newborn to four months the Ergo Infant Insert allows you to cuddle baby close to your chest in a sling like position and for Tykes you may think are to big to carry comfortable, The Ergo will easily accommodates a not so little one on your back.

The Ergo is a definite favorite for the Papa's in our lives and is a must for active families, allowing you to wear baby places a sling just won't cut it (hiking anyone?). We do wish some of the fabric choices were a bit more fashionable but the new limited editions are making strides in the right direction. Besides, with that gorgeous baby inside whose looking at the fabric!

Head over to The Ergo Lady for free shipping on all Ergo carriers and accessories plus a 60 day no-risk trial!

 

Mama Needs A Mei Tai

Babywearing may never go out of style, but you will need to update your baby carrier stash from time to time to keep up with the trends.

The Ellaroo Mei Tai Baby Carrier allows you to wear your babe with flair and function. This stylish carrier can be worn on your front, back, or hip- from birth to 35 lbs. The innovative folding headrest is convenient to support baby’s head when you need it, and is out of the way when you don’t.

Although it is quite sturdy and dynamic, the Ellaroo Mei Tai has luxurious give and comfort for Mom and baby.

With soft, cozy fabrics and patterns that can be worn by both Mom & Dad, all of Ellaroo’s baby carriers belong on your list, including the unique Ellaroo Podeagi and Ellaroo Mei Hip.

Stay in the know with Ellaroo’s blog called EllaNews. Be prepared to be informed and enlightened as Ellaroo is not just about making baby carriers- they also strive to be a sustainable and fair trade manufacturer.

-Steph

The Perfect Nest

One of the greatest benefits of babywearing is that the carrier is like a second womb to a newborn babe. All safe and secure and close to mommy's heart. Now, babywearing just got even better.  Nest Baby Sling has the hippest ring slings [$50-$75] you'll find. Trendy materials make it hard for any mama to pass up. With these modern, hand made ring slings, you'll be walking the runway, even through the grocery store. I've tried many slings, not to mention other types of carriers, and hands down this one is my favorite. The fact that it's reversible makes it that much better. My favorite feature is extra material near the rings for a more comfortable fit- no more sore shoulders!

Nest has a full line of ring slings, water slings and totes [$30]. And coming August 1st, Nest will launch their fall sling collection, plus all new messenger style diaper totes and stoller bags. These are a must for any mama!

Mama Speaks readers get 15% off any purchase at Nest! Just enter code MAMASPEAK at checkout.

Win it!  We're giving away a Nest Baby Sling and tote in Twinkle. Just let us know why Nest was hatched at reviews@mamaspeaks[dot]com. Giveaway ends July 16 at midnight.

-Jaymi