From Eveningsnews.com

Babies
Babies For Beginners
By
Sep 8, 2005, 00:43


(NAPSI)-A recent study found that 78 percent of expectant mothers and 87 percent of fathers-to-be prefer to keep the gender of their baby a surprise. While a wonderful bundle of joy awaits these couples, planning for their new arrival can certainly present challenges, especially for decorating baby's nursery.

What Parents Need

When thinking about designing the nursery, parents should utilize their registry to let friends and family know what they really need. Target baby-one popular gift registry-lets parents register for nursery necessities such as bedding, lighting, furniture and décor as well as traditional baby must-haves including layette, toys and strollers.

Nursery Design 101

To ease the uncertainty that expectant parents often feel when preparing for the arrival of their little one, family and friends can work together to prepare a gender neutral nursery for baby. Creating a soothing and enjoyable environment for both baby and parents is the key, so try these tips from nursery designer and Target designer partner Amy Coe to get baby's nursery just right.

• Color Palette-By using colors such as khaki, chocolate brown and celadon green, you can create a gender neutral nursery that can transition with baby through childhood. Don't be afraid to mix and match your favorites-great color is timeless.

• Customized Art-Collect treasured note cards, photographs or vintage picture books. Select at least three images in complementary colors, place them in ready-made frames and arrange them artistically on a wall for a customized look.

• Light the Mood-Place a favorite lamp by an heirloom rocker, an overstuffed chair or a window seat to create a special, softly-lit spot for cuddling. Target baby offers a selection of lighting options to add a comforting feel to the entire nursery.

• Mix Vintage with Modern-Reinvigorate timeless antique furniture such as wardrobes and dressers by incorporating these items into the nursery. By mixing these classics with baby essentials, such as cribs and changing tables, the nursery has a distinct feel at an affordable price.

To access online resources such as the Target baby gift registry, the amy coe limited edition, parenting tips from experts and buying guides, visit Target.com/baby.

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