Your Baby Nursery - Decorating a Fabulous and Functional Room

Decorating a baby nursery can be one of the most enjoyable tasks that you have before your bundle of joy arrives. There are many baby nursery themes to choose from and narrowing it down to just one may be your most difficult decision.

Many parents know the sex of the baby in time to tailor a nursery to a baby girl or baby boy theme. If you don't know the sex of your baby there are many color combos that are gender neutral such as periwinkle and celery green. Or perhaps you would like a neutral theme with beiges and creams. You could choose and all white room with just splashes of color used in the accessories that can be changed to suit your child as it grows.

Once you pick your theme and begin the task of decorating your nursery don't forget about these essentials;

? Cribs - Your baby will use the crib for 2 or 3 years but, if you would like to use it for longer, then pick one of the many convertible cribs on the market. These beds go from a crib, to a toddler bed, to a young child's bed, with just a few quick changes. Of course, always buy a crib that is certified as safe. Most cribs on the market today will have that certification.

? Changing tables - choose a changing table that matches your décor but as with cribs safety is important. The table you choose should have safety straps and rails to keep your baby from falling off the table. And of course the changing table should have a nice cushy pad to keep your baby comfortable while changing diapers.

? Storage - determine how much storage you will need. Then pick baby furniture such as armoires, dressers, blanket chests and toy boxes that will blend in with your décor.

? Seating - Of course don't forget Mom (or Dad) and pick a comfortable chair or glider rocker which will be great for those late night feedings or when singing a lullaby to baby.

After the theme is picked and the essentials for the room are decided, you can begin to choose the accessories such as rugs, window treatments, wall décor, wallpaper and paint. Just remember when decorating your baby nursery keep it fun! This is your chance to do things you wouldn't do in the rest of your house. Start with the essentials and then go for it!

Valerie DuVall is a professional decorator in the Metro New York area. Visit her website for more tips and great resources for baby nursery decorating ideas