The Primo Viaggio has been great for us, so I was excited to hear that Peg Perego is introducing a new modular system for 2012. The 2012 Switch Four Modular System is a stylish and functional all-in-one for parents to be. And we’re super excited here at The Shopping Mama to be one of the first to review and giveaway this awesome system.

Switch Four Modular System

The Switch Four Modular System includes everything a new baby needs and more. Are you ready for this list? It’s impressive. The following are included in the Switch Four Modular System package:

• Primo Viaggio SIP 30-30 infant car seat with latch system base
• Navetta XL bassinet and stand for home use
• Recently updated Switch Four Stroller with its own set of impressive features (see below) (notice the stroller seat is included but not pictured in the photo to the right)
• Borsa Diaper Bag
• Coordinating Foot Muff
• Snack tray
• Rain cover

The Primo Viaggio SIP 30-30 Infant Car Seat

As I mentioned, this seat is one of the top rated car infant seats. It has impressive side impact protection (exceeds the most stringent test in the world), an easy to use Latch base (also works with seatbelt), “Comfort Dry” microfiber cloth on headrest and padding (great when you have a serious spitter) and has a 5 point harness with neck padding. We used this seat for my son until he outgrew the height and are now using it for my daughter. This seat makes me feel confident in my baby’s safety and looks great even after regular use. It’s easy to install with the Latch system or a seatbelt and the seat goes from car to stroller seamlessly. My only complaint is that it’s a touch heavy, but from what I’ve heard that’s a pretty standard complaint with infant seats and I’ll trade a little weight for top rated safety. Plus, isn’t that why God created strollers? Speaking of, the Primo Viaggio is easy to snap securely into the Switch Four stroller base or the bassinet stand (great for when you have a toddler who is obsessed with pointing out baby’s eyes).

Navetta XL Bassinet and Stand

I’ve never owned a stroller with a bassinet feature before and I LOVE it. The system comes with a stylish bassinet and foot-muff that attaches easily to the stroller and can also be used with the included stand or placed on the ground and rocked or stabilized with fold away feet. My little girl often falls asleep during walks. I know she’s comfortable in the bassinet and can keep napping even after we get home.

My son helping me unpack the stroller and showing how large the bassinet is. Of course he’s too large to actually ride in it safely. The weight limit is 20 pounds and the bassinet should not be used once baby can push up.

Switch Four Stroller

I could take up a whole rest of your day just talking about this stroller. This is one of the best designed strollers I’ve ever used. All the features function smoothly and it’s clear the designer really thought about how moms want things to work. There’s no jerking or pounding or cussing that is sometimes associated with opening or closing a stroller and the seat, car seat, or bassinet can be securely attached and removed with ease.

Stroller Features

• Seat can face forward or backward
• Weight limit 45 pounds and 43 inches
• Fully reclining seat that easily transforms into a carriage
• Adjustable leg and back rest
• Large, handy storage basket that holds all the necessities
• Telescoping handles for taller adults
• Adult cup holder
• Large hood with peek-a-boo window that unzips to become a sun canopy
• Built-in rear footboard that provides a safe ride for a second passenger
• Included foot muff and rain cover

I have thoroughly (and unintentionally) reviewed how easy this stroller is to push. For some insane reason, I decided it would be a good idea to load a fussy baby into the stroller and head out with my toddler (walking) and yellow lab for a walk to the park. Half way there the baby had not calmed down and I remembered that dogs were now banned from the neighborhood park. Unsurprisingly, little man did not want to turn around. Cut to me pushing stroller with screaming baby with one hand which is also holding the dog’s leash while carrying a 30 pound screaming toddler under the other arm. The only one not having a bad time was the stroller. It was actually possible to maneuver thanks to its four large wheels, ball bearings and suspension system. With two hands, or heck one dedicated hand, it handles like a dream. It’s the first stroller I’ve had that handles as well as my jogging stroller.

I can’t say enough about how great this stroller folds. You know how you always imagined a stroller should fold? Yeah, this one folds that smoothly. A quick squeeze of a trigger on each handle (these can be done independently if you are operating with one hand because HELLO when are you not working with one hand?) followed by a tug on the folding handle and you have this:

It’s a free standing, super compact stroller. It also folds with the seat attached forward or rear facing.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… This stroller system is the cream of the crop in modular strollers. It has everything a new parent needs to get started. With the bassinet baby even has a place to sleep for the first few months.

Or Not to Buy… The Switch Four Modular System is so complete that it may be more than a repeat parent needs.

Shop! The Peg Perego Switch Four Modular System will be available in Zaffiro, Pois Grey, or Geranium for $1099. It currently has limited availability at Amazon.com, but expect to see this system at respected retailers around the country soon.

Win! A Peg Perego Switch Four Modular Stroller System!

How to Enter: Visit the Peg Perego Ciao Mondo blog about the new Switch Four Modular System and leave a comment with your favorite feature.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Visit Peg Perego and comment here with another product that you’d like to have in your house.
• Like Peg Perego USA and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share this post on Facebook and tag @PegPeregoUSA and @TheShoppingMama.
• Follow Peg Perego USA AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Meet the brand new Peg Perego Switch Four Modular Stroller System and enter to win @TheShoppingMama  - $1000 value! http://bit.ly/xikBkH
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 24. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to Peg Perego for providing a sample and the giveaway prize.

Even toddler boy loves them. Yes, he will kill me for these photos in the future.

He compensates for the tutu with a manly Lightening McQueen “hunk-o-burning love” shirt.

And even the dog wears tutus. Featured here inside out around her neck.

It is sad to have to retire some of our favorite tutus. However, they are tucked away for future reminiscing and children who may wish to wear them. So how about a tutu that can grow with your child?

That’s exactly what Trinkets and Tutus makes. These shabby chic tutus are made in a variety of color combinations from dozens of materials and ribbons attached to a coordinating adjustable waistline ribbon.

Because they are made from so many varieties of ribbon and fabric, no two tutus are alike (say that three times fast!). At their Etsy shop, trinkets and tutus features adorable fashions for all the upcoming holidays, including St. Patrick’s Day and Easter.

My daughter loves her (trinket and) tutu! The first time she put it on she said, “It makes me feel like singing!” And sing she did.

As a mama, I’m very pleased with the Trinkets and Tutus product. I love that the product is handmade by moms who have put great thought into their pieces. I like the adjustable waistband (to a point, trinkets and tutus makes them for age ranges) that you can simply tie looser as the child grows. I love that a variety of ribbons and fabric have been used. Preschool girl spent almost an hour one afternoon looking at all the fabrics and ribbons to pick her favorite. Additionally, both children have used the tutu in their imaginative play. This tutu has been a lion mane, a door for their clubhouse and a rug on which their pet store pets (stuffed animals) can sleep.

Upon wearing the tutu to preschool for the first time, preschool girl received a million compliments which made her heart very happy. She loves to be the center of attention (what girl doesn’t?).

We have had some fraying of the satin ribbons in the tutu. I solved that with some fabric scissors and a quick “V” snip.

Our Trinkets and Tutus tutu is great fun!

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… With an adjustable waist, variety of colors and textures and the “swing factor,” a tutu from trinkets and tutus is a great gift for that special little one (I would say “girl”, but have proven that my boy likes tutus as well!). On their Etsy site, Trinkets and Tutus also features doll-size tutus, bows, specialty shirts, themed tutus (Hello Kitty, pirates, Dora and Minnie Mouse to name a few). Starting at $22.50 for a newborn size, trinkets and tutus are competitively priced with other homemade and mass-produced tutus on the market. And, should you not find exactly what you are looking for in their Esty shop, trinkets and tutus will make a custom tutu for you.

Or Not to Buy… Our tutu has seen some fraying with the satin and cotton ribbons, but that was quickly and easily solved with a pair of scissors and a “V” cut. If you have a tremendously active child, you may wish to place a dab of fabric glue at the end of the ribbons.

Shop! Find Trinkets and Tutus on Etsy and have lots of fun browsing their unique offerings. Tutus range in price from $22.50 to $42. Remember, if you don’t see just what you need, customized options are available.

Win! A Trinkets and Tutus Tutu!

How to Enter: Visit Trinkets and Tutus and leave a comment here with your favorite style.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Like Trinkets and Tutus and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow Trinkets and Tutus AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Enter to win a unique, fabric handmade tutu from Trinkets & Tutus @TheShoppingMama http://bit.ly/ynv4rP
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 17. Open to US residents only.

pediped Originals New Sole

pediped Originals are designed for to be a child’s first shoes. As children learn to walk they shuffle their feet and experts say it is important for them to feel the floor. A flexible sole like pediped Originals is ideal when bare feet aren’t practical. pediped Originals also have a roomy toebox to allow the feet to move and grow properly. The child’s feet develop naturally without relying on the support of the shoe and feel comfortable. The velcro fasteners help parents get the shoes on and adjust for optimal fit.

The new slip resistant leather sole features a slip resistant diamond design on the same high quality leather sole pediped has been known for. My little man loved running around in his. I just wish he wasn’t so big (can’t believe he’s two already!) and about to outgrow them. He’d be wearing these for a long time otherwise.

New Sole Review Video

About pediped

pediped^® footwear was founded in 2004 by Angela and Brian Edgeworth in their quest for the perfect soft-soled shoe for their first daughter. Exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort and distinctive styling have made the award winning company the fastest-growing children’s footwear brand in the United States. pediped^® footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for the promotion of healthy foot development, and preeminent orthopedic medical professionals, Dr. Mininder S. Kocher and Dr. Thomas W. Vorderer, deem pediped shoes an excellent choice for parents/caregivers who want their children’s feet to develop naturally and healthily. In 2011 Earnshaw’s, the premier media resource serving the children’s market recognized pediped® with Earnshaw’s Earnie Awards for Company of the Year and Best Footwear.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… pediped Originals shoes are some of the best out there and the slip resistant sole just makes them better.

Or Not to Buy… At $33 a pair, little man is not going to end up with a closet full of these shoes, but he doesn’t need one. These shoes last and will be outgrown long before they wear out. His baby cousin will love wearing them too, making them a great value for $33.

Shop! pediped 2012 Spring and Summer Originals shoes are available now at www.pediped.com for $33 a pair.

Win! A Pair of pediped Originals with the New Slip Resistant Sole!

How to Enter: Visit pediped and check out the shoes. Leave a comment here telling us what style is your favorite.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Sign up to become a pediped insider (and be the first to get the 411 on sales and new products)
• Like pediped footwear and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow pediped footwear AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Enter to win new improved slip resistant pediped shoes http://bit.ly/xu3buF @TheShoppingMama
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 17. Open to US residents only.

Winner will receive his/her a pair of pediped originals in boy or girl and size requested. Requests for a particular style cannot be accommodated. Thanks to pediped for providing a sample and giveaway prizes. As always, opinions are my own.

As if folding up a pack’n'play is not annoying enough, traveling with one can be even worse. They rarely stay folded, the bags that come with them are hard to put on and not very durable, and there’s never anywhere to store accessory rods, sheets, and other attachments.  Enter the bover bag, a stylish and handy way to pack and carry playards in style.

About bover bags

“How it Began: One day not long ago, two very frustrated parents were trying to pack their car for a week at the shore. As the father loaded the car with his hands full of gear, the pack n’ play he was carrying fell from his hand, causing a domino effect as everything collapsed around him. When they got to their beach house, they realized they had forgotten the sheet and two rods because there hadn’t been a place to put them.

‘There’s gotta be a better way!’ he cried out. And the bover was born.

Just throw it over your shoulder and you’re all set. The bover’s shoulder strap gives you two free hands, large rod and sheet pockets mean you never leave gear behind, and the thick double-quilted fabric is chic and easy to wash. We also lined the interior for ease of entry and quick cleaning. With the bover, you’ve got it all.”

You’ve got it all, indeed

I think I heard a chorus from the heavens when I easily slipped the bover bag over my freshly-folded pack n play.  Normally that task is a struggle as I wrestle with both the playard and the ill-fitting bag that came with it.  The bover is lined in a fabric that is designed to slip on easily.  And let’s not forget the fabric on the outside – the patterns and quilting are so stylish thatI foresee us using this bag for other travel purposes even after Charlie has stopped using a pack’n'play.  The generous pockets held all of accessories rods for my model, which is saying alot considering that I got the version with all of the bells and whistles – changing pad, bassinet setting, etc.  I love that the bover bag allows me to keep to keep all pieces and related – linens  in one place.  The best part about this bag is that it’s hard to tell what’s inside it, so it’s not immediately obvious that I’m carrying quintessential baby gear.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… It’s pretty, it’s functional, it’s durable – seems like good enough reason to me!

Or Not to Buy… At $49.99 each, they might not be a necessity, but they are versatile enough that you will definitely get your money’s worth by taking advantage of their many uses.

Shop!  You can purchase at the bover website or at the NJ, MD, or PA stores listed online.

Win your very own bover bag!

How to Enter: Visit the bover bag Facebook Page, click the “like” button, and write on their wall about how a bover bag might make travel easier for your family. Come back and comment on this post to enter to win your own bover bag!

Thanks to boverbags for providing a sample and the giveaway prize.

About Aura Weavers

Aura Weavers was created by Shilpi Desai after her first child was born two years ago. She says, “I wanted all newbie and seasoned moms to find the same happiness I found with muslin – and that’s how Aura Weavers was born. I believe swaddling is an art. Just like a painting is imperfect without the right colors, swaddling is ineffective without the right fabric.”

The special weave of the Aura Weavers muslin blanket has a natural stretch perfect for a cozy swaddle.The muslin keeps a child warm during cool weather and cool during warm weather. The soft weave of muslin, the purest form of cotton, soothes and calms, creating an aura of happiness for your baby.

Aura Weavers Muslin Swaddling Blankets

My baby’s set of Aura Weavers blankets are washed, folded and waiting for baby in the dresser. The blankets measure a generous 47 inches by 47 inches. As you can see, the blankets have bright and fun designs – some more appropriate for a girl and some for a boy. I love the fun Fashion Fiesta set we have waiting for baby, which includes an elephant print and graphic print in bright oranges and greens, as well as a plain white blanket.

As I mentioned in my Newborn Essentials post on BabyCenter, I think swaddling blankets are a must have. It’s clear that because of their breathability muslin blankets are great for swaddling baby to provide comfort and (hopefully) encourage sleep, but the lightweight blankets serve lots of purposes from nursing cover to stroller blanket to a clean place to lay and play.

Shop! Aura Weavers muslin swaddle blankets are sold in set of 2 for $29.99 and set of 3 for $39.99. We are excited to share an exclusive 15% off coupon code: save with code AURAMAMA. Aura Weavers are also available on Amazon where they’re eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping (discount not eligible on Amazon).

Win! A Set of Muslin Swaddling Blankets from Aura Weavers!

How to Enter: Visit Aura Weavers and leave a comment here with your favorite set of blankets.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Sign up for the Aura Weavers Newsletter (bottom right of home page) – you’ll be the first to learn of deals and discounts.
• Like Aura Weavers and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow Aura Weavers AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Win a set of muslin swaddle blankets from Aura Weavers – a new mom-owned baby company @TheShoppingMama http://bit.ly/zr8GHt
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 10. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to Aura Weavers for providing a sample and giveaway prizes. As always, opinions are my own.

I made a decision early on in this pregnancy that I was going to try my hardest to be stylish. I didn’t want to fall into a yoga pants rut and I honestly feel better about myself and my growing bump when I feel good about how I look. It’s been a challenge to do so without breaking the bank but I’ve lot of fun finding new and fashionable ways to dress my bump. One of the coolest discoveries for an more affordable way to expand your maternity wardrobe is maternity clothing rental. Fashion Forward Maternity offers a wide range of stylish, designer maternity clothes – from casual wear to special occasion dresses.

About Fashion Forward Maternity

Based on the idea that all women should feel POWERFUL- BEAUTIFUL- COMFORTABLE- and STYLISH during pregnancy, and every day, Fashion Forward Maternity is an online boutique where savvy professional women can renthigh quality and designer maternity fashions at a fraction of the price of new to serve them during “all four trimesters.” We then “pass it forward” by donating all gently used clothes that can no longer be rented to women’s organizations around the country. Our unique model lets women choose the subscription level that allows them to maintain their style and fashion-sense during pregnancy and to keep their wardrobe fresh throughout all “four trimesters”.

• The right fit throughout your pregnancy and nursing time.
• Hundreds of styles and sizes to complete your look.
• No wasted time and energy shopping in overpriced boutiques.

Fashion Forward Maternity has a great FAQ section that describes how the process works. It answered a lot of my immediate questions – definitely check it out!

Renting Maternity Clothes from Fashion Forward Maternity

I was curious to get some feedback from other expecting moms about the idea of renting maternity clothes so I asked the question on BabyCenter’s Momformation blog: Would you rent maternity clothes? The overwhelming response was “Yes.” And, it makes sense. Many moms turn to consignment shops or other sources to purchase maternity clothes at a discount. After all, you only need them for a finite period of time. It’s much harder to justify buying a new shirt for $90 when you’ll only wear it for a couple of months. But, $90 is the suggested retail price of this Oilan Boatneck Tunic I’ve been borrowing from Fashion Forward. (right) Rather than shelling out the big bucks, you can rent it for $12.50 a month.

But, let’s back up a minute. The experience of renting clothes from Fashion Forward is really pleasant and similar to typical online shopping. The website allows you to search for clothes by type and occasion. You have the option of joining a subscription program – which includes a monthly fee but the cost of each clothing item is less per month – or you can rent piece by piece. Whether using a subscription or not, one of the benefits of wearing clothes for only a month is that if you don’t love something, you return it and try something else. Or, as your belly grows or the seasons change you can get clothes that are better suited for your needs. The shipping is free and your package arrives nicely packed and with a free return shipping label.

Several of the pieces in my shipment still had tags on them and were brand new. Items that are not new are professionally cleaned and inspected before shipment. Here’s another outfit I’m borrowing: designer maternity denim by Union Laurel Canyon style Paige Premium Denim and a Japanese Weekend Stripe Dolman Tunic. The suggested retail price of this outfit is $267. Or you can borrow it for $25 (or $47 sans subscription) total a month. And, from experience now I know these pants are much better suited for early in pregnancy. I would have been disappointed if I ordered these online at this point in my pregnancy and paid a lot for them. I’ll enjoy them for a month but won’t be totally sad to send them back.

The final piece in my shipment hasn’t been photographed yet because, well, it’s just not that flattering! This Lined Dress in Mocha by Jules and Jim is another piece that would have looked better in the second trimester. And, again, I would have been bummed if I purchased this online. And, let’s face it, I do a lot of my shopping – for maternity clothes – and everything else online. It’s just not practical to try on everything before I buy it, but renting it is a much less risky option.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… Fashion Forward Maternity has a really great selection of fashionable, designer brand maternity clothes for every occasion. I think renting maternity clothes makes sense no matter what the circumstances as it’s a great way to stretch your budget and expand your wardrobe. It’s particularly cost-effective if you only plan on one pregnancy or (like me) know you’re in your last pregnancy. Moms-to-be who work outside the home will benefit the most from the ability to borrow professional clothes with the ability to mix up the wardrobe every month. Further, who wants to buy a pricey special occasion dress when you are only going to wear it once? Rent, my friends!

Or Not to Buy… You do have to send the clothes back and whether you buy a subscription program or not, the cost of renting pieces can add up. If you’re not going to spend money on designer duds and high-end clothing it might not be worth it to rent them.

Shop! Fashion Forward Maternity clothes start at $23.50 a month per piece. The subscription service costs $125 a month with a rental fee of $12.50 per piece. Right now, if you sign up for the Fashion Forward Maternity mailing list, you get $25 off your first order of $150 or more. 

Win Fashion Forward Maternity Style for A Month! Your choice 2 regular items or 1 special occasion item.

How to Enter: Visit Fashion Forward Maternity and leave a comment here with a designer piece that you’d love to wear.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Sign up for the Fashion Forward Maternity Newsletter (home page, bottom left).
• Like Fashion Forward Maternity and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow Fashion Forward Maternity AND The Shopping Mama on Twitterand tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Win designer maternity style from @RentMaternity & @TheShoppingMama bit.ly/yJhEcC
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 8. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to Fashion Forward Maternity for providing a sample experience and the giveaway prizes. As always, opinions are my own.

Meet Baby Cargo

As you explore your baby’s world, you will find your travels go a little bit smoother with the right equipment. We are a team of experienced designers who also happen to be new parents. Throughout our careers, we have longed for an opportunity to make things that help make life easier. At Baby Cargo, we’ve managed to combine our true loves — design and baby making, uh, parenting — into a few really smart places to let our babies rest, play, eat, stroll… live.

Baby Cargo 200 Series Stroller Details

• Product Size  42 inches height x 12 inches wide x 12.5 inches deep
• Product Weight : 14 lbs.
• Seat Dimensions: 12.5 inches wide and 18 inches tall with 28 inch clearance to canopy
• Carrying Capacity: Up to 50lbs.
• Age guideline: Birth & Up
• Easy to carry with shoulder strap and handle
• Five-point safety belt
• Infinite recline positions
• Adjustable canopy
• Under stroller cargo basket
• Includes rain cover

Baby Cargo 200 Series Lightweight Umbrella Stroller Review

A good umbrella stroller has to do a lot of work in a lightweight package. The Baby Cargo checks all the important boxes: very lightweight, good weight capacity, easy to use and, of course, a great appearance. The Baby Cargo 200 Series Stroller is a versatile stroller that will be just as at home in a city apartment and a suburban garage.

We’ve been testing the 200 Series around town with a 3 year old and 5 year old who are both well below the 50 pound maximum weight capacity. A great feature is that, because of the nearly flat recline, the stroller can be used with babies from birth. I love that, without any costly accessories and with a little easy adjustment, all three of my kids can ride in the same stroller. The stroller has a 5 point harness and the straps are very easy to adjust to fit your child. There are three slots for shoulder straps and the waist belt tightens with a simple pull. The leg rest also adjusts to make the ride more comfortable for your child. Another great comfort factor is the cushioned seat – a definite improvement over the average umbrella stroller.

My 5 year old is obviously on the taller side for the stroller (picture above right) – the seat back is 18 inches from seat to top, but there is plenty of clearance for his head below the canopy. The seat is about 12.5 inches wide and both my kids fit perfectly fine. The sun canopy isn’t particularly large and is one area for improvement on the stroller, but we do really like the see through window making it easy to keep an eye on your tot. The stroller has independent brakes on the rear wheels. You can also lock the front wheels inline for travel over more rugged terrain.

Other features for the parent’s comfort include high handles – both my husband and I can push it comfortably, a cup holder, buttoned pocket on the canopy and pockets in the storage basket. The basket isn’t the biggest and is difficult to reach if the stroller is reclined. It will definitely fit essentials for a day out with kids like cups, blankets or toys but it might be a tight fit for a large diaper bag. The stroller is easy to fold and unfold and has a shoulder carrying strap perfect for travel. Another great feature for this price point is the included rain cover.

One of the things that makes the Baby Cargo different is its modern aesthetic. The 200 Series has a black matte aluminum frame, which is rust-resistant and looks awesome. The stroller’s design is influenced by modern home furnishings and features tone-on-tone fabrics for a subtle and sophisticated look.

Baby Cargo Video Review

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… The Baby Cargo 200 Series stroller is a great, versatile lightweight stroller. The stroller is full of features to comfort baby in a great looking package to please parents. The stroller is easy to use, folds compactly and can be used from birth through 50 pounds. The seat is padded, with infinite recline and an adjustable leg rest for child’s comfort. Parents will appreciate the easy to maneuverability, easy compact fold and comfort features like pockets and cup holder. There’s definitely a lot to like about Baby Cargo and we look forward to seeing more products from the company!

Or Not to Buy… The only weaknesses of the 200 Series are that the sun canopy is on the small side and the storage basket can be difficult to reach. The positives far outweigh the negatives.

Shop! The entire collection of Baby Cargo strollers is available from our affiliates Wayfair.com and Amazon. Prices range from $109 for the 100 Series, $149 for the 200 Series and $179 for the 300 Series.

Win! Your Choice of Baby Cargo Stroller!

How to Enter: Visit Baby Cargo and check out the modern lightweight umbrella strollers. Leave a comment here telling us what stroller (series & color) you’d pick if you win.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Sign up for the Baby Cargo Newsletter.
• Like Baby Cargo and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow Baby Cargo AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Meet Baby Cargo – modern baby gear and enter to #win a stroller @TheShoppingMama bit.ly/wix02L
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends February 1. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to Baby Cargo for providing a sample and giveaway prizes. As always, opinions are my own.

Many of us traveled over the holidays and learned via painful experience that going anywhere with small children requires a lot of planning and a lot of gear. For this reason, we’re excited to be offering a giveaway for the totally functional and travel-friendly BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light. Designed with ease of use in mind for parents and comfort for babies, the Travel Crib Light is a travel sanity saver.

About the Travel Crib Light

• Easy to take along: Weighs only 11lbs/5 kg including carrying case.
• Simple set up: In one simple movement the travel crib is set up and ready for use.
• Safe for your child: The sturdy mattress keeps the travel crib firmly on the floor.
• For use from newborn to three years old.

The textiles closest to the child have been tested and approved in accordance with Oeko-Tex Standard 100, class 1 for baby products. They are guaranteed harmless to children’s sensitive skin and will not trigger allergies.

When your little one is done sleeping and you’re off to the next destination, the Travel Crib Light folds super compactly into a 19 x 24 x 6 inches zippered carrying case.

Because you never know what will happen, both the mattress cover and crib fabric are removable and can be machine-washed in hot water, using a gentle detergent. The travel crib’s outer shell can also be removed and machine-washed separately in warm water.

Travel Light Crib Video Demo

Shop! The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is available in Blue, Gray or Black with a suggested retail price of $280. It’s currently available from our affiliate Amazon for $235.

Win! A BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light!

How to Enter: Spread the word about this giveaway on Twitter or Facebook. Leave a separate comment for each time you share this giveaway. You may share on Twitter and Facebook once a day. You do not need to do both entry methods to enter, but doing both will earn extra entries.

• Twitter: Visit @TheShoppingMama and enter to win a @BabyBjornUS Travel Crib Light worth $280 bit.ly/w79rUy
• Facebook: Share this giveaway and tag The Shopping Mama and BabyBjornUS.

Giveaway ends January 27. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to BabyBjorn for providing the giveaway prize.

Meet Seraphine

Inspired by the curves of the pregnant form and combined with our stylish French heritage, Seraphine Maternity wear epitomizes every aspect of being fashionably pregnant. Founded in 2002 by Cecile Reinaud, Seraphine has grown from an independent maternity boutique to one of the worlds leading specialist maternity clothes brands offering unrivalled quality and fit to pregnant women around the globe. Cecile says “I created Seraphine with the intent of designing gorgeous clothes that celebrate the beautiful change in your life experienced during pregnancy. Having myself experienced the trauma that traditional ‘frumpy’ maternity specific clothes caused I wanted to create styles that not only make women look and feel glamorous during pregnancy but also transition effortlessly into your wardrobe post-birth.”

Seraphine Maternity Review

In mid-December I was scrambling to find something to wear to my husband’s holiday party. I have made every effort to dress well this pregnancy but dressing up for a formal occasion is a challenge whether pregnant or not. I seriously tried on every dress I could squeeze into but wasn’t feeling particularly confident about any of them. And then? My luck changed because delivery from Seraphine arrived. The box included an awesome maternity dress. I put on the Navy Knot Front Dress and knew I had found my formal outfit for the night.

I loved the dress from the moment I put it on. The jersey material was soft and extremely comfortable to wear. It draped nicely over my bump but also allowed me plenty of room to eat a big dinner and still feel confident to dance the night away without unsightly bulges. The knot front was also quite flattering – it revealed some skin but still covered everything. Of course, that classy style is to be expected from a dress designed as an homage to Princess Catherine! (See more photos of me in the dress while 27 weeks pregnant.)

I also received the very flexible Breastfeeding Sweater which is also bump-friendly. As you can see, the sweater is designed to cover your bump and land at your hips for wear while pregnant. After baby arrives, the Sweater unsnaps at the neckline to make discreet breastfeeding possible – and stylish.

I have paired the Sweater with a camisole, but the model on Seraphine’s website wears it with a long-sleeved shirt underneath for a totally different look. The thing that makes the Sweater so cool is the snaps to make breastfeeding easy and accessible. I love knowing I’ll be able to wear the Sweater as much after baby arrives as I do now while pregnant. (See more photos of me wearing the Sweater 30 weeks pregnant.)

Celebrities Love Seraphine

Some of our favorite fashionable celebrity moms like Jennifer Garner, Angeline Jolie, Jessica Alba and January Jones have worn Seraphine Maternity while expecting. Seraphine makes it easy to “get the look” with a Celebrity Style section so you can shop the clothes the stars wear.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… I couldn’t be love the Seraphine clothes I’ve sampled any more if I tried. The Navy Knot Front Dress is fabulous and comfortable. (Now I just need a great date night so I have another excuse to wear it!) The Breastfeeding Sweater is extremely easy to wear and flattering to wear with a bump and will be forgiving post-baby. The fact that it doubles as a nursing top is like the icing on the very versatile cake.

Or Not to Buy… Seraphine Maternity clothes are more of an investment than some maternity clothes. One thing I do know is that the quality is fabulous and most fashions are also easy to wear postpartum.

Shop!  You can shop Seraphine’s chic maternity wear collection with confidence. All USA shipments are delivered within 72 hours and come with a free returns label. The Navy Knot Front Dress is on sale for $75 and the Breastfeeding Sweater is $108. Seraphine is having a sale right now so take advantage of the discounted prices and check out the brand for yourself.

Win! Seraphine Maternity Breastfeeding Sweater!

How to Enter: Visit Seraphine and check out the awesome maternity fashion and nursing tops. Leave a comment here with something you’d like to wear.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

• Like Seraphine Maternity and The Shopping Mama on Facebook.
• Share or Like this post on your Facebook or give us a shout out on our wall.
• Follow Seraphine AND The Shopping Mama on Twitter and tweet this giveaway. You may do this every day, just leave a link when you do.
  Seraphine = the art of being fashionably pregnant! #Win Breastfeeding/Maternity Sweater (ARV $108) @TheShoppingMama bit.ly/zKlWpc
• Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or RSS.
• Sign up for the The Shopping Mama Newsletter.

Giveaway ends January 20. Open to US residents only.

 Thanks to Seraphine for providing a sample and giveaway prizes. As always, opinions are my own.