Inside ToteSavvy

Fall Essentials for Your ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

Fall Essentials for Your ToteSavvy

by ToteSavvy Team on Sep 20, 2021
It's officially Fall so we're gearing up (literally) with essentials to carry us through this new season. From blankets to coffee tumblers, we're outlining our favorite Fall must-haves to carry inside your ToteSavvy on the daily.  Coffee Tumblers Love your Pumpkin Spice Latte? Carry it with you in one of these coffee tumblers that fits perfectly inside ToteSavvy's tall pocket.  Skinny Stainless Steel Tumbler YETI Rambler Zojirushi Stainless Steel Tumbler   Swaddle Blankets We highly recommend carrying a swaddle blanket with you, especially if you have a newborn or younger infant. Use it as a blanket for extra warmth or as a canopy over the stroller for a bit of shade.  aden + anais swaddle Harp Angel swaddle   Anti-bacterial wipes / hand sanitizers A must-have this Fall as we head into cold and flu season. Carry one or both depending on your preference!  Medaid sanitizing wipes Purlisse hand sanitizer spray trio Honest Co. hand sanitizing kit   Hand cream As the weather changes so does our skin's need for moisture. Add a small tube or tin of hand cream to help keep your hands hydrated.  L'Occitane hand cream Supergoop hand cream + SPF   Lip balm Same goes for your lips! Avoid dry lips by packing extra lip balm. Aquaphor lip balm Vegan lip butter      
How to Pack Clothing Inside ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Pack Clothing Inside ToteSavvy

by ToteSavvy Team on Sep 13, 2021
One of the best "just in case" items you can pack inside your ToteSavvy is extra clothing. Whether you're in the newborn stage and go through new outfits every hour, are potty-training your toddler, or like to have an extra shirt on-hand for yourself, ToteSavvy will help keep clothing organized, easily accessible and in pristine condition.  At first glance it may seem like bulkier items like clothing wouldn't fit inside ToteSavvy. Thanks to Marie Kondo, we're using her technique to easily fold or roll your outfit into a perfectly-sized package––perfect for a ToteSavvy pocket.    THE TRIFOLD TECHNIQUE Made famous by the tidy master herself, this Marie Kondo technique has you fold your clothing item in thirds until it looks like a perfect little clothing rectangle. We tried the trifold on 3 different types of outfits to show you exactly how each will fit within ToteSavvy.  NEWBORN OUTFIT TODDLER OUTFIT ADULT BLOUSE   THE ROLL TECHNIQUE The roll technique is easier to master and our preferred method when time is of the essence. Simply lay your outfit on the table with each item stacked on top of the other. Then start rolling from the bottom until you have a compact outfit that mimics a sushi roll. (pro-tip: use Tidy Snaps to keep clothing neat and rolled!) Below you'll see our roll method used on 3 different types of outfits.  NEWBORN OUTFIT TODDLER OUTFIT ADULT BLOUSE
How to Pack Your ToteSavvy Like a Pro

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Pack Your ToteSavvy Like a Pro

by Lauren Kutting on Aug 30, 2021
ToteSavvy was built to make your life easier and lot more organized. Follow our tips below to get on top of your packing game and make your ToteSavvy more beneficial than ever.   Pack bulkier items across from thinner items One of the best ways to pack your ToteSavvy is with the zig zag method. You'll want to spread out the bulkier items in a zig zag pattern so they aren't in pockets directly across from one another. This helps to keep your ToteSavvy looking less bulky and feel much more balanced.  Use the cell phone pocket and key clasp The top outer pocket that's short and flat was designed to be the perfect little pocket for your cell phone. It's at the top of the insert so you can quickly grab your phone without digging through your bag. It's always right there when you need it! Same goes for the key clasp. Get in the habit of clipping your keys to the clasp to save yourself from digging around at the bottom of your bag.  Roll clothing and blankets to fit in pocket perfectly Clothing and blankets can be difficult to pack inside ToteSavvy if you don't know this little secret. Instead of packing a folded blanket or outfit, roll it so it's a perfectly shaped bundle to fit inside any pocket.  Avoid overpacking You may want to fill every pocket to the max but try to edit down what you're packing to the true essentials. You can easily refill things like diapers after each outing so instead of packing 10, opt for 3 or 4 and then just replenish as needed. The same goes for wet wipes. You may not need the giant warehouse size package of wipes when a small or medium size pack will be plenty for your all-day outing.    Designate a pocket for only your things The outer pocket (largest on both Original and Deluxe) is a great pocket to designate as your own if you're packing for more than just yourself. This pocket is large enough to even carry a small clutch which could be easily taken out for a quick run into the grocery store.  Keep the rolled mat even if you don't have a baby Whether you're changing diapers or not, the rolled mat is a great add-on. If you don't need it to function as a traditional diaper changing mat it still comes in very handy when you need something to throw down quickly. For instance, use it as a placemat for your toddler to eat their lunch on at the park, or as a mat to sit on if the grass is a little wet. The rolled mat is fully machine washable so don't worry about it getting dirty.  
What's in My Bag: Nicole Mickles

Inside ToteSavvy

What's in My Bag: Nicole Mickles

by ToteSavvy Team on Aug 23, 2021
With a toddler and a baby on the way, Nicole Mickles finds staying organized is what keeps her days running smoothly. We took a look inside Nicole's beautiful bag to see what she's currently carrying in her ToteSavvy Deluxe for her 3 year old daughter and what she plans on adding once baby boy arrives! Since becoming a mom, staying organized has been a life saver. We recently started using the Totesavvy Deluxe organizer and it has helped us incredibly. Life with a toddler can get hectic and having this bag organizer to keep everything in place and easy to reach makes it a whole lot easier. I do try to keep things very minimal, yet functional, so I try to pack only what I need (unless my toddler sneaks in extra toys). We are always on-the-go and I appreciate being worry free about what I need to bring with me.   The ToteSavvy organizer holds everything I need while running errands, visiting family, or going on simple walks with our daughter. It’s lightweight and has a variety of different sized pockets, which can hold all sorts of goodies. I especially love the cooler pocket for keeping sippy cups cold (this will also come in handy for baby boy's milk). If I had to pick my top two favorite parts of the organizer, it would be how easy it is to clean and how much it can hold. As far as what I like to put inside, I always make sure to pack extra snacks, diapers, books, sunscreen, and toys for her. For me, I also bring my wallet, keys, and silicone straw for those on the go coffees. It’s essential that I keep things to keep her busy, especially while we are out and about. Since I’m expecting, this organizer will also hold all of baby boy’s essentials when he’s here, including extra diapers, wipes, bottles, swaddles, pacifiers, extra outfits, and anything else he should need. It’ll truly make the perfect organizer for two kiddos under 3, and since it is so versatile, we can always switch it out and use it in our diaper bag. I couldn’t haven’t asked for a better organizer to fit my mommy lifestyle. Things I Pack Now: Diapers/Wipes Toys Book Wallet Baby Sunscreen Snacks Hairbrush/comb Table Mat (for dining out) Silicone Straw Car Keys Things I Plan on Adding for Baby: Extra Diapers/Diapers Bottles Pacifiers/Clips Wireless Sound Machine Thermometer  Swaddles
How Our 3 Styles Compare

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How Our 3 Styles Compare

by ToteSavvy Team on Aug 09, 2021
Whether you're new to ToteSavvy or have known us since the beginning, you may not know the intricate differences between our 3 styles: Deluxe, Original, and Mini. While they share some similarities, each style was designed for a specific reason and to fill a distinct need. Keep reading to learn more about each style's distinct features.  ORIGINAL We have to begin with the ToteSavvy that started it all. Original was built out of necessity when our founder, Lauren, was a first-time mom with a newborn. She developed ToteSavvy Original as an insert that would organize all of her baby's essentials and easily transfer from tote to tote.  Original has 11 total pockets. There's an insulated pocket for storing bottles or a cold beverage. The insulated pocket is open at the top like the other pockets found inside ToteSavvy. There are 4 additional tall pockets, 4 short pockets, a flat pocket (perfect for a notebook, tablet, or paperwork), a large exterior pocket with a flap that secures over the top.  Original is best suited for large or oversized totes. Its dimensions are 14"L x 10"H. The depth depends on what you pack!  SHOP ORIGINAL     DELUXE Deluxe was developed to offer handbag organization to not just moms, but all women. Deluxe is the exact same size as Original (14"L x 10"H). It's commonly misunderstood that Original is the "medium" size when in fact Deluxe and Original have the exact same dimensions.  Instead of the flat pocket on Original, Deluxe has a plush-lined laptop pocket with a magnetic flap in its place. Another difference is Deluxe has a double-wide insulated pocket that zips closed. This cooler pocket is great for storing multiple bottles, a lunch, or 4 cans of your favorite cold beverage.  Deluxe is also best suited for large totes and oversized bags. Check out our list of ToteSavvy compatible handbags for recommendations SHOP DELUXE   MINI ToteSavvy Mini was designed as a compact style for medium size bags and backpacks. It's the smallest insert we could make while still holding a lot of essentials. It also makes a great changing kit that you can quickly pull out of your bag and take into a bathroom.  Mini includes an insulated pocket (just like Original), 2 other tall pockets, 2 short pockets, and one flat pocket in the middle. This pocket is great for anything without a lot of depth. Think your phone, a notepad, small coloring book, or even a thin wallet.  Mini is best suited for backpacks and medium size bags. If you prefer to have some room around your organizer then it can be paired with a large tote.  SHOP MINI    
6 Ways to Use the Cooler Pocket

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6 Ways to Use the Cooler Pocket

by ToteSavvy Team on Jul 26, 2021
One of our favorite features exclusive to ToteSavvy Deluxe is the insulated cooler pocket. It's the perfect pocket for storing cold beverages (like a few cans of sparkling water), a lunch, or even bottles. The double-wide pocket zips closed to keep its contents nice and cool throughout the day. We recommend using a small ice pack along with your items for best results.  Ready to put your cooler pocket to use? Continue reading below to learn our 6 favorite things to pack inside this unique pocket.    1. Four Cans of La Croix (or other cold beverage) 2. Sippy Cup and Snack Tower 3. Lunch Inside Large Lunchbot Trio 4. Three Bottles 5. Yogurt, Cheese, and Other Perishable Snacks 6. Medium Lunchbot with snacks and a La Croix    
How to Clean Your ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Clean Your ToteSavvy

by ToteSavvy Team on Jul 12, 2021
Once you start using your ToteSavvy you'll want to keep it in top shape by following a few of these simple guidelines. Though our inserts may not be machine washable, they're easy to clean and take care of!  Quick Cleaning Tips Use a damp cloth or wet wipe to wipe down the outside of your ToteSavvy and most touched areas to keep it from discoloring. If you give it a quick once-over weekly, your insert will stay looking new for much longer Once a month take everything out of your ToteSavvy and shake out any excess debris like crackers or crumbs that may have collected. This is a great time to give it a wipe down all over.  Deep Cleaning A magic eraser is great for removing marks and other stains Clean up any liquid spills right away. Wipe away any extra liquid with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe. Sprinkling baking soda on the area and letting it dry in the sun can help keep odors from developing.    Never put your ToteSavvy in the washing machine or soak it in water. This will break down the inner material and destroy your insert.          
How to Pack for Summer

Inside ToteSavvy

How to Pack for Summer

by Lauren Kutting on Jul 05, 2021
As the weather warms, I always find myself taking my kids on little adventures to the park, pool, or somewhere else outdoors to burn some energy and soak in the sun. A lot of these trips are spur-of-the-moment, making it crucial that I have a well-packed bag for wherever we’re heading. Below you’ll find my list of essentials to keep inside your ToteSavvy so you’re ready for anything. You can easily adapt the list depending on the age of your child and swap pull-ups for diapers or leave them out altogether. THE LIST • Water bottle / canned beverage (for yourself) • Sippy cup / bottle • Protein bars / crackers / misc. snacks • Sunscreen lotion (love Think Baby!) • Sunscreen face stick  • Hat • Change of clothing (including underwear if your child is potty trained) • Wet bag • Wet wipes • Diapers / Pull-ups • Hand sanitizer • Hand / body lotion • Lip balm with SPF  • First aid kit (small size) • Makeup     Alright, let’s break this list down. The sippy cup, water and/or other beverage are pretty crucial as it starts to get hot. My kids are always thirsty so I like packing them a big water bottle. Same goes for me. I like having water on-hand and sparkling water (La Croix!) as a refreshing treat. There’s room for a canned drink inside the insulated pocket or the cooler pocket (ToteSavvy Deluxe only). If you’re using Deluxe you can also fit a medium size Lunchbots bento alongside the sparkling water. I pack my Lunchbots full of trail mix, fruit, and even a cut sandwich to keep my little ones full. Sunscreen is always in my bag and I like to carry lotion and a face stick. My go-to brands for sunscreen are Think Baby and Bare Republic. I only trust brands that use Zinc as their main ingredient for blocking UVA and UVB rays. A hat is another great item to have packed, especially ones made from fabric and lay flat.  A change of clothing is a big necessity for Spring and Summer. You never know when you’ll find a fun fountain to play in or get caught in the sprinklers. Luckily summer clothing is very light and thin so I can pack 3 outfits inside one pocket without an issue. PRO TIP: Choose something all-in-one like a romper or dress. My favorite romper to pack in my bag is by Rags. A lot of the styles are unisex and the size range is great. All 3 of my kids can wear these rompers and look super cool. I also pack a wet bag to contain wet/dirty clothing. I love the Portfolio bag by Logan and Lenora. The rest of my list if pretty basic. If your child is in diapers or Pull-ups be sure to pack those along with wet wipes. I carry wet wipes even though my kids are done with diapers because I use them to clean dirty hands and everything else. Me4Kidz makes a great first aid kit that fits nicely inside ToteSavvy or any bag. I’ve also made my own kit using a small pouch and filling it with bandaids, ointment, and medical wipes. That’s the list! It may seem like a lot but once it’s all packed up inside ToteSavvy it’s actually not overwhelming. Check out our list of ToteSavvy-approved handbags to find your perfect tote for summer!        We may earn a small commission from sales for the products linked in this post. No products were sponsored. All opinions are our own.
Summer Essentials

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Summer Essentials

by Mackenzie Kay on Jun 23, 2021
Summer is here, so we asked our ToteSavvy Community to share what essentials they're carrying with them. From sunscreen to lip balms, we have a list of the go-to items from some of our most in-the-know moms! Lauren Roscof  Sunscreen - Supergoop Defense Refresh Lip Product - Le Laneige lip mask in vanilla, Too Faced plumping lip gloss in 'Wifey for Lifey', or Tarte lipstick in Salt Lyfe Hand Sanitizer - Ingredients (it smells like heaven and is all clean ingredients as the name suggests) Portable phone charger Air pods or noise canceling headphones Sunnies - Krewe   Natalia Trimnell For Me Lipgloss and Balm - Buxum  Hair ties -  Gimme Beauty Laptop - Apple Wallet - Louis Vuitton Essential Oil Roller Balls - Doterra For Baby Diapers and Wipes - Pampers Diaper Paste - Sweet Cheeks Baby Blanket - Goumi Everything Lotion - WileyBaby Bottles - Nano Bebe Baby Sunscreen - Supergoop   Olivia Jeanette Energy Bar - Sakara Snack for the kids - Rx Bar Lip gloss - Bobbi Brown Sunglasses -  Le Specs Baby wipes - WaterWipes   Sophie Collins Wash Cloth - One Wednesday Onesies - Luna Cay Teether - Giving Sundays Bento Box -Lunch Bots Formula - Hipp Pacifier holder -Lou Lou Lollipop Notebook, Stil Lip Gloss - Denise Elliott Sunscreen, Neutrogena Toddler Undies, Mini Cycle Diapers, Huggies Wipes, Huggies
What's in my Travel Organizer

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What's in my Travel Organizer

by Mackenzie Kay on Jun 14, 2021
Hey y’all! I’m Sarah Eika Burke, dancer/choreographer based in NYC, and a mama to my baby boy Jack! Running from teaching classes to rehearsals, I always needed everything in my bag to be organized from clothes & shoes to cords & chargers. So naturally I started using ToteSavvy’s Travel Organizer the moment I became a mom! This organizer fits all of Jack’s things not only for weekend getaways, but also for the daily bouncing around.   Jack just turned 1 and we decided to hit the beach for a week to celebrate his first birthday (and the anniversary of my birthing day)! The travel organizer was perfect for packing beach essentials that could easily hang from a beach chair or umbrella for quick access. MY PACKING LIST Aveeno Baby Sunscreen Baby & Mommy Sunglasses (Babiators & Velvet Eyewear) Durio Reversible UPF 50+ Bucket Hat Extra Set of Cat & Jack SPF Swimwear (never know!) Extra Set of Clothes - especially for the days we would go straight to dinner afterwards (Brooklyn Cloth & Cocomoon) Pottery Barn Baby Hooded Beach Towel Lightweight Swaddle (for impromptu naps on the beach) Diaper Changing Essentials       THE BEST PART This organizer looks slim, but I promise it holds everything but the kitchen sink! There are also sections that zip up to keep things as sand-free as possible. Let’s be real though … mess is inevitable around a baby/toddler. Luckily, the fabric is super easy to wipe clean! For easy access, we would hang this from the umbrella or the back of my chair. And now that Jack is standing and starting to walk, it was fun to watch him waddle over to pick out items and help me put things back. Overall, this was a huge help for getting Jack’s things all in one place! I know I didn’t include any snacks in the organizer … that’s because there was an entirely different bag just for food & water because mama LOVES to eat too ;)   
Traveling with ToteSavvy

Inside ToteSavvy

Traveling with ToteSavvy

by Lauren Kutting on Jun 09, 2021
After a year of staying close to home, our family is ready for a change of scenery and a much needed vacation. As the founder of a company geared around organization, I take a lot of pride in packing my family's things in the most organized way possible. My carry-on bag always holds a ToteSavvy with a narrowed list of my top essentials, and my kids' outfits are neatly stored inside their own ToteSavvy Travel (our newly launched travel clothing organizer).  I've learned a few tricks over the years to help make our trips run smoothly––all of which I'm delighted to share with you. Let's break it down to show you how an expert organizer packs for a family trip.  MY CARRY ON PACKING LIST Chargers (phone, watch, laptop) iPad + headphones  Phone, wallet, keys Pens + notebook Makeup bag with (lip balm, rosewater spray, sunscreen, hand cream, mascara, cream blush, hair ties) Small jewelry case  Compact first aid kit Gum  Snack bars Water bottle Alcohol wipes (non-toxic for skin but also kills every germ) Extra masks (for whole family) KIDS CARRY ON PACKING LIST iPad + headphones Applesauce squeeze pouches + snack bars  Water bottle Alcohol hand wipes  Coloring book + stickers + pens Magnetic games New chapter book series (oldest is at this stage 🙌) Extra outfit Lovey or stuffed animal MiFold booster seat PACKING TIPS Let them carry their own stuff. Each kid carries their own backpack as a carry on. This trip they also each have a small rolling suitcase with all of their clothing and accessories inside. My kids have been carrying their own backpacks since the age of 2. Even if the backpack gets clipped on a stroller through the airport, it's still easier on the plane for them to have their own bag filled with snacks and games. Now that the youngest two are six, there's no stroller and they'll carry it all themselves.  A clothing organizer will make your trip so much easier. Planning kid outfits for a trip tends to be the easiest task when packing. The chaos that ensues every morning of your trip, however, is not. Using a clothing organizer will allow you to pack one outfit per pocket (I'm talking pants, top, socks, underwear/diaper) all rolled up into an easy-to-grab package for your little one. Instead of rummaging through your suitcase, they'll grab an outfit and leave the rest perfectly organized for another day.  Don't overpack. This tip is something I constantly struggle with because I love to have lots of options. With that said it's much easier to pack when you narrow your list to a capsule collection of items that all mix and match together. You likely won't wear that 5th pair of shoes anyway. This tip works for kids clothing too! Instead of the capsule idea, I pack one outfit per day (or just 7 outfits if we're staying longer than a week but have access to a washing machine). A week's worth of clothing is plenty! Bring a laundry bag. When clothes are dirty, throw then inside your laundry bag instead of your suitcase or the hotel room floor. This will give you a clear picture of what outfits are still usable and which are not. If you're using ToteSavvy Travel for your kids, place the dirty clothes back into the pocket they came from to keep everything contained. Keep it simple and keep it organized for a seamless getaway!
fav places to travel with kids

Inside ToteSavvy

Favorite Places to Travel with Kids

by Lauren Kutting on May 24, 2021
Whether you're taking a road trip a few hours from home or getting on a cross country flight we are firm believers that exploring new places with children is a gift, especially after we have spent the last year at home. Sure, there will be extra baggage and an unexpected meltdown (or four), but the experiences you share when you're away from your normal routine are priceless. To get some inspiration, we asked our ToteSavvy community to share their favorite places to travel as a family and we already have wanderlust!   Brit Allen // @happilyeverallen "We started traveling with our little one at 2 months old and she’s been from one end of the coast to the other! (New York to California!) Honestly, anywhere with her is our favorite!  Totesavvy makes my carry-on look luxe! What the passengers on the plane don’t know is that my tote doubles as my diaper bag and is organized to the max!"  Brit Allen @happilyeverallen Hillary Folkvord // @hillaryfolkvord "I read the other day, trips create moments worth being in. And this could not be more true for us. Ever since Nick and I met in our 20’s, we have traveled. Mostly because we dated long distance for 3 years, we would pick a fun place to meet monthly. But on May 2nd, our daughter was born and just like that, a loop around the neighborhood sounded daunting. With just 10 days of life behind her, we started out for our first road trip to Canada for a wedding. She did great and from that day on we took her everywhere. We know she won’t remember all of it, but I certainly will remember nursing her in the middle of the night listening to the waves crash in Mexico, watching her enjoy her first croissants at the top of the Eiffel Tower and peaceful strolls along the quaint streets of Nantucket." Hillary Folkvord @hillaryfolkvord   Taylor Schultz  // @tayleralexiss  "Although we’re Miami Beach-based, LA is always worth the long flight! I brought my son on a solo trip at 3 months for his first time. We hiked, went to the country mart, had a picnic and enjoyed time at el matador beach together. I love the weather as well as the emphasis on health and wellness that the west coast offers." Taylor Schultz  @tayleralexiss    Bianca Tevez // @biamommy “Our favorite vacations to take so far have been beach vacations, they are easiest to pack for since they require the least. For us, it was especially magical to head back to our honeymoon destination in Hawaii (Maui) with our kids.” Bianca Tevez @biamommy   Danielle Saluan // @diariesofdanielle "We love taking family trips to Palm Springs! It's just a quick road trip for us from Orange County and it's the perfect relaxing getaway to the desert!" Danielle Saluan @diariesofdanielle   Jessica Lee // @thedavisstandard "Our favorite place to travel as a family is the Grand Cayman Islands. We love the quick flight (from NYC) to get there, beautiful beaches, snorkeling with stingrays and the calm crystal clear waters. We specifically love the Ritz there but the island is really great with many resorts that are family-friendly." Jessica Lee @thedavisstandard   Make family trips streamlined and organized with the edition of ToteSavvy Travel––a clothing organizer for babies and toddlers. Our newest organizer makes planning and organizing outfits a breeze!  
Your Postpartum Style Questions Answered

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Your Postpartum Style Questions Answered

by ToteSavvy Team on May 10, 2021
If you're feeling lost trying to find your style post-baby, know that you aren't alone. We tapped wardrobe and soul stylist, Jenny Greenstein of Your Soul Style for her tips on navigating your personal style after having a baby. You often speak to the emotional benefits of getting dressed. Can you expand on this?   Absolutely! A strong sense of personal style occurs when we are living in alignment with all parts of our being. When we are able to harness the symbiotic relationship between inner and outer, authentic representation emerges and we become the best version of ourselves. That said,  when there’s a disconnect and we are unable to integrate, it leads to challenges with self esteem, confidence and an empowered sense of self. Just like any wellness practice, paying attention to what we wear is an act of self-care and there are incredible emotional benefits that happen when doing the transformative work. The term “mind, body and soul” encompasses personal style and while some may find clothes to be trivial, getting dressed is a vital tool for communicating who we are. Style is a medium of self expression.  At ToteSavvy, we celebrate women keeping their personal style after becoming a mom, but we also recognize there are a lot of competing priorities. Do you have go-to tips for moms who want to look and feel put together but don't require a ton of effort? There are absolutely a lot of competing priorities, not to mention the huge pivot from pre-baby life. As we mama’s know, a financial, emotional, physical and mental shift occurs when you become a mother and yes - of course, time is one of the biggest compromises we have no choice but to make. A few tips I give my mama clients are the following:  UNIFORM: Keep it simple and find your uniform. Once you establish a head-to-toe look that is both functional and authentically yours, create an interchangeable capsule of these pieces so you have your own “collection”. Getting dressed in motherhood, especially early motherhood needs to be a no-brainer but you may need to spend time upfront to establish what works and then from there you can be on autopilot.  PLAN: Always choose your look the night before. All you need is an extra 5-minutes before bed, and pulling your look together ahead of time eases the morning hustle in a big bad way. Pro tip: Try on your chosen outfit during this time so you know it works well and don’t need to reinvent the wheel at 7am.  INVEST: Invest in a few pieces that can easily elevate your look, even if you’re wearing sweats or leggings. A few I recommend are hats, handbags, fashionable footwear, a great piece of outerwear, and a structured blazer.  Let's chat postpartum. What style suggestions do you have for women who aren't back in their pre-baby clothes, don't want to live in leggings and don't want to spend a fortune on a temporary wardrobe? The first thing women need to do is go through their closet and pull together the pieces that work. Move aside anything that doesn’t fit or doesn’t serve your current lifestyle and know it will be revisited at a later date. Once you have this capsule pulled together, which is something I work with my clients on, figure out what pieces can be integrated to help make it a fully functioning wardrobe that you will feel good about. This does require spending a little bit of money, but you don’t have to break the bank. That said, I recommend setting aside a budget for purchasing a few temporary pieces to get you through this transitional time. Women shouldn’t have to struggle every morning with a wardrobe that doesn’t serve them. Additionally, there are amazing companies where you can rent clothes like Rent The Runway or Nuuley which are low commitment and sustainable. Two other good options are The Real Real and Thread Up which sell gently worn merchandise. If you were going to put together a new mom capsule wardrobe, what would be your must-haves?  Utility suits because they are one-piece dressing and give you easy access to breastfeed (if you choose to do so), 2 pairs of denim that fit current shape, items with forgiving waistlines such as joggers or loose fitting dresses, a structured blazer to elevate the most basic to formal look, well-fitting undergarments (from undies to bras to shapewear), functional and fashion-forward sneakers, hats or hair accessories for quick hair fixes and a “mom” bag that fits all of your essentials, organized with Totesavvy.  Can you share some of your list of go-to designers and why you love them?  To name a few, Mara Hoffman because of both her styling and sustainable business model. She just launched full circle which is a space on her site where you can buy pre-owned Mara and sell yours back. It’s beyond brilliant. I’m very into ACNE for it’s edginess and street style sensibility, Raey for it’s relaxed, oversized, simple yet elevated pieces, LoveShackFancy because in the summer all I really want to wear is whimsical dresses and Ulla Johnson because of her endless romantic vibes. I’m also always on the hunt for my next epic faux fur vintage coat.  Jenny Greenstein is a Wardrobe and Soul Stylist and founder of Your Soul Style, an integrative method which combines style with mindfulness. Jenny’s approach emphasizes authenticity and personal transformation, and through Style Coaching, Closet Cleanses and Shopping/Styling sessions, she supports women and mothers on the ever-evolving path towards living in alignment from the inside out. Jenny’s work can be seen in digital publications such as Motherly, Betches and Pure Wow, and she is currently featured on the May 2021 cover of New York Family magazine. She is based in NYC with her wife Dina and two daughters, Vida and Bloom. Learn more about Jenny via www.yoursoulstyle.com or on IG @yoursoulstyle.
How to Build Your Baby Registry

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How to Build Your Baby Registry

by ToteSavvy Team on Apr 12, 2021
Putting together a baby registry can be one of the most overwhelming “to-do’s” of your pregnancy!  We tapped registry-expert Molly Pross of Bump Bestie to get her top tips for building a registry that works for you! While it’s an exciting milestone to begin researching and compiling what you need when you're expecting, there are so many different options that it can feel like a part-time job compiling the list. Do you go for aesthetics? Function? Or just go with what your friend’s sister’s co-worker recommends? There is no one-size-fits all approach to baby gear and products and it’s hard to know where to begin. Below are some tips to get you started: 1. Start Early! Over the course of your registry or list building, you’ll add anywhere between 80 and 200 items. That requires MANY HOURS of research to find what you need. Most families start their research once they know the gender – and if it’s a surprise, I recommend starting at 12 weeks or the very latest, 16 weeks. In a perfect world, you’ll have everything you need for the nursery completed by 36 weeks (32 weeks if you're expected twins). This way everything will be ready in case baby decides to make an early arrival.  2. Pick a place (or two!) to register Most people register with a universal registry online, but you may consider registering at a local baby boutique as well! Shopping for baby is something people love to do, so having some items available in-store allows people to see, touch and feel – not to mention it's a fun experience!  This is also a great way to support local business in your community! 3. Tackle your big items first Car seats, strollers and carriers, oh my! There are so many factors to consider when making your big purchase decisions, you’ll be glad you started your research early with time to test drive in-store. This also applies to big nursery items, especially if you plan to order things in custom fabrics or colors – glider, dressers, crib, etc. which could have longer production lead times. 4. Create a ‘Private’ category It’s so much easier to have everything you need in one place, regardless of if you add it to your registry. Most online registries allow you to create a private category. Create a private list to save items that you may want to purchase on your own or that you don’t need right away. 5. Register for some gender neutral items You never know what the future may hold! Ahem number 2? Number 3?  Best to have a few things that can be passed on to siblings. 6. One person’s ‘don’t bother’ is another person’s ‘must have’ Every baby and family is different. What works for your best friend's baby, might not work for yours. Do your own research and regardless of what others say, do what's best for your family. If you want the wipe warmer - add it! Do what makes YOU happy! 7. Don’t forget about mom or dad I was so consumed with what I needed for baby that I completely forgot about what we would need to support us in this huge transition! It’s completely appropriate to include items or gift cards for recovery, meals and other services. Be sure to check out my Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist for a complete list of must-haves as you build your list!  Could use some extra help? Book a complimentary 20-minute consultation here! About Molly Molly is the founder of Bump Bestie, a modern baby planning service for the busy parent. Offering families trusted advice in navigating the overwhelming world of all things baby, Molly is on a mission to redefine baby prep by taking a holistic approach combining baby registry curation, education and integrative wellness resources saving time and money while providing peace of mind. Residing in Los Angeles, Molly splits her time chasing her toddler son around while working with clients both locally and virtually, nationwide.
What's Inside My Change Kit: Founder Edition

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What's Inside My Change Kit: Founder Edition

by Lauren Kutting on Mar 29, 2021
and why I'm loving this minimalist setup Hi 👋. I'm Lauren, founder of ToteSavvy, and mom of three. My littles may not be babies anymore but that doesn't mean I don't use ToteSavvy products every day to keep my on-the-go life ultra organized. With the launch of our new Change Kit, I've LOVED trading my tote for this minimalist crossbody.  Generally, my trips out of the house are quick so I don't need to carry a lot with me. I like to keep it simple with the few necessities that I know I'll need, without the extras that weigh me down. The new Crossbody Change Kit is the perfect bag for achieving just that.  MY PACKING LIST alcohol wet wipes  disposable kid size masks cloth adult mask hand sanitizer lip balm hair tie sunglasses small card wallet keys phone THE BEST PART Our Crossbody Change Kit was designed to give you easy access to wet wipes by just flipping open the flap. This comes in so handy when you're carrying your baby and only have one free hand. Though I'm past this stage of motherhood, I can't help but adore this feature during a time when having sanitizing wipes at your disposal is so crucial. From wiping down the grocery store cart to giving that park bench a quick once-over, this feature helps me feel extra confident in my outings away from home.  Because the Crossbody Change Kit is made from a wipeable nylon material, the entire bag can be wiped with disinfectant wipes as well. I don't have to worry about ruining my nice leather bags which is a huge plus.    Shop our new style using the link below!  Shop Crossbody Change Kit  
What's In My Bag: DeNeitra Burnett

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What's In My Bag: DeNeitra Burnett

by ToteSavvy Team on Mar 23, 2021
As an entrepreneur and boy-mama of two, DeNeitra Burnett is always on the move. She shares what she keeps with her on her busy days.  Going into the world as an entrepreneur momma, during a global pandemic presents some very unique challenges. As the owner of Savvy Events, an experiential events + gifting agency I'm always on the go. ToteSavvy has been such a huge lifesaver by helping me to eliminate the stress of fitting everything into my diaper bag in an orderly and efficient manner. I have been known to lose things in my massive bag, but using ToteSavvy allows me to be much more organized and to keep everything in its proper place.  So, what's in my diaper bag today as me and my little man head off to my warehouse? Well, I'm glad you asked. . .  Baby Teether Pacifier  Boiron Camilla Teething drops  Honest baby lotion Diapers Wipes 2 onesies  Bibs Swaddle blanket Happy Tots Super Foods pouch Portable sound machine Lip balm Ipad Airpods  #allthethings!  And you guys, that's not even including the disposable masks and hand sanitizer I usually have in the bag.  What I love about the ToteSavvy Deluxe: 1. It's super functional. There are so many compartments which make it a breeze to fit everything.  2. It's easy to clean - with a 7-month-old, things can get messy. It's super easy to wipe down. 3. I love the color! It's super feminine and totally my style. 4. It fits my laptop and/or my Ipad perfectly. I'm completely in love with my ToteSavvy and recommend it to all of my mommy friends! Follow along on my business owner + mommy journey on my Instagram @savvyeventsllc. Shop ToteSavvy Organizers
Top Tips to Safely Exercise Post-Baby

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Top Tips to Safely Exercise Post-Baby

by Mackenzie Kay on Mar 15, 2021
by: Mahri Relin of Body Conceptions I love the process of working with women during their pregnancies and seeing the ways that exercise can be so helpful and energizing. After giving birth, I know the tendency is to want to jump right back into exercise.  However, it’s easy to feel lost about how to proceed once you get “cleared” by your doctor since so few people receive guidance. Where do you start, and are there things you need to know to make sure you’re exercising safely? After having a baby, most of the focus for a new mom should be on healing.  There are lots of changes the body experiences during and after pregnancy, and proper focus on posture, breathing, and regaining strength (especially in the core) is so important.  I often tell new moms that this healing process is key to making sure that they can return to more intense fitness safely.  When parts of the body aren’t strong enough, other parts of the body take over and can become tight and painful or even become injured (like your upper or lower back and your hip flexors, for example).  Getting back into exercise with patience is the best way to prevent injury and ultimately return to your previous fitness life with more strength and control than ever before. Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind as you start: Make sure your rib cage is aligned over your hips Lots of new moms shift back in their rib cage and upper body (especially when they’re holding their new baby), which makes it harder if not impossible to connect with your core.  It can be helpful to look in the mirror, stack your rib cage over your hips, and remember this feeling as you go about your day.  Focus on breathing properly Many pregnant and postnatal women breathe up into their shoulders, which can lead to tightness and pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.  Breathing like this can also make you feel stressed.  Try keeping your shoulders relaxed and down while you breathe deeply into all side of your lower body and relax your pelvic floor at the same time.  On the exhale, pull your lower abs into your spine. Notice how this connects you with your deep core and pelvic floor and also helps you relax and reduce anxiety. Try not to tuck your pelvis and clench your glutes The body does an amazing job of making things happen one way or another.  For example, when the core is weak after birth, many women unconsciously tuck their pelvis and clench their glutes as a way of stabilizing themselves.  Unfortunately, this can lead to injury and pain, and it also leads to a disordered connection to the core.  Squats can be a great way to counteract this pattern and also strengthen and stretch the glutes.  Rock-backs on hands and knees can also help.  And while you are working on all of this, you should focus on strengthening the lower, deep core muscles so that you can engage them more automatically. Stretch and open the front of your shoulders and watch upper back hunching Actions like picking up and holding your baby and breastfeeding are unavoidable, and they can also lead to hunching in your upper body and tightness in your shoulders.  Try to engage your core before you lift and consider using bolsters to support breastfeeding.  Also, take a few minutes to open up and stretch your shoulders, which will make a huge difference.  Lie down along the length of a roller or a rolled-up blanket and place your arms out to your sides in a goal post position.  Try to let the elbows reach down to the ground and hold this position. Also try making angel shapes as you extend your arms above our heads, out to the sides, and down to the ground with your fingers tracing along the ground. Some exercise ideas: Use the tips above to stretch and strengthen properly as you ease into an exercise regimen.  It may take some time before you get back into explosive plyometric exercise or extensive cardio.  Try starting with shorter intervals of exercise, and make sure you are aligned and in control of your movement.  You will build stamina over time, and you will notice that you can do more and more without losing form and technique.  Here are a few exercises that can be great to add into your routine… Abs on the Back with a Pillow Core work is essential at all stages of postnatal recovery and beyond.  Start by lying on your back with your legs bent and feet on the ground. Place a small pillow between your knees.  As you inhale, relax your pelvic floor (imagine it lowering down a little), and breathe into your lower belly, sides, and lower back.  On your exhale, squeeze the pillow, flatten your spine against the ground, and pull your low abdominals into your spine.  Inhale and repeat.  You can do this multiple times in a sitting position and several times throughout the day. Parallel Squats and Lunges As discussed above, squats can help counteract postural issues that arise postnatally.  They are a fantastic way to strengthen your core and lower body, and they also help prepare you for lifting heavy things (like babies!) while supporting yourself properly.  Start by standing with your feet hip distance apart and your knees and toes facing forward.  You can hold your arms in a prayer position.  Lower into a squat, driving your hips and tailbone back with a flat spine and lower abs engaged.  Keep your chest reaching forward and your shoulders relaxed back and down. Stand up and come down again into your squat several times (6-8X), then hold the squat and pulse in this position (10-12X).  Repeat two times through. You can add variations to this exercise by stepping out to deep lunges on each side with the same pattern (coming all the way up and down from standing to the lunge 6-8X and then holding the lunge with multiple pulses).  You can also step into alternating back lunges on each leg. Bonus:  Incorporate your baby! Exercise on a blanket Try using blanket time as an exercise experience!  You can do little pushups, leg lifts, bridges, rock-backs, and stretches, all while touching and interacting with your baby.  My favorite is pushups on your knees, kissing your baby every time you go down toward the ground. With all of these exercises, make sure you have been cleared by your doctor first.  You should be careful if you have a diastasis or any pelvic floor pain or incontinence.  Working with an expert, even briefly, can be very helpful in helping you navigate what works for your body and what doesn’t.  And don’t focus on anyone else!!  This is your own unique recovery experience.  Figure out what feels good and what doesn’t and notice all the amazing gains you make every day.  Going at your own pace and working carefully will prevent injury and will help you build greater strength and alignment - perhaps more than you may have had before your pregnancy! Mahri Relin is the founder of Body Conceptions, personalized workouts designed to support women through all stages of life. As an AFPA Pre- and Postnatal Exercise Specialist, a Certified Wellness and Nutrition Consultant, and a Certified Personal Trainer, Mahri works with women to help them exercise safely during and after pregnancy. Please follow along at @bodyconceptions
5 Things Mom-to-Be Really Wants

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5 Things Mom-to-Be Really Wants

by Kara Neff on Mar 08, 2021
A specially curated list of most-wanted essentials   For every expectant mama out there, there’s a supportive village surrounding her wondering what to gift her in preparation for the next phase of her life. Such is the goal of a baby shower or baby registry--prepping new parents with the tools and essentials they need to usher in their beautifully chaotic next chapter. But beyond the diaper delivery service and the luxurious smart sleepers that are inevitably on their registries, what about mom?  We did the heavy lifting so that you can get your mom-to-be what she really wants.  The 4th Trimester Nesting Bundle by Hatch Life postpartum has a different ring to it. There’s beauty, there’s chaos, and there are also clothes that might not quite fit like they used to. Hatch took that all into account with their 4th Trimester Nesting Bundle, an absolute essential for the hospital and life-after. Bonus: mom will look cuter than she probably feels. Sakara Life Meal Subscription  Sakara Life has perfected organic health and wellness, making their meal subscription a no-brainer. Gifting a healthy meal delivery service to a loved one is so much more than creating ease in a time of new routines. You’ll also be nourishing her with nutrients to fortify every new moment--especially sleepless nights.  Melissa Wood Health Streaming  Self-care may be a line that’s so overused we feel fatigued from it--especially in times like these--but being mindfully methodical about carving time for ourselves shouldn’t be something we take lightly. Nothing could be more true for new moms. A health streaming service such as the one Melissa Wood offers is an amazing way moms can reconnect with themselves and their bodies from the comfort of home.  Artipoppe Baby Carrier For the mom that values style, say no more. The Artipoppe Baby Carrier is, perhaps, the most luxe baby carrier out there. Not only will its sleek designs have every fashion mama swooning, but she’ll feel further comforted with its thoughtful design that checks off all comfort needs--for both herself and, most importantly, for baby.  ToteSavvy One of the biggest challenges about motherhood--and perhaps especially new motherhood--is maintaining organization. For new, first-time moms, there’s so much to keep up with that they weren’t accustomed to pre-baby. So to keep everything from diapers, bottles, pacifiers, wipes, swaddles, not to mention her own belongings, in perfect working order, get her the gift of organization. There’s a ToteSavvy for everything, PLUS, she gets to keep her favorite tote (and her sense of self, too). 
Our Favorite Bags

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Our Favorite Bags

by ToteSavvy Team on Mar 01, 2021
of the moment bags to pair with ToteSavvy Clare V. Giant Trop Tote There's nothing better than a sporty quilted tote as your go-to bag. The style is cool and classic with a hint of trendiness. We love this Clare V style for its size and effortless feel.  Pair it with ToteSavvy Original or Deluxe!  Shop Bag Organizers   Rebecca Minkoff Megan Large Leather Tote A classic silhouette with a fun twist. We love the cool oversized clasp to spice up this Rebecca Minkoff tote. Pair it with ToteSavvy Original (we suggest Blush!) or Deluxe. Shop Bag Organizers   Mansur Gavriel Oversize Tote A gorgeous leather handbag is a must in all wardrobes. We adore this oversized style by Mansur Gavriel for its beautiful touch and roomy interior. Pair it with a ToteSavvy for added shape and support.  Pair it with ToteSavvy Original or Deluxe. We suggest Almond for this color! Shop Bag Organizers   LV Cabas Mezzo Bag Think of this style as an update to your Neverfull. It's still classic and cool but boasts a zipper top for added security. The interior is a great size and perfect for your ToteSavvy.  Pair it with ToteSavvy Original or Deluxe! Shop Bag Organizers   Clare V Simple Tote This Clare V tote is a staple. It's functional, fashionable, and just all around a great piece for your wardrobe. We adore the print and color of this style, though it does come in a range of other colors.  Pair it with ToteSavvy Original (we suggest French Blue!) or Deluxe (Merlot pairs great with blue!) Shop Bag Organizers   Paravel Cabana Tote   Sometimes you just need a classic nautical tote like this one by Paravel. The lines are clean and will likely match just about any ensemble. Perfect for the park or a beach getaway.  Pair it with ToteSavvy Original or Deluxe!  Shop Bag Organizers Find more handbag recommendations here!    
What's in my Bag: Britny Pittman

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What's in my Bag: Britny Pittman

by ToteSavvy Team on Feb 16, 2021
Travel to far off places can't come soon enough. For now, we'll live vicariously through our friends. Check out how Britny Pittman packs her ToteSavvy Mini for a quick (and safe!) weekend away.    When I was pregnant with Peri (now 3), I purchased a ToteSavvy Mini to go in my LV Sperone backpack. I knew we’d be traveling a lot and I wanted to be able to be as hands free as possible. At the time, I needed it for all the baby essentials- diapers, wipes, bottles (it has an awesome insulated pocket), etc. After a pretty stationary 2020, I was thrilled to hop on a plane and head to Cabo last weekend. I still use my bag organizer even without kids and it really is a lifesaver. Aside from my usual travel essentials, I’ve now had to add things like sanitizer and extra masks.  Just when I think I can’t fit anything else, my ToteSavvy manages to stretch a little more. I have since bought the ToteSavvy Original size and was recently gifted the Deluxe. Not only do they keep me organized, they’re so beautiful to look at-unlike many others I’ve seen online. I cannot say enough good things about ToteSavvy.  What’s in my bag: Travel Edition Water Hand Sanitizer Sanitizer wipes Extra masks Ibuprofen  Lip mask Undereye masks Chapstick Face lotion A book Comb Extra hair tie Wallet Phone charger Portable charger Ear buds Passport Plane tickets