How Will You Decorate the Nursery?

Decisions, decisions... Pregnancy is full of them. One decision that many people struggle with is how to decorate the nursery. What used to be an easy pick of blue for boys, pink for girls, and green or yellow for neutrals has turned into a deer in the headlights look while you stand in front of the paint chip boards at your local home improvement store. There's good news, though, mommies! If you're struggling with what colors to use, here are some great new trends for 2009 that are beautiful and will transition well as your precious bundle grows up.

First, it's hip to be cool. No, not cool as in trying to fit into "the" high school crowd with all the right labels and logos. That's exhausting! I'm talking cool as in the color palette. We're moving away from warm browns as neutrals and moving toward cool grays. Gray? Yes, gray. It's not your grandma's gray, though. Think about stainless steel appliances. They’re basically gray, right? But, they’re gray that is sophisticated, high end and goes beautifully with just about every other color. So, think of grays with silvery undertones. Or, if you don’t like the silvery look, go for green or blue undertones. Each one gives a slightly different feel; but, in either case, creates a beautiful neutral to anchor a room. Now that's gray with some character!

So, if you're using gray for your neutral in a room, what color should you accent with? One of my favorite color palettes is combining gray with burgundy and pink. It's a beautiful trio that is classic without feeling old-fashioned. Add some small touches of black here and there, and you've got a lovely room for your princess. Want something a little brighter? Try magenta or fuscia with the gray. Both pull from a base color of purple, which is also popular this year.

But, what if your bundle is prince? Or maybe you're not sure if you're getting a prince or a princess. Greens and blues pair wonderfully with gray. Go for softer, understated tones, and you'll create an atmosphere that will be relaxing for any baby. Still feel like you need a pop of color, though? Try some yellow. It's cheery and hopeful and mixes well with blue or green.

Remember, choosing colors doesn't have to be overwhelming. Pick the color that you like - burgundy, fuscia, blue, green - and then find the shade of gray that is most complimentary with that color. You just began creating your color palette! Wasn't that easy? Now throw in an accent color - for example, pink with burgundy or yellow with blue or green - and you're definitely on your way! No more deer in the headlights look for you! Happy decision making and happy decorating!