Prize Package

The winner receives a mini photo session package that includes:

• A one-hour session with Vairdy Photography at a location of your choice
• An online gallery of ten to fifteen images to choose from
• Low resolution images for sharing via email and Facebook
• 1-20×30, 2-16×16 or 3-11×14 Gallery Wrapped Canvas Wall Portrait(s)
• A $100 gift card from Lusso Baby

How to Enter

Show us your nursery! Email a photo of your child’s fabulous retreat to amber@vancouvermom.ca, and we’ll upload it to the VancouverMom.ca Facebook Page.

Contest rules

• Contest runs until August 21, 2011 at 11:59 p.m.
• We will choose the winner, and notify him or her by email. If the winner doesn’t claim the prize, then another winner will be chosen.

I’m not the most crafty person and I don’t have a creative eye about hanging this type of stuff. So I really appreciated that the packaging promised that the decals were instantly removable and repositionable, as well as being reusable and washable. Getting home, I set about arranging the butterflies and my girls were immediately impressed, reaching and touching the fuzzy surface of the decals. They also enjoyed reaching high above them to see how many of the butterflies they could “catch”.

The package comes with 10 self-adhesive, pre-cut wall decals in various sizes. I wished there was more variety (maybe three of the same instead of two of the same), but the overall simplicity of putting these up on the wall and the reaction I got from my kids made my purchase well-worth the money I spent. Plus the room looks great.

If the butterflies aren’t your thing, check out the other options from RoomMates for Kids. Personally, the Dotted Tree Wall seems a bit too complicated for me, but the multi-coloured Safari Mural looks like it would be a cute addition to any kids’ room.

RoomMates for Kids Peel and Stick Appliques – $29.99

Available at Lusso Baby.

Sponsored Partner Tip

This weekend is a special occasion for Lusso Baby in North Vancouver. They’re turning one! From October 15th through 17th, join other local parents for fun surprises for kids, door prizes for parents, and best of all – huge savings for the whole family.

Over the past year, Lusso Baby has discovered lots of new and local items for babies and children. Moms and moms-to-be who love hand-picked, eco-friendly gear will be delighted with their selection.

Indulge in a pregnantini and cupcake while you browse natural products, designer clothing, and stylish modern furniture. Don’t miss out on the fun this weekend! RSVP on Lusso Baby’s Facebook Page.

Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver (Free parking in back)
www.lussobaby.ca | Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

The Two Step

Every parent wants a stroller that pushes easily. With two kids to consider, it becomes even more important; the less you have to worry about, the better. After all, if your double stroller makes it a pain to go on neighbourhood walks or shopping trips, what good is it?

Look for a double stroller that is actually narrow enough to fit through a standard doorway; this will make your life substantially easier. Otherwise, you may find that your double stroller limits the number of places you can go. Tandem strollers fit well through doorways, although their length can make them harder to steer. There are also several side-by-side models that fit the bill.

The Weighting Game

Your best bets are double strollers that are reasonably lightweight with good suspension and smooth turning; these characteristics will keep everybody happy. But double strollers are inherently heavier than singles; plus, some tandem strollers have different weight limits depending on whether it’s the front or back seat. If your children are a few months old and you’re choosing a double stroller, you may want to take a look at their growth chart curves when you’re picking a stroller, especially if you are considering one with a lower weight limit. If you are choosing a side-by-side stroller for children of different sizes, look carefully at reviews to see if this will result in a steering problem due to weight imbalance.

As one might suspect, high-end strollers tend to offer the most carrying capacity for the least weight. That said, a light, easily steered stroller can really cut down on frustration; it might be the best baby-gear splurge you’ll make.

Dual Dueling

Of course, both tandem strollers and side-by-sides pose potential issues depending on your children’s ages and temperaments. At eight months, babies like to explore. Each other’s faces. With their poky little fingers. At two, possessiveness kicks in. That toy? I want it. Now. A side-by-side stroller makes it easier for kids to invade each other’s space. On the other hand, a side-by-side also makes it easier for them to keep each other amused. A tandem poses its own sibling rivalry hazard; the rear passenger may not be able to see as much. Some tandems offer both a rear and forward facing option so that a younger child can face the parent while the older child faces outward. Another solution is a stroller that has a platform on the back or a small seat for a toddler who gets tired of walking; some manufacturers also offer add-on platforms or seats.

Options, Options

Many twin strollers offer options like individually reclining seats and individually adjustable sun canopies. With some tandem strollers, only one seat reclines at a time; this is more suitable for a toddler and infant than for twins.

Double strollers are available in the same styles as other strollers: standard strollers, simple carseat frames, travel systems, joggers, and lightweight umbrella strollers. Bear in mind that some types of strollers (like joggers) are not suitable for newborns. Others may work for a newborn with a carseat adapter. As always, read manufacturer instructions and check compatibility requirements.

Still Need More Info?

Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for First Time Parents, which give you some great tips and info on what to consider when making your next stroller purchase.

About Our Sponsor

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

I didn’t set out to buy four strollers. When I bought my first stroller, I thought that one stroller could handle all of my needs and that it would be best just to hand out the money to buy the best one I could afford. But I didn’t plan well and didn’t think two strollers was really an option at the time.

But it’s worth considering. Here are some common reasons why you might buy two or more strollers:

You purchase one standard, everyday stroller, along with an umbrella stroller. You might have one stroller that works great when you walk around the neighbourhood but is simply a pain to pack. These days, many strollers breakdown into two pieces and families needs a smaller version for packing into the back of the car or travelling.

You buy one stroller for your first child, only to realize you need a double for your second one. I thought my first stroller could work with two kids since I could add a wheel-board, but I didn’t factor that my first child would get tired and frequently wanted to just sit after a big walk. We ended up getting a second stroller so that both kids could sit down. If you think your first stroller will only be around until another child arrives, consider buying an inexpensive stroller that you don’t mind replacing with a double later or higher quality stroller that will hold its value at resale. Or research your options thoroughly and buy a stroller that can expand with a seat or if your first child is old enough when your child arrives, with a board attachment.

Similarly, after pushing it around for a while, you realize that you just simply don’t like your first stroller or it doesn’t work for your body. Confession: someone gave me an inexpensive five-year-old travel stroller that my husband and I used for a day before realizing that the ride was too bumpy, the handle vibrated when you rolled it on a sidewalk, and the construction just seemed unsafe. I accepted this stroller hoping that I wouldn’t have to purchase one, but I knew that I simply would never find this stroller enjoyable to push. You might find that you don’t account for a feature that you really need in your stroller – like a telescoping handle that allows your six-foot-tall husband to push it without straining his back, an ample under seat basket for storing all your stuff, or is just too big to store in your tiny apartment. Whatever the reason, you might find that you want to sell this first stroller and purchase another. To avoid this problem, do your research ahead of time or download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Buying Guide.

You have one everyday stroller and another specialty stroller. It’s possible these days to get a jogging stroller that’s also a decent everyday stroller. But if you’re a serious runner who plans to run a marathon, then you might want the jogger with the lightest weight. Similarly, if you commute by bike and need to pick up your child along the way, you might want to purchase a bike trailer. Although bike trailers can double as strollers and even triple as a jogger, they are often too big for everyday use.

If you really are planning on using your stroller primarily for one thing, in one kind of circumstance, or don’t mind your stroller performing well in one situation but not at all well in another, then you might be able to purchase only one stroller. But unless you’re super clear with what you’ll need your stroller for, I’m not convinced that one stroller can fulfill all of a family’s needs.

Better than assume that one stroller will do it all, analyze if you’re better off with two strollers. If that’s the case, you might be able to get away with two lower priced models. Or alternatively, research stroller options that can truly expand with your needs.

Still Need More Info?

Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for First Time Parents, which give you some great tips and info on what to consider when making your next stroller purchase.

About Our Sponsor

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

As seen on Breakfast Television!

VancouverMom.ca had a chance to chat with Lusso Baby about some of their top stroller picks. Located at 1037 Marine Drive in North Vancouver, Lusso Baby is a specialty baby store with a great selection of family products. Lusso Baby has a vast selection in store – and an even bigger selection online. I stopped in to pick up a few strollers for this article and found the staff to be exceptionally knowledgeable – and passionate! – about all the merchandise in Lusso Baby, including the strollers. Here’s what Lusso Baby had to say about their favourite baby strollers in each of the following categories. We also had a chance to check out these strollers ourselves to give you VancouverMom.ca’s review of these strollers. The list in a nutshell:

• Top Umbrella Stroller: I’Coo Plutto Stroller
• Top All-Round Stroller: Quinny Buzz 3 Stroller
• Top Luxury Stroller: Stokke Xplory Complete Stroller
• Top Double Stroller: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On Double Stroller
• Top Jogging Stroller: BOB Revolution Stroller

Top Umbrella Stroller: I’Coo Pluto Stroller

In the umbrella stroller category, Lusso Baby recommended the I’Coo Pluto stroller – part of the Rockstar Baby family. VancouverMom.ca arranged a test drive so we could check out the I’Coo Pluto stroller for ourselves. What we found? Although the I’Coo Pluto stroller might not be as well known as its Maclaren competitor, this stroller does provide some extra value and interesting features. Read more about the I’Coo Pluto Umbrella Stroller.

Top All-Round Stroller: Quinny Buzz 3 Stroller

In the all-round baby stroller category, Lusso Baby recommended the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller – hands down. And we can’t disagree. If you’re someone who loves a clean sleek design, might do some light activity and don’t need to accommodate a second child, then this is an excellent buy. Read more about the Quinny Buzz 3 Stroller.

Top Luxury Stroller: Stokke Xplory Complete Stroller

When Lusso Baby owners Arash Fasihi and Shima Javadi recently had their baby, they purchased the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller. Arash demonstrated the stroller for me and couldn’t say enough about how much he and his wife loved it. I’m a sucker for unique modern design. I adore anything unique and eye-catching and I especially love beauty when it’s coupled with excellent functionality. Stokke seems to have the modern touch – from their iconic Stokke Trip Trapp high chair to their Stokke Sleepi crib – and the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller is no exception. Read more about the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller.

Top Double Stroller: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On Double Stroller

Lots depends on what you need a double stroller for: you may have twins, in which case a side-by-side stroller is probably the best choice. You might want to accommodate a second child in the future, so a stroller that allows you to add on a second seat is a terrific option. However, an interesting option is the Joovy Caboose family of sit-and-stand strollers. If you’re looking for a double stroller that can accommodate a baby and older active child, Lusso Baby felt that the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On stroller is a clever option. Read more about the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On Double Stroller.

Top Jogging Stroller: BOB Revolution Stroller

We asked Lusso Baby to name their favourite jogging stroller. Their pick? The BOB Revolution jogging stroller. VancouverMom.ca had a chance to have a look for ourselves and check out the features of this stroller. Read more about the BOB Revolution jogging stroller.

About Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

As seen on Breakfast Television!

What Lusso Baby says:

“Very adaptable stroller that allows the child to be close to mom. The seat raises and lowers – and is perfect for sitting the child at table level in restaurants. Stokke manufactures one stroller product that satisfies the stringent safety requirements of all countries. Clean unique modern design.”

What VancouverMom.ca thinks:

I’m a sucker for unique modern design. I love anything unusual and eye-catching and I especially love beauty when it’s coupled with excellent functionality. Norwegian company Stokke seems to have the modern touch – from their iconic Stokke Trip Trapp high chair to their Stokke Sleepi crib – and the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller is no exception.

The Stokke Xplory Complete stroller key feature is that it brings baby closer to mom. The seat raises so your baby is up high, rather than at floor level, which means that you can interact and converse with your baby more intimately. Raise the seat and your baby can enjoy the sights at the Vancouver Aquarium. Lower and bring the seat to table height so that your baby can be part of mealtime and the conversation.

The stroller breaks down into two pieces – a chassis and seat – and also comes with a bassinet for infants who can’t support themselves in a seat. I consider a bassinet an excellent bonus feature since it can potentially replace the need for you to buy a bed-side bassinet for your newborn. And unlike other bassinets, the Stokke Xplory Complete’s bassinet has a hard shell, which means that it can be used as a standalone bed – perfect for a travel bed. The rear pocket also supports the seat by itself, allowing the seat to be used as a standalone seat.

But the versatility of this stroller doesn’t stop there. You can face baby rearwards and forwards. The under carriage basket has a huge capacity, but also snaps into a tidy flat shape when not in use. The unique oval shaped handle, which raises and lowers, gives people different comfort options for their grip preference.

It seems that the stroller is also popular with the stars: Russel Crowe, Angelina Jolie and Sarah Jessica Parker are all rumoured to have the Stokke Xplory Complete.

And if you’re worried about whether or not this stroller will grow with your family, Stokke has recently released the Stokke Xplory Rider, a wheel board accessory that let’s older children hitch a ride whenever they’re tired.

Who should buy this stroller:

Anyone who wants a little luxury in their life for both indoors and out and who wants the extra features like an excellent ergonomic handling system and the multi-use bassinet and seat.

Price:

$1,499

Where to buy this stroller:

Buy the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller online at lussobaby.ca. You can also purchase the Stokke Xplory Complete stroller in-person at Lusso Baby located at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver.

Can’t decide what stroller works for you?

We’ve written a snazzy guide to help you in your stroller shopping adventures. Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for New Parents.

Do you have this stroller?

Let us know what you think! Enter your comment below.

About Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

As seen on Breakfast Television!

We had a chance to chat with Lusso Baby about their favourite umbrella baby stroller. They recommended the I’Coo Pluto stroller – part of the Rockstar Baby family. VancouverMom.ca arranged a test drive so we could check out the I’Coo Pluto stroller for ourselves.

What Lusso Baby says:

“Lightweight. Sturdy. Well-constructed. Great value.”

What VancouverMom.ca thinks:

Although the I’Coo Pluto stroller might not be as well known as its Maclaren competitor, this stroller does provide some extra value and interesting features. The I’Coo Pluto stroller comes with a car seat adapter that fits the Graco and Peg Perego infant seats and any other major infant seat manufacturer, making this umbrella stroller truly versatile and able to work for a newborn. Babies also get a comfy ride with a little extra padding in the seat, as well as suspension in four of the wheels. The stroller’s one button buckle release makes it a breeze to unlatch your child. Like all umbrella strollers, the I’Coo Pluto collapses to a petite size and its light weight makes it easy to lift and store into even the smallest car’s trunk.

The stroller also has a little extra bling in its design, with shiny large handles and finishing, along with a terrific selection of six colours (we like it in Plum). You also have the option of purchasing a seat pad in a contrasting colour for greater personalization (check out the look of brown stroller with a pink seat pad – sweet!). You can also flip the pads over for a soft fleecy side that offers even more comfort for baby.

I particularly liked the foot brake bar, which allows you to engage both rear wheel brakes at the same time (many other strollers require you to set both brakes). On the flip side, I found the handles to be a bit large and awkward for my hands.

Who should buy this stroller:

Anyone who wants a good all-round umbrella stroller and wants something a little more unique in its design.  This stroller is sure to make you and baby look great when you’re checking out the boutiques in your neighbourhood.

Price:

$299

Where to buy this stroller:

Buy the I’Coo Pluto stroller at lussobaby.ca. You can also purchase the I’Coo Pluto stroller in-person at Lusso Baby located at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver.

Can’t decide what stroller works for you?

We’ve written a snazzy guide to help you in your stroller shopping adventures. Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for New Parents.

Do you have this stroller?

Let us know what you think! Enter your comment below.

About Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

As seen on Breakfast Television!

We had a chance to chat with Lusso Baby about their top pick for double strollers. Lots depends on what you need a double stroller for: you may have twins, in which case a side-by-side stroller is probably the best choice. You might want to accommodate a second child in the future, so a stroller that allows you to add on a second seat is a terrific option. However, an interesting option is the Joovy Caboose family of sit-and-stand strollers. If you’re looking for a double stroller that accommodate a baby and older active child, the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On stroller is a clever option.

What Lusso Baby says:

“A nice-looking double stroller that can be shared by a baby and busy older child “

What VancouverMom.ca thinks:

The first time I saw this stroller, I was at the Toronto Zoo. My older child was about two years old and I was expecting my second in a few short months’ time. I thought – and still think – that this stroller would be excellent for those days when you have an older child who is active and loves to run around, but wants to take a break every once and a while. Almost a hybrid between a wagon and a stroller, the older child is able to sit or even stand on the rear platform if they get tired – excellent for when you’re at a fair or gallery where your child is wanting to hop on and off to view the sights.

The Joovy Caboose stroller can accommodate an infant using an infant car seat, but without it, children six months’ old to 45 lbs can use the stroller. The canopy is very large and can cover both children sitting. The storage basket is a medium size and could probably store the basic needs of two kids – but forget any additional shopping. The basket is also awkward to access with a child riding in the rear. The child riding in the back has mesh pockets to store any pebbles or any other bounty collected from the day ave collected during the day. The child in the front has a removable snack tray that’s perfect for Goldfish or any other snacks. The Joovy Caboose even has a neoprene storage pocket for you to keep smaller items like a wallet.

Once you get the hang of folding the Joovy Caboose, it’s really easy to break-down and you can open it with one hand – terrific if you have a baby on the hip and an older child that is eager to get going. When folded, the stroller also takes up a reasonable amount of space and can fit easily in most trunks.

The stroller doesn’t handle like a dream and neither seat looks like it would be incredibly comfortable for the child, but I suppose this should be considered almost like an umbrella stroller for two children – utilitarian but with a unique riding option.

Who should buy this stroller:

Anyone who has a busy older child who doesn’t want to stay put in the stroller, but needs to have a rest every once in a while. Probably a great second stroller for someone who only needs to accommodate a second child for specific situations – like at the mall or at a museum.

Price:

$299

Where to buy this stroller:

Buy the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On stroller online at lussobaby.ca. You can also purchase the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Stand-On stroller in-person at Lusso Baby located at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver.

Can’t decide what stroller works for you?

We’ve written a snazzy guide to help you in your stroller shopping adventures. Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for New Parents.

Do you have this stroller?

Let us know what you think! Enter your comment below.

About Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.

As seen on Breakfast Television!

We had a chance to chat with Lusso Baby about their favourite all-round baby stroller. They recommended the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller – hands down. We test drove this stroller and checked out some of the great features of this stroller.

What Lusso Baby says:

“A stroller with a unique design that looks more expensive than it really is. Extremely light. Excellent construction. We love this stroller!”

What VancouverMom.ca thinks:

When I first went in to pick up this stroller for this review, I had to schedule a time to come back – there were so many people in the store clamouring to demo the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller!

Upon first looking at the stroller, I immediately thought of the Bugaboo Frog stroller. The Quinny Buzz 3 stroller seems to be very similar in its general look. Both breakdown into two parts: a collapsible base, as well as a stylish seat. The Quinny Buzz 3 also comes with a bassinet to accommodate newborns unable to support themselves in an upright seat. Like the Bugaboo Frog stroller, the Quinny Buzz 3 allows baby to face backwards towards you or forward to view the scenery. The stroller also comes with a telescopic handle that can accommodate both shorter and taller parents.

However, unlike the Bugaboo Frog, the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller has a wonderful hydraulic system that allows the  stroller to unfold virtually automatically. The extra large seat is seems incredibly comfortable and could accommodate both small babies and large children. The five-point harness can be done up in two steps, and undone in one button. You can also lock the front wheel if you want to do some jogging. The included Buzz Box storage basket is roomy enough for those times that you choose to go for a neighbourhood walk and decide to pick up some groceries along the way. Overall, this is an excellent stroller option for parents who need a stroller for one child as the stroller currently has no wheel board option available to accommodate an older child. Compared to its competitors’ price tag, at $714 the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller is a phenomenal buy.

Who should buy this stroller:

Anyone who loves a clean sleek design, who might do some light activity like jogging or a Stroller Fit type class and who does not need to accommodate a second child.

Price:

$714

Where to buy this stroller:

Buy the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller online at lussobaby.ca. You can also purchase the Quinny Buzz 3 stroller in-person at Lusso Baby located at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver.

Can’t decide what stroller works for you?

We’ve written a snazzy guide to help you in your stroller shopping adventures. Download VancouverMom.ca’s Stroller Guide for New Parents.

Do you have this stroller?

Let us know what you think! Enter your comment below.

About Lusso Baby

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, BC
Tel: (778) 340-0648 | www.lussobaby.ca

Twitter: @lussobaby | Facebook

Discover both comfort and luxury quality for you and your children. Lusso Baby is a refined specialty store dedicated to handpicking fine family products and providing customized service in a welcoming environment. Find Lusso Baby at 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver or shop online at www.lussobaby.ca.