At Black Bride, our “After the Aisle” section explores the beautiful reality of building a family. For me, that recently meant the joy of becoming a new mom again at 40. It has been eight years since we had our son, and starting over with my daughter, Lennox, feels like a whole new adventure. Between my work as an editor and my husband’s career and business, our lives are faster and fuller than ever. This time around, I am much more intentional about the products I choose. I’m looking for high-quality items that save time, look great, and fit perfectly into our mature, busy lifestyle.
Here are four top essentials that I have been loving since my return to the “baby phase”.
Coterie Diapers and Wipes
As someone who prioritizes natural health and wellness for my family, choosing the right diaper was a top priority. We recently made the switch to Coterie diapers and wipes, and I can say they live up to all the hype. These diapers are incredibly soft, almost like cashmere, and they keep Lennox dry much longer than other brands. This means more sleep for everyone. They are made without harsh chemicals, so they are very gentle on her sensitive skin.
Their wipes are also a favorite in our house; they are 100% plant-based, compostable, and made with 99% purified water. Knowing that I’m using products that are both safe for Lennox and safe for the environment gives me such peace of mind. The subscription service is the icing on the cake, making sure we never run out of these.
While I love all the Coterie products I’ve tried, my absolute favorite is the Coterie Pant. Now that Lennox is nine months old, we have officially reached the “won’t lay still for a diaper change” phase. Trying to fasten a traditional diaper on a squirming, crawling baby can feel like an Olympic sport! The Pant has been a total game-changer for us. It pulls up just like a pull-up, making it so easy to put on while she’s standing or on the move. But the best part is the side straps—they allow for quick and easy removal without the mess of a standard pull-up. I LOVE how this design acknowledges the reality of an active baby while maintaining that signature Coterie softness and absorbency. It’s a must-have for any mom navigating the transition from infant to active crawler.
The Doona Stroller
The Doona Stroller is my top recommendation for any parent on the move. Before having my daughter, I saw these strollers around town and knew that if I ever had another child, I needed one of these. This innovative car seat transforms into a stroller with a single click, providing the streamlined convenience we need for our busy lifestyle. Whether we are running errands around town or catching a flight, the Doona allows us to transition Lennox from the car to the sidewalk without waking her. I also love its safety features and sturdiness. I went with the Sahara Sand color, which perfectly complements my current neutral color aesthetic.
Delta Children Willa Crib
For Lennox’s nursery, we chose the Delta Children Willa Crib in Chestnut. I fell in love with the warm wood tones of the chestnut color and classic design. It was very easy to assemble, which is a huge plus! My husband had it ready in under an hour. The crib also meets the highest safety standards, giving me peace of mind while Lennox sleeps. Plus, it’s a 4-in-1 design that grows with her, eventually turning into a bed for her future “big girl” room.
Tubby Todd Hair + Body Wash
Another natural staple in our routine is the Tubby Todd Hair and Body Wash. Because I am so focused on natural health, I love that their formula uses clean ingredients with no harsh chemicals or toxins. It is incredibly gentle, but what really impressed me is how well it works for Lennox’s thick, curly hair. It leaves her curls hydrated, soft, and easy to manage without any irritation to her scalp. It has become our go-to for bath time because it gives me that peace of mind that I’m using something safe while also getting great results for her specific hair texture.
Finding the right gear has helped our family stay organized and happy as we navigate this new chapter. The Doona, the Willa Crib, and Coterie products have made balancing a career and two kids much smoother. I believe your home life should be just as intentional as your wedding day. These products have helped me focus on what truly matters.
By Associate Editor, Candice Davie