The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your New Baby in Cleveland, Ohio: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you're a seasoned pro with a clan of little ones at home, or a first-timer eagerly counting down the days to that special due date, there's something universal about preparing for a new baby - the time always flies by faster than we expect!

Being a mom myself, I've gathered a treasure trove of wisdom on what truly matters when prepping for the arrival of your little one, and what might just be extra noise.

So, let's dive in and explore my top 9 tips on preparing for your new baby while you're still pregnanct!

This is the real-deal, tried-and-tested, straight from the heart advice that you'll be glad to know!

1. Designing the Perfect Nursery (and this likely won’t be what you’re thinking)

So, let's chat nurseries and dream a little!

What do you want it to look like?
Calming ocean vibes?
An out-of-this-world galaxy theme?
Or, maybe, a whimsical enchanted forest?

Trust me, setting up a nursery that's both soothing and practical will help keep your sanity when you're changing the umpteenth diaper at 3 AM.

Let’s start with functionality.

Make sure you've got room for the essentials: a crib, changing station, and, of course, a comfy chair for those late-night feedings.

Next, let's sprinkle some magic on it.

The aesthetics are totally up to you and what you want your baby to experience. Your nursery, your rules.

Cleveland Newborn Photographer

2. Save Your Sanity by Organizing Baby’s Clothes Ahead of Time

Between the baby showers and hand-me-downs, you're probably swimming in a sea of baby clothes. Organizing baby clothes might sound like a low-priority job, but let me tell you, it's a sanity saver!

Why? Because you'll be up to your elbows in diapers and the last thing you need is to dig for a clean onesie at the bottom of a messy drawer.

So, here's a little trick — sort baby’s outfits by size and season. That way, you can grab the right gear at the right time, and you don't have to worry about missing out on using that darling summer romper because it was hidden behind winter gear.

3. Keep the Diaper Station in Order

Clear bins, closet shelves, or even a hanging shoe organizer can work wonders for keeping those diapers within reach.

Pro tip: Keep a stash in each room you spend time in — nothing like a diaper emergency in the living room with no supplies in sight.

(click here to read about how to create a “baby care” basket)

4. Meal Prep Like a Masterchef

The 4th trimester is all about giving your body the love and nutrients it needs to heal and power you through those early, sleep-deprived weeks with your little one.

The solution? Meal prep, my friend. Now, I'm not talking about slaving in the kitchen for hours. You've got enough on your plate (pun totally intended!). I mean simple, delicious, and nutritious make-ahead meals.

We're talking big-batch veggie lasagna, hearty chicken soup, or black bean enchiladas - all that you can easily freeze and reheat when hunger strikes. Being a new mom with little ones already in tow, freezer meals were hands down a life safer! Make tons of freezer meals and look for ideas here on Pinterest and it will save you sanity after the baby arrives! Click Here for Meal Ideas!

5. Rock-a-bye Baby: Creating a Soothing Sleep Environment

Let's chat about sleep.

Yeah, I know, it's that elusive thing that everyone says you're gonna miss once your baby arrives. But don't worry, you've got this. Sleep is all about setting up the right vibes, for both you and your little one.

First off, you want to make sure your baby's room is calm, cozy, and free from distractions. Think of it like creating a little zen bubble for your baby to drift off to sleep.

Noise-cancelling curtains and white noise machines will become your new BFFs. They create a gentle, soothing backdrop.

Setting up a sleep-friendly environment is more than just about catching some Zs. It's about creating a space that helps your baby (and you!) feel secure, comfortable, and relaxed.

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

6. Navigating Cleveland, Ohio with Your New Baby

Just because you've got a mini-me in tow doesn't mean you can't enjoy the best of Cleveland!

First things first, invest in a good stroller. Find a stroller that's comfy for your little one, easy for you to maneuver, and rugged enough to handle Cleveland sidewalks.

Check out this article about some amazing stroller options! Here

Cleveland is full of baby-friendly places that you'll love too. Our parks are a great starting point - they're perfect for leisurely strolls, and they've got those oh-so-important diaper changing stations.

Check out this article from Cleveland with kids and some great Mommy and Me parks! Click here!

If you're into yoga or looking to get into it, there are some great mom and baby classes in Cleveland too. It's a great way to get some exercise, bond with your baby, and meet other moms. Happy me Kids yoga is a great place to check out! Check them out.

7. Local Support for Cleveland Moms

This journey of motherhood, it's not something you have to do alone! In fact, it's way more fun when you have people to share it with.

There's an army of fellow moms right here in Cleveland who are ready to join forces with you. You've just got to find them.

Start with your local community center. They usually host mom-and-baby meetups where you can chat about everything from diaper brands to sleep schedules while your little ones play. Nothing beats an in-person heart-to-heart with another mom who gets it.

But what if getting out and about isn't in the cards?

There are plenty of online communities full of Cleveland moms just like you. Facebook groups, Meetup.com, Instagram pages, even Reddit threads - there's a wealth of information, advice, and support out there.

Librairies are a great place to check out because they often have storytime sessions for little ones. You get to meet other moms, and your kiddo gets entertained! I lived at the library and story time when my own kids were little. It was our special time together and I will forever cherish those memories together!

9. Planning to Introduce Pets to Your Newborn

Okay, I know you've been thinking about this one!
How is your four-legged friend, going to react to the new family addition?

Now, here's another pro tip just for you. Take the baby’s hospital blanket home first and allow the dog or cat to smell and get used to the baby’s scent. Doing this gradually and always including the four legged friend with reassure them they are still part of the family.

Just remember that each pet is unique. So, while my pet may adjust quickly, your pet might need a little more time and that’s perfectly okay. The key is patience, and yes, a lot of it!

Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer

10. Hire your newborn (and/or birth) photographer!

No surprise that I’m going to add this to the list right?

This is not just about capturing cute baby pictures, it's about freezing those precious moments in time and creating tangible memories that will take you back to the early days of parenthood (the good parts anyway ;) )

A skilled newborn photographer knows how to capture the delicate details, the overwhelming love, and the pure magic that surrounds your little bundle of joy.

They have a knack for creating stunning compositions that reflect your unique journey into parenthood.

Friend, Your dedication to preparing and loving your baby even before their arrival shows what an amazing mom you're going to be!

I hope this blog post has offered you some unique and new ideas on how to prepare for your newborn in Cleveland, Ohio!

Want to see more of my (Newborn Photography)? Click here!

Love,

Danelle

6 month Milestone | Child Photographer | Willoughby Ohio Photographer

It is so hard to believe how quickly 6 months or even a year flies by! Baby Marcus rocked his six month sitter session! When booking a bump to baby package with me you can easily customize the sessions however you would like. The most popular is the maternity, newborn and first birthday cake smash sessions. However, Marcus’s family wanted to do Newborn, 6 month and 1 year portraits. I am happy to accommodate any type of sessions you would like.

What is a six month sitter session? The six month milestone session, also known as the “sitter” session, is my absolute favorite to photograph. If they are sitting, we document that. I usually like to photograph them on their bellies pushing up, on their back, and rolling around if they are rolling already. At this age they love to play with their toes and their favorite toy is probably their hand.

This session can be baby only or include family too. I always recommend including family for this session if you're able. If you would like to book your sitter session, please reach out since my calendar does fill quickly.

Look forward to hearing from you soon!

xoxo~Danelle

Baby Sister Newborn Session | Chardon, Ohio | Cleveland Ohio photographer

I was so thrilled to hear that this special family was expecting baby number 2! I had the privilege to photograph their first baby girl and many mini sessions along the way with them. There is nothing more special then watching a family grow up before my eyes. It’s hard to believe I’ve been doing this long enough to photograph not only their 1st baby. But I’ve literally watched many of the families grow from baby 1, 2 and even number 3! That means the world to me, when so many families keep coming back. That is truly the biggest compliment anyone can ever give regarding my photography.

Sweet Gwennie was welcomed with big arms in the studio. I had so much photographing her and her adorable family. Big sister rocked the session too, and allowed me to capture so many sweet moments together.

Are you expecting a sweet little bundle in 2024. Please reach out, I would love to chat about the many different maternity and newborn packages I offer.

Look forward to talking to you soon~

xoxo, Danelle

Motherhood Minis 2024 | Mommy and Me Photography | Cleveland, Ohio | Mother's Day

I’m so excited to be hosting my motherhood mini event in my new studio! They will be held on 4/20 from 9-12:30pm. They must be pre-booked with the link below or reach out hello@danellejoyphotography.com.

The mommy and me photo session is perfect for mom and her little ones. We need to get mom in the picture, am I right?! Mom is always the one taking the photos of dad and kids. Not this time. It is moms turn to get all dressed up and have all the pictures done.

This makes a perfect mother’s day gift, so dads don’t wait to book! These sessions will fill up fast. Surprise her with a fun shoot, she will thank you later.

For more information on my photography please reach out.

Hope to see you soon!

~Danelle

How to get ready for a cake smash | Chagrin Falls, Ohio | Best Baby photographer

Cake smash sessions are always a favorite of mine! They can be so fun, stress free and full of giggles. Especially if you plan early enough. I recommend booking a cake smash a few months ahead of time, in order to plan the session. I’m always happy to coordinate the planned theme. Many times moms know exactly what they want for the first birthday.

Other times I have heard, “I have no clue”… Any ideas?!

Of course I have some great ideas! I also recommend bringing the outfit and cake to the shoot. I can provide most of the decor and balloons for the session.

Be Prepared for Anything!

Those are the basics of how to get ready for a cake smash session beforehand. Once you show up at the studio, the best advice I can give is to be prepared for anything! As long as you are relaxed and ready to have fun that will go a long way to helping your baby do the same as we celebrate their birthday

Have more questions about how to get ready for a cake smash session? Please reach out and I would be happy to do a phone consult and plan the cake smash session!

~Danelle

Lily turns 1! | Cake Smash Portraits | Milestone Photography | Solon, Ohio

We started with formal pictures for Lily’s first birthday. Since many parents like to have the cake smash pictures taken, we always wait until the end.

What do you get with cake smash photos? It’s a full hour session that includes the family and some traditional pictures. The photo are with my backdrop and the lifestyle area of my studio. We end with the customized them for the birthday shoot. I like to work with the family and help them plan for the birthday shoot. Lily was all red and black ladybugs. How cute is that?

Are you interested in Cake Smash Photos? Plan ahead and book now so you can have the adorable photos for their birthday party!

Reach out for more detailed pricing and special offers for my packages right now.

See you soon!

~Danelle

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

Snowy Maternity Photo Shoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Squires Castle

There is something so beautiful about a maternity shoot taking place at a castle filled with snow. It was a snowy and chilly January but that didn’t stop this sweet couple from venturing out. I love when couples are all about capturing photos outdoors, even if its during the dead of winter. Outdoor shoots in the snow can be very beautify! For more information on my maternity sessions please contact me. I offer both on location and indoor shoots.

When to take Maternity Photos | Maternity Photoshoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photographer

I am asked many times when is the best time for Maternity photos? A maternity photo session is the perfect way to document the beautiful change your body is undergoing. I recommend photos to be taken anytime from week 32 to week 36 depending on how your feeling. You want a beautiful baby bump for the photos, but also not too large you feel uncomfortable. That’s why I recommend that time frame as the sweet spot for photos.

What takes place during a maternity session?

I offer both a full 1 hour and mini 30 minute maternity session. These photos can be taken outdoors or inside depending on the vibe you want in the photos. Many people choose outdoors all year long. I especially love squires castle for photos.

If you’re deciding on booking both a maternity and newborn shoot you’ll receive 10% off the total cost. If you want all 3 sessions, maternity, newborn and first birthday. I offer a bump to baby package which includes all 3 sessions at a reduced cost.

Please reach out and schedule your session today.

~xoxo Danelle

Maternity Photography

Studio Maternity Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Maternity Session Guide

It seems that maternity photography can often times be overlooked but this is such a beautiful time to capture. I recommend maternity photos to be taken anytime from week 28 to week 35. Your belly needs to be large enough to show off :) But not too far a long that your uncomfortable.

I offer both in studio and on location maternity shoots. Some of my favorite locations within the Cleveland area are Squires castle and chagrin river park. I also can offer indoor maternity shoots at my beautiful studio located in downtown Painesville.

I also offer a discounted package called bump to baby. With this package you’ll receive a maternity, newborn and 1st year photos.

If you’re currently expecting and interested, please reach out! Its best to pre book the sessions.

~Danelle

When to take Maternity Photos | Maternity Photoshoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photographer

I am asked many times when is the best time for Maternity photos? A maternity photo session is the perfect way to document the beautiful change your body is undergoing. I recommend photos to be taken anytime from week 32 to week 36 depending on how your feeling. You want a beautiful baby bump for the photos, but also not too large you feel uncomfortable. That’s why I recommend that time frame as the sweet spot for photos.

What takes place during a maternity session?

I offer both a full 1 hour and mini 30 minute maternity session. These photos can be taken outdoors or inside depending on the vibe you want in the photos. Many people choose outdoors all year long. I especially love squires castle for photos.

If you’re deciding on booking both a maternity and newborn shoot you’ll receive 10% off the total cost. If you want all 3 sessions, maternity, newborn and first birthday. I offer a bump to baby package which includes all 3 sessions at a reduced cost.

Please reach out and schedule your session today.

~xoxo Danelle

Maternity Photography

Snowy Maternity Photo Shoot | Cleveland, Ohio | Squires Castle

There is something so beautiful about a maternity shoot taking place at a castle filled with snow. It was a snowy and chilly January but that didn’t stop this sweet couple from venturing out. I love when couples are all about capturing photos outdoors, even if its during the dead of winter. Outdoor shoots in the snow can be very beautify! For more information on my maternity sessions please contact me. I offer both on location and indoor shoots.

Now Booking Newborn Photography 2022 | Cleveland, Ohio | Northeast Ohio

The New Year is right around the corner and I’m so excited to offer many new things in Newborn Photography with my business! Behind the scenes I’ve been gearing up and taking many new newborn classes. The world of photography with newborns are always changing and I find it extremely important to stay current and up to date. That is the best way to offer all of my clients the most up to date beautiful and professional images. I also am offering many new props, wraps and accessories to my newborn closet! This will also help enhance the look and represent Newborn Photography for 2022. I can see parents today want to stay current and love their photos to represent the times while staying classic as well.

I am now booking into February of 2022, I recommend booking while you are expecting. Please don’t wait until the baby is born to start researching newborn photographers. At that time, most are already booked. Plus the best time to photograph newborns is anytime from day 7 to day 15 of life. So some planning must take place to achieve the perfect photos. Cleveland, Ohio Newborn Photographer

Chillin with my friends | Newborn Photography | Cleveland, Ohio

Sweet little guy snoozing with his buddies!

Looking for newborn photography sessions? I currently offer both mini and full newborn sessions. The mini newborn are photos of just the baby taken whether the baby is asleep or awake. This is done in my home studio and you have full access to all the props and wraps needed for the photos.

The full newborn session is called my Simply Beautiful Newborn Session and is a 2 hour session taken in my home studio. These are photos taken of the entire family and as well as the baby alone.

I also offer in your own home session options. How nice for you to stay in the comforts of your own home?!

Please reach out for more pricing regarding newborn photography in Cleveland, Ohio.

How to choose a Newborn Photographer! | Cleveland, Ohio | Newborn Photography

I understand choosing a photographer for anything can be time consuming and exhausting. It can still leave you wondering if you chose the right person. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a Newborn Photographer. Over the years, I’ve seen a lot from the “building a portfolio discounts” to the “my friend has a camera and will take some photos”, yikes! Newborn Photography is a skill and art that can only be mastered by continued education, practice and the right skills. Newborn Photography is by far the hardest to accomplish out of shooting any subject, but also the most rewarding:)

As an established Newborn Photographer, I am happy to say I’ve dedicated many continuing educating hours in the terms of handling, posing, safety and editing. So your final images are Professional. Thats what you are paying for after all. Not to mention my educational background includes being a BSN Registered Nurse. So my concern for Newborn Safety is always #1 for me. Many people don't know that some of the images you may see floating on the internet or instagram actual takes a village to create. Because having a baby sitting up is simply unsafe and impossible to achieve. Many of those images you may see are a used with holding the baby’s head and tons of photoshop magic.

I am also happy to say I’m a fully certified and accredited for Safety in Newborn Photography. This is key when choosing a Newborn Photographer. Have they taken the extra steps and education to become certified? Just because someone is great with social media posts, or has tons of followers you still need to do your research and ask those questions. After all Newborn photos are time sensitive, best to be done within 2 weeks of life. And after all you can only get these photos once.

I also recommend checking out the reviews before you decide on a photographer. These are actual families that took time out of their busy schedule to help future families choose a photographer.

As of right now there are no laws that distinguish a Newborn Photographer from a hobbyist. Anyone can pick up a camera, make a quick website and take photos. I hope my tips provided you with some reassurance when choosing the best Newborn Photographer for your family.

Front Porch Mini Sessions | Cleveland Ohio | Northeast Ohio | Family Photography

I am so excited to announce Front Porch Mini Sessions to take place in June 2020. With this unusual time with the Covid-19, photographers have started a new campaign with Front Porch Project. A portion of all the proceeds from my mini session will be donated to the Cleveland Food Bank. Contact me today for pricing and availability.

Simply Beautiful Newborn Session | Cleveland, Ohio | Mentor, Ohio

One of my favorites backdrops or props with my Newborns is the Simply White backdrop. It is so pure, classy and elegant that puts all the focus on your newborn. My goal when photographing a newborn in this pose is to allow the baby to look the most natural and pure as they can. I’m not trying to do some crazy “yoga” poses with your precious little newborn but rather that him/her decide where and how to lay. Then I place a white sheet around the baby to accent them.

Please contact me to book your 2019 Newborn Session. I offer a couple different options and please check back for more of my most recent and updated sessions.

xoxo-Danelle

Newborn PHotographer, Cleveland Ohio Newborn Photographer, Mentor, Ohio Newborn photographer, Mentor Ohio Baby photographer, Lake County Baby Photographer

Sunflower Family Sessions

If you frequently travel around the Cleveland, Ohio area specifically Avon, Ohio you may have noticed the beautiful sunflower filed. This field can be seen off of I-90 in Avon, Ohio. This beautiful sunflower field is planted every year to raise awareness for childhood cancer, specifically Childhood Gliomas. The field is named "Marias field of Hope" and was started by the McNamara Family after they lost their beautiful 6 year old daughter Maria to a Brain Tumor. Now every year it is their mission to raise awareness to all the many of young children lost too soon to Childhood Cancer. The field is bittersweet as it boasts with beauty but also heartbreaking as you read about the many children still fighting a battle today. This field receives visitors in the month of September, as many families visit the field wanting to capture a few snapshots with their own family in the flowers. I was happy to host a sunflower family mini session with 5 families and I also donated a large percentage of my earnings to the Maria's Field of Hope Fund. Here are some of the beautiful images we created in the Sunflower Field.