How to build the perfect baby registry with Albee Baby
We spoke with Selina Aquino, baby gear expert and sales specialist at Albee Baby on how to build the perfect baby registry. Selina shares expert advice on must-have products for new parents, useful items that often get overlooked, common misconceptions about baby gear, and so much more. Check out Selina’s insightful tips to help you prepare for your little one.
Thanks for meeting with us! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Selina Aquino, I have been in the baby industry for a little over 2 decades and now have the honor of being the Store Manager for this iconic Industry Giant, Albee Baby.
How did you get into the baby industry?
Funny Story….I was looking for a weekend job, so I decided to apply for a part time position at the Babies R US Flagship Store in Union Square, NY. After being hired as the Baby Registry Supervisor I was able to learn what were the most registered items and what were the top sellers. Upon experiencing the joy of families shopping for their soon to be bundle of joy, I knew this was my new forte.
I eventually began hosting Registry 101 Classes and doing one on one registry consultations, giving me more opportunity to learn more about the products. I learned that every product serves its own purpose and doesn’t always work for everyone. So I then became a product educator and taught families the importance of purchasing products that work for their lifestyle. Working in this industry has been a blessing and I am grateful to work for Albee Baby.
Can you share a little bit about Albee Baby?
I have been part of the Albee Baby family for the last 6 months and I’m grateful to be part of this lovely family-owned business. Albee Baby has been here since 1933, and it is a Big Name in the Industry.
What are some must-have items when building a registry?
Stroller (Primary + Travel)
Car Seat (Infant + Convertible)
Baby Carrier (Sling/Infant Option + Primary/Toddler)
High Chair
Baby Monitor
Bouncer/Swing
Crib + Mattress & Bedding
Dresser + Changer & Caddy
Glider/Recliner (Ottoman)
Swaddle Blankets + Burrito/Cocoon Style (Cheat Sheets)
What are some useful items that get overlooked?
Sound Machine
Baby Shusher (it really works)
Wipe Warmer/Wipe Case
Baby Hair & Body Wash
Stroller Accessories
Play yard for Grandparents
How do you recommend balancing practical items with fun or trendy ones on a registry?
Register for it! Someone will get it for you, especially if it’s trending! Who doesn’t want all these cute trending items for their little one. If no one gets it for you, use your registry completion discount to get it for yourself if you really want it.
How important is it to consider the size of items when building a registry, especially for urban parents with limited space?
Very important, must be factored in when creating that registry list.
Can you suggest any multi-functional products that help maximize space in a small home?
Doona Car Seat Stroller Combo — comes with built-in convenience!
Purchase a stroller with a sleep approved bassinet to use at home and on the go. (Eliminates additional Bassinet Purchase) For example, the UppaBaby Vista V3 Stroller with bassinet. Use the bassinet on your stroller when cruising through the city while also using the bassinet on the stand at home. The stand easily folds to store away, or extend its life by purchasing the hamper inserts and using it to store your dirty laundry. By the way, it's a great looking hamper.
Stokke Sleepi Crib - starts as a bassinet that expands into a crib.Crib is oval shaped so no need to put it up against a wall. Can easily be placed anywhere in the room. Fun fact: the crib can go from room to room as it fits through a standard doorway fully assembled.
Nuna Leaf Swing - Suitable from birth to 130 lbs. Good for children of all ages!
Bugaboo Giraffe High Chair, Eco Friendly High Chair that can adjust in seconds without any tools. Add a newborn set to bring the baby closer to you and remove the tray to enjoy meals together at the dining room table.
"Always remember everyone has different needs and wants which means it may not be the one for you"
Are there any common misconceptions about baby gear that you frequently encounter?
Yes, my favorite saying is “my friend told me she loves her stroller and it’s the BEST one!” My response is, just because she recommended that one it doesn’t always mean it's the best. Always remember everyone has different needs and wants which means it may not be the one for you. Always remember they will always love the one they chose, that’s why they bought it. But the real reason is because they can’t really compare it to another comparable option. We here at Albee Baby listen, understand and share real feedback to help you make a more informed decision.
What advice do you have for parents who feel overwhelmed by all the options available?
Come to our showroom to be educated by the best team in town so you can make the correct choice for your lifestyle.
Can you discuss any trends you've noticed in baby products this year that new parents should be aware of?
Yes, a lot of big brands launched new strollers this year, so we took names and numbers of families waiting to see the new strollers. Once they hit the showroom floor, we invited them in to test drive these new rides. The excitement on their faces was priceless. Oh, the joy of new products always makes everyone happy.
What are some fun ways to involve friends and family in the registry process?
Bring them along to help make the process smoother. I’m sure they would love to join you as you prepare for this new bundle of joy.
What final piece of advice would you give to new parents as they prepare for their little one?
Don’t underestimate our age, we here at Albee Baby are trending too!
Build your dream registry with Albee Baby, a family-owned baby gear retailer serving families across the country for over 90 years. From car seats to strollers, find everything you need in one place. Visit their flagship store in New York City, or shop online at albeebaby.com. Follow them on Instagram at @albeebaby for the latest updates and offers.
At Doona, we want to help you make parenting simple. That’s why we’ve created the best car seat stroller combo, the Doona Car Seat and Stroller which transforms from a car seat to a stroller in the click of a button; and Liki Trike — the most compact folding toddler trike on the market that grows alongside toddlers with five modes of use.
