8 Canadian baby brands to add to your registry

Parents frequently struggle to decide what to put on their baby registries. As a first time mom-to-be, I can admit it's just so overwhelming! 

There are lots of checklists to help with must-have items. But I wanted to also make sure that I'm supporting Canadian businesses when I build my registry. I've been doing lots of homework researching various Canadian brands, trying samples and getting feedback from other moms.

This round-up features some of my fave finds. And don't worry, you won't have to register at a bunch of different stores. Many registries allow you to include products from other websites all in one place. 

So here are eight great registry-worthy baby brands with a northern touch. 

Request a baby bundle from Vancouver-based company Basic Baby Co. This one is full of essentials for newborns, including these adorable no-scratch mittens from B.C.-based company Bamboobino. I love that all their gift bundles are actually practical and are for both baby and mom — like their popular postpartum bundle. 

Love to Baby Bundle, $119, Basic Baby Co.

If you're a mom who wants all natural, chemical-free products on your registry, then consider Toronto-based Matter Company. Their plant-first natural skincare line features a wide range of face and body products, sun care items and products specifically for mom and baby. I'm a fan of their nappy ointment because it's completely toxin free and is gentle enough to use with every change. Ingredients like organic calendula and shea butter help to relieve redness, eczema and other common diaper-related issues. 

Nappy Ointment, $18, Matter Company

Minimalist baby clothes and accessories, handmade in Toronto with love — That's Petits Genoux. They've got really sweet and breezy garments that are all made from natural and organic materials. How cute is this paisley romper?! It's an all-cotton one piece that goes up to size 18-24 months. It snaps at the crotch for easy dressing and diapering. Can be worn with or without a top underneath. There's also a matching bonnet for a little retro twist. 

Paisley Romper, $84, Petits Genoux

Adding food to your registry is a great way to try a number of brands before fully committing to one. Baby Gourmet might become an instant favourite once you try it. These purees come in a variety of fruit and vegetable combos. The one I've selected combines all the Vitamin A and C benefits of fresh carrot, apple and prune juice — but it's not too sweet. There's no added sugar or salt, it's gluten and nut-free and non-GMO. 

Orchard Apple Carrot and Prune Baby Food, $2.29, Well.ca

I thought this Brown Diva Doll would be a sweet addition to a nursery. Perhaps on your changing table or on a shelf. Then when the baby's a bit older, they can have lots of fun with this cutie. The Montreal-based doll company makes dark skinned and multiracial dolls in a variety of sizes. 

Elijah Doll, $30, Brown Diva Dolls

This brand is a known favourite of Canadian moms. It harnesses the rich mineral and organic proteins found in bamboo. Originally a hair care line, Boo Bamboo also offers an extensive array of skincare products, including body care for little ones. This four piece essentials set includes a super gentle baby body wash and shampoo, calming lotion, soothing diaper cream and natural baby wipes. All products are gluten and paraben-free and don't have any harmful fragrances or colours. It's also vegan and cruelty-free.

Boo Bamboo Natural Baby Essentials, $28.99, Well.ca

Hailing from Fredericton, New Brunswick this baby brand is all about timeless essentials for your littles; from newborn to childhood. They carry dolls, books, lovies, swaddles… but I'm obsessed with their milestone blankets. They've got so many sweet options, you won't know which one to add to cart. A milestone blanket helps you document your baby's growth, and is especially fun for parents active on social media. It's an actual muslin blanket and will also make a perfect keepsake.

With Brave Wings She Flies Milestone Blanket, $29.99, Lulujo

This is a baby accessory boutique based in Whitby, Ont. Yara is the owners' cutie-patootie baby girl. The brand was born after her parents couldn't find any soft, yet stylish, head gear to cover her cradle cap. The online boutique now boasts an array of headbands, bows, bibs and "TurBeans". I've got heart eyes for the Tri-Beau TurBean in that soft jersey fabric. I can't handle it! According to owner Leianne, the corduroy joy bows are also quite popular. With this kind of cute factor it's a good thing the price points are also very affordable. 

Tri-Beau TurbBeans,$13, Yara Bean's Boutique

Nneka Elliott is a lifestyle blogger and actor. She shares her adventures with hair, skincare and makeup in her pursuit of a gutsy life. Follow her @nnekaelliott.