After a long week of sickness (first my husband, quickly followed by the toddler and baby, and finally me) I’m opening up all the windows for that fresh 70 degree breeze! …As soon as it stops raining.  Spring on the east coast is usually pretty damp, so I might be waiting awhile.

New seasons always put me in the mood to re-decorate/organize our whole house. Updated rugs, fresh sheets, potted plants, and de-cluttered drawers are at the top of my list! The urge is only worse this year since we are scheduled to move in early July. I’m dreaming of a blank canvas and bags full of donation items! It’s a good thing that I was recently invited to tour the 50th IKEA store in the USA, which happens to be down the road from us in Norfolk, VA.

How cute is that bold floral wallpaper? I couldn’t resist a photo. 😉

The last time I visited an IKEA, I was living in Atlanta as a single career girl. I bought my first set of wine glasses and 2 purple ceramic cereal bowls. It never crossed my mind to consider shopping there once I got married and became a “real” housewife. Thank goodness my opinion has been completely changed!

The mom-friendly vibe begins before you even walk in the store. Right at the very front of the parking lot, you’ll find several parking spots labeled for ‘family only’! That’s right.. if you have kiddos in tow, you get special parking. HELLO every other store, please take notes!! How amazing is that? You might be hauling a crying baby and lolly-gagging toddler, but at least you won’t have far to walk.

When you walk into the store, you are immediately greeted by a gorgeous display of seasonal products. The new Norfolk store opened in April, so the front display featured a beautiful outdoor dining set with stunning floral arrangements and patio lighting. Not a tacky piece of dorm furniture in sight!

Also just inside the door, you’ll find the IKEA Family kiosks. Trust me, you want to sign up! Being part of the IKEA Family program comes with amazing perks, such as extra time for child care, discounts, and free coffee. It’s like they read mother’s minds! Speaking of child care, IKEA’s brilliant ‘Smaland’ children’s play area is full of fun for your kiddos. Drop them off for 90 minutes if you are an Ikea Family member! The only caveat is that Smaland is for potty-trained kiddos only. Your baby will have to stay with you while you browse the store, but at least you won’t be chasing your big kids!

Did you know IKEA also has a super chic lawn and garden section?? Neither did I! The florals, both faux and real, are artfully displayed to provide maximum inspiration. Pretty pink planters, string lights, mini lanterns, hanging baskets, straw baskets…. I could go on, but instead I’ll just show you some of my favorite items here. 😉

OUTDOOR LIVING TOP PICKS

So your kids are playing in Smaland, you have a cart full of plants, but now you’re seeing a million more products and you have NO IDEA how to make the best use of your 90 minutes! Believe it or not, IKEA is already one step ahead of you. Before you get to the warehouse of shopable goods, you’ll walk through the inspiration rooms.

BED AND BATH TOP PICKS

These rooms are artfully decorated to suit a variety of styles: boho chic, dark and romantic, bright and beachy, refined and traditional, or edgy and modern. Whatever your taste, you’ll find inspiration for the exact aesthetic you’re seeking. To beat the overwhelm, pick 1 or 2 rooms you want to find products for and go directly to those inspiration sections. Snap photos or write down products you want to shop, and then continue on to the main store. The amazing IKEA co-workers are usually around every corner, waiting to assist as needed. Be sure to ask one of them for specific locations so you’ll spend less time wandering!

KIDS DECOR AND TOY TOP PICKS

Let’s say you suddenly get called back to Smaland because your 3-year-old decided he’s missing you too much. Does your shopping need to stop? Nope! Pick up your crying toddler and spend some time in the children’s departments. Everything is touchable, sturdy, and ready for little hands to explore. You don’t even need to worry about your child becoming attached to a pricey toy that he insists on bringing home. All the prices are so affordable you’ll think they made a mistake! The fact that IKEA uses sustainable, recycled, and organic materials for nearly every toy is the icing on the cake.

KITCHEN AND DINING TOP PICKS

If I had to choose a favorite section in the store, it would be the kitchen and dining areas. IKEA is making a name for themselves in home renovation – they are a one-stop shop! You can buy a new kitchen island and a full set of dishes in one place. I’m already planning to add an island to our new kitchen, and I’m thrilled that I will be getting high quality for a low price. For all the military mamas, single moms, working moms, and moms who just don’t have skills (like me), don’t worry about putting things together. IKEA has partnered with TaskRabbit to assemble any item over $36. Stress be gone!

Are you ready to go?! Pack the kids into the car and head to your closest store. You can spend the morning shopping hands-free, then grab lunch at the cafeteria (did I mention they have a kids eating area??), and don’t forget your free coffee! 😉

Happy shopping!

This post is not sponsored by IKEA. I was invited to tour the 50th location in exchange for media coverage. This post does contain affiliate links to product pages, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. Copyright Something Different Blog. Photos are not to be used without permission.