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How to Create a Cozy Bedroom Retreat

by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

I like to think of my bedroom as a mini sanctuary. It’s the one place I can go to be cozy and at ease, and forget about the stress of the day.

Your bedroom should feel luxurious and comfortable, and be your very own haven to unwind and recharge.

Here are some things to consider in creating a bedroom retreat you’ll love to relax in:

Decorate with Intention

Be thoughtful about your space. Choose calming and soothing colors over bold bright ones. It’s okay to have some colorful accents, but going for over all neutral colors will create a much more peaceful atmosphere.

Decorate with artwork and other objects that you find inspiring. Add a scented candle. If you have wood or tile floors, consider putting a rug beside or under your bed as a soft place for your feet to land.

Cozy Bedding

Buy the best bedding and pillows that you can. Choose sheets and blankets that are super soft and will wash well. It’s always a good idea to have an extra blanket or two around, just in case you get chilled during the night. A nap blanket at the end of the bed is my personal must-have!

Ditch the Technology

Reserve your bedroom as the place to settle down and chill out. As tempting as it is to bring them along, leave the laptop, cell phone, and TV for the other rooms of the house. Instead, keep stacks of your favorite books and magazines to read while you wind down for the night. If you insist on having a TV, find a place for it where it can be tucked aside so that its not the centerpiece of the room.

Keep the Chaos at Bay

Are you the type of person who ends up with half of your closet strewn about your bedroom by the end of the week? Or maybe you have baskets of clean clothes that just sit there for days, waiting for someone to put them away.

If you’re not in the habit of putting things away regularly, make a promise to yourself to spend just five minutes picking up each day. It will go a long way in keeping your bedroom clutter-free and feeling like a peaceful and relaxing space you intended it to be.

Pajamas

A cozy bedroom calls for some equally cozy PJs, of course! Having just the right pajamas, a soft robe, and some comfy slippers will add just the perfect finishing touch!

Relax…unwind…and enjoy…

What’s your secret to a cozy bedroom space?

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Pancake Saturdays

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Don’t you just love Saturday mornings? There’s nothing better than hanging out with family or friends on a Saturday morning and eating some delicious pancakes! In your pajamas, of course!

When I was a kid I loved weekends when we would lounge around and my Mom would make pancakes and bacon on the griddle or my Dad would fire up his waffle iron.

Traditions like this are really fun. They give you something to look forward to during the week and can help you feel more connected with your family. Its a nice feeling to know that no matter how busy your week is, if nothing else, you’re all going to gather around the table on Saturday morning and have a meal together.

If you’re single or an empty-nester and don’t necessarily have family in the house, you can totally still enjoy Pancake Saturday with people that to you love. Offer a standing invitation for friends, family, and neighbors to come over and join you for breakfast on Saturday mornings. Just tell them to stay in their pajamas, grab the mimosas, and head on over!

Here are some yummy pancake recipes to get you inspired to start your Saturday morning tradition!

We’ve shared it before, but here is a favorite Classic Buttermilk Pancake recipe again.

Red Velvet Pancakes with coconut syrup and blueberries. Yum!

Oooooh, Pumpkin Pancakes.

Oatmeal Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Oreo Cookie Pancakes. Oh my!

Milk Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancakes

Blueberry-Flax Pancakes. Less guilt? Maybe.

Pancake Lasagna. This is on my must-try list!

So tell us, do you have any special traditions with family or friends? Share with us in the comments below!

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Vintage Pajamas

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

Have you ever wondered how pajamas came about?

According to Wikipedia, pajamas were first introduced back in the 17th century and were around for a brief time, and then went out of style. Around 1870 they were brought back into fashion by British colonials, and men began wearing them as sleeping attire.

From then on, pajamas stuck around and became the classic attire that they are today. Pajamas were worn for bed, lounging, daywear, and even at the beach. Pajamas come in a huge variety of styles today, and many vintage pajama styles were seen in old Hollywood movies from beautiful satin robes to classic two-piece pajama sets to silk nightgowns.

Here’s a look at some at the vintage old-Hollywood pajama style…

Sophia Loren in striped pajamas in the 1958 movie “The Key”.

Doris Day on the set of “The Pajama Game”. Image via

Ginger Rogers circa 1935 in a tailored pajama ensemble. Image via

Joan Crawford from 1929 in beautiful embroidered pajamas. Image via

Pretty flapper style pajamas. Image via

Check out our full collection of vintage pajamas through the ages on our Pinterest page!

6 Signs It’s Time for a Pajama Day

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

Tomorrow is the start of a long holiday weekend for a lot of people! Yippee!

Time to have some fun and hopefully some relaxation too. But we know that sometimes holiday weekends can get away from us – booked up with family events, picnics, parties, etc. By the time you’re done running around, you wonder: what happened to my long weekend!?!

If you’re feeling overworked and exhausted, its the perfect time to consider taking an extra day off just to do nothing. We call it a Pajama Day. It can take a few days to un-plug and decompress, so tagging an extra day off onto a long weekend is a great idea.

Just in case you need a nudge to recognize when some down-time is called for, here are 6 tell-tale signs a Pajama Day needs to be in your immediate future!

1. Little things set you off.

You feel irritable and cranky. Little things annoy you that normally wouldn’t, a sure sign of anxiety. Time to get out of your head and into those PJs!

2. You feel really negative.

Its that niggly, critical voice in your head and its seems to have gotten louder lately! Its not saying very nice things and you can’t seem to shake it. Your prescription? A little Pajama Perspective is in order, my friend!

3. Your productivity has taken a dive.

You feel like you’re spending more time staring at the computer screen than actually working. It’s taking you double the time to get something done than it normally would. The reality is that there’s only so much work you can do and creativity you can muster, before you just need a break.

3. You’re not sleeping well.

You’re exhausted, but you feel like you can never quite catch up on sleep. You toss and turn at night thinking about work projects and wake up feeling just as tired as when you went to bed. Yup, its time!

5. You’re not feeling well.

You’re starting to feel achy and your body’s just not right. Your shoulders are tense and your stomach may be tight. You might even feel a cold coming on. Chronic stress takes its toll on the body, and some rest is what you need.

6. You dread Sunday night.

Sunday evening rolls around and all you can think about is the fact that you’ve got to start the work week all over again. Ugggggh. Yup, you’ve caught it…its the Sunday blues and its time to break the cycle…

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Why Its Good to Be Lazy

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“Don’t underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along,

listening to all the things you can’t hear, and not bothering.”

-Winnie the Pooh

Have you noticed how much laziness really gets a bad rap? As a culture, we place so much value on doing and striving and accomplishing, that resting or taking a break is looked down upon. But what about the proven benefits of slowing down?

As it turns out, laziness is not a bad thing at all and is something we all need to embrace. Being a couch potato and allowing yourself to chill out is actually good for you!

Laziness helps you to renew your energy and motivation.

Its no secret we’re big fans of napping around here. When you rest and sleep, you allow your brain time to rejuvenate. You also enhance you memory function. Letting your body rest gives you the chance to restore your energy, much like filling the gas tank of your car.

Being lazy sparks your creativity.

Lounging around allows our conscious mind to slow down, it calms our thoughts and helps to quiet the mental chatter. Giving yourself time to daydream and veg out often actually sparks creativity. This is because when you rest, it stops the process of over thinking – a loop that we often get caught in – which reduces our ability to come up with creative ideas.

Laziness leads to good heath.

Being stressed out is obviously bad for your health. It takes its toll on your heart, among other things. Resting gives your body time to repair wear and tear that’s happened during the day. Even the oldest man in Britain gives credit to his laziness for helping him to live so long!

Laziness helps you avoid burnout.

We all have our limits and there’s only so much we can do until we need to rest or else risk burnout. I always thought burnout just meant you got really tired. But as I’ve experienced first hand, not only is burnout really bad because of the level of exhaustion that comes with it, but most times it also includes losing interest in what burned you out in the first place. Yikes! So even if you’re doing something you’re passionate about, its still important to step away.

We say, embrace your love for rest. Not only is it good for you, but you deserve it too!

Happy weekend! Here’s to spending it sleeping in, hibernating, and relaxing…

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Your Pajama Fit Guide: How to Choose Just the Right PJs

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You deserve a fabulous pair of pajamas.

But in a world of so many cool pajama choices, how do you know which ones are right for you?

Has this happened to you? You head out shopping because you need some new clothes, only to come home with a bunch of stuff that just doesn’t work. Maybe a shirt you love, but that does not quite go with anything else you own. Or a skirt that’s really cute, but you only wear it once because it pretty uncomfortable.

If you are lucky, you realize the mistaken choices and can return them. If you’re not so fortunate, you end up with a bunch of stuff in your closet that you never wear.

We don’t want this to happen with your pajamas. We want you to find just the right ones. Think Goldilocks when she found just the right bed. The type that you’ll wear over and over again and absolutely love. I’m talking about PJs that express who you are and make you feel cozy and happy when you put them on!

So, think of this your virtual “pajama fitting”. Here are 4 questions to consider before buying a new pair of pajamas:

1. What are your favorite things?

Pajamas come in SO MANY fun patterns and styles!

So what’s your thing? Are you a beach bunny who loves all things ocean and marine? Are you a big time dog lover? Maybe you’re obsessed with all things Paris.

Are you a total hipster? Can’t imagine a world without bacon?

No matter what you love or who you are, we’ve got you covered!

2. What’s your idea of comfort?

Footie pajamas are super cozy and cover you from head to toe. Its like being wrapped in a blanket. Nightshirts are more breezy and cool.

Sleeve length and pant length – long versus short – also make big difference, especially if you’re the type of sleeper who tosses and turns and wakes up with your pajama pants twisted around your legs. My personal pet peeve!

The climate you live in, also comes into play, so keep this in mind as well!

3. How will you wear your pajamas?

Pajamas are for sleeping of course, but they’re also for lounging, and in some cases have become a fashion statement! So think about how you want to wear your PJs.

For example, I have different pajamas for sleeping versus hanging out. I like to sleep covered in lots of blankets, so I prefer a tank or short sleeved top and shorts for bed. To relax and read or watch a movie, I love a classic cotton long sleeve and pant pajama set.

4. What kind of fabrics do you like?

Cotton is cozy, breathable, and easy to care for. Fleece and flannel are snuggly and warm. Jersey is stretchy and silky and feels light against your skin. What do you find totally cozy?

The bottom line: you should feel totally happy and super comfortable when you put on your pajamas. Just like Goldilocks, when you put on your perfect PJs, we want to hear you say, “Ahhhh…just right”.

Summer Pajama Reading List

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light.

–Vera Nazarian

Happy Summer! Tomorrow is the official first day! Whether you have plans this summer to lounge in your pjs, chill out by the pool, or maybe in the shady hammock under a tree, a good book is always a great companion.

Here are the books that have made my summer reading list…

The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd

This is a historically based fiction story about the Grimke sisters of Charleston, SC, who sparked the abolishionist movement. Its an inspiring story, with each character struggling to break free, each in their own way.

Orphan Train by Christina Baker Klein

Also a historical novel, this book is the story of orphaned and abandoned children in the 1920’s in NY city who were sent out to the Midwest to find families. Its heart-wrenching, but at the end you feel as though the main character has found her true family.

Wave by Sonali Deraniyagala

I have not read this one yet, but this was on the NY Times list of best book of 2013. This is the memoir of Sonali Deraniyagala – her tale of surviving the 2004 Tsunami, but tragically losing her family.

Tender at the Bone: Growing Up at the Table by Ruth Reich

This is the interesting and humorous life story of Ruth Reichl (former editor of Gourmet Magazine). She takes you through her quirky childhood which included her time in boarding school and her manic depressive mother who would have dinner parties serving old, moldy food. She also just released her first novel last month, Delicious.

Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

A dark, yet magical novel about a circus that only occurs during the night time hours. Celia and Marco are two star-crossed lovers who must live out their destiny to become competitors. I really didn’t expect to like this book as much as it did, but its a great read!

The Little Bookstore of Big Stone Gap by Wendy Welch

Another memoir, this is the charming story of a couple who decide to fulfill a life long dream of owning a bookstore, which they do in a small town in West Virginia.

What are you reading this summer? Share with us below!

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Help Support Maternal Health Today

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

“When you’re dedicated to making a change, and you believe deeply

in what it is that you care about, you will make it happen.”

– Christy Turlington Burns, Founder, Every Mother Counts

Did you know that 287,000 women die annually of complications from childbirth and pregnancy? This sad statistic means that every 2 minutes, a woman dies in pregnancy. What’s even worse is that 90% of these deaths are preventable.

A few years back we learned about a charity making a real difference in maternal health: Every Mother Counts. We decided we wanted to do our part and support the cause. Since then, every other Monday is “Maternal Health Monday” at The Pajama Company and we give 10% of our sales to Every Mother Counts.

Today is Maternal Health Monday which means that when you shop today, you make a difference.

What Every Mother Counts Does

Every Mother Counts works to break down the barriers to maternal health both in the US and around the world. They do it by providing:

Transportation so that women can get to healthcare centers which are often miles away from where they live.

Education to skilled birth attendants as well as providing instruction to mothers on family planning, HIV, and other STIs.

Supplies including equipment and medicine so that health centers and caregivers can do their jobs.

100% of the donations received by Every Mother Counts go directly to their programs around the world to ensure that mothers get the care they need.

Other Ways to Get Involved

Beside shopping on Maternal Health Monday, here are some other things you can do to make a difference in pregnancy and childbirth safety:

– Donate your old cell phones to be re-used for health care workers.
– Shop with our fellow partner companies who also donate proceeds to the cause.
– Tell your own birth story – use your voice to raise awareness.
– Volunteer at an organization that supports maternal heath.
– Run, walk, or cycle to raise funds and awareness, not to mention improving your own health!

Learn more about Every Mother Counts and their cause here.

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Pajamas & Happiness: what’s it all about?

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

We have a saying at The Pajama Company:

“Pajamas just make people happy”.

So what’s the connection between pajamas and happiness, anyway?

When you get down to it, its all about simple pleasures. Lots of people chase happiness, thinking the next thing they attain or goal they reach will finally, once and for all, make them happy. Goals and desires are a part of life, but when we’re constantly looking down the road, we’re missing what’s right in front of us: the simple things that make us happy right now.

Here are just a few of the reasons why we believe pajamas can add to your happiness…

Comfort & Relaxation

Getting cozy in your pjs after a long day at school or work can be so soothing. Its a signal to your body that its time to slow down. Giving ourselves time to recharge is key in maintaining inner peace and happiness.

Family Time

Being at home in your pajamas usually means time with family: pancake breakfasts, movie marathons, or just hanging out! We know that connection and belonging – whether it be with family or friends – increases our well-being and joy.

Being Yourself

Pajamas give you another way to express yourself, and maybe even in a way you wouldn’t normally during daily life. You get to wear what ever you want. Piggy pjs? Superman underoos? Fuzzy frog slippers? Its all about YOU and what makes you feel good!

So how about you: what is your simple pleasure? Tell us in the comments below!

Celebrate Dad with a Father’s Day Barbecue!

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by Becky Boyd, The Pajama Company Editor

Since Dad is often king of the barbecue, Father’s Day is the perfect time to turn the tables and throw him a backyard cookout for a change.

Relieve him of slaving over the hot grill and let him relax in the hammock with a cocktail or beer. You can even invite some other Dads over for a game of bocce ball!

To make your planning easy, we’ve put together some great recipes for a tasty and fun barbecue…

There’s such a variety of foods you can serve at a cookout, but think about what your Dad really loves. Is he a steak guy? Does he love a juicy cheeseburger? Or maybe he favors some grilled sausage and peppers?

If he’s not a big meat eater, focus on creating some really delicious salads and sides for him. There are many tasty ways to grill veggies that he just may love.

Think about grabbing him some local beer, or make him his favorite drink!

Appetizers

Spicy Bacon Guacamole – Bacon compliments the avocado for a delicious twist.

Pan-Fried Onion Dip – One of my personal favorites, the caramelized onions create great flavor.

Salt & Pepper Shrimp with Aioli – A tasty seafood option!

Main Dish

Perfectly Grilled Steak – Bobby Flay will make sure you know how to cook it just right!

Barbecue Chicken – A cookout classic.

Pork Tenderloin with Spicy Guava Glaze – A leaner meat option, and the sauce is sure to impress!

Grilled Kielbasa – Delicious paired with sauerkraut and onions.

Sides

Blue Cheese Cole Slaw – Blue cheese makes this cole slaw extra special.

Grilled Green Beans & Scallions – An easy way to grill fresh green beans.

Grilled Corn & Red Potato Salad – Bring some in-season corn into your potato salad.

Watermelon Pico de Gallo – Refreshing and tasty!

Barbecue Baked Beans – The perfect compliment to grilled meats and veggies.

Drinks

Homemade Lemonade – A great non-alcoholic option – there’s nothing quite like fresh lemonade!

Tom Collins – This refreshing gin drink is perfect for warm weather.

Dark & Stormy – Ginger gives this rum cocktail a nice kick!

Pimm’s Cup – Delicious with herbs and fruit, and the traditional drink of Wimbledon!

Dessert

Shirt-and-Tie Cake – Check out this adorable cake, and here are more creative dessert ideas here.

Root Beer Float – Dad will feel like a kid again!

Jack Daniel’s Salted Caramel Brownies – The name says is all…

Peach Pie – A classic pie favorite.

How are you spoiling your Dad this Father’s Day? Tell us in the comments below!

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