A Screenshot of Joanna and Baby Toby!
Meet Joanna Goddard, our new Babies & Kids Editor. Magazine writer and author of the style blog A Cup of Jo, she lives in New York with her husband and new baby boy, Toby.
beso would like to extend a warm welcome, and I’m pleased to share her answers to some of our most pressing questions:
Q&A:
beso: Can you share a little about your professional background as a writer and editor?
Joanna: After graduating from the University of Michigan, I took a deep breath and moved to New York in fall 2001. I started out interning at Cosmopolitan Magazine, which was a great place to get a foot in the door. (My main responsibility was to walk around Manhattan and interview cute guys on the street!) Since then, I’ve worked as an editor, writer and blogger for large and small magazines, including Glamour, Cookie, New York and Budget Travel.
b: How did you come to start A Cup of Jo?
J: I started blogging in January 2007 — almost four years ago, crazy! — as a fun way to stay in touch with my mom and sister, who live in Michigan and San Francisco, respectively. I never expected it to become such a huge part of my life, but I’m so grateful that it has! I’ve really loved it and have met so many amazing people through the blogging community.
b: Are you settled in New York or do you think you might move again?
J: New York is such a fun place to live, and we might stay here forever. But now that we have a baby, my husband and I daydream about where we might move next. It would be awesome to have a backyard with a swing set and a hammock, as well as a quiet street where we could teach Toby how to ride a bike. We fantasize about Maine; Portland; Cornwall, England. Who knows? We might live in New York forever, but it’s always fun to daydream about other places over a glass of wine.
b: When shopping for baby clothing, what are some of the first things you look for?
J: Adorable patterns, like polka dots, stars and stripes! And I look for how quickly I can put the outfit on — snaps are faster than buttons; leggings and leg warmers are easy. Toby hates getting dressed (hates it!) so speed is essential.
b: I absolutely love your baby and kids winter picks on beso. Is there anything you’re eyeing for Toby at the moment?
J: Thank you! We just got an amazing stroller bag to keep him warm this winter. We walk everywhere — so I was thrilled to find something that will keep him cozy on those bitterly cold January days. It’s like a sleeping bag!
b: What is your go-to holiday party outfit?
J: A little black dress with red tights. Simple and festive!
b: What is your favorite brand of jeans right now?
J: Good question! Gap Always Skinny jeans and the Stevie jeans by AG. Both are super flattering.
b: What bag do you find yourself carrying most these days?
J: The Market Bag by Moop, which fits everything from my phone and wallet to Toby’s diapers and toys…but doesn’t look like a diaper bag!
b: What sunglasses do you find yourself reaching for most?
J: Ray-Ban Aviators. They somehow make you feel cool, even when you’ve got a baby on your hip and haven’t showered in three days.
b: Any suggestions for fun, affordable holiday hostess gifts?
J: Saipua soaps are handmade in Brooklyn and Diptyque candles smell incredible, look gorgeous and last forever.
b: By the way, I think this Gap Shark hat from your Beso Baby Gifts section is hilarious. Would you dress Toby in it?
J: Yes! Animal hats are one of the best parts of being a mom 
b: What are some of Toby’s favorite toys right now?
J: The Fisher Price Rainforest jumper. It’s such an eyesore in our living room, but he totally adores it!
b: Any recommendations for cute baby bedding?
J: Dwell is my absolute favorite for baby bedding. We have their chocolate dot fitted sheets, but I love all their patterns. Also my friend has the polka-dot flannel crib sheets from Garnet Hill, which look lovely and cozy.
b: It seems as if the holidays always fly by. What are some things you’re looking forward to in 2011?
J: Toby’s first word! I’m secretly hoping it will be “Mama.”
b: me, too! Thanks for the interview, Joanna. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving and happy holiday season.
> check out the rest of Joanna’s picks
