Inspiration can come in all shapes and sizes. For Annie Totten, it came in a bundle.

After years of marketing to moms and tots for big wigs like GapKids, BabyGap, Gap Maternity and Disney, it took the decision to have her own offspring, Jack, that prompted another birth in her life – the launch of her baby brand, Bloume baby.

“Babies come to us completely pure,” says Totten. “My passion for giving all babies what they deserve, a pure beginning, is what ultimately inspired me to launch the Bloume baby brand.”

Annie’s hot ticket provides moms from Los Angeles to Rhode Island the chance to purchase stylish, healthy and sustainable goods from jammies and toys to bibs and travel gear via her online resource. Her hope for Bloumebaby.com? That her Earth-lovin’ ways start to rub off on her growing followers and the way they shop.

With her 1-year-old son in tow, Annie now spends a majority of her days in Manhattan Beach, enjoying the outdoors and throwing dinner parties for friends and fam. She took some time away from heaven to show and tell her FIVE TRICKS OF THE TRADE FOR MAMAS. 

Handle with care.

1. Orbit Travel System. The convenience, functionality and quality of this ultimate travel system make it worth the money. They focus on their carbon footprint, while striving to keep our little ones healthy and safe. I love the way it grows with your child, reducing the number of products you have to buy. A must-have for 2010? The Limited Edition Green Bassinet Cradle, made with an organic cotton interior, natural wood exterior, PVC- and phthalate-free materials. Orbitbaby.com.

2. Go Gently Baby. Their mission says it all, “Sweet, simple style with a little edge.” They share the vision: Teach your children to love others, be kind to Earth and go gently on their journey through life. My favorite is the Peace Pants – adorable on a crawling tot – and the super soft, super hip graphic Ts. Gogentlybaby.com.

3. Bella Cupcake Couture. Who would think that a cupcake wrapper could add so much style and panache to your dinner party, birthday celebration or luncheon? These cupcake adorners are made with recycled paper and printed with soy inks. And did I mention the founder is a darling entrepreneur who rose out of this tough economy? Every ounce of this company is just too sweet to pass up. Bellacupcakecouture.com. 

4. Erbaviva Skincare. For mama, baby or skin junkie, this company has really created the finest in natural skincare. My favorites are the Baby Lip and Cheek Balm (which I also use myself) and the Stretch Mark Cream (my savior when I was pregnant). Erbaviva.com.

 5. Flea Markets. I find amazing joy in making old things new again. I love nothing more than waking up on a Sunday morning to scour the booths for vintage fabrics, eclectic light fixtures and one-of-a-kind furniture. Findafleamarket.com.