
Meems Monday Interview with Maria Van Sicklen Founder of Nash + Nova
Meems Monday Interview with Maria Van Sicklen Founder of Nash + Nova
Meems is now selling Nash+Nova on our site, a new brand we’re so excited to welcome to the Meems family! Read along to learn more about this amazing brand redefining baby and toddler sleepwear with comfort, quality, and charm.
Nash+Nova is a Scandinavian American baby and toddler sleepwear brand founded by Maria, a Swedish mom who splits her time between Sweden and the U.S. Nash+Nova was created to fill the gap for sleepwear that is safe, comfortable, and stylish. The brand blends Scandinavian simplicity with American practicality, offering ultra-soft pajamas crafted from sustainable bamboo fabric.
Can you tell us a bit about how Nash+Nova started? What inspired you to launch the brand?
Nash+Nova was born during my maternity leave, that beautifully chaotic time when sleep is a rare luxury and practicality becomes everything. As a mom of two, I was always searching for baby sleepwear that was safe, comfortable, and stylish, but I could never find the perfect fit. I wanted soft, breathable fabrics, cute prints, and smart designs that made those 2 a.m. diaper changes just a little easier.
That gap sparked an idea. Inspired by my heritage, blending Scandinavian simplicity with American practicality, I created Nash+Nova: thoughtfully designed sleepwear for babies and toddlers. Cozy enough for bedtime, cute enough for daytime snuggles, and made with love for the little stars in our lives.
Where does the name “Nash+Nova” come from?
Nash+Nova” was inspired by stars, Nash is a real star in the sky, and Nova means “new star” in Latin. Together, the name symbolizes comfort, new beginnings, and the magic of childhood, everything our brand stands for.
What values or mission drive Nash+Nova?
At Nash+Nova, we believe that kids' sleepwear should be as thoughtful as the little ones who wear it. Our mission is to create high-quality, practical, and beautifully designed sleepwear that makes life a little easier for parents, and a lot more comfortable for our little ones.
How would you describe the style or aesthetic of Nash+Nova?
Nash+Nova blends Scandinavian simplicity with playful charm. Our designs are clean, modern, and timeless, with soft color palettes and thoughtfully chosen prints that feel both calming and fun. We focus on minimalistic details, high-quality materials, and a cozy aesthetic that’s perfect for sleep, snuggles, and everything in between.
What makes Nash+Nova pajamas special for little ones?
Nash+Nova pajamas are thoughtfully made with both kids and parents in mind. They’re made from soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on delicate skin, with smart features like two-way zippers and fold-over feet and mittens for added comfort and ease.
As a parent, what did you feel was missing in kids’ sleepwear that led you to create Nash+Nova?
I was constantly looking for sleepwear that wasn’t just functional, but also comfortable, stylish, and thoughtfully designed. The options out there felt too generic, with fabrics that weren’t soft enough or designs that didn’t align with my vision for my kids. I wanted something that could handle those middle-of-the-night diaper changes without compromising on cuteness or comfort.
What feedback have you received from other parents that’s really stuck with you or shaped your designs?
The feedback that has really stuck with me is how much parents appreciate incredibly soft and breathable fabrics and the desire for designs that grow with the child.
Where do you find inspiration for new collections?
As a mom, I’m constantly observing my own kids and what they need in their daily routines, which helps guide new ideas for designs that are both functional and stylish. And let’s be honest, we all know who the boss is, so they’re also the perfect ones to ask for feedback on new prints!
What’s one must-have piece from your current collection?
It’s so hard to choose just one! But if I had to, I’d say our brand new two-piece sets for older kids (ages 2–8) are a must-have. They’ve been such an exciting addition, not only are they soft and cozy, but now you can match your big kid with your baby, which parents are loving!
What’s next for Nash+Nova? Any exciting things coming up?
There’s so much I’m excited about! We just launched our two-piece sets for older kids, and the response has been amazing, so we’re working on new prints for the fall. Stay tuned!
By Christine Russell Janis, mom of four, living in Paris.