Guest Picks: Make Your Bedside a Soothing Yet Useful Space

I love journals and I always will. They are a wonderful brain dump for your mind just before bedtime. I love the supple leather and stamped "penny for your thoughts" quote on the cover. The tiny penny pocket makes this a personal favorite.

I adore the industrial, mechanical look of this table. I'm also pretty sure it would pass the "manly test," which is to say that my man would like it. That's rather important when you're planning to cover the bed in ruffled pillows.

I'm a little bit in love with the shape of this nightstand. The size of the tabletop is perfect for those who tend to "need" many items at an arm's length away. I'm sure there's room enough for pretty picture frames, scented candles, current reads and, of course, my lamp and alarm clock. My favorite things (besides the price) are the knobs. They remind me of vintage faucet handles.

This is a perfect and unexpected carafe for your nightstand. I love the crisp, dotty, white finish. This would be darling in a guest bedroom, but I probably won't give mine up.

You can't have the pitcher without the matching cup. Everything about this set is dreamy, which is kind of the point.

I absolutely adore this little clock. I might even be tempted to travel with it. The red leather case has my heart.

Glass lamps are wonderful in areas where a soothing atmosphere is wanted, making this a perfect fit for a bedside area. I love the tall height that is just right for reading.

Lighting a bedside candle sets the tone for a cozy night of reading. The light scent of this candle, not to mention the soft and soothing color, will be sure to transport you to a place of relaxation.

What's better than a good classic on a cold winter night? Snuggle up with Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett, and you're sure to have sweet dreams. This collection is lovely, and the book cover is gorgeous. It's sure to be a favorite on your nightstand.

These unique little bowls are pretty, and they would make the perfect spot to drop your rings, earrings or any other small tokens you enjoy keeping close at night. I love the little knobby ends, and even with nothing in them, they lend a sculptural feel to your space.

I love adding little elements of the ocean into every room. These shell candle holders are pretty and dainty, and they add a soft bit of texture to a space. While they are perfect for your bedside in summer, they would also make a lovely wintry white addition, inspiring you to get through those chilly months to the sunshine ahead.

I am completely in love with this uniquely shaped dish, and I also adore the tiny ceramic bird perching on the side. With or without your jewelry, this darling item is a sweet statement piece.

What is it about bells that evoke old time charm, a slower pace (and, yes, the impatient customer at the fabric store's cutting counter)? Regardless of whether you actually plan to ring this bell, it's a sweet nod to the past. It would be a lovely accessory, perhaps placed on a stack of favorite books. Of course, I just have to keep my children from finding it.

I love a fresh pop of color near my pillow, so when I open my eyes, the first thing I see is something pretty each morning. I don't even think you'd need to put any flowers in this vase; it's perfect the way it is.

Placing a framed photo of those you love near your bed is a great way to keep them close to your heart. They'll be the last thing you see before you fall asleep and the first thing you see when you wake up. The curvy sweetness of this daisy frame will complement most any bedside decor perfectly.

Every bedroom needs a touch of whimsy. This twig pencil, topped with a small flower, will look terrific sitting atop your journal. I love the neutral color of the flower.

With thought-provoking questions like, "Who would play you in a movie about your life? Is it a good movie?" you are sure to hit the pillow thinking deep thoughts each night. What's perfect about keeping this little bedside book on your nightstand is that it's sure to inspire you, make you think, perhaps review your day and spur you on to be a better individual. Of course, don't get too carried away thinking, or you'll never fall asleep. This book has one line per day for five years — gotta love that.

What would a bedside table be without a soothing cup of tea? I adore pretty much anything with a monogram, and these black and white mugs are some of my favorite things. You could also use one for a few pens and pencils, to be ready for your nightly journal writing.

Some of my favorite things are words, lower-case type fonts, creamy white dishes and swirly patterns. All of those collide in this little dish, which would be a perfect resting place for your bedside jewelry or that late-night cookie after the kids are in bed. Either way, it's a good night with this beside you.

I love secret storage. You can hide all kinds of ugly when you've got a box with a lid. Earphones, papers you don't want to deal with, hand creams, nail files — all those little odds and ends that keep your nightstand untidy finally find a streamlined home in these sea grass boxes.

Next: Dreaming of a Bedroom Walkout