Picture me theatrically pulling out the old bucket list and crossing off one of those wild, improbable items. As we mentioned briefly here, three Wednesdays ago The Nate Berkus Show reached out and asked if we wanted to appear on the program, which was taping in NYC just two days later. If we said yes, they would fly us out the next day.

Short answer: absolutely yes.

I’ve been a Nate fan for years—full-on, over-the-top fan-girl territory. The man has a way of inspiring me (see a few older posts about my Nate admiration here and here). So when they explained the segment—Nate’s Crate Design Challenge, where two contestants compete using a mystery crate of basic household items (craft paper, blankets, feather dusters, push pins, burlap, staple guns) to transform identical white rooms in an hour—I was instantly intrigued. Contestants would race to create a complete room, using only those unexpected supplies, while Nate and guest judges weighed in.

Where did we fit in? They wanted us to join as judges, like a DIY-flavored version of Paula and Simon. Since we love working with everyday items to make big changes, it was a perfect fit. We were flattered and a little stunned.

The production even gave us a little American Idol-style judging desk and a cheeky subtitle under our names. Nate invited us on stage to demonstrate a few quick DIY projects using items pulled from the crate, which was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.

The next day we were on a plane to New York—Clara’s first flight—and she was a champ, conveniently asleep for much of the trip since we scheduled our departure after her bedtime. We landed at LaGuardia and were collected by a limo service; yes, we snapped a picture of the sign with our names on it. Guilty as charged.

We arrived at the hotel late and were put up at the Flatotel—the same place contestants from shows like Project Runway have stayed. Clara looked adorable on the oversized bed, though she actually slept in the crib the hotel kindly provided.

The following morning we were up early and at the studio by 7:15. Nerves, excitement, and the joy of meeting Nate kept sleep at bay. We had a quiet moment to appreciate a great city view from our corner room before heading into the hectic day.

In the green room my mom—who lives in New York—met us to babysit. It was the first official babysitter we’d had since Clara was born five months earlier, and I may have given a far-too-detailed crash course on her preferences. My mom didn’t need it, of course, but it made me feel better to over-prepare. Clara was adorable on the small settee in the green room, which had been stocked with snacks and flowers.

Soon it was time for hair and makeup—yes, even John got powdered—and the pros worked their magic. The two stylists were friendly and full of studio anecdotes, helping us get camera-ready for the taping.

We even bumped into Mrs. Limestone, who was also appearing on the show. It was wonderful to meet a long-time blog friend in person; she and her husband were delightful, and their segment showcased some truly impressive before-and-after house photos.

We weren’t allowed to take photos in the studio, so besides a few green-room snaps we don’t have many personal pictures. After a fast rehearsal, last-minute touch-ups, a final feed for Clara, and a microphone check, we walked onstage and taped our segments. The production didn’t post full episodes online, but they shared clips of the craft demo and the design-challenge reveal.

I learned a lesson about TV dressing: fitted shapes read better on camera than flowy silhouettes. I wore a bright red, loose top and, seeing myself on the monitor, realized it wasn’t the most flattering choice. So that’s my tip for other new moms easing back into pre-baby wardrobes: choose more structured pieces if you’re concerned about how you’ll look on screen.

Aside from my wardrobe revelation, the experience was incredible. Nate was warm, witty, and professional—he complimented our home and our sense of design on and off camera, which was genuinely flattering. Watching him switch between cameras, read the teleprompter, and keep the audience engaged made me appreciate how complex hosting a show can be. It often felt like a choreographed performance rather than a simple talk show.

We had a fun onstage rapport with Nate, laughing and debating the merits of burlap and other unexpected decorating materials. Shortly after our last segment, a producer hurried us off set so we could catch our flight home. They managed to book us on an early flight so we would be back in time for weekend guests—an impressive logistical feat.

Despite city traffic, we made it to the airport with time to spare. Clara was more awake this time and enjoyed the flight—she even took a short nap and spent time looking out the window. We’re so grateful her first two flights went smoothly; she was an easy and curious little travel companion.

We returned home in time to greet friends and family, and Burger the dog was thrilled to see us (thanks to John’s sister Emily, who fed and cared for him while we were away). By the next morning it almost felt like a dream—were we really in New York the day before? Watching the episode later confirmed it all really happened, and we’re still buzzing from the experience.

All images and video clips of the show, courtesy of thenateshow.com.