Bedtime Bestie

Bedtime Bestie is an outrageously unique product that required incredibly detailed planning from start to finish. The most important requirement was that it had to be considered kitsch. The biggest challenge was that there was no other theme or direction. I was required to conceptualize and fabricate the product. As well as a package that would properly display the product including size, shape, and style.

My goal with this product was to make something seemingly sweet with a slightly devious side. Inspired by a harlequin-style jester doll I owned as a child a doll that plays you music at bedtime was born. Having a jester-styled doll could already be considered kitsch but adding the bedtime theming took the kitschy-ness of it over the top. Even though this product is intended for an adult audience I wanted the packaging to be fun and colorful as if it could be a children’s toy. Carefully tip-toeing the line between cute and something more sinister at play.

For the product itself, I acquired a cheaply made harlequin doll and customized it to match my vision. These types of dolls do not generally come with night-time style clothing. So, I tasked myself with designing and creating a bedtime-themed outfit and a sleepy face to match. The only original pieces left on the doll are the porcelain face and hands and white collar. Finally, I included a working music box embedded in the packaging that plays Johannes Brahms Lullaby.