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Homes & Gardens presents: Wake up with... Nina Westbrook

Before playing the zone with her three kids, Nina Westbrook's game plan starts with a strong cup of joe and a side of mindfulness

Nina Westbrook headshot for wake up with me
(Image credit: The Lede Company)

Nina Westbrook doesn't just have game — she has a game plan. Sure, she might be Russell Westbrook's better half, but this mom-of-three's long list of endeavors doesn't stop there.

In addition to being a licensed marriage and family therapist, the former college basketball player also is an entrepreneur: running children's brand Minibrook (opens in new tab), Oklahoma-based boutique The Little Ark (opens in new tab), as well as launching her very own digital-based mental health and wellness workshop, Bene by Nina (opens in new tab)

Now, if you're wondering what is her game plan, or better question: what is her plan of attack? This week, Homes & Gardens had the privilege of 'Waking up with her' to find out — and her solution? It's far more simple than you think: a strong cup of joe. 

Don't believe us? Check out Nina Westbrook's entire morning routine below. 

Shop Nina Westbrook's Morning Essentials  

Nina Westbrook morning headshot

(Image credit: The Lede Company)

As a busy mom-of-three, Nina Westbrook swears by her morning cup of coffee, and she explains exclusively to Homes & Gardens just how extensive her coffee routine previously was and what it looks like nowadays. 

'I used to have a really long breakfast/coffee routine where I would make this delicious latte every single morning, but I've moved away from that because I'm going to tell you why: I am putting a huge emphasis on eating breakfast. So, for me, coffee was acting almost like a meal suppressant [...] basically, my coffee was making me not hungry, so I was not eating breakfast, and so, I would get into my day and be starving,' she explains. 

'So my morning routine is specifically — coffee, is really important— and now I just drink a regular cup of joe,' she concludes. 

But, what exactly is in that 'regular cup of joe', you may be wondering? Nina breaks down the morning essentials still on rotation in her routine below. 

1. This must-have machine 

Nina Westbrook morning machine

(Image credit: Williams Sonoma)
espresso machine (opens in new tab)

This espresso machine (opens in new tab) takes the fan-favorite Vertuo line in bold new directions with a sustainable body design and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity. Just pop in a capsule and push the button – the machine automatically reads the barcode on the capsule to set the ideal brewing time, temperature, and volume. 

2. This assortment of pods

Nina Westbrook nespresso pods

(Image credit: Amazon)
Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine (opens in new tab)

Nespresso Capsules VertuoLine (opens in new tab) starting at $33, at Amazon

This assortment (opens in new tab) will let you explore the rich tastes of the following Nespresso Capsules: Stormio (Intensity 8), Odacio (Intensity 7) & Melozio (Intensity 6). It's the perfect choice to discover a distinctive range of extraordinary coffees. 

3. This his-and-hers set

Nina Westbrook yeti mug

(Image credit: Williams Sonoma)
YETI Coffee for the Couple Mug Set (opens in new tab)

YETI Coffee for the Couple Mug Set (opens in new tab) for $60, at Williams Sonoma

Tackle mornings together with this his-and-hers set featuring two durable 18/8 stainless-steel mugs (opens in new tab)with double-wall insulation. Designed with thick-gauge steel with Radiant Barrier technology, this two-pack resists dents and withstands drop while reducing impact for consistent temperature. 

4. This vanilla sweetener

Nina Westbrook vanilla syrup

(Image credit: Amazon)
Torani Sugar-Free Syrup, Vanilla (opens in new tab)

Torani Sugar-Free Syrup, Vanilla (opens in new tab)for $11.82, at Amazon

Get all that creamy, pure vanilla taste without any sugar with this vanilla syrup (opens in new tab). Add a splash to your coffee, or use it as a dessert topping without any of the guilt, because, remember: it's sugar-free.


5. This coffee creamer

Nina Westbrook favorite creamer

(Image credit: Target)
Coffee-Mate Sugar-Free French Vanilla Coffee Creamer (opens in new tab)

Coffee-Mate Sugar-Free French Vanilla Coffee Creamer (opens in new tab)for $3.59, at Target

This vanilla creamer (opens in new tab)creates a rich, warm flavor that transforms every drinking experience. Designed as a lactose-free, gluten-free, cholesterol-free, and non-dairy creamer, this flavorful deliciousness is an everyday must-have. 


Shop Nina Westbrook's skin saviors 

Nina Westbrook skincare routine

(Image credit: The Lede Company)
Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum (opens in new tab)

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum (opens in new tab) for $185, at Nordstrom (opens in new tab), and Violet Grey (opens in new tab)

This potent concentration (opens in new tab) delivers 60+ nutrients, including ​restorative phytoceramides and phytonutrients, ​balancing minerals, brightening vitamins, free radical-fighting antioxidants, moisturizing fatty acids, and nourishing omegas 3, 6, 7, and 9 to revitalize, soothe, and support a healthy, radiant complexion.

Vintner's Daughter Active Treatment Essence (opens in new tab)

Vintner's Daughter Active Treatment Essence (opens in new tab) for $225, at Nordstrom (opens in new tab) and Violet Grey (opens in new tab)

With 70+ water-soluble nutrients​ and ​plant actives, including stabilized vitamin C, a full suite of B vitamins, micro and mini hyaluronic acid, probiotics, micro-exfoliators, plant stem cells, microalgae, and superfoods like astragalus and moringa, this complex formula (opens in new tab) deeply hydrates, illuminates, renews, and revitalizes the complexion. 

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 (opens in new tab)

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 (opens in new tab)for $69, at Dermstore

Meet the new and improved version of Colorescience's award-winning mineral sunscreen brush (opens in new tab). Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide work together to reflect and scatter UV rays before they can infiltrate your skin and cause painful burns and damage that could contribute to uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. Mica catches and reflects light, literally spotlighting your natural radiance. Toss it in your purse, gym bag, or glove compartment for effortless sun protection wherever you go.


Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater (opens in new tab)

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater (opens in new tab)starting at $7, at Amazon

A refreshing, hydrating mist (opens in new tab) to use anywhere anytime that's formulated with fragrant herbal extracts and rosewater for a pleasant, pick me up for dehydrated, tight, and uncomfortable skin. 


Brittany Romano
Shopping Contributor

Brittany Romano wrote for Homes & Gardens as a U.S. Shopping Editor. A graduate of New England College, Brittany started her career as a freelance fashion market assistant at Marie Claire. She later joined AMI, where she designed a highly profitable commerce vertical. Noted for her award-winning content, she's covered everything from celebrity beauty hacks to the most lavish home decor.