Picnic Ideas for Warm-Weather Days!

I am back! Sorry I have been M.I.A. the past few weeks – I just got married and was out of the country for a bit, but I am back and ready to send you my love with fun blog posts and (hopefully) fun ideas! Now that the sun is out, and the excitement of Memorial Day is approaching, why not have a picnic? I live in New York City with one of the most beautiful parks – Central Park! My goal is to have a family picnic with my new nieces this weekend! Here are two fun recipes you can enjoy with your family too – lunch and dessert! Yum!

FOR LUNCH…

Pizza Scones

My savory scones recipe features sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella. And this portable dish, complete with do-ahead and packing tips, makes a great addition to your picnic menu.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup fine cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella
• 1/3 cup finely chopped pepperoni (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

INSTRUCTIONS:

Fun To-Go Tip: Take smaller scones to a gathering. Use a 3-inch-round biscuit cutter to make 12 smaller scones, and reduce the baking time to 10 to 15 minutes. The scones should be cooled before packing.

1. Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, basil, oregano, and salt. Cut in the butter with a pastry blender or two knives, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Place the diced sun-dried tomatoes in a medium-size bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them stand for 30 seconds, then drain the water and stir in the cheese and pepperoni (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and the buttermilk, then add them and the tomato mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough until it holds together, about five times. Divide the dough in half and pat each half into a 1-inch-thick disk. Slice each disk into four wedges.
5. Place the wedges on a lightly greased baking sheet about 1 inch apart. Bake them until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve the scones warm or at room temperature. Makes 8 scones.

Per serving (1 scone):
Calories 340 ● Total Fat 17 g (27% DV) ● Saturated Fat 10 g (49% DV) ● Cholesterol 95 mg (32% DV) ● Sodium 525 mg (22% DV) ● Total Carbohydrate 37 g (12% DV) ● Fiber 1 g (6% DV) ● Sugars 3 g ●
Protein 11 g (22% DV)

FOR DESSERT…

Frozen Watermelon Dessert

When is a watermelon not a watermelon? When it’s a refreshing frozen confection combining tangy raspberry sorbet, sweet honeydew, and chocolaty chips.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 honeydew
• Raspberry sorbet
• Chocolate chips

INSTRUCTIONS:

Note: make sure to make freeze packs in your cooler for your picnic so that your watermelon dessert doesn’t melt.

1. Halve the honeydew, discard the seeds, and chill it overnight in the fridge.
2. The next day, put the halves in the freezer for 15 minutes, pull them out, and pack them with sorbet, gently evening off the top.
3. Using a chilled knife, slice each half into halves again (make sure the melon is sorbet side up).
4. Finally, insert a row of chocolate chip seeds and serve immediately.

CHECK OUT LE TOP CHILDREN’S
PLAYWEAR AT www.letop-usa.com

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Doll House: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

This week we interviewed owner Jean Johnston from Doll House boutique in Palos Verdes Estates, California for our “Premier Store Spotlight” this week. Not only is she young and hip, she knows how to keep your child on top of the trend curve and parents in-the-know on the best new baby, children, and tween’s products on the market. Read more to find out about the latest spring trends, Doll House’s upcoming Easter event that is not to be missed, as well as sign up for Facebook to get updates on their cool mommy and me yoga classes!

2325 Palos Verdes Drive West
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
949.439.8333

www.dollhousepv.com

 CHECK-IN and JOIN Doll House Facebook page and click HERE

1.   Tell us the inspiration behind the name Doll House? How long has your store been around?
I opened Doll House almost two years ago. While bouncing ideas around, my father suggested the name Doll House, and I thought it was perfect! Children are our little dolls, they are so much fun to dress up.

Le Top Baby "By the Sea" Romper

2.   Spring 2012 styles are coming into stores and brightening up any family’s winter wardrobe. What are your top 3 items (clothes, toys, giftables, etc.) for any parent shopping for warm weather items for a nice holiday vacation this winter?
Nautical stripes will transition a wardrobe from fall to spring, which has made Le Top’s ‘By The Sea’ collection very popular in the store.  Quicksilver rash guards have a built in SPF 50 that can be worn poolside or at the beach. Three Martha’s fold up chalkboard mat (comes with colorful chalk and a fun elephant shaped sponge) is a helpful way to keep kids occupied on long car or plane rides.

3.  Any special events that you have planned at your store for spring? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and especially the fun deals we can expect!
You Don’t Want To Miss Spring Time At Doll House!

Doll House will be hosting a spring event on Thursday, March 29th. We will have a bunny petting zoo, a fun art project taught by a local artisan, face painting and a very special visit from the Easter Bunny!

Doll House has teamed up with Billabong and Zico Water for a great trunk show event for tweens! Doll House tweens will be the first to view and order Billabong’s 2012 fall collection while enjoying Zico Water.

Doll House is excited to start mommy and me yoga classes this spring! Check out our face book and website for updates!

Store owner, Jean, showing her display of the Le Top Tiny Bubbles collection

4.   What is your “go-to” baby shower gift in your store for boys and girls?
I have a huge demand for clothing and gifts made in the USA. Lisa Denver’s growth charts (made in Palos Verdes Estates), Scrumptious Blankets (made in Los Angeles) and Giggle Moon (made in San Diego) are popular gift items. 

Le Top Sun and Sea collection

5.   What are your top 3 children’s movies or books and why?
Doll House’s most popular books are ‘Guess How Much I Love You’, ‘Pinkalicious’ and ‘Casey At Bat’. The hardback books come as a set with matching Pajamas! These make bedtime a little more fun. ($44 set).

6.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Palos Verdes Estates? Did you grow up in the local area?
Doll House is located in Lunada Bay, a surf and beach community within Palos Verdes Estates, California. It is a lot like Newport Beach, where I grew up. The locals are outgoing and take pride in their local boutiques.

Store owner Jean Johnston

7.    What are the hottest trends for kids clothes right now?
Purple, pink, red and bright blue skinny jeans and shorts are going to be a hot trend this spring and summer.

8.    What Le Top or Rabbitmoon Spring 2012 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
Le Top’s ‘Tiny Bubbles’ for girls and “Whales & Sails” for boys have been very popular collections. The prints are a great way to match brothers and sisters, and perfect to wear at the beach club and the 4th of July!

(left) Le Top Whales & Sales boy's collection (right) Le Top Tiny Bubbles girl's collection

Doll House

2325 Palos Verdes Drive West
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
949.439.8333

www.dollhousepv.com 

CHECK-IN and JOIN
Doll House Facebook page
and click HERE

 

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Dye Old Canvas Shoes for Kids

Summer is here and it’s time to take old canvas shoes (preferably white or a lighter color) and make them look bright and new for summer!

With fabric dye, kids can easily create new patterns or shades on their canvas shoes. Have an adult supervise to make sure the kids don’t dye the clothing they’re wearing as well. 🙂 You can buy clothing dye at any local craft store or fabric store. Get crazy and try dipping half of the shoe in one color, and the other half of the shoe in another color to create a wacky and bright summer style statement.

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Baby O Baby: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

It wouldn’t be the holidays in San Antonio, Texas without the beautiful and festive window displays at premier children’s boutique, Baby O Baby. We interviewed children’s boutique owner and kiddo style guru, Becki Guillory, about the history of her store and how twins and triplets were her inspiration and other fun facts!

1. What was the inspiration behind the name Baby O Baby?
Becki: The inspiration came once the conception of our store began. It is certainly a term of endearment. I have a very close friend who began having children several years before me. Now remember, this was before high-tech ultra sounds, AVI, and before a father was even allowed in the delivery room. The first time my friend gave birth, we were all eagerly waiting at the hospital and surrounded by many friends and family. After a long wait, the doctor came out and said, “Congratulations!! Your wife is fine, and your daughter is beautiful!” Before Toni (the husband) could say a word, the doctor continued on to say,” and your son is a handsome boy.” That was a shock! My friend’s second pregnancy, was the same routine…after what seemed to be an eternity of waiting, he (the doctor) came out and said, “Well folks [looking at Toni], you have not one baby…[lingering in suspense and joking], Baby Oh Baby…” He then finished with, “Oh babies. She had triplets!” From that point on, the triplets were nicked named “baby ‘o babies…Oh baby!!!!” Now as my friend’s family grew, she had two sets of twins and two sets of triplets – their very own football team…And a beautiful children’s boutique called Baby O Baby.

2.     Describe the neighborhood where your store is located. Did you grow up in the local area? Is it the same as it was growing up?
Becki: No, I did not grow up here, but I moved here twenty-one years ago. This [Baby O Baby’s location] is the side of San Antonio that we choose. It still had that “in the country feel.” My children remember walking through the woods to and from school. We knew it was going to be a wonderful place to call “home.” I would describe the Stone Oak area to be the side of town where young posh families chose to start their families. And over the years, it has changed beyond recognition. We have a lot of international customers that come three or four times a year. We are the home to our beloved Silver Stars Basketball Team and the WNBA Silver Stars. I believe this is the area of San Antonio that will thrive and grow for many, many years to come.

3.     What would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe?
Becki: Gosh, we get to choose the best of both worlds for a winter wardrobe. For San Antonio, Texas it may be colder than usual this season, but it can be in the 70s and 80s some days! For us, sunscreen, cute little rain boots (both boy and girl), and a very colorful lightweight jacket would be my 3 picks for winter. On the other hand, we have grandparents who visit their grandkids for Christmas up North. My essentials for those travelling would be Le Top’s pink faux fur coat for girls, Le Top’s aviator jacket for boys, cozy PJ’s, beautiful bow accessories, and of course, good shoes for their feet. We are known at our store for our special bows. My daughter, Shannon, makes custom bows to match every outfit we have!

4.     What is your favorite holiday film past or present for kids/family?
Becki: Our favorite is “A Christmas Carol.” It has been a film reproduced many times. I think it reminds us to stop, look around, and remember there are families that need our help, not just at Christmas, but all year round. “God Bless You Tiny Tim.”

Photos of Becki's adorable 3-year-old grandson, Dean Aaron. His Dad is serving his country. Here is Dean at a Christmas lights outing.

5.     Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!
Becki: Ha-Ha, there are a lot. But one of my pet peeves is makeup on little baby girls. And, I would never let my kids pick out their clothes alone.

6.     The holidays are LITERALLY around the corner and it is the last weekend to buy holiday gifts before Christmas Eve. What are your top 3 items (clothes, toys, giftables, etc.) for any parent shopping for the holidays at your store?
Becki: This is true – right around the corner! We always suggest a classic children’s book. It is so wonderful to curl up with your kids and read to them. They love it! We carry a wide selection of gifts from tricycles to mini tables and chairs. Always a favorite, we also carry doll, Baby Stella. Our customers very seldom leave our store without Le Top’s Santa hat that they love.  You would be surprised about the number of pictures we get back with the adults wearing the Santa hat on top of their heads! It’s that “cute factor” going on. We also suggest for a little baby our Le Top Red Nosed Reindeer plush toy – the kids love the music when you squeeze it. It is also super soft and their [kids] tiny hands can hold on to any part of the toy.

7.     What’s your favorite holiday tradition and or nostalgic moment and why? Whether it be decorating the Christmas tree to eating peppermint bark to lighting the menorah candles to baking in the kitchen, etc….
Becki: Going together to Mass. But our nostalgic moment now has been watching the kids and their stockings. They run into the den, snag their stockings that are hanging on the mantel and run straight to my bed. (Thankfully, these moments give us a chance to pray and reflect on Christmases past. It’s also a great way to stop for a moment before we gather in the den that becomes present central. Now, I know the peek when they get their stockings, but What Child Wouldn’t!!!

8.     Any special events or fun holiday traditions that you have planned at your store before Christmas?
Becki: Stone Oak has had a Winter Festival for five years now. It is so much fun for the whole family. There is a treasure hunt from selected stores. The kids get so excited when the run into a store to see if a listed treasure is available. We have a symbol on our door letting the kids know we are a store that is part of the treasure hunt. When the hunt ends, we bring in tons of snow late that afternoon for the kids to play in. There are so many fun activities for the whole family, and we pray it is cold that day, but even if it isn’t, the kids still build snowmen and snowwomen, have snowball fights and then the Festival ends when the snow has melted away. But most importantly, we work with Pathways. It is a branch of charitable foster care. Every Christmas, we put together new Christmas clothes and toys for the charity before their holiday party. Our store tries to give as much of a variety of clothing as we can because our store carries sizes up to 6x that can cover all of their clothing needs. Because of security for the children, this is the first Christmas that they organization has invited us to join in the festivity! “Oh what fun! It is to ride, in a one horse open sleigh!!!” And thanks to companies like Le Top and others we are able to bless the children with memories that will stay with me forever.

9.     Tell us your best parenting tip you know or would want to give to a new parent.
Becki: Of course to love them, and as they begin to talk, take a step back, inhale a few deep breaths, and LISTEN, but hear them. You have to watch out because kids are honest to a fault. As Mr. Art Linkletter once said “Kids say the darndest and do the funniest things.” Love them unconditionally. They grow up so fast.”

10.     What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line or Rabbitmoon do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?
Becki: Love, Love, Love the Elves Collection! Paula (our manager) does our store window. When these outfits arrive to our store, she stuffed the body and legs with the little toes dangling. Oh they are so cute! We put one in the window about every half an hour. When she gets the elves hung up in the window, people see it and it’s out the door. Love Le Top’s aviator jacket and bomber hat. My grandson, Dean Aaron, is 3-years-old.  He comes from a military family stationed in Georgia. Since I mailed him the aviator jacket and hat to him, I don’t think he’s taken it off – but maybe only to bath and sleep. He is also wearing and loves his Reindeer Games Collection green cord pants and striped shirt.  He knows this Reindeer Collection because he wears one every season made by Le Top.

Baby O Baby
1207 N Loop 1604 W # 107
San Antonio, TX 78258-4629
210.256.8687

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Giggles Children’s Clothing: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We sat down with inspiration and children’s boutique guru, Anne Richter, owner Giggles Children’s Clothing store in Woodstock, Vermont to get the inside scoop on her store and her funny parenthood tales.  From stories about cutting clothing ads out of the newspaper as a child to her best parenting tip to holiday must haves and her charity work with children – Anne’s store is the go-to for any parent. Read more to discover one of Le Top’s very favorite children’s boutiques.

This post has been moved to our website. To view the full post go to: http://blog.letop-usa.com/?p=14122

 

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DoodleBug’s Children’s Boutique: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We loved the oodles of doodles of facts that Misty Reynolds, owner of children’s boutique, DoodleBug’s, gave us about her store in Arkansas. She gives us the facts on first mommy and daddy essentials, what she swore she would never do as a parent and how she loves the fact that she gets to live the old quote, “Do something you love, and you will never WORK a day in your life!” Le Top loves DoodleBug’s and is proud to feature them as this weeks’ premier “Store Spotlight.” Enjoy and cheers!

 

1.    Where did the name DoodleBug’s Children’s Boutique come from? What was the inspiration behind the name?

Misty: The boutique was named DoodleBug’s when it was founded over 11 wonderful years ago by a previous owner.  It is a nickname that many, many parents and grandparents call the little ones in their lives.  It refers to sweet little children learning to crawl and walk around.  In the more than 4 years I have owned the store, I have had many customers and tourists stop and ask for one of our gift tags or large gift bags with the name “DoodleBugs” on it because that is their child’s nickname!! 

 

2.    Describe the neighborhood where your store is located. Did you grow up in the local area? Is it the same as it was growing up?

Misty: DoodleBug’s Children’s Boutique is located in a wonderful resort town! We are on the very busy and ever-growing Central Avenue in beautiful Hot Springs, Arkansas. We have a very diverse town with a wonderful historic downtown area that consists of original bathhouses and great shops and restaurants. We are a lake town so we get thousands of tourists that own or rent condos on the lakes. I did not grow up in Hot Springs, but have lived here for 6 years. I grew up in a very small town in south Arkansas (population 700) where my husband and I have owned a grocery store for more than 15 years. Having those very-small town roots, I believe, prepared me for owning a boutique. The boutique experience should be very personal!! My store is only about 900 square feet, but it is packed with lots of goodies that are ever changing! Owning a business in a small town instilled in me that knowing each and every customer, their names, and their children’s names is so crucial to building a good customer base. Every day, as I come to work, I honestly get to do something that I love. I get to visit with all my wonderful customers who I consider my closest friends. I love the fact that I get to live the old quote, “Do something you love, and you will never WORK a day in your life!” I agree! I love what I do!

 

DoodleBug's display feature Le Top outfits from the "It's a Dog's Job", "Bumper Cars" and "T-Rex Touchdown" collections

3.     What would you suggest as the top 3 essentials a busy, working new mom or dad should buy to make her life easier from your store?

Misty: 3 things that I tell parents in my store that are crucial items to make life easier, simple and inexpensive are…Firstly, I believe a good-quality knit shirt, long or short sleeved, depending on the season. The basic colors I keep for my daughter are black, white, pink, and brown! They make many clothing items work better. They are great under a vest, sweater, or sleeveless shirt/dress. They also look great under jumpers! Same for boys. A nice white shirt can be worn under a sweater vest or a little john-john outfit!  Another item is leggings for girls! Get as many colors as you can! They make dresses wearable at all times! Even at school when cartwheels are a mode of transportation on the playground! Kids will be kids, so we should make life easier by using leggings most of the time! One more thing that is so important to make mornings go smoothly are great shoes! Pick a casual pair and a dressy pair! Grab your basic colors like a nice black and brown for boys, as well as a pair of tennis shoes! For girls, go for mary janes in a black and a brown. Don’t forget to get a silver shoe that can go with anything! Dress it up or dress it down!!  Easy, easy!

 

4.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!

Misty:   I swore I would never let them pick out their own clothing while they were still young! Wow, eating my words is hard! My daughter Abby (8-years-old), and son Noah (11-years-old), love total comfort! Luckily, Le Top fit that bill perfectly when they were younger! They got total comfort, and I got the satisfaction that the outfits were so adorable and easy to take care of!! I share that information with parents on a daily basis. Le Top is one of the main brands in our store because it is truly for meeting function! The pictures speak for themselves!

 

5.    The holidays are around the corner – what are your top 5 items (clothes, toys, giftables, etc.) for any parent shopping for the holidays at your store?

Misty: We love gifts at our store. I absolutely love to wrap presents. We offer free gift wrapping services all year round and with every purchase. I love beautiful wrapping paper and big tulle bows. Some fun, easy gifts for the holidays include:

1.  Hairbows and hair flower clippies

2.  Squeaky shoes in fun colors!

3.  Fun holiday clothing for school and pictures

4.  Cool piggy banks

5.  Tutus for pictures and play, of course! 

 

6.    What’s your favorite Halloween candy and why?

Misty: I love mini Twix bars. Caramel, chocolate, and a cookie!

 

7.    If you could give a toddler a makeover – Describe the perfect fashionable and functional outfit you would dress a boy and girl in.

Misty: Toddler years are my favorite! They are experienced walkers and talkers! They look adorable in their little clothing. For boys, I think you can’t go wrong with khaki cargo shorts or pants! Dress them up or down depending on the shirt! Church or playground, I love khakis for boys! For the girls, I think they need any type of casual long tunic tops or comfy dresses. Grab a pair of leggings and a big hairbow and you are out the door quickly and looking very sweet!  

Le Top outfits from "Dottie Scotties", "Lavender's Blue", "Haute Dog" and "Santa's Helpers" collections

 

8.    What’s on your agenda for the holidays for your store? Any special events or fun holiday traditions at your store?

Misty: We are preparing for our Holiday Open House on the night of November 8. Food, cocktails, and fun! We will have door prizes and special savings storewide! Great time to get to visit with my customers and get in the holiday spirit!

 

9.    What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line or Rabbitmoon do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?

Misty: My absolute favorite collection from Le Top is actually in the fall collection this year. It is called “Haute Dog.” It is deep red and features Dachsund Weinee Dogs in a sweet brown color. It has been a hit with customers of all ages. The kids love it, as well as their parents and grandparents! I grew up owning weinee dogs! Brings back memories! We have sold out of the collection in both boy and girl. We are currently waiting for some more pieces to come in. Great fun, and of course, soft and comfortable. Just the way children like it!   

 

DoodleBug’s Children’s Boutique
 3832-C Central Ave.
 Hot Springs, AR 71913
 501.525-5700

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Baby’s Perfect Gift: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We are happy to announce the grand opening of “Baby’s Perfect Gift” children’s boutique in Montclair, New Jersey.  Marcia and Ilene, store owners/founders/mommy gurus, give us the scoop on hot local trends, local activities for families and the top essentials for any new mom (that you can find at their new store!). Read more and enjoy!

1.      Where did the name Baby’s Perfect Gift come from? What was the inspiration behind the name?
Marcia & Ilene: The most thoughtful shoppers are always looking for the “perfect gift” for special occasions. To us, a new baby seemed like the ultimate special occasion, thus the name Baby’s Perfect Gift!

2.      How did you pick the location of your new store? Describe the neighborhood where your store is located.
Marcia & Ilene: Montclair is a very diverse town, with three major shopping areas. The uptown area, where our store is located, is predominately young urban families and therefore, seemed like a perfect location for us.

3.      What would you suggest as the top 5 essentials a new mom should by in your store?
Marcia & Ilene:  Every new mom should have a “Miracle Blanket”, a “ lovie,” burp cloths, a practical (but fashionable) diaper bag, and of course, layette essentials from Le Top Baby.

Store owners Ilene (middle left) and Marcia (middle right)

4. What are the best 3 local family activities to do in Montclair, New Jersey?
Marcia & Ilene: There are numerous parks with awesome climbing equipment, kids programs at the Montclair Art Museum, and town sports activities.

5.      Tell us about the school lunches your mom or dad made for you when you were a kid? What would someone find inside your brown paper bag?
Marcia:  My mom hated making school lunches and it showed. I always made it a point to sit next to my friend whose parents owned a deli and always had delicious lunches. When I became “the mom,” I understood why she hated it so much, so I assigned the responsibility to my husband who is never tired of coming up with a variety of healthy and delicious lunches.

6.      What tip would you give to a parent dressing a child for fall and holiday? Any hot trends?
Marcia & Ilene: Always pick outerwear that children will like to wear, and are able to take on and off on their own. A good fit allows a child room to move around, and the ability to layer underneath is also essential. A hot trend for both girls and boys appears to be leg warmers for the legs and arms. Also tutus of every size and color seem to be very much in demand!

7.      Do you plan on doing anything special for Halloween at your store?
Marcia & Ilene: We do have a Halloween display in the store featuring baby’s “first Halloween” costumes bibs, etc., but unfortunately this year, Halloween falls on a day that the store is closed.

8.      What is your favorite memory of a costume you wore as a child?
Marcia: As a child, the memory of the accumulating Halloween treats rivals any memory of actual costumes.

9.      What’s next on your agenda since the store is now open?
Marcia & Ilene: We have a few! First, establishing ourselves as the “go to” store for the “perfect” gift or for all baby needs. Secondly, working to maintain an enticing inventory selection at various affordable price points. Lastly, to remain sensitive to our customers needs and purchase their shopping requests in order to continue to grow into a premier shopping location.

10.      What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line or Rabbitmoon do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?
Marcia & Ilene: We love the Le Top boys “Take Flight” collection and the girls rabbitmoon “Savanna” collection for fall. 

Featured are rabbitmoon's shirt and pants from the "jet" collection. Le Top's "Take Flight" aviator jacket and cap. As well as a body suit and bib canvas overalls from the Le Top "guitar" collection.

 

 

Baby’s Perfect Gift
195 Bellevue Avenue
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
973.744.6999
www.babysperfectgift.com

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The Pumpkin Patch: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We are obsessing over this week’s Premier Store Spotlight with “The Pumpkin Patch”, located in West Virginia.  Owner Sherry Houvouras walks us through her journey of opening her first store to reminiscing on her back to school fashions as a child to when Hollywood came to Huntington, West Virginia (and her spicy encounter with baby daddy Matthew McConaughey). We can’t wait to share our latest Q&A with the cutest store in West Virginia…read more and be as enchanted as we are with “The Pumpkin Patch.” 

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1.      Where did the name The Pumpkin Patch come from?
Sherry: When the first of our four children was born, Andrea picked up the moniker of “our little pumpkin.”  So when we decided to open our first children’s store in 1977,  it was a natural to name it “The Pumpkin Patch.” 

We opened in 1977 and were fortunate that we did not have the large malls we do now at the time, however, we did have several other small children’s stores in the area with the closest being 15 miles away.  We made every effort to carry brands that other kids’ stores did not carry.  We ventured into the world of maternity apparel after several years and found this segment of our business to be lots of fun. We enthusiasticlly accepted to open our store as we had several large local corporations with many female employees who were required to ‘dress professionally’ and they were thrilled to find career type maternity fashions at The Pumpkin Patch.  In addition, we carried a large selection of nursery bedding ensembles.  

2.      Can you share any pictures of your store with us? 

The Pumpkin Patch in Ceredo, West Virginia

City Kids in Huntington, West Virginia

3.      Describe the neighborhood where your stores are located.
Sherry:  The Pumpkin Patch is located in a strip mall in a small town with a population of approximately 4,000 people.  However we are situated on the border of West Virginia and Kentucky.  So we draw many customers from the Kentucky area. 

4.      Your first store began in 1977 and then you expanded with a 2^nd store in 1989 – what made you decide to expand and what do you think is special about each store?
Sherry: In l989, and three children later, we opened a second store approximately 15 miles from The Pumpkin Patch.  The second store, which we named City Kids, is located on a main street of Huntington, West Virginia. The location of City Kids is in a nostalgic street front store in a historic hotel, The Frederick, which dates back to the glory days when entertainers such as Dagmar, Judy Garland, Red Buttons, and others came to Huntington to perform.  A “kiddie store” (as older residents tell me) has been in this same spot for over 75 years. We chose a different name for the second store with the thought that a customer would more likely travel from one store to the other if they knew they would find different product lines – they might not venture to a second store if they thought we were a duplicate of the first.  This plan has worked well for us as we actually force customers to travel to both shops in order to “see it all”.  If we discover a shopper didn’t find an item at one store, we describe something we carry at the other location and they are anxious to make the short drive.  In addition, City Kids really caters to the working mom who is shopping on her lunch hour as we are in the center of the business district.  However, since we close at City Kids at 5 p.m. each day, if  a customer finds they can’t get at item at noontime, they can always drive to The Pumpkin Patch where we are open until 8 p.m. daily.  Huntington is on the border of Ohio, so this store has a large draw of customers from the Ohio area. 

 

5.      What sets you apart with two successful children’s stores?
Sherry: We are constantly stiving to stay abreast of current trends, yet our area has really suffered from the economic downturn, so we also must be aware of a good product at a good value.  That’s one of the reasons Le Top is one of our most popular lines.  A comment I often hear when a customer is mentioning Le Top is “Le Top makes such a quality garments and the style is always fun.”  Le Top has a wonderful girl’s line, but customers rave over the boys fashions.  

6.      Back to school is here – do you remember what you wanted to wear on your first day of school or a childhood memory of your first day at school?
Sherry: Back to school has certainly changed from the time I was a little girl.  My mother would take me shopping for 4 or 5 little plaid dresses – each a different color  plaid.  I also always had to get a new pair of Buster Brown shoes.  I was quite a tomboy and would really have perferred to have worn pants that had a turn- up flannel cuff on the pant leg.  The flannel turned up cuff would have been the same material the longsleeve flanned shirt would have been.  

7.      What is your best or most memorable moment in your store?
Sherry: One of the most exciting times at our store was when Hollywood came to Huntington, WV.  The movie, “We are Marshall” starring Matthew Fox and Matthew McConaughey was filmed over a three month period in our area in 2006  It was the true story of  the devastating loss our town suffered in 1970 when 75 football players, coaches, and alumni were killed in a plane crash as they were returning to Huntington from a game they had played at East Carolina.  Matthew McConaughey filmed shots inside and outside of the building where City Kids is located.  It was “really tough work” for me staying afterhours and watching them shoot scenes of Matthew McConaughey but I made the sacrifice and I have a lovely autographed picture of a shirtless Mr. McConaughey gracing our wall. 

8.      What collection or piece from Le Top line do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?
Sherry: My favorite group this fall has been from the Lavender Blue group. in lines where I have the opportunity,  I always choose a different style from the same group for each size range so a mom can have three little girls and coordinate a wonderful picture in like colors but each child can have their own look.  Le Top allows me to have lots of choices. We have huge windows at both stores, and Le Top offers me great options when merchandising….You cannot imagine how many customers venture in just because a ‘great look’ in the window caught their eye. 

The Pumpkin Patch
Rt. 60 Ceredo Plaza
Ceredo, West Virginia
304.453.4911
http://www.pumpkinpatchwv.com/ 

City Kids
948 4^th Avenue
Huntington, West Virginia
304.525.2511

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CrabAppleKids.com: ONLINE PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We interviewed our first ever online premier retailer this week for our “Online Store Spotlight” – CrabApple.Kids.com.  Husband and wife team, James and Anna Incledon, Jr., tell us about their favorite Halloween costumes as kids, common questions from internet mommy and daddy shoppers and leather biker jackets for kids!  Read more to discover about CrabAppleKids.com.

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1.      What is one special or fun fact about your e-store that a typical customer wouldn’t know?
James:  Our children are the primary models for our website.

2.      How did you get into the online retail business? What inspired you? What sets you apart as a successful online children’s shop?
Anna:  We love shopping and our two daughters are always dressed to perfection!  People constantly compliment them on their attire.  Then, in preparing for the birth our son, we found it was difficult to find clothes that we liked for him.  It was at this point that we decided to enter the retail business–we could dress our children in the best of the best while making a business out of what we already love to do. 

What sets us apart from others?  We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service.  Most companies today claim to offer great customer service, but we don’t feel the bulk of them truly understand what that means. For example, it is often difficult to find a customer service number or email address for an online business to even begin the process.  Or when you do finally email them, they don’t reply back.  If a customer has a question, concern or just doesn’t like placing an online order, we are here.  If we can’t help them immediately, we will get back to them in a timely manner.

Aside from great customer service, from a product point-of-view, we offer wonderful matching family and twin outfits and boy’s clothing.  The family and twin outfits are ideal if you have twins or multiple children of differing ages and want to dress them in outfits that have a similar look and feel, while not being completely identical. This way both mom and the children are happy!  We also specialize in designer boy’s clothing because we understand how hard it is to find boy’s clothes that aren’t limited to t-shirts (but we do have some of those too!).

We also pride ourselves on having a great collection brand-name Christening clothes. 

3.      Where did the name Crab Apple Kids come from?
James:  After dreaming up 397 names (yes, we actually have a list of every one we didn’t use), some of which just didn’t test well, and some of which were already taken, finding a unique name was a lot more challenging and time-consuming than we expected.  We actually placed some of our first orders under the “no name” company! 

Our ultimate inspiration came when we were doing some remodeling and looking through paint color names.  A small change to the name and Crab Apple Kids was born.

James and Anna's son, Parker (wearing Le Top Spring 2010 Hip Hop Grasshopper), inspired them to open Crab Apple Kids

4.      Back to school is here – what have been the most popular baby and child fall “must-have” items?
James:  Our most popular item has been the Harley-Davidson Biker Jacket.  But the new must-have is truly our Weboo Shoes.  We haven’t seen anything else like them in the market place.  They are the very definition of cool, hip and fun!  We also carry some unique birthday and baby shower gifts such as cereal bowls shaped like tires and eating utensils shaped like tools, tractors and airplanes.  Our WubbaNub and Billy-Bob pacifiers have also been a big hit.  And of course, we love our Le Top—Lots O’ Fish was a hot style for us.

5.      Do you do anything special for Halloween at your e-store? What is your favorite memory of a costume you wore as a child?
Anna:  We love Halloween, or for that matter, any holiday.  Our family often makes the newspapers and newsletters because of our excessive holiday spirit.  We have some great outfits that not only will make your Halloween Season festive, but can be worn beyond Halloween.  My favorite costume when was young?  A Hippy – I loved all the bright colors, big hair and peace sign jewelry.  My husband’s… the two-person Chinese dragon (he still can’t find anyone to be the butt).

6.      What tip would you give to a parent dressing a child for fall and how to pick the “right” outfit online?
Anna:  Children like to feel comfortable, no matter what age.  Whether they are one or eight years old – comfort is the key to a successful purchase.  Crab Apple Kids’ pride ourselves in the latest fashions with comfort in mind.  Our rule of thumb is if our children won’t wear it, then neither will our customer’s kids.  One of our favorite new items are jeggings–leggings that look like blue jeans.

7.      What questions do most mommies or daddies ask when buying for their baby online?
James:  Most questions are focused around comfort, size and matching sibling outfits.  There is no point in looking great if they are not comfortable.  Because we all know, an uncomfortable child is not a happy one.

8.      There are so many websites now that sell children’s clothing – If you had one piece of advice for someone trying to break into children’s online retail, what would it be?
James:  Don’t!  Seriously, it is a much more competitive business than we ever anticipated.  It requires a lot of start-up capital and patience.  Children’s clothing is not your typical drop ship business.  In most cases, you are ordering one season in advance of the next.  So you have to make a guesstimate of what you think your customers are going to buy, to avoid having too much or too little inventory.  And then when it finally does arrive, you need pay for it, warehouse it, photograph it, and write copy for it. And then, hopefully, ship it!  Online or not, at the end-of-the-day, both businesses require the same amount of work.

9.      What is the funniest request you have received from an online parent customer?
Anna:  I can’t specifically think of one that is funny, but I can definitely think of one that is fun.  We recently had a bride call and request two of our Harley-Davidson Biker Jackets.  She shared with us that she was having a wedding with a 50s theme and that her nephews were going to be walking down the aisle in jeans, white t-shirts and our Harley-Davidson Biker Jackets.  How fun is that! 

10.      Why do you love Le Top? What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?
Anna:  We love Le Top because of the great designs, comfort and value.  The collection we like the best from the Fall/Holiday 2010 line is the Haute Dog Collection.  It’s bright and fun…and what child doesn’t like puppies or dogs! 

Crab Apple Kids
http://www.crabapplekids.com/
847.551.1212
877.327.7533 toll free

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Tot to Teen Village: PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

It’s fun, it’s cute, it’s high quality…and no returns!”
– Lori Clarke, Owner of Tot to Teen Village boutique (on why she loves Le Top)

1.      What is one special or fun fact about your store that a typical customer wouldn’t know?
Lori: We’ve been in business for 74 years, and owned now by a third generation.

2.      Describe the neighborhood of Kalamazoo, Michigan where your store is located. The name has a great ring to it! Can you name 3 fun facts about your town your store is located in?
Lori: 
Fact #1) President Obama came to our town in June for one of our local school’s graduation because our state offers free college tuition for graduating students to Michigan schools.

Fact #2) The baseball player Derek Jeter was raised in Kalamazoo.

Fact #3) We have lots of lakes for fishing, boating, and water sports.

3.      What sets you apart as a successful children’s store?
Lori: We offer items that people cannot find at your typical stores. We’re unique!

4.      Where did the name Tot to Teen Village come from?
Lori: The owner designed the inside of the store to reflect different parts of the U.S.A.

5.      Back to school is here – what has been flying off the shelves and this fall’s “must-have”?
Lori: For girls, it is anything purple and “fru-fru.”

6.      Tell us about the school lunches your mom or dad made for you when you were a kid? What would someone find inside your brown paper bag or tin lunch box?
Lori: I seldom took my lunches to school as a child – our cafeteria food was pretty good. If I did take a lunch, it was always a bologna sandwich with Miracle Whip and a Hostess Twinkie…and no fruit because I hate fruit.

7.      What tip would you give to a parent dressing a child for fall? Any hot trends?
Lori: Don’t fight with them! Let them be comfortable, and buy easy-to-care-for items (merchandise). That way, everyday dressing is easier.

8.      If you had one piece of advice for someone trying to break into children’s retail, what would it be?
Lori: Are you insane? Actually I would say: You can’t be everything, so pick a niche and do it well.

9.      What is your best or most memorable moment in your store?
Lori: Finding out I was having a granddaughter, and going crazy buying clothes for her! (my “bring-me-home” I bought was of course Le Top.)

10.      What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line do you love from the Fall/Holiday 2010 collection?
Lori: My favorites are the Le Top baby Pretty Rosebuds collection and Lavender’s Blue.

Tot to Teen Village
229 W. Kilgore Rd.
Kalamazoo, MI 49002
(269) 381-7800
www.tottoteenvillage.com

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