Bellybum Boutique: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

This week we headed to the mid-west to interview one of the chicest baby and children’s boutique’s in all of Chicago Illinois – Bellybum Boutique? Never been? Trust Ellen Sternweiler, store owner, on her killer instincts and excellent taste for children’s products, clothing, accessories and toys…your kiddo is sure to be styling and dressed to impress! She gave s the inside scoop on her store’s upcoming events and sales, the best items for parents shopping for a warm-weather winter vacation, and her favorite Rabbitmoon collection for spring! Read more below! 

Bellybum Boutique

4347 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
773.868.0944

www.bellybumboutique.com

CHECK-IN and JOIN Bellybum Boutique Facebook page and click HERE

 

Owner, Ellen Sternweiler

1.    Tell us the inspiration behind the name Bellybum Boutique? How long has your store been around?
I was trying to figure out a good name for a store that would specialized in everything for pre & postnatal moms and cloth diapers…hmmm…mama bellies & baby bums! Perfect 🙂

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?
Of course we always love receiving our new Rabbitmoon Collection — and this season will not disappoint (so cute)! We also just received a gorgeous new line of organic toys, blankets & clothing from Finn & Emma. Swaddle Designs blankets make great gifts: Soft and cozy, these 3-blanket cotton/fleece sets are perfect for any cool spring day. No mama’s ensemble will be complete this season without one of our gorgeous cardigans from Splendid! Lastly, I bet any sleep deprived parent can figure out why our “On-the-Go Sleep Sheep” are a must have…

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!
We like to have fun and surprise our customers…That said, you can expect more fun, and sometimes silly, Spring/Summer sales and events in addition to our current Winter Clearance sale. We are planning a big event in the Spring to celebrate the opening of our new Sensory Kids™ Store, and we are sponsoring the Autism Speaks Walk in June. Stay tuned for more information about walking with “Team Bellybum.” And, of course, if the weather continues to astound, we will surely bring back our ever-popular “Temperature Sale.”

4.    What is your “go-to” baby shower gift in your store for boys and girls?
Padalily car seat handle pads (for moms), Apple Park Organic Plush Rattles & Toys (for Babies), and Moby Wraps (for parents) are hands down customer favorites!

5.    What are your top 3 children’s movies or books and why?

• ChittyChittyBangBang (still great after all these years!)
• Jungle Book (who wouldn’t love Baloo?)
• The Phantom Toll Booth (Read this! Then read it to your young children, then let them read it again when they can, then re-read it yourself…you’ll get something new from this every time. I promise)

6.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
Nurse or use cloth diapers. Now I own a store that specializes in those things. Go figure!

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Chicago, Illinois? Did you grow up in the local area?
I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. Now, after 20 years in Chicago, I finally consider myself a Chicagoan (though I’ve gotta admit I’m still an Indians and Cavs fan). I love the Lincoln Square/Northcenter neighborhood where my store is located and where I live. It’s the perfect mixture of old and new and committed to being the ‘greenest’ neighborhood in Chicago. It’s a terrific place to raise a family with beautiful parks, as well as plenty of hip stores and great restaurants.

8.    What are the hottest trends for kids clothes right now?
Cute with a twist: I think people are tired of ‘sophisticated.’ It seems people want kids to look like kids…just the modern version.

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
Jury’s (Best Burger), Julius Meinl (Best Coffeehouse), Wells Park (Sports, Concerts…), The Old Town School of Folk Music, Lincoln Square (Gift Stores, Book Stores, Restaurants…)

10.   What Le Top or Rabbitmoon Spring 2012 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
We LOVE the Rabbitmoon “Summer” sunlit yellow collection!!! The colors are so fresh and who knew yellow could look so good?! The “Pieced Top With Tie Shoulder” is ridiculously cute with the matching hat. OMG!

Rabbitmoon "Summer" Collection A-Line Dress

Bellybum Boutique

4347 North Lincoln Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
773.868.0944

www.bellybumboutique.com

 CHECK-IN and JOIN
Bellybum Boutique
Facebook page and click HERE

 

 

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Zoop a Loop: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

We wanted to “loop” you into our favorite boutique in Lodi, California this week – Zoop a Loop! Not only is it the cutest for its fabulous fashion finds, cute jeggings, upscale Melissa & Doug toys and the best baby shower gifts in town…it is the “go-to” children’s boutique for many local Californians in the Lodi area! We interviewed boutique owner Tricia Monahan on the history of her store, the hottest toddler trends, what she swore she would never do as a parent, and her favorite Le Top spring collection! 

Zoop a Loop

Children’s Boutique & Party Place
21 Downtown Mall
Lodi, CA 95240
209.367.1444

 www.zoopaloop.com

 CHECK-IN and JOIN Zoop a Loop Facebook page and click HERE

1.    Tell us the inspiration behind the name Zoop a Loop? How long has your store been around?
We’ve been a children’s store in Lodi, California for 20 years now. Unfortunately, I don’t know the story behind Zoop a Loop because it was founded many owners ago, but I absolutely love the name. It evokes animals, fun, a little craziness and whimsy and is the perfect name for a children’s boutique!

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?
Melissa & Doug have the most fabulous outdoor toys…butterfly nets, bug catchers, indoor/outdoor hopscotch games, and now they’ve added some great pool toys. Roxy and Quiksilver have the best hats every spring for boys and girls, and we love Le Top…the outfits are so fun, colorful and whimsical-perfect for spring!

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!
We often partner with nearby merchants for “tent sales” in the alley, we’ll have the Easter Bunny next month for several visits, and we always have great deals for the annual Lodi Street Faire in May!

4.    What is your “go-to” baby shower gift in your store for boys and girls?
My favorites are the handmade “Memory Books” that document all the milestones in the first five years. These beautiful albums are handmade by a local woman and the most unique that I have come across.

5.    What are your top 3 favorite baby or children books and why?
The very Hungry Caterpillar for the beautiful, colorful illustrations, Good Night Moon, because it was one of my daughter’s favorites and The Little House on the Prairie series because my mother read them to me as a child, and then I read them to my daughter…such good memories!

6.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”  Say?  “Because I said so”!
I thought it would be so much better to just explain things to my daughter, but I quickly found out you can’t reason with a toddler and they can outlast you!

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Lodi, California? Did you grow up in the local area?
The store is located in the Historic Downtown area of Lodi, with several blocks of boutiques, restaurants and antique shops. It’s a great place to stroll in the afternoon. I didn’t grow up here, but my sister moved here 20 years ago, and I followed her 7 years ago. I love the small town feel, and it really does fell like everyone knows everyone else.

8.    What are the hottest trends for kid’s clothes right now?
Skinny jeans and jeggings, but I am seeing a big turn back to skirts with leggings, especially for the older girls. Bright, fun colors and patterns with and anything with embellishments-lace, glitter, jewels, etc.

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
We have a movie theater down the street in one direction, a pottery arts painting place on the other side, and a Children’s Science Museum 2 blocks away, so families can spend a whole day downtown!

10.   What Le Top or Rabbitmoon Spring 2012 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
We love the Sun & Sea Collection with the bright colors, fish cut-out on the the back of the Capri set and tulle embellishments on the dress and bikini…so cute!

Zoop a Loop

Children’s Boutique & Party Place
21 Downtown Mall
Lodi, CA 95240
209.367.1444

 www.zoopaloop.com

CHECK-IN and JOIN
Zoop a Loop
Facebook page and click HERE

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Polka Dots & Patticakes PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

This week we interviewed Adrian Anderson of the cutest children’s boutique in Conover, North Carolina – Polka Dots & Patticakes. She was sweeter than sweet, and definitely knows what her customers love and what’s hot for kid’s style and gear. As a mom herself, she knows exactly what must-have items any mom needs this spring, the fab town hangouts, and even admits to what she swore she would never do as a parent. She is as down to earth as it gets and the products in her store are the best of the best. Read more about one of Le Top’s favorite retailers! Check it out.

Polka Dots & Patticakes

111 1^st Avenue South, Suite A
Conover, NC 28613
828.292.9882

 www.polkadotsandpatticakes.com

 CHECK-IN and JOIN
Polka Dots & Patticakes
Facebook page and click HERE

1.    Tell us the inspiration behind the name Polka Dots & Patticakes? How long has your store been around?
Every time that I think of children, I think of Polka Dots. I knew that I wanted to do something with this name. I told my husband that I needed to come up with something to go along with Polka Dots & he said what about Patticakes? Perfect!Patty Cake is a childhood game that we all remember from our childhood. My special spelling is just to make the name unique. I started my business in October 2010.

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?
Ju Ju Be bags are always great for trips or for a mom-on-the-go. With all of their compartments and pockets, you have a place for everything you will need. They even have a Mommy pocket to keep your personal things separate! I also have Stack n’ Seals from Innobaby that make carrying a snack with you while on the go a breeze. I would also pick up some great cotton styles to keep your little one stylish yet comfortable on the trip.

3.    Any special events that you have planned at your store for Valentine’s Day? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and especially the fun deals we can expect!
I plan on having a Grandmother’s night at the store when more of my spring product comes in. I will have tea and cookies and show my collections to them and give them the opportunity to purchase outfits for their little ones with a discount. I also plan on having a few specials throughout the spring season online and in store.

4.    What is your favorite Valentine’s Day candy and why?
Conversation Hearts—I love to pick out little messages to give my Valentine, my husband John.

5.    What are a few common baby names that you have seen trending for the new moms that come to your store?
Emma, Grace and Olivia for little girls; Aiden and Jackson for little boys.

Adrian and her beautiful daughter Logan (who is wearing an outfit from the Le Top Spring 2011 "Daisy" collection)

6.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
I swore that I wouldn’t talk about her all the time, but how can you help it? She is my world and I love her so much! She is our pride and joy.

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Conover, North Carolina? Did you grow up in the local area?
I grew up in a town about thirty minutes away from Conover called Lenoir.  Conover is a quaint town in the Western Piedmont area of NC. Everyone knows everyone and people are nice and friendly.

8.    What are the hottest trends for kids clothes right now?
With warmer weather on its way, tunics and capris for girls will be popular in the spring and fun skirts with tops for summer.  One-pieces are always great for infant and toddler boys during the summer.

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
If you are looking for a fun family day outing, you could visit the Catawba Science Center. They have tons of activities and fun things for the kids to do. For soft play, go-carts, putt putt, lazer tag, and arcade games you could take the kids to Hickory Dickory Dock. It is also great for birthday parties too.

10.    What Le Top or Rabbitmoon Spring 2012 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
My favorite collection from Le Top is “Sun and Sea”.  When it starts to warm up, I want to be at the beach and this collection would look so cute on my tan little girl after a fun day at the beach.  All the bright colors are so beautiful.  Makes me look forward to those long summer days filled with sunshine and sand.

Polka Dots & Patticakes

111 1^st Avenue South, Suite A
Conover, NC 28613
828.292.9882

www.polkadotsandpatticakes.com

 CHECK-IN and JOIN Polka Dots & Patticakes
Facebook page and click HERE

Tunic and stripe capri with ruffle cuff from the Le Top “Sun and Sea" collection

 

 

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The Tabby Cat Boutique: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

Definition of a tabby cat? Not just a striped or dotted cat, but also one of the cutest darn boutiques in Oakton, Virginia – The Tabby Cat! We had the chance to interview storeowner, Alexandra Craige, about her boutique that she opened almost 2 years ago and how it’s still going strong after 3 natural disasters in the local area. She definitely knows kids style and what’s on the radar for spring 2012 for boys and girls and gives us the scoop on what she loves for next season! Alex also gives us her ideas on fun snow day activities, things she swore she would never do now being a mom, and the best family hangouts in the area. Read more to find out the inside scoop about Tabby Cat and stop by for great shopping if you are in the local area!

Hunter Mill Plaza
2946-F Chain Bridge Road
Oakton, VA
703.255.0812

www.tabbycatkids.com

Mon – Fri: 9am-6pm
Fri – Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: closed

CHECK-IN and JOIN The Tabby Cat’s Facebook page and click HERE

1.    Tell us the inspiration the name The Tabby Cat? How long has your store been around?
I did some online research on store names and realized that I really wanted something that was gender neutral and still cute and remember able! We have four Tabby Cats at home and although we’d love to bring them to work with us – we don’t. We opened last fall (2010) and it’s been a crazy and exciting time with 3 natural disasters during our first year while trying to build a customer base!

2.    It’s (almost) 2012 and resort and spring 2012 styles are coming into stores. 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?
For resort and spring 2012 NOTHING is cuter than the Le Top swimsuits for babies and infants! The bright colors and fun graphics makes the swimsuits pop out when you’re at the pool or beach. Then you can accessorize them with matching hats and cover-ups! So CUTE!

3.    Any special events that you have planned at your store for the New Year or even Valentine’s Day next month? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and especially the fun deals we can expect!
Writing this 10 days before Christmas, I haven’t a clue what I’m doing after December 25th – hopefully my brain will reboot that day and I can focus on Valentine’s Day!

4.    Surviving yet another winter day this winter can be brutal for kids, what would be your snow day recommended activity – inside or out?
I love board games. The time that I get with my daughter when we play a board game makes for interesting conversation and competiveness between us. Outside in Northern Virginia can mean 60-25 degrees during the ‘winter’. Any time I can spend wandering in a park and checking out nature and teaching my daughter about our local fauna.

5. Although spring 2012 styles are coming soon, what would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe this winter?
I had a winter baby and I’m a huge fan of baby bundlers and anything fleece for babies (mits, hats, pullovers…).

6.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
Be like my mom…Just kidding. Maybe a better question for me would be what I swore I ‘would do’. And the big one for that was spend lots of time with her, make sure she had a good support system around her, instill in her the value of working for something, and not to take things or friends for granted.

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Oakton, VA? Did you grow up in the local area?
I grew up in the South East part of Washington, D.C. so nothing like Oakton, Virginia! Oakton is a small pocket inside Fairfax County (most populated county in VA) that’s not a town or a City. Oakton has a great community of residents and a really strong public and private schools in walking distance to the store. We have a great mix of residents who have raised their kids here and continue to stay after retirement, to young families moving in for good schools, access to lots of kid activities, and local shopping!

8.    What is the hottest trend for kids clothes and toys right now?
I think shoppers want quality products at a good price range, and that’s one of the reasons that Le Top sells so well for us. People love the feel, look and price!

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
We are lucky that we are in a shopping center that offers a good selection of kid-friendly restaurants that you can pick from. So coming to visit us you can make it more than a one-stop trip. There are so many places to go and things to do in Northern Virginia that there are several websites that help track all that information for you. We’ve have had a relationship with www.dullesmoms.com for almost a year now and really like this free website that lists kids’ activities in our area.

10.What Le Top or rabbitmoon Winter 2011 or Spring 2012 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
I really liked 2 dresses that were for Winter 2011 – Le Top’s “Starry Night” and“Candy Cane Cutie”.  Both were huge sellers and they looked so cute on the little girls!

Le Top "Starry Night" collection

The Tabby Cat

Hunter Mill Plaza
2946-F Chain Bridge Road
Oakton, VA
703.255.0812

www.tabbycatkids.com

 Mon – Fri: 9am-6pm
Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: closed

CHECK-IN and JOIN The Tabby Cat’s Facebook page and click HERE

 

 

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Nanny’s Children’s Shoppe: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

We caught up with cute kid’s boutique owner, Jan Gabrielson, of Nanny’s Children’s Shoppe in Sanibel, Florida. Aside from being envious of the great weather in Sanibel, we are even more envious of her amazing children’s store that is a must-go-to for cute kids clothing, accessories and much more – plus we hear she is having a 30% sale soon! She gives us the scoop on family hangouts around her store, her upcoming store events and her favorite Le Top Collection! Read more below!

 NANNY’S CHILDREN’S SHOPPE

2250 Periwinkle Way
Sanibel, FL 33957
239.395.1730
 

1.    Tell us the inspiration the name Nanny’s Children’s Shoppe? How long has your store been around?
Nanny’s has been on Sanibel since 1982. I purchased the store in 1999. I have moved the location over the years to it’s present home – an original cottage located on the main road and bicycle route.

2.    Any special events or fun holiday traditions that you have planned at your store for Christmas Eve or the New Year? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and especially the fun deals we can expect!
Nanny’s participates every year in the annual Sanibel Island Luminary Night held the first Friday of December. This year we featured a local cartoonist and children’s author. The kids enjoyed cookies while drawing with him.  During the holidays, Nanny’s will have a 30% off sale in progress on fall merchandise.

Jan showing off the Le Top "Jolly Jurassic" collection t-shirt

3.    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…
At this time of the year, I enjoy wonderful friends and customers talking and sharing their stories and pictures of their children and grandchildren. Over the years in the children’s business I have seen them grow-up!

4.    What would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe this winter – especially for the warm-weather kiddos in Florida!
We find sun protection hats, shirts, and swim cover-ups to be a must-have in Florida.

5.    What is your favorite holiday film past or present for kids/family?
I absolutely love It’s A Wonderful Life.

Inside Nanny's featuring Le Top "Pizzazz" collection dresses and leggings (top), "Seeing Spots" collection (right wall)

6.    Will you be carrying any cute swimwear or Spring 2012 this January for parents looking to buy warm-weather clothing for holiday vacations? What are some hot items to look out for?
Nanny’s will be receiving lots of spring clothing items in January for all of our annual guests. The fashions for spring are so colorful and comfortable. We carry many knits that the children love. Being in Florida, you’ll find many ocean themed items….crabs, fish, lobsters. How about shark t-shirts for boys!

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Sanibel, Florida?
Nanny’s is located in the Sanibel Square near the very popular Sanibel Bean Coffee Shop.

8.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
Located right across the street from Nanny’s is the town park, a wonderful place for children to enjoy. Also, the Island Cow restaurant is a very popular spot to dine with children. The number one attraction on Sanibel for the whole family is the miles of beaches.

Le Top "Purrrfectly Pink" collection circle skirt dress and stripe footless tights

9.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon Winter 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
The favorite in Nanny’s from the winter collection was Le Top’s “Purrfectly Pink” group. The soft colors and the twirl factor made this a must-have!

NANNY’S
CHILDREN’S SHOPPE

2250 Periwinkle Way
Sanibel, FL 33957
239.395.1730

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Jack n’ Jill Shop: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

Le Top went up a hill to find the cutest boutique ever! This week we are featuring one of our most favorite premier boutiques – Jack n’ Jill Shop – in Homewood, Alabama. We were able to interview Store Manager, Laura Player, about the best holiday gifts this season, Christmas discounts the store will be offering for eager parent shoppers, the favorite local family hangouts and her favorite holiday traditions to share with your family. Read more to discover one f the best boutiques to shop at this festive season!

 Jack n’ Jill Shop

2918 South 18^th Street
Homewood, AL 35209
205.879.7681

CHECK-IN and JOIN Jack n’ Jill Shop Facebook page and click HERE

1.    Tell us the inspiration behind the name Jack N Jill Shop? How long has your store been around? 
The Jack n’ Jill Shop was established in 1954 as the first children’s clothing boutique in the suburb of Homewood, Alabama that is located directly outside of the Birmingham city limits. I am not exactly sure what the inspiration was behind the name Jack n’ Jill other than that the original owners thought that it would be cute to name their store after a popular children’s nursery rhyme. It’s definitely a name that children and parents can easily remember!

2.    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?

• Matching Christmas pajamas are one of our best sellers. Our customers really like to have all their children matching in front of the Christmas tree for pictures on Christmas morning.
• Christopher Pop-In-Kins the magical little Elf that “Pops-in” to children’s homes every Thanksgiving and returns to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to report a child’s good or bad behavior back to Santa Claus.
• Lots of white and red Le Top turtlenecks, tights, hair bows, and other accessories sell very well as people pick up those last minute items they need to accessorize their child’s Christmas outfit.

3.    Any special events or fun holiday traditions that you have planned at your store for Christmas or the New Year? Tell us the inside scoop about any special events and especially the fun deals we can expect!
We start the holiday season out every year on the first Thursday of November with the Downtown Homewood Holiday Open House. All of the shops on our street stay open three hours later and offer special sales, food, etc to customers in their stores. The Jack n’ Jill Shop offers a discount on all holiday clothing and accessories that night.

On the first Sunday of December we hold our annual 50% off fall merchandise and 30% off Christmas apparel sale.  This event is huge and helps to clean out merchandise to make way for the spring items that start arriving during December.  

4.    What’s your favorite holiday tradition and or nostalgic moment and why? Whether it is decorating the Christmas tree to eating peppermint bark to lighting the menorah candles to baking in the kitchen, etc….

Streuselkuchen

My favorite holiday tradition is making a German kuchen cake on Christmas Eve for my family. Kuchen is delicious yeast based coffee cake with a fabulous gooey cinnamon and sugar topping. This tradition was started by my grandmother when my mother and her sisters were small girls, continued with my mom baking it for my brother and me, and now I bake it for my family. 

5.    What would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe this winter?

• A fleece jacket is a must for any child’s wardrobe.  Fleece is not only warm it washes and dries easily which is great for mom!
• A lightweight crocheted or fleece hat is great for chilly days and nights. Lots of girls are now pinning a cute flower to their hat, which really adds a touch of wow!
• A plain white cardigan is an essential for chilly Sunday mornings throughout the south so we stock them year round for our customers.

6.    What is your favorite holiday film past or present for kids/family?
My favorite holiday film is the first “Home Alone.” There is just something so cute about Macaulay Culkin and the ingenious ideas he uses to fight the burglars that try to break into his home. I enjoy watching this movie with my husband and son every year.

7.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
The one thing I swore I would never do is have a DVD player in my car to keep my child occupied during long trips. Needless to say there is now a DVD player in my car and In fact, I managed to get out during the wee morning hours of Black Friday to search out a new one this year!

8.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Homewood, Alabama? Did you grow up in the local area?
The Jack n’ Jill Shop is located in “Old” Downtown Homewood. The “Old” comes from the fact that the street hasn’t changed very much throughout the years. The buildings remain virtually unchanged since their inception. I grew up in Homewood, graduated from Homewood High School and even shopped in the Jack n’ Jill Shop as a child. The best thing about the Homewood community is the wonderful support the local businesses receive from its residents. People like to shop with us because of the deep tradition our store reflects within the local community. Not many stores have customers that can say they are the 3rd or 4th generation that has shopped at Jack n’ Jill.

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
The Jack n’ Jill Shop is nestled in between Sikes Children’s Shoes and Savages Bakery, which makes a very exciting shopping adventure for children and their families. Savages has been baking wonderful cookies, cakes, and pastries in the Homewood community since 1939. In fact, it’s quite a tradition for families to stop by Jack n’ Jill, purchase a holiday outfit, head to Sikes Children’s Shoes for their matching pair of shoes, and swing into Savages for either lunch or a special treat.

10.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon winter 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
The favorite Le Top collection for my store this fall has been the Horsin’ Around & Primrose Pony brother and sister collections. Each year Le Top manages to create such an exceptionally cute Western group for both boys and girls. What child doesn’t dream of being a little Cowboy or Cowgirl! Thanks Le Top for continuing to create fabulous age appropriate clothing for children.

Jack n’ Jill Shop

2918 South 18^th Street
Homewood, AL 35209
205.879.7681 

Click HERE to
CHECK-IN and JOIN 
Jack n’ Jill Shop’s Facebook page 
 

 

 

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Southern Belles Boutique: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

We travelled down south this week to get the scoop on the best store event in South Carolina and cutest clothes for winter – Southern Belles boutique. Not only do they have fun deals for Black Friday weekend (sign up as a Facebook fan to find out!), but also in-person silhouettes from trained artists from Walt Disney World – could we not ask for more? With the holidays just around the corner, Southern Belles offers a variety of winter and holiday clothes – they even monogram them too for your little special someone. We interviewed boutique owner (and child-clothing-boutique-guru), Susie Maloney, to find out about the cutest boutique in Mt. Pleasant, her Thanksgiving traditions, and even what she swore she would never do as a parent, and her favorite Le Top holiday collections. Read more to find out about this fabulous southern gem.

Southern Belles

280 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite J
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
843.881.741 

CHECK-IN and JOIN Southern Belles’ Facebook page and click HERE
 

1.    Tell us the inside scoop about any special events that you have planned for your boutique for the holidays, especially the fun deals we can expect! Anything for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah or Christmas?
We are excited to have several events going on here at Southern Belles. This Saturday, November 19^th, Silhouette Artist, Patti Rishforth will be here at our store doing in-person silhouettes. She began her career at Walt Disney World. We are booking up quickly and only have afternoon appointments left at this time, but it is well worth the $30.00 for the two silhouettes you get, and it only takes 10 minutes! There are also other items available with your child’s silhouette. Call today to schedule your appointment! 843-881-1741

On Saturday, December 3^rd we also have two exciting events going on! Donna McMahon, Pastel Portrait Artist and member of Portrait Society of America, will be here doing in-person pastel portraits. This is the second and final time Donna will be here before Christmas. She also started her career at Walt Disney World in Orlando and now travels throughout the southeast working in many upscale children’s shops. Cost is $150.00 per person and you leave with your portrait in hand! Schedule your 30-minute appointment with us by calling 843-881-1741!

We’ll also be kicking off the holiday shopping season the Friday after Thanksgiving with all sorts of weekend specials! Follow us on Facebook or join our email list to be the first to know about this and all of our sales, events and promotions!

2.    Tell us the inspiration behind opening your own boutique? How did you come up with the name?
I was a stay at home mom with a toddler, and my hobby of designing children’s appliqué and embroidered clothing turned into a home-based business that eventually evolved into a storefront. Originally, my sister-in-law and I were going to open a retail shop together, and we wanted a business name to reflect something “southern” that wouldn’t restrict the kind of merchandise we would carry. We eventually came up with the name Southern Belles! (She decided that with 3 small children, the commitment of a retail shop might not be in her best interest, so I ventured out on my own.)

3.    We hear you have been rated “Best Children’s Shop” for 6 years running – what makes you a top boutique and a “go-to” for mom’s and families for children’s clothing, shoes and accessories?
I would like to think it’s a combination of excellent customer service and an inventory that is second-to-none. We are a full service children’s clothing store carrying girls’ and boys’ clothing in sizes preemie to 16, including shoes, accessories and gift items. Most busy moms just don’t have the time to shop all over for children’s clothing and gift items. They know when they come to Southern Belles, we can dress their little ones from head to toe, they can get the item monogrammed if needed, pick up a baby or birthday gift, get it giftwrapped, and be on their way! We are also conveniently located and accessible from anywhere in the tri-county area and beyond. 

4.    Please tell us 1 fun Thanksgiving tradition you had with your family as a child that you can share with our readers?
I can’t think of anything “fun” that we did, but we always had the traditional delicious Thanksgiving dinner that my mother prepared. (And you would think she was feeding an army!) She taught me how to set a beautiful table using all of the “good” china and silver, starched white linen table cloth and napkins, and we were expected to be on our best behavior! After dinner, some of us would go for a long walk. We lived in the country, and it’s beautiful in the south that time of year. Most of the men would gather around the television to spend the rest of the day watching football!

5.    What would you suggest as the top 3 essentials in the winter that any parent should buy to brighten up their child’s wardrobe this winter?
The first “essential” every child needs is a good winter coat. Even in the south we have days when a sweater or lightweight jacket just isn’t enough. Children’s coats are so colorful now and most of them come with matching hats and/or scarves. Secondly, colorful and patterned tights can really make a simple outfit “pop” and are an inexpensive way to accessorize. Thirdly, I would suggest a cute pair of shoes or boots…and there is no shortage of styles and colors this season!

6.    What is your favorite Thanksgiving feast or appetizer item that is your “go-to” – do you have any family recipes you can share or ideas for a kid’s snack?
I still like the traditional Turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, fresh green beans, macaroni pie, cheddar herb biscuits, etc., and my mother’s awesome pecan pie for dessert. Because my mother always has so much food for the main meal, we seldom have appetizers for fear that everyone will fill up on them and not enjoy all the delicious food he prepares!

7.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
Before I had kids, I swore I would never let my child run around in a business or restaurant, and I lived up to that! Being a business owner now, I wish other parents would be more aware of their children’s public behavior. I think we’ve lost a little something when it comes to being respectful.

8.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina? Did you grow up in the local area?
My shopping center is called Northcutt Plaza Specialty Shops and is one of the oldest “strip centers” in Mount Pleasant. It is located in what used to be the heart of “old” Mount Pleasant, and is located just about a mile from the Arthur Ravenel Bridge that connects us to Charleston. Even though Mt. Pleasant had grown significantly in the 25 years I have lived here, it still has a small town feel. Most all of the retail shopping is within a ten-mile radius and is intermingled among residential areas. Mt. Pleasant residents no longer have to “cross the bridge” for shopping, as we are now a destination shopping area. I grew up in the Charleston area about 13 miles south of Charleston. 

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
In our shopping center, there is a Baskin Robbins ice cream shop, which is a favorite spot for kids and adults alike for a milk shake or ice cream cone. Right around the corner is a movie theatre called Cinnabar where you can order delicious food prepared on site and an adult beverage to enjoy while you watch your movie. We’re also lucky to live on the coast, so in the summertime, the beach is the place to be for relaxing and family fun. Mt. Pleasant has a new waterfront park and pier that has endless fun things to do for kids of all ages. You can fish off the pier or just relax and swing while you enjoy the delightful breeze and scenery of the Cooper River and marshes.

Featuring Le Top Frosty Days and Santa Surprise! Collections

10.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon Fall 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
We always love the Holiday Collections by Le Top! The red and white stripe knit dresses (Candy Cane Cutie Collection) accessorized with the matching hat and red and white polka dot tights are one of our favorites for girls. Baby’s first Christmas footie, matching hat and blanket also gets kudos from us!

Southern Belles

280 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite J
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
843.881.741 

CHECK-IN and JOIN Southern Belles’ Facebook page and click HERE

 

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Belli Bambini Boutique: PREMIER STORE SPOTLIGHT Q&A

We spoke with storeowner, Melissa Delancy, this week about her over the top adorable and great to shop in boutique in Southern Pines, North Carolina. She gave us the scoop on how she started her store, where the best local family hangouts are these days, as well as her top Le Top boys and girls collections this season for your kiddo. Did we mention she gives a special discount if you dress up for Halloween and come to her store? Go get your costumes soon! 🙂 Read more below about one of our favorite Le Top boutique retailers – Belli Bambini.

Belli Bambini

118 Northwest Broad Street
Southern Pines, NC 28387
910.692.6926

CHECK-IN and JOIN Belli Bambini’s Facebook pageand click HERE

1.    Tell us the inspiration behind opening your own boutique?
Melissa:  I started working in the children’s industry at Gap Kids when I started college. It was a very hard, exhausting, and rewarding job. After the long hours. I swore I would never work retail again. But I went on to work at private boutiques and fell in  love …22 years later here I am, and still loving it.

Le Top Fall 2011 "Zoo Kazoo" collection

2.    How did you come up with the name?
Melissa:  Decisions can be my worst enemy. I had at least 40 names to choose from and my husband finally told me I had until the end of  the day. I wanted something sweet that was about both boys and girls. That’s why we are called Belli and not Bella. 

3.    Fall is in the air and Charlotte Magazine mentions you are a store for posh tots! You definitely are on the local style radar – what are 3 staples you can tell parents to buy from your store for when transitioning their kids’ wardrobe from summer threads to warm clothes for the fall?
Melissa:  Everyone must have a pair of TOMS, plus every shoes you buy, TOMS donates a pair to someone in need of shoes! Jeggings! Denim and colors…a great way to pair with an assortment of tops. Le Top red and white styles…perfect for Christmas and Valentines Day!

4.    Tell us the inside scoop about any special events that you have planned for your boutique for fall, especially the fun deals we can expect! Anything for Halloween next month?
Melissa:  Halloween we will dress up and if you dress up we will give you 15% off any regular price item. 

5.   Please tell us 1 fun Halloween tradition you had with your family as a child that you can share with our readers?
Melissa:  As a child I loved to dress up, but I didn’t like to ask for candy, because I didn’t feel it was appropriate. But I loved and still love to hand out candy and tell all the trick-or-treaters how adorable they are. Funny thing is my middle child has always been the same way. 

6.    What is one fun way to decorate a pumpkin or your home for Halloween?
Melissa:  We, or shall I say my husband, traces and cuts our pumpkins. He is very precise. 🙂

7.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?”
Melissa:  I swore I would never make my kids wear something they didn’t like, especially dresses! I hated to wear dresses and every Sunday my parents made me wear one to church. I wanted pants like my brother…guess what I lied! I must approve the attire. 

8.    Tell us about a “special” moment that has made your day working at your store.
Melissa:  It’s too hard to pick just one “aha” moment, but I must say its such a pleasure when a couple goes to the doctor to be told they are expecting a little miracle. Their first stop being Belli Bambini, either as a way of celebrating, or as a gift they give to their parents to tell them they are going to be grandparents. While I feel all children are so special, another “aha” moment is to see the smile of a mother-to-be who is awaiting for the birth mother(adoption) to give birth to their baby. What a blessing!

9.    Describe the neighborhood of your store location in Southern Pines, North Carolina. Did you grow up in the local area?
Melissa:  I was raised in San Antonio, Texas. My husband serves in the military which is what brought us to Southern Pines. Southern Pines is a beautiful little town. The train house and railroad tracks divide the shopping street into two sides. The best way to describe it is its “like living in Mayberry.” Plenty of unique boutiques, tasty restaurants, parks where you will see families walking their dogs, strolling their babies and eating an ice cream cones.   

10.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store location?
Melissa:  Grab a bench, sit and enjoy the view. If you need more, we do have 27 golf courses and we are in horse country. 

11.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon Fall 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
Melissa:  I love the Le Top “Zoo Kazoo” Collection  and for girls its the “Cute Cookie” Collection! 

Belli Bambini

118 Northwest Broad Street
Southern Pines, SC 28387
910.692.6926

CLICK HERE to CHECK OUT Belli Bambini on Facebook

Le Top Fall 2011 "Cute Cookie" Collection

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The Carousel Kid’s Boutique: STORE SPOTLIGHT PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We cannot get enough of the cutest (not to mention the most charming) boutiques in the South! This week we interviewed Jona Carver, owner of The Carousel in Columbia, South Carolina. Not only does the store have the best in back-to-school trends, Jona gives us the top trends for fall for southern belles and boys, must-haves for any new mom and her “before she had kids, one thing she swore she would never do!”. Read more for a playful Friday interview with one of our premier Le Top and Rabbitmoon boutiques!

 THE CAROUSEL
4525 Forest Drive
Columbia, SC 29206
864.505.4141

 or go to www.carouselkidsboutique.com for more information 

CHECK-IN and JOIN The Carousel’s Facebook page and click HERE

 1.    How long has your store been around and what was the inspiration behind the name of your store?
Jona:  I opened this store in February of 2010. Everyone told me I was crazy to open a store at that time, but I knew I could do it! My children and I love horses and the carousel ride at any amusement park was always my favorite, as well as my kids! The carousel represented to me the magic and imagination of childhood.

2.    Tell us the inside scoop about any special events that you have planned at your store this coming summer, especially the fun deals we can expect.  
Jona:  The Carousel is truly lucky to be part of a wonderful shopping center called Forest Village. The other stores and I are hoping to plan a fall festival for all the kids with games, costume contest, apple bobbing and who knows what!! The Carousel is also working with local artists to promote their wonderful talents in our store with special previews and sales!

3.    Back-to-school is just around the corner – what are 3 trends you can tell parents to look for when buying their kids’ wardrobe?
Jona:  Parents, like myself, are always looking for a good value, durability and quality. When I brought Rabbitmoon into my store in the fall of 2010, parents were intrigued. No one else in my area carried this line from Le Top. When the spring line of this year arrived, I was blown away by all the comments I received. Parents told me how the Rabbitmoon outfits were their children’s favorite. How they were pleased with how they washed and held their shape.  I could hardly keep the spring line stocked!!

4.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!
Jona:  Adhere to the “5 second” rule.  All of my friends had babies before I did, and I would watch as “little Johnny” would throw his bottle or paci on the floor. My friends would always say “5 second rule”, blow it off and hand it back to “little Johnny”. Well, I just thought that was unsanitary until I had one of my own. After running back and forth one day numerous times, rinsing bottles or paci, I had had enough. Now the “5 second rule” RULES in my house!!

5.    Give us your top 3 essentials for a kid’s back-to-school wardrobe from your store.
Jona:  For the boys, the staple in the south has to be a good polo shirt and khaki pants. We carry Bella Bliss that has outstanding quality and the soft cottons. And what little southern belle wouldn’t be complete without her smocked dress. Le Za Me from Louisiana fits our bill for this traditional school apparel.

6.    If you could pick one essential for a new mom for her baby from your store – what would it be and why?
Jona:  The biggest, softest blanket you can find. We have Little Giraffe blankets and they are the best blankets around!

7.    Describe the neighborhood of your store locations in Columbia, South Carolina. Did you grow up in any of the local area?
Jona:  Our store is located in Forest Acres, a city within our capital city Columbia. Although our address is Columbia, our store is within the city limits of Forest Acres. Forest Acres is wonderful community full of great schools, local flavors and true southern charm!

8.    Tell us about a “special” moment that made your day working at your store.
Jona:  Soon after I opened the store, a little girl named Lily came in with her mom. They had been shopping at other stores that day and Lily was getting tired of trying on clothes. She was looking for a special dress for her birthday and just could not find what she wanted. After many go-arounds, Lily found her dress. The next day, Lily and her mom came back to the store with a thank-you card Lily had made for me. She said that she loved her dress and that everyone thought she was the most beautiful one at the party. I nearly cried!!

7.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon Spring/Summer 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
Jona:  This would have to be the Rabbitmoon Empress Collection. Any piece in this collection! I literally sold out of the dress from the back room before it could even be steamed!! This print was my best seller!

 

THE CAROUSEL
4525 Forest Drive
Columbia, SC 29206
864.505.4141 

or go to
www.carouselkidsboutique.com
for more information 

CHECK-IN and JOIN
The Carousel’s Facebook page
and click HERE

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P. Cottontail & Company: STORE SPOTLIGHT PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We interviewed super chic boutique owner, Sandra Murphy, of P. Cottontail & Company located in Half Moon Bay, California to find out “what’s hot” and “what’s not” for kids clothes this summer. She gives also gives us the inside scoop on her store events and super sales to look out for, as well as the best hangouts in the store’s area. Read more to find out about her fashion tips and the best beach gear this summer that you can’t live without!

P. Cottontail & Company
527 Main Street
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650.726.0200 

Check-in and join P. Cottontail & Company’s
Facebook page and click HERE 

1.    What was your inspiration/ behind opening your children’s clothing store – P. Cottontail & Company?
Sandra: I really did not have a single inspiration — being in the garment industry my entire career — and the kids business for a large part of that…it was a natural progression.  

2.    Tell us about any special events that you have planned at your store this coming summer and fun deals we can expect. Sandra: Our special events this summer?…On July 4th we have an old fashion hometown parade. We will be handing out flags to all of our kids. Also our BIG end of season sale will start in mid-July. Of course, do not forget THE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL in October. Please visit us early for all things pumpkin AND the best costumes ever.  

3.    What are this season’s latest trends for kid’s clothing? Tell us the 3 “do’s” and 3 “don’ts” in kid clothing style.
Sandra: Do’s and Don’ts…

• Do go for all things comfy and soft — babies and kids both can develop sensory issues at an early age give them all the help you can.
• Do go for the accessories — it makes the outfit — boys love hats and cool shoes, girls love purses just like mom.
• Do go for lots of great dress up clothes, it’s not just for b-day parties, and not just for girls!
• Don’t ever buy any garment that even LOOKS itchy — this is especially important in dressy dresses — also tags inside the garment — many
  of the moms ask us to remove them after they purchase the outfit because they bother the kids so much.
• Don’t ever go for anything tight or restrictive — kids need to be kids.

4.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!
Sandra: I never had anything I swore I would never do — I’m a firm believer in “never say never.” I have one daughter — one amazing daughter — and being in the apparel industry, she was exposed to all types of clothing and styles and is quite the diva.

5.    Describe the neighborhood of Half Moon Bay, California where your store is located. Did you grow up in the local area?
Sandra: Half Moon Bay is a coast side town about 20 minutes south of San Francisco — the ocean is a big attraction for families — there are also tide pools at The Fitzgereld Marine Reserve where kids get a real hands-on experience.  

6.    What are your top 3 best selling beach gear items that you would suggest as the perfect “go-to” items for a family on vacation?
Sandra: Top 3 items for beach gear — SUN SCREEN – a sun hat with a large brim and sunglasses – I’m very big on sun protection — start you kids early. 

7.    Tell us about a “special” moment that made your day working at your store.
Sandra: Hands down favorite moment in the store is when one of my favorite little girls came in, sat down on the floor, opened her piggy bank–dumped out all the pennies–and asked me if she had enough money to buy the horse outfit!! 

Le Top "Flutterbye Butterfly" Hooded Zip Front Coverup and Bikini

8.    What swimwear or cover-up piece from Le Top or rabbitmoon do you love from the Spring/Summer 2011 collection?
Sandra: My summer swimwear collection favorite piece…is the pink zip front cover-up from the Le Top “Flutterbye Butterfly” Collection – I also love the bikini-don’t forget the sun hat!  

P. Cottontail & Company
527 Main Street
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650.726.0200

Check-in and join
P. Cottontail & Company’s
Facebook page and click HERE

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