Baby Bundles: STORE SPOTLIGHT PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

Gear up, because back-to-school is around the corner, and if there is one store you can use as your “one-stop shop”…it’s Baby Bundles! They have two fabulous locations in Knoxville, Tennessee and Lexington, Kentucky – double the fashion, and double the fun. We spoke with co-owners and kids fashion gurus: Sherri, Margaret and Marie to get the low-down on children’s warm-weather fashion, upcoming deals at their stores and the “do’s” and “don’ts” in dressing the most fashionable baby and kiddo.

 Store Locations:
7600 Kingston Pike, #1460
Knoxville, TN 37919
865.690.4454

161 Lexington Green, Suite B3
Lexington, KY 40503
859.309.0459

 or go to shopbabybundles.com for more information

CHECK-IN and JOIN Baby Bundles Lexington’s Facebook page and click HERE

Baby Bundles in Knoxville

1.    What was your inspiration behind opening your two children’s clothing stores – how long have each been open and do they cater to different clientele?
Baby Bundles:  Baby Bundles was started in Knoxville, Tennessee ten years ago by Sherri. Sherri wanted a store that would offer a comprehensive one-stop shopping experience for parents looking for specialty items. In 2010, Sherri partnered with Baby Bundles Manager, Margaret and her sister Marie to open Baby Bundles in Lexington, Kentucky. Both stores offer traditional and trendy children’s apparel. While the stores are in different locations, the spirit of the clientele remains essentially the same. Our customers range from new parents to grandparents looking for a local shopping experience from a knowledgeable sales staff, whose primary goal is to assist them in selecting merchandise that reflects their child’s unique style and spirit.

2.    Tell us the inside scoop about any special events that you have planned at your two stores and e-boutique this coming summer and fun deals we can expect.
Baby Bundles:  As we wind down summer, Baby Bundles Lexington will be hosting our “One is Fun” First Birthday Party. The event will feature an Alex’s Lemonade Stand hosted by local pre-school students, a petting zoo and visit from local horse hero, Lash, who has recently been made into a plush doll. We will follow that event with a visit with silhouette artist Clay Rice in October.

3.    What are this season’s latest trends for kid’s clothing in Kentucky? Tell us the 3 “do’s” and 3 “don’ts” in kid clothing style.
Baby Bundles: 

Do’s…

1. Accessorize…a great hair bow, headband or cute tights can make the outfit. 
2. Invest in a pair of Monkey Bar Buddies to go with your Le Top dress. The underwear covers come in great colors and are perfect for back to school. 
3. Let your child have voice in which outfits to purchase…you are never too young to take pride in how you look. 

Don’ts…

1. Don’t dress your child above their age. As we tell our customers, “Children are only small for a short period time.” Celebrate childhood by selecting age appropriate clothing.
2. Don’t be afraid to purchase brother and sister matching outfits. Le Top has cute designs that our customers with siblings love.
3. Don’t forget to purchase a white sweater. This simple purchase can help your child’s wardrobe transition into different seasons.

Baby Bundles in Lexington

4.    Why did you pick the name Baby Bundles for your stores?
Baby Bundles:  The original concept was to offer a one-stop shop where parents could buy a variety of specialty store items for their children. The word bundles seemed to work with the original mission and then baby seemed to be a natural fit. 

5.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!
Baby Bundles:  We can’t really think of anything. I guess all three of us just gave up hope of controlling every situation and just decided to enjoy the ride.

6.    Describe the neighborhoods of each of your store locations. Did you grow up in any of the 2 local areas?
Baby Bundles:  The Knoxville store is located in the West Town Mall, Knoxville’s premier shopping center. The Lexington store is located in the Mall at Lexington Green, which primarily caters to locally owned boutiques and businesses. Sherri grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee and Margaret and Marie grew up just outside of Lexington. Marie still resides in Kentucky. 

7.    What would you say are the top 3 requested clothing and/or accessory items requested from your store this summer?
Baby Bundles:

• Texture was a primary concern of customers this summer. Soft knits from Le Top were great sellers because of they feel great and are easy to care for. 
• Le Top bathing suits with matching cover-ups
• Big Sister and Little Sister outfits that compliment without matching exactly. 

8.    Tell us about a “special” moment that made your day working at your store.
Baby Bundles:  Having to name just one is hard. Perhaps the most memorable was when a Knoxville customer who traveled regularly from Eastern Kentucky to shop learned that we were opening a store in Lexington. She was so excited that she starting jumping up and down and waving her hands like the head cheerleader on game day!

Le Top "Ship Ahoy!" swim trunk, shirt and anchor cover-up

9.    Where are the best/essential family hangouts and places to go around your store locations?
Baby Bundles:  When in Knoxville, stop by and ride the train that travels around the West Town Mall. When in Lexington, a stop by Fro Joes for fresh frozen yogurt, feed the ducks at our big pond, or visit Shilito Park that is just down the street.

10.    What Le Top or rabbitmoon Spring/Summer 2011 collection is your store’s favorite and why?
Baby Bundles: Our favorite was the Ship Ahoy! Collection. It was ideal for boys and girls from newborn through size 6. Whether land locked or beach bound just looking at it made us think of the perfect summer day!

Baby Bundles Store Locations:
7600 Kingston Pike, #1460
Knoxville, TN 37919
865.690.4454

161 Lexington Green, Suite B3
Lexington, KY 40503
859.309.0459

 or go to shopbabybundles.com for more information

 CHECK-IN and JOIN Baby Bundles Lexington’s Facebook page and click HERE

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Happy Independence Day!!!!

We at Le Top

 would like to

wish you

 a fun filled

4th of July!

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20% OFF* ONE DAY only at www.letop-usa.com

To celebrate the birth of our country Le Top is offering you 20% OFF non-sale items TODAY ONLY. Read more below to find out the exclusive one day code.

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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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Cheers for Jennifer Connelly’s new BABY GIRL!

Photo by: Jack Shea/Meet the Famous

It’s a girl for Jennifer Connelly and actor/husband Paul Bettany! The actress, 40-years-old, welcome daughter Agnes Larkon on May 31st in New York City.  New baby girl will be joining big brothers Stellan, 7 1/2, and Kai, 13, Connelly’s son from her previous relationship with David Dugan. We think this super cute Le Top Baby “Set Sail!” Collection terry hooded jacket and pants that will be oh so comfy for the warm-weather days.

Le Top Baby "Set Sail" Collection Terry Hooded Jacket and Pants

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Happy Birthday Stella McDermott!

Photo by: Charley Gallay/WireImage

Today is Stella Doreen McDermott’s birthday! Congrats to this cute little princess turning 3-years-old! The dughter of Tori Spelling and photographer Dean McDermott will be blowing out the candles with big brother Liam Aaron, 4-years-old! Hm, what Le Top party dress to wear? We think Stella would be oh-so-cute in the Le Top “Simple Darling” Collection pink sundress – perfectly pink in every way! 

Le Top "Simply Darling" Collection Sundress

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One Stop Kid Shop: STORE SPOTLIGHT PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

Today we are thrilled to interview Sandy Coonley, owner of One Stop Kid Shop in Malvern, PA for our Store Spotlight. Sandy is an active member of her Victorian era community, has a great take on dressing a stylish child, and a bright and beautiful store jammed packed with everything a kid could want. Read more to discover today’s “Premier Store Spotlight” with children’s boutique One Stop Kid Shop. Enjoy!

One Stop Kid Shop
131 West King Street
Malvern, PA 19355
610.296.2225
www.oskspa.com

Join One Stop Kid Shop’s Facebook page and click HERE 

1.    What was your inspiration behind opening your children’s clothing store – One Stop Kid Shop?
Sandy: I have been in retail my whole life. I have a degree in Retail Management from Syracuse University. Until I had children, I worked in many positions for a variety of stores, including being a clothing buyer and a store manager. I was working at a children’s store when my youngest child left for college, and at the same time the owner of the store decided to close. So it was a natural progression for me to take over and in 2009 One Stop Kid Shop was born!

2.    Tell us about any special events that you have planned at your store this coming summer and fun deals we can expect.
Sandy: We just had our Anniversary Sale. I mailed postcards to my customers. On each card was a peel off sticker and under the sticker was a discount ranging from 20% to 40% off their entire purchase. We challenged the customer not to peel off the sticker until they came into the store. One Stop Kid Shop will have a red, white & blue sale before July 4^th – keep a look out and come by!

3.    Describe the neighborhood of Malvern, Pennsylvania where your store is located. Did you grow up in the local area?
Sandy: Malvern is a small Victorian era town with Victorian street lamps and brick pavers. All the stores, restaurants and businesses are locally and independently owned. The business owners all know each other by name as well as their customers and delivery people. Though I did not grow up in Malvern, the area has been my home for 22 years.

4.    Memorial Day and summer break for kids is just around the corner. What are 3 vacation clothing must-have items that are in your store for summer?
Sandy:

• Colorful swimsuit 
• Sunhat with UV protection
• Beach cover up

5.    Where are your favorite family hangouts in the Malvern area?
Sandy: YMCA – they have activities for kids, families and adults. The YMCA has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, several gyms, workout facilities and sports fields. My children went to preschool and summer camp there, and today when they are home they go to the weight room to get in a workout.

6.    Tell us about a “special” moment that made your day working at your store.
Sandy: When the children try on clothes we ask them to give us a fashion show. Some of them are shy at first, but to see the confidence on their faces when they come out of the fitting room and spin around always brightens my day.

Le Top wall featuring outfits (clockwise from top left) from our spring 2011 “Flutterbye Butterfly”, “Beachy Keen Monokinis”, “Poppies”, “Puppy Pals”, “Heart’s Delight”, and “Hop To It!” collections

7.    What do you think are the 3 perfect ingredients if there was a “recipe” for dressing a stylish child? Always having solid basics? The perfect tutu? Great jeans that are durable for the everyday play of boys? Tell us your ‘secret recipe’ on style.
Sandy: Every boy needs a pair of chinos or twill pants that can be dressed up with a dress shirt and tie or a polo shirt or just be casual with a t-shirt. A basic navy blue blazer is a must in every boy’s wardrobe. For girls, she needs leggings in basic colors that also can be dressed up or down depending on what she wears on top. No girl’s wardrobe is complete without a fancy dress that makes her feel like a princess.

8.    Sesame Street is instrumental in the lives and homes of so many families and children throughout the ears, who was/is your favorite character and why?
Sandy: Elmo – he is full of life and laughter. He is always inquisitive and optimistic. 

9.    What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line or Rabbitmoon do you love from the Spring/Summer 2011?
Sandy: Le Top’s “School of Fun” Collection – I love the styling and bright colors.  This collection started selling as soon as it was put on the sales floor.

Le Top's "School of Fun" collection

One Stop Kid Shop
131 West King Street
Malvern, PA 19355
610.296.2225
www.oskspa.com

 Join One Stop Kid Shop’s Facebook page and click HERE

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Mimi’s for Kids: STORE SPOTLIGHT PREMIER RETAILER Q&A

We are super excited to have interviewed the new children’s boutique owner/founder, Mimi Lonski, of Mimi’s for Kids in Newport, Rhode Island this week for our “Premier Store Spotlight.” She gives us an inside look into opening her first children’s boutique, planning her upcoming “A Party with Carl” event, and her best style and parenting advice for parents and kids. Read more to find out about the chicest boutique in Newport, Rhode Island!

Join Mimi’s for Kids Facebook page and click HERE

1.    What was your inspiration behind starting your children’s clothing store – Mimi’s for Kids?
Mimi:  A grandmother’s job is to spoil her grandchildren and “Mimis” are the some of best grandmothers. Because I am a real Mimi and a Grandmimi, I was inspired to open a shop and fill it with special Grandma gifts for the little ones. We have wonderful clothing, accessories and toys for infants, toddlers and little girls 4-6X.

2.    Tell us about any special events that you have planned at your store and fun deals we can expect.
Mimi: Our store is only one month old so we have been very busy getting to know our customers but we are planning “A Party with Carl” in July when the season is in full swing. Carl is a huge plush sheep from Jellycats who has become our mascot (see above) and frequent window dressing.

Mimi's store front featuring Rabbitmoon's 'Empress' Collection (far left)

3.    Describe the neighborhood of Newport, Rhode Island where your store is located. Tell us about Newport. What made you pick this location and did you grow up in the local area?
Mimi: Newport is a beautiful town, surrounded by water, filled with historic homes, some of which date back to 1720s, and wonderful gardens with big old trees. We are located on Mill Street just off Bellevue Avenue, where all the famous mansions are located. We look out on Touro Park and the Old Stone Mill. The Park is spectacular this spring with all the cherry trees blooming. Newport is a very ‘walkable’ town, which we love. We are only a few blocks from the waterfront and harbor and in the opposite direction, a few blocks from the beach.

4.    Memorial Day and summer break for kids is just around the corner. What are 3 vacation clothing must-have items that are in your store for summer?
Mimi: Although the weather has been quite cool this spring, summer is on its way and Newport is a resort town. Our must-haves for summer include our cool ribbon-trimmed flip flops, fabulous sun hats by Jamie Rae and swimsuits and cover-ups for the beach by Le Top, of course!

5.    Where are your favorite family hangouts in the Newport, Rhode Island area?
Mimi: My grandchildren love kite flying at Brenton Point State Park and of course Easton’s Beach and the carousel that is just a short walk from our shop.

6.    Tell us…before you “had kids or grandkids, what is one thing you swore you’d never…?” Please share!
Mimi: Before I had kids and grandkids, I never thought I would become so much like my mother. It always makes me smile to hear her exact words and expressions come out of my mouth.

7.    Tell us about a “special” moment that made your day working at your store.
Mimi: The day we opened, the first customer came in and looked around and said, “I’m soooo glad you are here!” and then made a purchase.  Everyone has been so welcoming that we are soooo happy to be in Newport, too!

Inside Mimi's for Kids featuring some of Le Top's playwear and Baby collections

8.    What do you think are the 3 perfect ingredients if there was a “recipe” for dressing a stylish child? Always having solid basics? The perfect tutu? Great jeans that are durable for the everyday play of boys? Tell us your ‘secret recipe’ on style.
Mimi: My secret recipe for dressing a stylish child is a pinch of pizzazz, a dash of fun, a cup of comfort, and then mix it all up with lots of color.

9.    Tell us your best parenting tip or mom advice that your mom passed on to you that you would like to share with a new parent.
Mimi: I have three younger brothers, the two youngest being twins, so her advice to me was: have a good sense of humor and try to be consistent.

Le Top 'Poppies!' collection

10.    What collection or piece from Le Top or Le Top Baby line or Rabbitmoon do you love from the Spring/Summer 2011?
Mimi: I love Le Top’s ‘Poppies’ Collection umbrella top and capris for girls and the ‘Sunny Ducky’ Collection short set for boys. Both are just too cute!

 Mimi’s for Kids
154 Mill Street
Newport, RI 02840
401.619.1130

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Elizabeth Banks is a Mom

George Pimentel /WireImage

Elizabeth Banks, who recently played Avery Jessup on 30 Rock, welcomed son Felix with husband film producer Max Handelman via gestational surrogate last week.  

On her website she explains how fortunate she has been but revealed that “The one true hurdle I’ve faced in life is that I have a broken belly. After years of trying to get pregnant, exploring the range of fertility treatments, all unsuccessful, our journey led us to gestational surrogacy: we make a “baby cake” and bake it in another woman’s “oven”.

Elizabeth went on to say “From that came two miracles. The first was meeting our carrier and her husband who were truly humbling in their decency and generosity. And the second miracle was the birth of our baby boy, Felix Handelman. Felix means “happy” and “lucky” in Latin. And true to his name, Felix is a very happy baby and a blessing on our life.”

Banks and Handelman met in college in 1992 and married in 2003.

Felix is one lucky boy to have such a funny and talented mom. I’m sure he will return the favor by making her laugh with all those adorable things babies do. We think Le Top’s “Farm Friends” one-piece romper would be a happy start for this spring baby. Congrats mom and dad!

Le Top "Farm Friends" one-piece romper

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Happy Birthday Nahla Ariela Aubry!

Photo by: Fame

Beautiful and sweet Nahla Ariela Aubry, daughter of model and actress, Halle Berry and model Gabriel Aubry, turns 3-years-old today! Will they go shopping for a mommy and daughter day? We have a feeling it could be a fun celebration in the park! Wouldn’t Nahla look so cute in our Le Top “Poppies” Collection poppy and leaf print tiered dress and sun hat? 

Le Top "Poppies" Collection poppy and leaf print tiered dress

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