The Biz: Feature Articles

When Alexander the Great arrived on the shores of Persia, his army was severely outnumbered by his enemies. Despite the grim situation, he was not deterred. In fact, he was so emboldened with confidence in his ability to win, that he gave orders to his men to burn their boats. As their only means of possible retreat went up in flames, it has been said that Alexander turned to his men and said, “We go home in Persian ships, or we die.” As for me, I find I’m more conservative, feeling more comfortable having options. I like having a Plan B (and maybe a plan C too). It’s hard to argue a case for not having contingencies, especially for worst-case scenarios.

Summer lovin’ is here, so take advantage and fill your stores with waves of wonder! No more tying a towel around the waist; kids can wear their towels proudly with Kiki’s Nation. This innovative company designs pants, jammers, skirts and even bags all made of super-absorbent towel material. Under the sea has never been more fun than MerFins, imaginative beachwear that allows girls to experience Ariel’s world by morphing from legs to fins. Art meets fashion with Kaeli Smith Designs beautiful resort wear in vibrant colors, perfect for a summer BBQ or garden party. Babies stay safe seaside with sport & water wrap baby carriers by Beachfront Baby.

It takes a parent of steel to face a mountain of plastic kids’ dishware and address the environmental and health risks from PVC, BPA and melamine in plastics. Pretty Govindji began to educate herself on pesticides and chemicals and the role they play in the food supply chain. The bottom line: What she served her children’s food on was just as important as the food itself. Govindji enlisted her friend and fellow mom, Tess Brennan, and together they made it their mission to create versatile kids’ dishware products made of high-quality, food-grade stainless steel — Kangovou.

Other than the child’s name, nursery decorating might be the most important part of a baby’s early identity. Retailers looking for a new profit possibility might consider carrying paints in addition to crib bedding and coordinating accessories. Dirt has never looked so clean and chic with the natural pigment of Green Planet Paints. Sweet ones will slumber peacefully with medical grade mattresses and pads by Moonlight Slumber. Creative and chic, Carousel Designs has over 100 options for a natural nursery. Stokke stocks some of the most versatile furniture on the market, including beds, dressers and diaper changing tables that convert as children grow.