The Biz: Feature Articles

At approximately 5:15 P.M. on April 27, a huge tornado, known as “The Monster,” hit Alabama, destroying homes, property, and lives. To help those devastated by this horrific event, Krystal Branscome, owner of Downtown Baby, a baby clothing, furniture and gift store in North Tuscaloosa, has made her shop a donation center for children’s supplies. Together with Wagner’s Shoes, another local merchant, Krystal and her helpers load trailers of donations and send them to the Red Cross distribution center from where goods are dispersed to shelters, churches and wherever they are needed.

David Holdridge is the kind of child who thinks about the needs of others. In 2008, when he was just seven years old, he thought up a way to bring his little sister more joy. He knew she loved her soft, fuzzy blanket, and her favorite stuffed lovey. He thought that if he could combine the two, it would surely bring a smile to her face. With the help of his mom Emily, David was able to make his vision a reality, and Happy Blankie was born! Happy Blankies are blankets that kids want to cuddle with at first sight. These cozy covers come in a variety of styles, each featuring an adorable, wide-smiling creature.

Businesses are started with intentions of being successful. Growth is a key to realizing that goal. There’s a familiar old saying –– “If you’re not growing you’re dying” –– and it is so true. However, in today’s challenging economic times, growth is easier said than done. Even so, there are a number of businesses experiencing success. What sets these companies apart? Are they lucky? Are they overflowing with resources? Not necessarily: Companies that do well are those with a strong sense of what they are setting out to achieve. These companies are pressing forward because they desire to grow and have committed to make that happen.

Mother’s Day, a holiday that is second only to the Christmas season for gift-giving, is here. What better way to show moms how much their love, affection, hard work, and sacrifice mean than a special day full of pampering and presents? From delicious culinary creations future chefs cook up courtesy of kid-friendly kitchen gear from Curious Chef and Ann Clark, to artwork and photos captured on mugs, jewelry, and snow globes by Neil Enterprises, to must-have handbags from Trumpette — there are wonderful surprises here that will make every mom sigh with well-deserved contentment.

Moms deserve lots of appreciation, not only on Mother’s Day, but every day! Make sure your store is ready with plenty of options for shoppers looking to pamper mamas, grandmas and other special women in their lives. When husbands and kids come to you for gift giving ideas, be prepared with special selections that make moms feel feminine, cherished and special, whether it’s Mother’s Day, a birthday, holiday, or “just because” she’s Mom. The Giggle Guide® recommends stocking gifts from these brands for remembering moms throughout the year: Lollipop Beauty Bar, Lily Burkman, Little Giraffe, and Fruits & Passion.

High Five” counts down Editorial Director David Gaunt’s personal observations, tips and praise reports about the children’s business. This edition includes five tips about cold calling, The ABC Kids Expo in Kentucky, doing business differently, strollers breaking the glass ceiling again and Coverplay, an example of “Why didn’t someone already think of that?”

This Sunday is Mother’s Day — a special day set aside for honoring moms. But why limit the recognition to just one day each year? Mothers work hard taking care of their families each and every day, and deserve little indulgences all year long! Whether customers are searching for a special gift for a new mama, long-time mama, or mama-to-be, The Giggle Guide® recommends these luxurious products from Baby Be Mine Maternity, Beaute de Maman, Sono Vaso, and MamaDoc. New trends are balanced with proven, doctor-developed products that pamper Mom from pregnancy to birth and beyond!

In the ever-changing children’s industry, each season brings new designs, products, and even entirely new lines. Customers are always looking for the newest, hottest trend. To keep them coming back season after season, year after year, retailers must stock a variety of fresh, eye-catching products. New collections offer brick-and-mortar retailers opportunities to be the first to introduce what’s new to customers, and possibly hold the title of “the only place in town that carries it.” To help buyers on their quest, The Giggle Guide® presents some new offerings from Robeez, Redsnapper, Snapants, and Jelly The Pug.

The day a new baby comes home from the hospital is an exhilarating experience! Anticipation leads up to this moment for many months, and parents carefully consider and shop for everything their precious bundle might need on this very special day. From that picture-perfect going home outfit and cuddly swaddling blanket to the safest, swankiest car seat for the ride home, Peg Perego, SwaddleDesigns, Beanie Designs, and Sage Creek Organics have all the first-trip necessities to ensure that baby is safe, secure, and comfortable on this momentous occasion.

Login:

Username:
Password: