The Biz: The Grapevine

See and Be Seen Wearing Raingear

By Mari Gold

Safety is a major concern of anyone involved with kids. They need to be visible out on bikes and scooters, in storms and any time decreased visibility could cause a problem. i Rock the Block brings stylish rain jackets that combine fashion, function and safety. Jackets are comfy to wear, hooded and well-fitted with a soft-touch waterproof shell that keeps the kid inside snug and dry. The fully-lined interior adds an extra touch of warmth. Add to it high-visibility safety trims that can be seen for up to 600 feet away.

The Grapevine

Posheez Are Fitting for Babies

By Mari Gold

Babies do lots of things well –– among them is growing fast. Blink and the baby who fit that outfit perfectly has totally grown out of it. The answer is adjustable clothes which comes to fruition via Posheez by American Posh. The line is the brainchild of Denisa Dragu who was unable to find a quality one-piece that would fit her long, slim newborn. Before you could say “perfect fit,” she came up with premium quality clothes that can be tweaked so body and outfit actually come together perfectly.

The Grapevine

MiniLou Tales Illustrate Joys of Childhood

By Stephanie Hanlon

It’s almost spring break, which leads to summer road trips. Despite what it looks like outside, in most of the U.S., we’ll all be on the road soon. And that means trying to offer the best in road trip entertainment. Parents will love you for offering something small, super portable, and with zero noise. Offer them a mini respite from the beeps of modern life with MiniLou. A children’s product company dedicated to bringing creative and portable products to families, MiniLou offers illustrated coloring books, paper pals and bookmarks for trips both short and long.

The Grapevine

Jazz Up Baby Carriers with a Fuzzy Cuddleroo Animal Cover

By Hannah Driscoll

It can be difficult to sell a line of plain baby carriers, but thanks to Cuddleroo, it doesn’t matter what the carriers look like. These adorable animal-themed covers are the perfect way for one to stand out among the rest. They work with most soft structured carriers (ones worn as a backpack or on the chest), and help protect baby from the elements too. Great as gifts for parties, baby showers, or themed events. There are plenty of options to choose from; your store could offer the whole zoo!

The Grapevine

Duke of London Puts a New Hip Edge on Boys’ Fashions

By Stephanie Hanlon

London street fashion has been making its way across the world in magazines and runways, and now little dudes can dress in edgy duds no matter what side of the pond they live on with Duke of London. Since launching in 2012 as the dream of an Australian mother who simply loved dressing her boys, the edgy brand has filled a gap in the fashion market. Unique designs by Kiri Proctor are uber cool comfort clothing for boys aged 6 months to 6 years. Duke of London is named after Kiri’s boys, London, 3 and Duke, 2. The style is revolutionary and radical, which is proving right on trend for the fashion forward mothers.

The Grapevine

Tiny Love Is Big on Innovation

By Hannah Driscoll

While a lot of toys are used to simply keep babies distracted, Tiny Love offers products that support a child’s growth and development. Mobiles, gyms, and carriers are all made with the thought of how to make these first years a great beginning in a child’s life. These products are more than just a baby item, they stimulate an engaging and interactive experience. Multiple awards in best innovation and development show how instrumental parents will view Tiny Love products as educational choices for their babies.

The Grapevine

HABA Marks 35 Years of Playful Success in North America

By The Giggle Guide

The gold standard in toys for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, European-based HABA USA celebrates its 35th year in North America – and the 10th anniversary of smash hit, award-winning, preschool stacking game Animal Upon Animal – with the release of dozens of brand new toys and games designed to delight a whole new generation of children. With hundreds of products spanning dozens of categories, HABA USA is the high-quality, high-design choice for millions of parents around the world. In addition to products manufactured in the German headquarters, HABA USA also distributes several innovative, European brands throughout the North American market.

The Grapevine

ZipIt Links Up Fun with Function

By Laura Vaillancourt

ZipIt is the brainchild of Israeli Industrial Design student Ishay Halmut. The products range from pencil cases to backpacks to women’s bags. Each bag is unique, playful and practical. ZipIt aims to ignite creativity and inspire its customers to think differently in order to unlock their potential. These products are for the young, and young at heart, who want to enjoy clever design at accessible prices.

The Grapevine

Celebrate President’s Day at KIDShow, Las Vegas

By david gaunt

KIDShow Las Vegas kicks off on President’s Day, Monday February 16th this year at Bally’s. The three-day event expects to host more new and first-time KIDShow exhibitors than ever before. Show Manager Denise Raeside says, “We are very excited to report that our exhibitor list has grown to over 60 new brands and first-time exhibitors and multi-line rep showrooms, in addition to many loyal brands that have supported our show from the beginning.” KIDShow is known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent buyer and exhibitor relationships, and range of quality exhibitors with something for every retailer’s price point from mid-tier to high-end.