Itzy Bitzy Shoes Are Affordable and Adorable

By Emmi Kern

Footwear can be pricey for families with children, especially those on a budget. Kids grow out of shoes so quickly, it can be tempting to go to a local discount store and pick up the least expensive pair, hoping that they don’t wear out before the child moves up to the next size. But the selection at many large chain stores can be surprisingly small and not always what the parents are looking for. Kids can be quite picky when it comes to fashion, so the limited choices are frustrating. Luckily, shoes don’t have to be expensive to be cute and stylish. Itzy Bitzy carries a great selection of trendy kid’s shoes that won’t hurt the family budget.

The Itzy Bitzy story is much like the stories of other children’s product start-up companies; a mom pursues her dream and ends up building a successful business. But like all of these stories, Itzy Bitzy’s has unique elements that make it interesting and inspiring. The company’s founder, Michelle Ruesch, had the idea to start her own shoe company when her twins, Brooke and Sydney, were learning to walk. Someone had given Michelle two pairs of squeaky shoes as a gift for the girls, and they were a big hit – not just with the twins themselves but with people on the streets. People wanted to know where Michelle had gotten the shoes so that they could buy some for themselves.

Michelle decided that a business that sells squeaky shoes, as well as other children’s footwear and accessories, could be a profitable venture for her. Michelle’s quest for business success was driven by her desire to make life better for her daughter Sydney, who was born with a craniofacial condition called Treacher Collins Syndrome. The condition causes difficulty breathing, eating, hearing and speaking, and caused Sydney to need multiple surgeries and ongoing health support.

The company was recently transferred into the able hands of new owner Michelle Peters-Hill. A portion of the proceeds from sales goes to organizations that help children with Treacher Collins Syndrome and other craniofacial conditions. With such a good cause at its core, and such a wide range of styles - from classic black Mary Janes to glittery silver sandals – Itzy Bitzy is the go-to place for parents who want variety and quality at prices they can afford.

For more information, visit www.itzybitzy.com