(cool) vday cards with heart

We couldn't be more excited to share our most recent collaboration: (cool) valentine's day cards for the modern kiddo.

Since the Bug is in preschool, it's our first year for sending 'kid friend' valentines. The selection of kids cards I could find was less than inspiring, so I started to look for the do-it-yourself kind. Hello, reality. I really don't have time to make a dozen or so Martha-style cards.

Oh wait. You don't have time either?

Enter Madeline from MLC Designs. We worked together to create six original valentine's day card designs that are perfect for little thinkers. You can check out all of the designs here.

Each pack costs $14 and includes 18 high-quality cards and envelopes {{3 cards from each design}}. A portion of all proceeds benefits Baltimore Child Abuse Center. We love how this organization is giving back to Baltimore's kids and families.

If you're local, you can pick up a pack at aMuse Toys or Wee Chic Boutique. Not local or can't make it to the store? Order yours online.

Modern cards that give back? That made our valentine's day just a little sweeter.

style your tot: LAmade trunk show hits wee chic

Ok, spill. How many of you religiously watch Project Runway and play designer via your family room couch -- but secretly don't know how to sew?

Me too.

So I love the the fact that Wee Chic makes it so darn easy for me to style my kid (despite my lacking needle and thread skills) through their seasonal trunk shows. This week they have the fabulously (cool) spring samples from LAmade available to peruse. Think grown-up style -- like funky tunics and layered dresses -- in pint sizes and colors. Had to consistently remind myself that I was shopping for the Bug and the clothes only came in up to girls' size 14 {which would NOT fit me}.

What's a trunk show? An opportunity to preview a specific label before it ships to your favorite store and preorder certain pieces of the line in whatever colors are available.

2011 (cool) approved holiday gift guide

It's here!! It's here!! Our 2011 Holiday Gift Guide. {Can you hear the hallelujah chorus? We can.}

We reached out to our fantastic local partners to bring you 100 ah-mazing gifts.  Fab ideas for modern kids on the go, those with pint-sized style,  rough and tumble boys and twirly whirly girls. We’ve got ten sure to wow ‘em whole family options, presents that inspire play and ones to help little brains grow. We even have some creative thoughts for foodies of ALL ages.

Plus a few seriously (cool) ideas for mom and dad... The best of Charm City and beyond. According to us.

There is also a little announcement about our UNBELIEVABLE funtastic scavenger hunt taking place December 10-17th. The idea? Shop local at our favorite area retailers and complete fun tasks for a chance to take home a -- and this is where the teenage girl squealing comes in -- a huge basket of hot gift items featured in our guide. Check out page 22 for more details. We are beyond excited.

just the right fit: petit feet in quarry lake is giving away a pair of UGGs!

Finding stylish shoes for the Bug was the bane of my existence. I distinctly remember a search for toddler size 7 rain boots last fall that sent me on a Charm City wild goose chase. My mother-in-law finally shipped us a pair from Chicago.

I wish I had known then about Petit Feet Footwear in Quarry Lake. We stumbled upon this family-owned gem last month at the aMuse Toys Sidewalk Sale. Not only is their selection of children’s shoes expansive, their shoes are tres chic. You won’t find a saddle shoe here. {Sorry, Grandma}.

Petit Feet specializes in European footwear for kids (think Naturino and Venettini) but they also carry mom favorites like Pediped and kid-favorites like Lelli Kelly. {The Bug calls her Lelli Kelly purple tennis shoes her ‘sparkle princess sneakers.’) This fall, Petit Feet brought in pint-sized UGGs -- much to the delight of their fans and customers.

mama's got style: three don't-miss events this september and a giveaway

You've done the back to school shopping for your kiddos. The new Hunter Boots are bought. Maybe a Madpax backpack. Two pairs of jeans, three dresses, four leggings, one tunic, three new t-shirts, a jacket and two sweaters - In size 6x? Check. Two boxes of unscented markers, three 2-divider notebooks, and hand sanitizer? You got it covered.

What's missing?

Um. Well. To put it bluntly... YOU.

But don't worry -- Charm City's fashion industry has you covered this September with a bevy of opportunities to shop local and upgrade your fall style. Here's what's coming:

Baltimore's Fashion's Night Out: This Thursday (that's September 8th!), the Baltimore Fashion Alliance will host Baltimore’s inaugural celebration of Fashion’s Night Out. 40 of the Baltimore areas finest designers, fashion manufacturers, etc. will be on display at the Intercontinental Harbor Court Hotel on Thursday evening - - and MANY local area boutiques are staying open late! Green Spring Station is kicking off the celebration with a champagne toast for shoppers.

Junior League of Baltimore's Boutique Warehouse Sale: It's baaaacckk! One of our fav fall upscale sale event featuring all local boutiques. The sale is open to the public (for free!) on September 17th and 18th, but savvy shoppers will be purchasing pre-sale passes for Friday, September 16th for the Cupcakes and Cocktails event. A $20 pass gives you first shopper access to goods from more than 40 area retailers. In addition to freshening up your own wardrobe, you'll be able to nab deals for the pint sizers in your life from Petit Feet, Wee Chic, Lil Lamb Shop, Poppy & Stella, Liza Byrd and Riley Roos. Grab your girlfriends and leave the toddlers with the hubs for this one.

Baltimore Magazine VIP Shop Crawl: Mark your calendar for September 21st and line up a sitter. You won't want to miss this annual shopping extravaganza at Green Spring Station! It's a complimentary event that combines neighborhood shopping, exclusive sales, in-store raffles, champagne, gift bags, and, of course, you and your fabulous friends! End your evening at Tark’s Grill with awesome food and drink specials for all shop crawl participants. I missed this last year and it's on my 'must do' list this fall!

Guess what? We're sending one lucky mama and her friend to the Junior League's Cupcakes and Cocktails Boutique Warehouse Sale Preview Event for FREE! Want the two passes? Just fill out this form. We'll randomly select a winner on Wednesday, September 14th and announce on our facebook page. C'mon. Who doesn't need a shopping mini-break that includes cocktails and sales?

monday's five things: reasons you should check out marbles, the brain store

Last Monday, the Bug and I had the pleasure of checking out Marbles: The Brain Store during their advanced opening media day. The company officially opened it's first east coast store at The Mall in Columbia (Nordstrom wing, first floor) last Tuesday.

Not only did we have a chance to play with all of the cool brain-based learning games, we had a personal store tour with CEO Lindsay Gaskins.

Today's 5 things? Reasons you should check out Marbles!

1. It's unique collection of items that are entirely brain based! What is a brain store? (That's a great question!) It's a one-of-a-kind retail store with a smart collection of hand-picked, expert-tested, certifiably fun ways to a healthier brain for all ages. Their collection is selected based on current brain research and organized by 'brain-development' categories: critical thinking, memory, coordination, visual perception, word skills and age.

2. Say buh-bye to Mommy Brain. You know you're completely overstimulated on a daily basis. And that you have way to many things to remember. It's no wonder you forgot to send in that field trip slip or missed your last hair cut appointment. {{You didn't? Hmm. Maybe that's just me...}} Marbles has a great collection of brain building games for all ages. That means you too.

3. You won't find Baby Einstein here. CEO Lindsay Gaskins has a 16-month old at home, so we had a chance to chat baby and toddler games. Although the store merchandise is typically aimed at ages 4 to 100+, you will find some items for the tiniest of brains here. Those items are usually geared toward parent-child interaction, since that's the best way to develop your infant and toddler's brain. "We like games and items that are fun for kids AND their parents," said Lindsay. Check out Tobbles for your baby or toddler while you're there. Fantastic game to help build coordination, too.

4. There's a game for that. I couldn't believe the sheer amount of fun games in stock -- and most I had never seen before. My favorite for a young child? Pengaloo. It takes a simple "memory" flash card game to the third dimension. Literally.

5. It's a DO TOUCH kind of store. Trying to shop with a toddler can be tough. Trying to shop with a toddler in a museum kind of store (you know, the 'look don't touch ones') is just plain torture. The Brain Store is very much hands on. How can you buy a game if you don't have a chance to play it first? In fact, that's one of Bree's (the new store manager) favorite things about going to work. Having a chance to sit on the floor and play with kids. What other job lets you do that on a daily basis?

Just added Marbles to my Christmas shopping hit list... Go check it out!

Find Marbles: The Brain Store on Facebook and Twitter

back to (cool): our 2011 maryland tax free shopping week guide

Have you seen the "Most Wonderful Time of the Year" Staples commercial? It's a sign ... time to think about back to school.

This year, keep local for your back to school shopping. With Maryland's Tax Free Shopping Week starting tomorrow, you've got a great incentive to hit up your favorite local boutiques and shops. From Sunday, August 14th through Saturday, August 20th, qualifying apparel and footwear $100 or less are exempt from the Maryland 6% sales tax. {{SCORE!}}

We put a survey out to local shops that specialize in kids so we can help you navigate the back to school shopping spree. We've got the 411 on their current specials, favorite brands and what items they just can't keep on the shelf. Not all of the merchandise mentioned qualifies for tax free, but it all qualifies to help you get your kids back to (cool).

Charm City Kids Club: Did you know the new hot kid spot in Lutherville also has a retail space? They're running 10% off of all stock this August and have a nifty little lunch tote with built in chalkboard message board so you can easily write notes to your kids. The owners are in love with the personalized backpacks from Personalized with Luv. A customer favorite brand? Sassafras. They make great kid friendly cooking kits (pirate cupcake kit, alphabet fun cookie kit and pizza party kit). Not only is that a great gift item, but it's a perfect after school activity to have on hand. Follow Charm City Kids Club on Facebook

The LilyPad of Towson: Check out this upscale consignment store in Stoneleigh for gently loved (and less pricey) clothes and new specialty items to outfit your kiddo for back to school. All of their summer merchandise is currently 50% off, and consignors save an extra 10%. They've also got you covered with Scout Backpacks, Sugarbooger Lunch Snacks and SnackTaxi reusable sandwich/snack bags. So not only will your kids have the coolest lunch accessories in the class, you'll save $$ on brown bags and ziplocs. And help the earth. PS: While you're there, pick up some MonkeyBar Buddies for the "gotta always wear a dress" princess in your life. Their slogan: "I see London, I see France, I can't see your underpants" says it all. Follow The LilyPad on Facebook

The Monogram Shop: The Monogram Shop is offering 20-40% off ALL clothing from August 17th through August 20th. (They're calling it better than Tax Free!). Stop by this shop on falls road to pick up polka dot Mary Janes and Lily Pulitzer lunch boxes. Some of their best selling brands? Olive Juice, Lily Pulitzer (of course) and Castaway Clothing. You'll find all sorts of personalizable items - including Madpax backpacks! They come in 3 sizes. Who doesn't love Dinosaurs? Follow The Monogram Shop on Facebook

Trohv: Although Trohv specializes in giftable items and all things for the home, they have a fantastic children's selection! This Hampden boutique isn't running any sales this August, but their merchandise is consistently well priced. What do they think your mini-me needs for back to school? Mustaches (who doesn't need to go incognito?). They also stock a fantastic collection of fun notebooks, pens and Russell + Hazel binders. We discovered -- and fell in love with -- Riley Roos shoes for the Bug on one of our first Trohv shopping experiences a few years ago. Perfect for the baby and toddler in your life. Follow Trohv on Facebook

Wee Chic of Green Spring Station: Your area source for a ton of our favorite kids' clothing lines -- including Tea Collection. Modern, fun and comfortable for boys and girls up to size 8. The pieces mix and match to make getting ready for school a no-brainer (yes, please). Be sure to check out Mayoral while you're there. Although Mayoral is new to the states but has been a mainstay in Spain for many years. Fall 2011 hits hard with twill riding pants, faux fur vests, and great cowgirl chic dresses for girl. Boys get killer plaids and cool layering sweaters to ring in the school year. Two uber chic events to keep on your radar screen: Wee Chic is offering free photo mini-sessions with Laura Black of Laura Black Photography for two days mid-month (yes, FREE!). And Wee Chic is introducing a new resource program for expectant moms this Fall. Mommies-to-be and future first time grannies can meet and mingle with local experts in nutrition, design, healthcare, safety and more in a casual “mocktail” party setting. Check out the September issue of Baltimore’s Child for more details. Follow Wee Chic on Facebook

A few area stores didn't have a chance to respond to our email survey, but should be on your radar list: Urban Baby Runway in Hampden, The Corduroy Button in Fells Point, The Pied Piper in Cross Keys, and Belle Bambini in Quarry Lake.

your summer camp cheat sheet - courtesy of wee chic

It's almost that time of year...8 AM sunscreen & bug spray applications on squirming, tired kids. The last thing you want to add to that glorious morning routine is a battle over what to wear.

The moms of Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique have put together a camp cheat sheet to make your prep as painless as possible. We get it…camp clothes have to be tough, easy to wash and ready for some serious summertime play. Enjoy our favorite picks and give us a ring or stop by Green Spring Station to put together a camp-ready wardrobe for your favorite little ones.

1. Got a kid that will not keep a hat on...the Flex is perfect for you. The polarized lens offer real sun protection and the frames are designed to flex and not break...enough said. $18
   
   
2. Tea makes a variety of fun graphic tees that retail from $20 and wash like iron.
   
   
3. Hands down our best selling boys summer item...Tea pull on shorts are comfy and rugged. No buttons or snaps to slow his roll. $22-$26
   
   
4. Tea doesn't leave out the girls..great printed cotton separates are designed to mix and match. Perfect if you have a little lady that likes to put together her own outfit creations...she can do no wrong with a closet full of Tea. $22
   
   
5. Love the tea yoke shorts. Just the right length and great for hot summer days. Leggings available too if you want to cover those vulnerable little knees. $20
   
   
6. Perfect for your little explorer...6 colors available $24
   
   
7. ... and you have to add the explorer shorts. $46
   
   
8. This ribbon crusher hat is lightweight and offers 50+ protection from the sun. $28
   
   
9. The wide brim on this hat is great for sun protection and the cotton is light and comfy. Available in 3 colors. $28
   
   
10. Appaman board shorts do double duty, just as cool in the pool or on a land adventure. $38
    
    
11. Love the brushed cotton jets tee to match. $38
    
    
12. We all know her...she loves princesses, tutus, and REFUSES to wear anything but a dress. Tea's play dress is the perfect solution. Lots of swing and a shorter length make it great for play. Pair it with a pair of yoke shorts for climbing and she will never know you got her into something practical. $28
    
    
13. LA Made is a mom favorite because of their super soft tissue jersey and relaxed, stylish cuts. The same is true in the kids line...loving this pull on shorts romper. Easy on and off for potty time and so breezy and cool for summer in Baltimore. $54
    
    
14. This combination is our #1 pick. The LA Made skort hides a full fitted short under the swingy skirt in super lightweight tissue jersey. We say, buy all 4 colors and pair with LA Made's super soft ribbed tanks for a million different combinations. This is sure to be your go-to item all summer. $32 & $20

There you have it. Our picks for the best and the burliest in camp gear. We hope your kids enjoy their adventures and make lots of new discoveries this summer.

Bridget and the whole 'mom' gang at Wee Chic

- - -
Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique is the 2010 Winner of Baltimore's Best Kid's Boutique. Located in Green Spring Station, the boutique carries newborn clothing through size 8 kids. Be sure to fan their NEW facebook page! There is a special facebook-fan presale day on Wednesday, May 25th in celebration of Wee Chic's Second Birthday (but ya gotta be a fan of their NEW page to get the deets)!! Would be a GREAT opportunity to nab some camp gear. This camp guide originally appeared on their facebook page and has been reprinted with permission.

rockin' the town with aMuse toys

Toddlers, preschoolers, kids and all those young at heart were rockin' the town at aMuse Toys' Quarry Lake location this afternoon. Rock this Town is a public art idea that allows every kid to be a {responsible} street artist. Inspired by Gracie Wentz (daughter of children's book author Aaron Zenz), young artists painted rocks that could be taken home, placed in a garden, or {in}conspicuously set somewhere in the community. A fun way to brighten up the day - - and city streets.

Check out our facebook page for more photos! And many thanks to our friends at aMuse for throwing a rockin' good party!

(just for moms) 10 reasons you should attend style at the station on thursday

Green Spring Station is partnering with Baltimore STYLE Magazine for their second annual, oh-so-mah-velous Style at the Station event on Thursday. The perfect reason to grab your gal pals and play hookie from mommy life for a shopping mini escape.

Here's why I think this is a 'must' for any mom, fabulous aunt, friend, grandmother's sister or second cousin's girlfriend who reads this blog:

10) Shopping. Fabulous shopping. TONS of deals from all of your fav Green Spring Station boutiques. Enough said.

9) Pick up some fabulous spring fashion tips from Stephanie from Bradshaw Styling (have you checked out her blog, Girl About Town?) and Heidi Slacum, the fashionista behind FRESH! Boutique. As you may have guessed, they'll be giving out the tips at FRESH! The boutique will be hosting a Julie Brown Trunk Show that day, too. Check out her summer collection ahead of time!

8) It's Misha & Co.'s debut! The jewelry store has new digs at the Station. Swing by and say hi!

7) My summer shoe selection needs some serious attention. Yours does too? Matava Shoes is having a Cole Haan Trunk Show as part of the April 14th festivities. Sweet. (PS - did you know that you can buy from them online now, too?)

6) Your bottle of Sérum Oléo-Relax from Kérastase is low -- or you don't own it. I swear by the stuff. And UNO The Salon is giving a 15% discount on all of their products. They just so happen to carry Kérastase.

5) Spring holidays are fast approaching and you just realized you have 3 graduation parties, 6 mothers day presents to buy (your mom, your mother in law, and all the grandmas in your life), three wedding showers and your best friend is having a baby. Forget about the gifts for a second - - that means CARDS for everyone. The Pleasure of Your Company will have all of your stationary needs covered -- plus 20% off of Scout by Bungalow, Cat Studio, MacBeth Collection, Graphic Image, Anna Griffin fabric collection, Lily Pulitzer and Jonathan Adler.

4) Live music. And the potential to nosh on the seared scallop appetizer and a bellini with your girlfriends at Tark's Grill. {{Note: DO ask for the bellini. You won't regret it.}}

3) Amazing giveaways at many of the boutiques. Who doesn't love something for free?

2) Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique is hosting trunk shows by Splendid AND Ella Moss -- two of this mom's favorite kid lines. Join Christy & Beth from the New York Showroom of Splendid and Ella Moss kids to preview and preorder your favorites from the July/August deliveries from these two iconic lines. Plus, Bridget is handing out mimosas and treats. Delish.

And the NUMBER ONE REASON TO ATTEND...

1) I can't go. I'll be out of town for work and need to live vicariously through all of you!

Green Spring Station has a full list of events/deals/giveaways affiliated with Style at the Station on their website. The fun happens this Thursday (April 14th) from 10 AM - 8 PM. Those of you who aren't up for playing hookie can leave the kids with the hubs and get your shopping on after work.

If you go, be sure to tell me all about it! Would love for you to upload pics to our facebook page, too.

last chance to enter your cutie in wee chic's little character's search

It's the last day, folks. Go through your online albums and find the photo that capture's your mini-me's personality and style and submit it to the 2011 Wee Chic Little Character's Search! Your kiddo could be the face of Wee Chic's fall look book and print ad campaign.

Wee Chic- A Baby Boutique is looking for children in the Baltimore area with lots of character and a fun sense of style. A panel of local celebrities will select a series of children of different ages from submitted photographs to feature in their Fall/Winter ad campaigns. Selected children will participate in a photo shoot with Laura Black Photography wearing Wee Chic's Fall and Winter collections. The images will be used in ads that will appear in Baltimore Style Magazine and The Baltimore Jewish Times. Every submitted photo will be featured on baltimorestyle.com in the Wee Chic Little Characters Search gallery. Keep in mind that this search is designed to celebrate real kids so they're not looking for professional shots!

Want more info? See our 2011 Little Character's Search announcement post. Need inspiration? Check out the 2010 Little Characters!

Photos MUST be submitted online before midnight tonight. Good luck!

urban baby runway celebrates first friday hampden style

Need Friday night plans for the fam? Check out Hampden's First Friday Celebration! Many favorite neighborhood gems are sponsoring fabulous sales, giveaways, snacks and more.

One such store is Urban Baby Runway. Known for edgy, ultra-cool clothes for the mini-set, Urban Baby Runway is a mom-owned-and-operated shop. The brain child of Cara Schrock, Urban Baby Runway houses a collection of affordable smaller lines that are mostly mom-and-pop created.

"While it's fun to dress your child cooler than you'd dress yourself," writes Cara on the Urban Baby Runway website, "I don't think you should have to go broke doing it."

The prices at Urban Baby get even better on April 1st. In celebration of First Friday, all merchandise will be 20% off from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Double bonus? One lucky patron will win a pair of tix to see Cirque du Soleil.

{{Say it with me know... date night!}}

You'll find Urban Baby at 3608 Falls Road (just off The Avenue). They're also one of our goodie bag partners for the April 10th Play Date at Mt. Washington Tavern's Grilled Cheese Cook-Off. Have you bought your tickets yet?

Here are some other fun First Friday Hampden activities:

• Wine Reception at Avenue Antiques: To help celebrate the "Re-Organizing" of the Lower Level at Avenue Antiques, The Parisian Flea (aka Andrew Bruchey) and other vendors will be hosting an intimate wine reception. Please stop by, join us, have a beverage, and wander through the building filled with ANTIQUES!
  
• Vinylmore OPENING NIGHT at Atomic Books: Atomic Books opens it's annual art show on April 1! The exhibit continues throughout April. Bring your appetite - - Curbside Cafe will be serving up hot burritos from the truck -- parked outside the bookstore.
  
• First Friday HeARTWares: Browse art while sipping a glass of wine and enjoying live music by Uncle Dave Huber and Friends
• Trohv Baltimore (formerly Red Tree) will host First Friday….Friday, April 4th from 6-9 p.m. Small bites will be provided by Holy Frijoles of Hampden, with entertainment by Baltimore DJ Hip Hop Dan. Special guests for the evening: Baltimore Urban Debate League… Learn about the Baltimore Urban Debate League and the great work that they are doing in Baltimore City Schools!
  

For more information about First Fridays in Hampden, check out the Hampden Village Merchants Association website, or 'like' them on facebook.

it's coming: aMuse toys spring sidewalk sale

It's the most wonderful time of the year...for play time. And those that love it.

aMuse Toys is holding their annual spring sidewalk sale at the Quarry Lake location on Sunday, March 27th from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

{{HOORAY!!}}

It's a fantastic opportunity to stock up on your favorite playtime brands and maybe even explore a few new ones?

Owner Claudia Towles answered a few questions for us so that we could give you the inside scoop on the sale. Great time to stock up your play room -- or your birthday present stash so you don't have to do the pre-party dash.

Can you let us know a few of the brands that will be 'on sale' this weekend?
Although I run the risk of sounding a little too cloak and dagger, due to agreements we have with vendors, and the deep discounts we will offer, we cannot identify brands in advance.

What is your favorite item that's (going to be) on sale?
Oh I see what you did there... lets just say I love the math manipulatives from my favorite toy manufacturer in Germany... but that's all I'm going to share!

Can you tell us a little bit about how the sale is organized in terms of the store space?
Our Quarry Lake location has two entrances. The sale merchandise will be organized in bins and tables in front of the entrance that faces the parking lot (Walgreens side).

Any tips for newbies to the Sidewalk sale? (Get there early? Look where?)
The early bird gets the worm. If you want to take full advantage of all the deals (and there will be many) try to come with a buddy and leave the kiddos at home (if possible). It can get a bit hectic for all, but we've always been told that it has been worth the effort.

aMuse is known for the tunes that are playing while you shop. What music is going to be playing during the sale?
Whatever we have that is going to tame the masses. That usually involves Yo-Yo Ma and a Cello.

Will Sebastian (Claudia's son) have a secret stash of SkinnyCow ice cream sandwiches in the office and how do we score one?
Definitely. Get on his good side. He will be working the sale. He responds to customers with big piles at the check out!

{{Heads up to Sebastian, we WILL be asking for a snack. PS - this adorable 10 year old is probably one of aMuse's most knowledgeable guys on the floor. Have a question about fun? He's the one with the answers.}}

How much time goes into sale prep?
Weeks. We inventory our warehouse, check with vendors on what product packaging is being redesigned and what products are being discontinued. Setting up is the least time consuming piece of organizing the sale.

What are you doing at 5:00 PM on Sunday? (Since the sale ends at 2?)
Sleeping. We will have had a late Saturday night (moving inventory) and an early start on Sunday. If we are lucky we will be on our way home by 4pm.

just for moms: JLBalt's spring boutique warehouse sale & girls' night out (we're sending one of you + friend for free!)

It's the time of year when the sun stays out longer, the weather gets warmer, and the deals get red hot -- thanks to the Junior League of Baltimore.

Shop for a cause at their annual Spring Boutique Warehouse Sale, featuring some of Charm City's favorite area boutiques. It's twice the size of the 2010 fall sale -- with 31 local stores participating and the number continuing to climb.

You'll be able to grab fabulous items for yourself and home, plus shop for the kiddos in the sale's expanded childrens' section. Wee Chic, Urban Baby Runway, J&M Kids' Boutique and The Monogram Shop will all have merchandise available for purchase.

"Children's apparel and footwear sales have always been excellent at the Boutique Warehouse Sale," said Caryn Dombrow from the Junior League of Baltimore. "Designer children's clothing from Wee Chic, Urban Baby Runway and The Monogram Shop really attracts a crowd, especially when it is discounted."

{{side note: The sale will have stuff for guys, too. But I'm planning to leave my husband at home. Free childcare. I highly encourage you do the same.}}

The sale is free and open to the public from 10 AM - 5 PM on Saturday, March 26th at Timonium Squaure (between Panera and Staples).

Need a little night out for yourself (and maybe a few friends?)? Check out the Girls Night Out Preview Party on Friday, March 25th from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Cocktails, nibbles and -- most importantly -- deals.

A perfect little mini-escape for those of us who need a martini and an amazing new dress.

Little detail? All proceeds from the event and sale benefit the Junior League of Baltimore, a volunteer organization for women interested in making a positive impact in their communities. Since 1912, the Junior League of Baltimore has been a driving force behind many of the initiatives and institutions that make our community strong.

Preview party sponsors and donors include co-host Baltimore Style Magazine, Fairgrounds Discount Beverages, Liberatore's Restaurant, Pasta Mista and Tres Bons Bons. Are the Italian scents wafting through your laptop or smart phone? Mine, too.

Tickets for the Girls' Night Out Sale Preview Party on March 25th are available for purchase in advance for $20/person. But guess what? We're sending one of you for free (plus a guest!). That means sips, apps and first dibs on oh-so-mah-vah-lous items for free.

Want to win the two tickets? Just fill out this quick online form. Want to double your chances of winning? Leave a comment telling us your favorite Baltimore area boutique!

You have until Monday, March 21st at 5:00 PM to enter. Good luck! And be sure to spread the word!

(cool) tip: Want to stay up-to-date with all of the event details? "Like" the Junior League of Baltimore on Facebook.

things I {heart}: fab finds at the ENK Childrens Club Show

As I mentioned on Monday, I had the opportunity to tag along with Bridget Stickline from Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique as she merchandised her fall 2011 looks at the ENK Childrens Club Show on Sunday. Today I'm talking about some of the items I fell in love with while visiting exhibitors at the show.

the twofer: I don't have a little boy running around to dress in the morning -- but if I did, I'm pretty sure the twofer from Alpha Industries Kids would be my style secret. Urban-edge preppy, no? I especially love that Alpha has figured out how you can get this look without needing to add some sort of skull and crossbones graphic... Never need to think about which patterns to layer again!


flexible frame sunglasses: What's the first thing your kid does when you handed them a pair of sunglasses? Attempt to fold them in half. Might as well have just handed them the $10 bill to rip up. Enter Real Kids Shades. They've developed a pint-sized pair of UVA protection that's crafted from shatterproof polycarbonate and rubberized frames that bend. So it's bend and flex -- not bend and break.


the cashmere splurge: It isn't often I find a kids' clothing piece that entices me to splurge on the Bug. But the Swarovski crystal and cashmere sweater from Frenchy Yummy Kids made me swoon. This photo doesn't do it justice.




the wax finish jean: I agree. The post-car wash gloss isn't normally something this mom wants on her kid. But for infants and young toddlers, the wax finish on Joe's Jeans has a softer, less 'itchy' touch than it's mainstream denim counterpart.




the ruffled dress: I like to invest in clothing that has a lot of versatility. This ruffle dress from LAmade goes from tea time to playtime. Ok, maybe not literally since who takes their toddler to tea? But the sentiment is still there. Dress it up with tights and mary janes for dinner, or a pair of leggings for a play date.



the knit applique embellished sweater: I passionately dislike knit appliques. I received a sweater for Christmas when I was ten years old that was covered in knit applique flowers. Guilt compelled me to wear the thing and I'm pretty much scarred me for life. I swore I would NEVER buy such a sweater for any child I ever had. But Lisa, designer for Saurette, is changing my mind. This soft gray sweater is beautifully -- and simply-- accented with one pink flower applique. Perfection.

the striped ensemble: I just can't get enough of this infant and toddler outfit from LAmade. There is no other phrase for it: too stinkin' cute.






the funky knit hat: Who knew you could make such a statement with hats? Look for these handknit accessories from Peruvian Trading Company at Wee Chic this fall. A little bit of fun and a whole lotta soft. Love. Love. Love.




Which item is your favorite?

fashion forecast: 7 fall 2011 trends from the ENK International Childrens Club Show

I had an invite I couldn't pass up.

Bridget Stickline, owner of Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique, was headed the ENK International Childrens Club Show in New York City to merchandise her fall 2011 looks and asked me if I wanted to tag along.

Yeah, I didn't have to think about it either.

So the two of us hopped on the Superior Tour bus in Towson at 7:15 AM on Sunday morning and headed for the Big Apple.

What a mind-spinning blast. Not only did I get to watch the childrenswear maven in action, I got to chime in while she met with reps from all of my favorite Bug-wearable lines (and a few new ones we 'discovered.'). More on that tomorrow...

Today? A few fall 2011 childrenswear trends I spotted wading through the aisles of style. After all, we're all about raising fun, fashionable, active little thinkers.

{{Insert disclaimer: I'm a mom that loves clean lines, a little sass and solid construction. I think about things like stains and how the garmet will look coming out of the dryer. I'm not by any means a fashion expert. But today I'm going to play a trend forecaster... guess we'll find out how accurate I am come September?}}


Hot colors: Greys (dark and heather) along with rich tones such as fuchsia (toward the pinker end of the spectrum), deep purple, navy and teal. If you're buying pieces in these colors for the summer, invest in those that can be layered come September. Your stylish cutie will be ahead of the game - - and your wallet will thank you.

The Bell is BACK! Hooray! While the skinny pant isn't making a complete exit (look for them in fun dark washes and cords this fall), flared jeans are peaking through the collections. Joe's Jeans debuted a skinny microflare jean AND brought back a bell shape. I never felt like I could rock the skinny jean and since trends in childrenswear follow women's and men's wear, this mama is pretty darned pleased there will be other 'in vogue' choices on the rack come fall.

What about the scrunch? No, not a resurgence of the 80s hair pieces (sorry for those of you with huge collections stashed; I don't ever see those making a comeback). Scrunched leggings. A little flounce in a basic kid wardrobe staple can go a long way. LAmade has a great one. Flirty but solid construction. Takes a cotton dress to a whole new level of play.

Pima cotton rules but synthetics are sneaking in. Cotton prices are rising, so blends and synthetics are becoming more popular with designers. The true-blue organic lines are still hard core cotton, but some of the other brands are mixing. 7 A.M. Enfant has synthetic down stroller bunting with detachable hoods that are perfect for city lovin' moms-to-be. Machine washable. Fun colors and a mod metallic sheen. Straighter lines that give the pieces an urban edge.

The labels are designing for moms and kids that want versatility. Think reversible AND removable. Alpha Industries Kids has a boys' jacket where the sleeves detach -- giving flexibility in outerwear (vest for warmer fall days, full on jacket for the cooler ones). Llum has several dresses that are completely reversible. Not only do the colors and patterns switch, the style of the dress morphs too. Because, as we know, our daughters' prerogative is to change their minds.

Accessories ARE making the outfit. Belts, hats and headbands are afterthoughts when I'm out shopping for the Bug. I may have to rethink that. Fur-trimmed pieces are going to be a hot commodity in the kids' market this fall. Appaman has an absolutely adorable fur vest that pairs beautifully with leggings. Mayoral, the hot Spanish line that's making it's way into US boutiques (yepp, Wee Chic is the exclusive Baltimore area retailer carrying the line!) has several pieces you're just going to adore. Unfortunately, they don't allow photos so you're just going to have to trust me on that one… Have a mini-hipster who aspires to be the next Tiger Woods? He's going to flip for the hat collection from Fore!! Axel and Hudson. It's a golf inspired line with hip patterns and fun accents.

Bring in da funk, bring in da stripes. Stripes are huge. Almost every collection we looked at included one signature stripe pattern. You'd think stripes would be a turn off in the younger kids' lines- - especially the wider ones that might mildly resemble vintage prison jumpsuits. But quite the opposite. I fell in love with two different stripy two piece ensembles: LAmade has a striped sweater and pant set with wide trim and bear ears that is just too stinkin' cute. EGG has a striped top with flounce that screams playtime with a dash of prep.

More tomorrow.... Just as a side note and in the spirit of full disclosure, Wee Chic did buy me lunch... but not in return for any coverage or mention. All of the opinions expressed in the ENK Childrens Show Coverage are expressly my own.

(hot) dish: wee chic launches it's 2011 little characters search

It's baaaccckkkk.

Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique has officially launched their 2011 Little Characters Search.

The Green Spring Station store has teamed up with Baltimore Style Magazine and Laura Black Photography to find a gaggle of local cuties to star in their fall and winter print ad campaigns and look book. They are looking for children ages 6 months to 8 years, chock full of personality.

{{You don't happen to have one of those at home, do you? A kid with personality...?}}

Starting today, you can submit a color photo of your adorable cutie online through the Wee Chic website. Originality is encouraged! They want to see your amazing kiddo in all of their silly glory! In case you missed the subtlety or your second cup of coffee hasn't kicked in, that means no pageant or professional images.

Photos will be available for viewing on Baltimore Style's website -- but this isn't a popularity contest. {{At least not at the model selection stage!}} You don't have to worry about your child's photo getting enough 'votes.' Finalists will be selected by a panel of local celebrities later this spring. Selected children will participate in a photo shoot with Laura Black of Laura Black Photography. Wee Chic will use the photos to design several ads that then will be put to public vote. The ad with the most votes will appear in a fall edition of Baltimore Style Magazine. Not even Wee Chic will know which ad won until they open the hot-of-the-press print edition! So if your child is selected as a finalist, you'll want to activate your social networks when it comes time to vote on the ad!

Need some inspiration? Check out our recap of the 2010 Little Characters or the 2010 Little Characters video:



(cool) tip: Want your kid to participate in a photo shoot with Laura Black regardless of whether or not they're selected as a 2011 Little Character? Join the Wee Chic facebook group to get the 411 on Laura's next photo mini-session day at the store. The mini-sessions are free 20 minute photography sessions with Laura and have nothing to do with the Little Character's Search. Still, it's the star treatment for your mini-me.

designer consignment for pint-sizers: the lily pad of towson

What do a Hasbro miniature Shetland pony, Apple Bottom beadazzled jeans outfit, Gymboree and Papo d’anjo have in common?

You can find all of them -- gently loved and at a great price -- at The Lily Pad of Towson.

With thoughts of warmer weather springing into mind, you may be pondering picking up a few new staples for your mini hipsters - - or unloading some of their gently used items. Boutique consignment may be something to consider.

Sarah Weiskittel, founder of The Lily Pad, believes the biggest difference between selling your used items through a boutique likes hers or your other options is the effort a consignor has to put into the sale. When you take your items to a regional sale or have a yard sale of your own, you have to tag your own items, schlep them, and, depending on the sale, perhaps even try to sell them yourself. The Lily Pad will handle all of that. They will price,tag, hang and sell -- for you.

The price your items will obtain through a local consignment boutique will likely be much higher than what your items will net at a larger sale venue. The perceived down side? The consignor only takes 40% of the sale price when you work through a local boutique. Notice I said perceived downfall. 40% of a larger starting price most likely results in a larger cut for you, with less effort.

So what types of items does Sarah look for from consignors? Designer and brand name items.

"Some of the brands that sell the best at the Lily Pad are mini Boden, crewcuts, Lilly Pulitzer, Gap, Tea, Janie & Jack, Hanna Andersson, Eland and Gymboree," said Sarah. "We love the French and Italian designers such as Lily Gaufrette and Papo d’anjo. We also take some gear: highchairs, Pack-N-Plays, strollers, bumbo seats, etc. We only take these items as space allows, so we ask that consignors call to see if we have room for their items before bringing them to the store."

All consignment journeys through The Lily Pad start with an appointment. Interested consignors are asked to select thirty of their very best items, freshly laundered and laid flat (The Lily Pad uses their own hangers). It's also recommended that the items be ironed because they'll show better. A better show equals a better sale. The Lily Pad staff then selects the items from the consignors collection that they believe will sell. Trust them. They know their clientele.

After the item sells, the consignor receives 40% of the sale price - -and you have your choice of receiving your payment by check OR store credit.

Sarah's favorite item that's in the store right now? Hands down.. Butterscotch! The Hasbro FurReal Friends Shetland pony. It's more than three feet tall - - so any little girl will feel like she's going for a ride. She came in last week and is residing in the store window.

You never know what treasure you'll find at a local consignment store. One of Sarah's clients found her favorite hoodie.

Not one she fell in love with. One that had been lost.

"She pulled it off the rack and showed her Mom and said 'look mom this looks just like my favorite hoodie that I lost at school!' The mother looked at the hoodie and turned the tag over to find her daughter’s initials," said Sarah. "It was the EXACT same hoodie that the girl had lost! I just smiled and said, that’s Smalltimore for you! And of course I let her take the hoodie, on the house!"

(cool) tip: Thinking about consigning but don't know if the whole appointment process is for you? Every season, The Lily Pad runs a "Leave it and Leap" promotion. Just drop off any 15 items you'd like to sell with no appointment. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for details!

fab find: hunter wellies

So the big ice storm thankfully turned out to be a bust... but the heavy rains did leave us with {{wait for it}}: PUDDLES.

Is your tot ready to puddle jump?

The Hunter Wellies that all of us adults covet are now available for the pint sized -- locally.

{{Insert Happy Dance}}

Last fall, I scoured (and I mean scoured) every store I knew of for a toddler rain boot. I hit the local childrens shoe places, the department stores, the Targets in our areas... bust, nada, niente. My mother-in-law finally found a pair for the Bug in Chicago.

So imagine my delight when our friends at wee chic - a baby boutique let me know that they now carry the time-tested, oh-so-adorable Hunter Wellies? The centuries-old Scottish line is uber selective in terms of the boutiques they choose to work with, so this is a real boon not only to wee chic, but to all of us Charm City moms who want to keep our kids in unique, well-crafted and stylish clothes. (You can read more about why we love wee chic here.)

"Hunter boots have 150 years of development and history. They are truly waterproof and made for the way kids really play," said wee chic founder Bridget Stickline."We love them even more because they are absolutely fabulous. Any shoe that can be rocked with a skinny jean or a printed sundress and look equally as cool is A+ in our book!"

Function meet fashion. These boots are the gift that keeps on giving, as they'll survive hand-me-down cycle after hand-me-down cycle. Nab a pair in green, red, blue, or yellow and they'll go from your daughter to your son to your youngest daughter. (How many clothing items can we really do that with?)

Wee chic carries the boots in Kid's First sizes 8-13 for $50, and Original Boot sizes 1-3 for $75. Add the fleece inserts for $20 and you'll be set for next week's {{possible}} snow, too!

Which color is your favorite?

(cool) tip: check out wee chic's facebook page to get the wee scoop on this line!

image credit

Saurette's Lisa Kanouse: Real Mom, Real Girly Girl Style

Little girls dressed in Saurette have something in common: they all look like they went shopping in their mom's closet.

And that's just how designer and founder Lisa Kanouse wants it.

The Detroit-native-turned-Manhattanite creates whimsical clothing with soft lines and materials that appeal to trendy women, but are cut for the pint sized - - oftentimes leaving their moms a touch green with envy.

Lisa visited with Charm City fans during her first-ever Baltimore-area trunk show last Friday at Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique, and was kind enough to spend a little time with me chatting about designing, running her own business, her new line and being a working mom.

Like many moms trying to balance family and work life, Lisa runs her business from a home office, which gives her the flexibility to help out at the school during her sons' lunchtimes. Ironically, it was the school playground where Lisa found inspiration to create her clothing line.

"Little girls, even 5 or 6 year olds, love to talk about fashion," said Lisa. "And even at that young age, they are asking for particular styles and items. It's amazing how much they talk about it - - even on the playground!"

Lisa's collection is full of practical pieces that have unexpected details. Pink and purple are always a part of each season's color palate - - those are the colors girls respond to right? Then there are ruffles, ruffles and ruffles. The tiered ruffle skirt has a best seller for Saurette, and so in subsequent collections you'll see ruffles used in new ways. You'll find smocking on a block pant or an applique flower that pops off the back of a pima cotton dress.She commissions fine artists to design her t-shirt graphics, so her shirts are not your typical vanilla character tees.

Another feature Lisa takes to heart? Wearability. Pieces need to go from season to season, and from playtime to dinner at Grandma's house. The same pair of leggings in her collection can be worn cropped, long, scrunched or folded.

I asked her an incredibly unfair question because "dressing up" is on every mom's mind this time of year: which piece in the holiday collection is her favorite? (I know. It's like asking which child do you like best…) She immediately chose a pink and purple floral print sleeveless dress with yellow mesh trim at the hemline. The dress feels holiday because of the cut and can be paired with a cardigan for winter. The color palate and sleeve length take it right into spring.

Although she ultimately calls her own shots when it comes to designing her pieces, Lisa is incredibly attuned (and better yet - - interested!) in what her customers have to say.

"I have two little boys of my own. I know that if I put something on them that has a scratchy tag at the neck, it's coming off immediately," said Lisa. "Everything in my collection has to be comfortable - - so I ask everyone, the five year old fit model if she's happy in [the clothing.] It could be the most beautiful dress but if she's not happy, it's not getting worn and Mom just wasted her money."

Color, style and fabric choice initially attracted Wee Chic owner Bridget Stickline to the collection. Lisa's unassuming, proactive customer service skills keep her buying the collection each season.

"I love working with designers that have the same hands on approach to service and client happiness that I do, Lisa fits that bill," said Bridget Stickline, whose store is Saurette's exclusive Baltimore area retail boutique. "She is really involved in her business and loves interacting with her end-consumer. Last Fall Lisa worked directly with one of Wee Chic’s clients to commission a dress for her daughter."

Not surprisingly, Lisa thinks that if a movie was made about her life, the lead song would be Michael Jackson's Working Night and Day. That's nothing any other mom could relate to, right?

Many thanks to Lisa for sharing, Wee Chic for hosting us for the interview, and Laura Black from Laura Black Photography for the images.