Last Post of 2012

Time flies when you’re having fun!

As 2012 comes to a close, I thank all the fabulous designers, business owners and representatives who strive to produce the very best in children’s apparel, accessories, toys, juvenile products, customer service … and then some.

I so appreciate everyone who has introduced me to a new clothing brand, or product that is handmade, globally-inspired; imported from Europe and Made in the USA … those who keep the pleasure of childlike innocence in their hearts, sharing it with the marketplace; those who keep Moms in mind, too –producing wonderfully practical things to make her life easier (Dads are included, of course). I just love featuring them on Children’s Retail Today.

I also acknowledge the efforts of AnnieWear and Klippie Klub for offering something special to Children’s Retail Today readers and fans in 2012.

Finally, I am so grateful for you … whether you were a reader of HUDSON’S, following me to Children’s Retail Today after we ceased publication, or you’ve discovered Children’s Retail Today through social media … I hope I bring you the latest news and information, commentary and opinion about the children’s market –the kind that inspires store owners, manufacturers, designers -mompreneurs and inventors, too- to take your business to the next level. For parents and grandparents -aunties, coaches and teachers, too- I hope you’re learning about new stuff for your little ones -irresistible things both you and your children will love.

For anyone who’s passionate about children’s fashion … here’s to a wonderful, beautiful, inspired and peaceful New Year!

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Hang Ten Gold Grows Family

An iconic brand launches new label, partnering with two popular companies to create exclusive designs for both girls and boys.

In 1960, legendary surfer Duke Boyd founded Hang Ten, designing the very first “board shorts” -not to mention launching one of the most iconic logos around.

Today, the Hang Ten name, and caché of surfing- is recognized around the world. The newly-launched exclusive label, Hang Ten Gold –owned by American Brand Holdings- has two new multi-year licensing agreements.

We share similar brand philosophies and we’re looking forward to developing great products for the Hang Ten brand as well as expanding our offering of lifestyle apparel for girls, clothing to stylishly and comfortably take them through their every day.

-LamanBlu creative director Holli Gibson

LamanBlu, known for eco-friendly contemporary designs and a lovely childhood sense, has signed on for Hang Ten Gold’s girl’s collection. While Andy & Evan is working on Hang Ten Gold’s new boy’s collection. Andy & Evan’s focus is to provide durability and functionality while maintaining a dressy-casual design aesthetic.

This is a unique opportunity to work with a 50-year-old iconic brand and build upon the Andy & Evan vision for producing great boys lifestyle brands.

–Evan Hakalir, partner/co-founder, Andy & Evan Industries, Inc.

Hang Ten Brand Manager Paul Kim says, “We are very excited in entering into agreements with these companies. They each produce incredibly personal products that people will become emotionally attached to. They truly understand our brand and what it means to our consumers.”

Looking forward to seeing what this brain trust comes up with!

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Merry Christmas!

122512_ChristmasDay

I give to you the words -and the message- of my favorite holiday song from the Broadway musical, Promises, Promises. May your heart be merry and light!

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Cupcakes & Pastries

Fun, adorable, fashion forward, yet timeless dresses for little girls, with a women’s contemporary flair.

Started in 2009, Los Angeles, CA-based Cupcakes & Pastries débuted during the Spring ’09 season. Mother-daughter tea parties, where tea, cookies, candies and cupcakes & pastries are served, are an inspirational starting point for the line, which also draws design ideas from the love of children, fashion, colors … nature, architecture, classic movies, different cultures of the world … almost anywhere or anything. The result is beautiful fashion for girls ages one through eight. The collection has been honored with a 2011 Earnie Award for Best Dresswear as well as a nomination in 2012 for Best Girls Collection.

The limitless imagination in kids is our approach to design. Just have fun with it. Live Fabulously!

Available online and around the world in fine stores and boutiques. By the way, the Winter Sale is happening now!

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Pink Elephant Bowtique

Fabulous bows, headbands, photography props and other handmade couture baby things & accessories for all ages.

Etsy love. Do you ever search high and low for beautiful things to use at picture taking time? The Pink Elephant Bowtique specializes in handmade couture accessories for you and your little one, that are unique enough to add flair to any photograph, too!

Owner, maker, designer, curator, sometimes photographer and shipper Meghann Herter loves to customize any order, “So please don’t hesitate to ask us to design one especially for you,” she says. A work at home mom to two beautiful girls, Meghann found it hard to find quality, handmade baby accessories for her first daughter, so she began making headbands and bows herself –later offering them on her very own Etsy boutique.

I hand make each item myself and take pride in offering quality products that can be worn for years to come. It’s my goal to make your Etsy buying experience the most enjoyable experience it can be.

Touché! Current turnaround is approximately five to 10 business days prior to shipping (not including weekends or holidays). Please note: The Pink Elephant Bowtique is now closed for Christmas. Check back in after the New Year.

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Coursing Around Shows Kids How Exercise Can Be Fun

Help your kids start the New Year living a healthy lifestyle through fun exercise courses.

Coursing Around is a company that develops the perfect physical workouts for kids, which use active, social, and fun activities to get them exercising.

Get Back to the Outside World. The Coursing Around Book provides a ton of activities that allow kids to use their imagination, be active and learn, with just a piece of chalk and their own backyard. It’s an easy way to entertain at birthday parties, social gatherings or just during weekends and afternoons.

Created by certified fitness specialist-aerobics instructor-personal trainer-post exercise chiropractic therapist Debbie Beam-Tougas (wow – that’s quite the list!), who’s dream is that children of all sizes, shapes, gender and ethnicity can use her easy-to-learn routines to learn that exercising can be fun and accomplished in many ways.

In 2002, Debbie was recruited to teach the fitness component of a government subsidized overweight program for children ranging in age from five to 15. “I still remember the first class I taught,” she says. “There was a six-year-old by the name of Ruben who was approximately 40 pounds overweight. After only walking part way around the building he had to stop because he was extremely out of breath, hunched over with his hands on his knees and needed a rest. This was a wake-up call for me and practically brought tears to my eyes.” Debbie was challenged to keep kids for at least 45 minutes with just a blacktop and hardly anything else. Her imagination –and a little sidewalk chalk- inspired her to create the Coursing Around” was born.

In today’s society, with all the hand held devices, video games, computers and both parents working, our kids have lost the art of ‘Outdoor Play.’

It is also a fun way for parents to become more involved and create a stronger bond with their children. The book comes with 15 exciting courses, two pieces of chalk, a ruler and some fun fitness facts.

Another ChicExecs PR client! Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

JuJu Band

The traditional art of binding, re-imagined to simplify the busy lives of today’s parents.

Are you a new parent? Is your baby fussy? Does your newborn’s skin need protection from never-ending clothing changes? JuJu Band may be the answer.

For centuries, binding have been used throughout the world to soothe babies’ bellies, especially in the Hawaiian, Filipino, Latin and English cultures. Baby belly binders help keep the stomach warm, reducing colic. As a cover, a binder keeps the diaper and other clothing from rubbing against a newborn’s umbilical stump, reducing friction or irritation, and protects against infection.

We started JuJu Band to pass on our childhood traditions to families at a special time in their lives, when they first become parents.

Made in the USA. Very passionate about passing on their own family tradition, Julie Ann Acevedo and Julio Guerra co-founded Juju Concepts LLC, the parent company of JuJu Band, an elegantly designed wrap that makes the ancient art of binding easy -and cute- for today’s parents. JuJu Bands are made from the highest quality material right here in the United States. “With just three easy steps, you, too will become a part of over 100 years of tradition,” they say. Plus, the snug fit calms and comforts even the most finicky infants.

Julie tells me that the idea for the company name came from the word, “juju,” which is a kind of magic. “JuJu Band solves issues that are often frustrating for parents,” she says. “Our bands are magic, because with very little effort, they make those issues disappear.” Incidentally, “JuJu” also stands for Julie Acevedo and Julio Guerra, creators of the brand.

The company’s Newborn Navel Protector also helps with an old custom –that of binding baby’s belly to help achieve a perfect “innie” belly button! Juju Concepts also makes bibs, blankies, comforters, gift sets and more, available online.

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Written With Love

A true love story. The 28-page children’s book With A Cherry On Top is a “little love story” brought to life by author Jane Asher and illustrated by Steve Burrows. “It is a true story about a conversation that I had with my son when he was six years old about who loves who more,” Jane says.

Released in 2006 and published by Amazon’s BookSurge Publishing arm, With A Cherry Top garners a five-star rating from fans and is adored by so many. It’s a thoughtful gift for the holidays, too.

This book is a sweet expression of love. It is a delight for all of us who have ever tried to express just how much we love someone only to have it ‘topped’ by their love for us! Read it and add your own topping … you’ll love it!

-Gaila, superfan

Jane Asher – who’s also a popular radio personality- lives in San Diego, CA, where she writes daily. Encinitas, CA-based artist Steve Burrows shows his love of surf, travel and adventures through his art, entertaining both the young and young at heart.

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

GoldieBlox Makes Building Toys for Girls Popular

Did you know? Statistics show that girls begin to lose interest in math and science as early as age eight. That only 11 % of engineers in the United States are women?

What’s a little girl to do, especially if she shows an interest in building things or she loves math?

Goldie Can. San Francisco, CA-based GoldieBlox Inc. is toy company with a mission to inspire the next generation of female engineers. Founded by 29-year-old Stanford engineer Debbie Sterling, the company makes a series of interactive books + construction toys starring Goldie, a curious girl with a love of engineering. Goldie’s stories encourage girls to build, developing the spatial skills that are fundamental to engineering.

Growing up, I was always intimidated by the word, ‘engineering.’ I thought it was just for boys. I’m creating GoldieBlox so that girls, from a young age, can learn that engineering is for them, too.

Debbie and the GoldieBlox team raised over a quarter million dollars during a 30-day campaign on popular crowd sourcing platform Kickstarter and started production on the first book+toy –along with garnering some healthy publicity; both the company and the fundraiser received rave reviews from publications like The Atlantic and Forbes to blogs from Upworthy to Fast Company. Since then, the first interactive book+construction toy series was launched in September. GoldieBlox and the Spinning Machine combines storytelling and building in a novel approach to engage girls aged five through nine in play with construction toys. Not only this – it won Editor’s Choice at the World Maker Faire in New York almost immediately!

Using over a year’s worth of research, the GoldieBlox prototype was tested with over 100 children. As the creative force behind GoldieBlox, Debbie studied engineering and product design at Stanford. She writes and illustrates Goldie’s stories, taking inspiration from her grandmother, one of the first female cartoonists and creator of “Mr. Magoo” (I totally loved Mr. Magoo when I was young!). Debbie also gets the power of branding, having previously served as a brand strategy consultant for a wide variety of organizations including Microsoft, T-Mobile, Organic Valley and the New York Knicks.

The first book+toy in the series retails for $30, and will be available as e-book downloads for iPad and iPhone with narration and animation to enhance the building experience. The pre-order delivery for February, 2013 sold out in less than a month; the company is currently taking orders for the second delivery in April, 2013 through GoldieBlox.com.

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!

Pink is just a color …

Long Island mom writes a funny, endearing book about gender stereotypes.

Niki Bhatia‘s own two sons are the inspiration for her children’s book, Pink is Just s Color, and So is Blue. Funny and reassuring, the story teaches children -and adults- about acceptance, tolerance, and having confidence in who you are.

We are all different and like different things. What matters is that we are happy and confident.

When Niki’s younger son was three, he loved the color pink. It was only when his older brother teased him for being “like a girl,” that she decides that this kind of teasing often leads to bulling later in life. So she wrote a book to help.

For Niki, a world defined by pink and blue is becoming out-dated, and her humorous story teaches young readers that they should be free to choose what they like without someone else dictating what that should be. With this book, Niki hopes to break some of the old gender stereotypes about children’s toys and gender specific colors.

Published in October, Pink is Just a Color and So Is Blue reminds adults about the joy of life’s possibilities, while teaching children about the importance of being themselves. To further enrich their reading experience, she includes discussion questions and activities for parents and teachers.

Niki lives in Long Island, NY and blogs at niketabhatia.blogspot.com. The book is available on Amazon.com, and makes a great gift for the holidays.

Children’s Retail Today publishes new posts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you want to get the word out about your innovative, imaginative and inspiring products for children, contact me today!