Thursday, October 29, 2009

Holiday Gift for Moms Everywhere

Just in time for the holidays, teething tots and stylish moms want dentist invented & recommended Chewable Jewels.

With Halloween around the corner and the year-end holiday season closing in, chewy candy and sweets are a big part of the childhood holiday experience. For moms at any stage in their life, wearing colorful jewels and baubles in beautiful holiday colors are also a special part of this time of year. While these may seem like two very random, disconnected topics the reality is that holiday candy and women’s jewelry have a lot in common. Just ask the founder of Chewable Jewels.

Teething Twins Inspiring Chewable Idea

During the holiday season in 2003, Dr. Helen Bloom was sitting on the living room floor seven months pregnant with her first child playing with her twin nephews. As they were playing she realized that the twins were drooling and teething on her jewelry. Her beautiful holiday necklace and bracelet made of hard metal, glass beads and charms likely felt good on their young teething gums. But as a senior in dental school at the time, Dr. Bloom knew it wasn’t good for their developing/erupting teeth buds and the possibility of a part of the jewelry could come unhinged and get lodged in their throats.

Young moms worldwide learn to put the jewelry away until the babies grow out of the teething stage because babies chew on anything that they can get their hands and mouth on. Dr. Bloom and her sister began searching baby stores, toy stores and the Internet for baby-safe jewelry that moms could wear during the teething stages. Their thorough search came up empty.

When Dr. Bloom created a prototype for the jewelry she also learned that the material that most teethers are made from plastics that can leach harmful carcinogenic chemicals. It was then that she realized how important it was to produce a product that was not only utilitarian and fashionable for mom, but also safe for baby.

In July, 2004 while attending a wedding, Dr. Bloom slipped off the first bracelets she created and gave them to her two-month old teething son and two nephews to chew on. “All three boys loved them and stayed quiet for over an hour,” says Dr. Bloom. “This was the ‘a-ha’ moment.” Chewable Jewels was born.

“I created Chewable Jewels because there was nothing on the market like it. As a dentist, I want children everywhere to have a safe teething product. As a mom I could not live without this jewelry,” says Dr. Bloom.

Safety First
Chewable Jewels product materials are FDA approved, free of phthalate, BPA, PVC, latex, and lead. They are waterproof, dishwasher durable and endorsed by dentists nationwide. Even grandmas, babysitters, aunts, sisters, brothers and dads who find themselves around teething tots benefit from wearing or having this jewelry on hand.
In addition to the original bracelets, there are chewable necklaces, rings and key chains in more than 50 different product options, colors and packages.

One busy mom commented that, “I love wearing the bracelets and I think they are my daughter’s favorite as well…she can reach both aching sides of her mouth at a time! And I have a key chain jewel attached to my key hook on my diaper bag so it’s always available when we’re out.”

Already a Trend even in Hollywood
Dr. Bloom’s Chewable Jewels have been featured in or reviewed and/or tested by a variety of mom-approved publications, blogspots, and websites. Below are just a few:
Pregnancy magazine (May, 2009 issue)
Now What Baby blogspot

Classy Mommy
Connecting Moms
Ugga Mugga
Working Mother.com

On Working Mother.com, actress and television hostess Finnola Hughes (known for her long running role as Anna Devane in General Hospital and as hostess of Style Network’s “How Do I Look?”) raved that “Dr. Bloom’s Chewable Jewels are not only stylish but her youngest daughter, Sadie, loves to chew on them”.

The fashion-forward jewels have recently been made available as combo packs that include either a slide necklace and bracelet, or multiple bracelets that can be stacked to conform to the latest trends, or a bracelet and keychain. Each piece is also available individually and in a wide arrange of colors including a natural stone-look that can be a great accent piece to compliment any casual or dressy outfit that mom will be wearing around the baby.

Chewable Jewels are more than a way to keep a teething tot occupied, they’re also a conversational piece of jewelry that mom can feel great about wearing anywhere.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

It makes a difference

A portion of every bag sold goes to the Susan G. Komen foundation
-- Kids Today, 10/13/2009 6:57:00 AMSAN CLEMENTE, Calif. – Ju-Ju-Be has donated a portion of each sale of its diaper bags to the fight against breast cancer, since the manufacturer’s inception in 2005.Ju-Ju-Be founders Joe Croft and Kristin Hunziker are deeply committed to the fight against breast cancer as it has personally touched the lives of many they love.“Breast cancer is not something that we limit our support to for just one month. We support the fight against breast cancer for the month of October as well as every other month,” said Hunziker. “Until it is cured, every month is breast cancer awareness month at Ju-Ju-Be.”Thousands of dollars are donated each year to Susan G. Komen and several other foundations to help in the fight against breast cancer.“Ju-Ju-Be is proud to support Susan G. Komen and will not stop until a cure is found,” said Croft. “We would like to make a call to action to others to find a way to inspire and give back.”Croft and Hunziker hope that their passion for the fight against breast cancer will be realized by others.“I really want our customers to have a fun shopping experience with unmatched enthusiasm and customer service,” said Hunziker.“In addition, they can feel good knowing that their purchase is contributing to the fight against breast cancer,” added Croft. “I’m committed to giving back and donate a portion of proceeds from all bag sales, all the time, not just in October. I want each sale, every day to make a difference.”

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

ABC Show 2009

With the ABC show approaching fast, we thought we would try to contact you and give you a heads up on our lines and where and how you might connect with us at the show.

Look for a map of the show at www.theabckidshow.com . On the first floor our lines are Tuffo 118, Child to Cherish 424, Lamby 420, Sumersault 600, Dr. Bloom Chewable Jewels 816, Nap Nanny 912, Best Chairs 1442, Naturepedic 2136, Hotslings 2732, Piggy Story 2824, JuJuBe 2800, and KidCo 3108

On the second floor Prince Lionheart 4148, Jazzy Toes 4215, Piccolo Bambini 4314, baby Banz 4422, Baberoo 4528, Bumknis 4730, L’ovedbaby 5031, Mustela 5026, Regal + Lager 5640, Wallcandy Arts 5620, notNeutral 5622, minui HandySitt 5922, Gustav Maxwell & Co. 6020.

If there is a company you wish to meet with and would like us to be with you, please let us know as soon as possible. We will be happy to schedule time with you even to just buy you a cup of coffee or a cold drink. We can go over what you have found and have questions about. We will also have a list of show specials to give you.

We hope this helps with your plans. Again, please set up an appointment with us as soon as possible. We will not drag you around to all the lines; just give us a half hour to touch base!! Have a safe trip and thanks for all your business.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Dress Tiny Feet with JazzyToes


DRESS TINY FEET FOR
THE HAMPTONS, THE BEACH, OR THE THEATRE
WITH JAZZYTOES®
JazzyToes Unveils New Sock Styles, Tights and An Eco-Friendly Collection
Pittsburgh, PA (July 30, 2009) – This year, whether you’re on vacation, or just wishing you
were, JazzyToes® has the perfect footwear solution for babies. New for fall 2009 are two resort inspired collections of the original JazzyToes socks-that-look-like-shoes, an adorable pair of
ruffle butt tights for fancy nights and an all-new line of eco-friendly JazzyToes socks.
The entire fall sock collection has the same great features as the original JazzyToes designs, like
elasticized ankles to help the socks stay on, and non-skid soles to help baby stay on their feet.
JazzyToes’ new earth-friendly line, the Bamboo Collection, features socks made from ecofriendly materials that are still completely cute. Each pair is made from Bamboo yarn, which is hypoallergenic, breathable, anti-bacterial, natural, and silky smooth. All of the yarn used in the JazzyToes Bamboo Collection is processed with low-impact dyes, and is OEKOTEX Standard 100 Certified,meaning it’s free of any harmful chemicals. The Bamboo Collection comes packaged in 100% recycled paper using soy-based ink, and even the sock inserts inside are recyclable. JazzyToes chose to use Bamboo yarn because bamboo is one of the
most sustainable sources of natural fibers on earth. It grows quickly and does not require replanting after harvesting, making it extremely sustainable. It is 100% biodegradable in the right soil conditions and its decomposition process does not cause any environmental pollution.
JazzyToes Bamboo Collection 2 Pack- Available in blue and green High Top Sneakers or black and pink Mary Janes. Sizes 6-12M or 12-24M. Each 2 pair pack is $14.99. Also available individually for$6.99/pair. (reatil)
New additions to the original JazzyToes socks come in handsome ready-to-mail boxes, making them perfect for gift-giving: JazzyToes Flip Flop 3 Packs- These fun mock flip flops
feature drawn-in toes and toenails. Choose from Athlete (soccer, football and basketball) or Sunshine (butterfly, sunflower and ladybug). Available in sizes 0-12M and 12-24M. Each 3 pair pack is $17.99. JazzyToes Hamptons 6 Packs- Inspired by weekend getaways to the Hamptons. Both the boys and girls variety set come with six brand-new JazzyToes designs. Each sixpair set available in 0-12M or 12-24M sizes, $26.99.
Boys Hamptons 6 pack includes: Oxford shoes in brown, Sandals in green/black, Golf shoes in olive/white,Runners in blue, Clogs in red and Flip Flops in black/white.
Girls Hamptons 6 pack includes: Ballet in pink, Flip flops in brown, T-strap Mary Janes in black, Runners in bright pink, Clog in red, and Casual Flats in light blue.
Finally, JazzyToes debuts its first pair of tights this fall. Each pair is complete with lacy ruffle-butt design, and built-in Mary Jane “shoes.” These tights are sure to turn heads!
Mary Jane Lacy Baby Tight- White cotton tight. Available in sizes 6-12M or 12-24M. $17.99/pair.
Visit www.jazzytoes.com for more information.


ABOUT JAZZYTOES®
High quality, stylish clothing and accessories for babies and toddlers with a wider
range for boys is the goal of JazzyToes, LLC. Founder Winnie Liu, a mother of
two young boys, felt the current offerings were limited for boys so she created her
own team with industrial designer Raymond Hwang. JazzyToes offers a unique collection of babysocks for new mothers and gift givers. For more information click on their website
www.jazzytoes.com

Friday, July 3, 2009

BodyRest Recliner

Until very recently, I thought all nursery rockers were the same. Then I discovered the BodyRest by Best Chairs: the rocker that has the ability to recline completely flat. This might sound like a frivolous addition to your nursery necessities, but for parents with a newborn it's completely brilliant. Late night feedings and sick kiddos both mean leaving your bed and trudging to the nursery, only to spend the wee hours of your morning uncomfortably nodding off in an upright glider. While I think most moms are undeniably resilient, I'm sure we can all agree that catching your Zs in a nursery chair, night after night, is far from restful. Enter BodyRest. Not only does it recline into a full horizontal position, it offers the comfort and support of a bed mattress. It's like having an extra bed in your baby's nursery, but without demanding so much space. Amazingly, this isn't its only perk. Whether you're fully reclined, sitting upright or posing somewhere in between, the kick-out ottoman can be pushed out or in, depending on your preference. For swollen mommy ankles, this is a nice detail. Plus, since it's a part of Best Chairs' Storytime Series, you can pick from a variety of adorable fabrics, leather and vinyl to create the perfect chair for your space. You may want to consider something a little more grown up, though, because the BodyRest's sturdy build and cozy arrangements aren't going to leave you wanting to kick it to the curb when your babe outgrows his nursery! Recliner by day, bed by night... the BodyRest recliner is more than a chair: it's a superhero.
Written by Amanda on Jun 12, 2009 Good Gear Blog from Pregnancy and Newborn

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

End of June Specials


Prince Lionheart has just unveiled the new pottyPod. The ONLY Anti-Microbial pottyPOD™ on the market! The soft, cushiony surface of the pottyPOD™ is treated with an EPA approved additive to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that may cause spoilage, odors and mildew. See the following link for images and more information: http://princelionheart.com/site/n_bc_7401.html

Also, Prince Lionheart is currently running a special; purchase 11 Balance Bikes, get the 12th free. That's a freebee worth $42.50! Balance Bike: http://princelionheart.com/site/p_bike_7600.html

Lastly, our North American Bear line is also having a June special. Order $500+ for AT ONCE delivery and receive a coupon for $50off your next order placed between Sept. 1- Oct. 15th. (You must include at least 4 new items from the fall catalog to qualify). North American Bear: http://www.nabear.com/

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Get in Touch




We’ve recently picked up several new lines that we are excited to bring to the market. Among them is KimochisTM, which means “feeling” in Japanese. The line consists of adorable high-quality plush toy characters with a pocket to carry their feelings inside. Each character has a distinct personality and a strong Japanese design influence. More than just a toy, these characters and the feelings that come with them help kids learn how to express themselves appropriately and communicate better. Each KimochisTM box comes with a character, three feelings, and a How-to Feel Guide to assist adults in using the toy as a tool with children for the excellent price of $25.00 suggested retail. Additional feelings can be purchased separately. There are 6 to a pack with one Make-Your-Own Feeling with washable pen! This is the perfect toy for any child who is learning about feelings or having difficulty expressing them. KimochisTM are being used in hospital, school, and therapy settings with great success. Check out the KimochisTM web site for more information including news on the expansion of the line coming soon!

Friday, February 20, 2009

Clean Green



A lot of companies are making cleansers that are safe for you, your kids and the planet, but Fields Organic (fieldsorganics.com) is taking those cleaning products to a whole new level. Fields Organics has an array of products, their motto is Eco Smart + Kid Friendly… and it’s true. This company really walks the walk, even the ink on the label is printed with soy based ink on 100% recycled paper. Their entire line is biodegradable, free of VOCs, ph-balanced, hypoallergenic and cruelty-free — all things you want in cleaning products. On top of that, a percentage of its profits go to Children's Environmental Health Network.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

An Old Post but a Good Post


Naturepedic® natural and organic mattresses ensure a natural, non-toxic and healthy environment for children. The No-Compromise™ organic baby mattress is made with organic cotton, no polyurethane form. It has a non-toxic waterproof surface that is easy to clean and stain proof with no vinyl, PVC or phthalates. It is hypoallergenic with a dust mite proof cover, no latex, wool or other high allergy materials. It has FlameBreaker™ fire protection with no PBDEs, antimony, modacrylic, PAN or wool and meets and exceeds all federal and state flammability standards. The mattress has extra firm support with 252 coil heavy duty innerspring construction with border rods. Naturepedic is a trusted brand with a 20 year limited warranty.Natural materials provide a healthy and non-toxic environment for your baby. Naturepedic uses organic and chemical free materials while eliminating vinyl, foam and many chemicals commonly found in crib mattresses. Naturepedic puts your baby’s health and safety first. Babies spend 10 – 14 hours a day sleeping and playing on a crib mattress. The benefits of a healthier mattress will last a lifetime.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

KidCo BabySteps™


We all live and learn……marketing and consumerism is NOT “static” as we all know.
We have recently made an interesting discovery about the fast-growing trend of preparing home made baby food. The “mom” consumer is totally focused and oriented to the exact word grouping: “Home Made Baby Food”. If you GOOGLE that phrase using the exact search string, “Home Made ( or Homemade as one word) Baby Food”, over 33,000,000 search results are produced! This is larger-than-life HUGE!!

To capitalize on this clear trend, we urge you to use this marketing fact. If you are ecommerce,you embed or add this search string within BabySteps™ items on your site, and if you are “brick and mortar”, that you create in store shelf signs which state “Make Home made baby food easily” or similar. KidCo is undertaking a marketing evaluation as to affordable, efficient and effective ways to assist our reseller partners (primarily at the shelf in traditional stores) with possibly some shelf talkers and small gondola signs which capture this important phrase and commands consumer attention. We will keep you advised.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

L'ovedbaby. Meet Marlow


Mary and James (my daughter and son - in law) have a little girl, Marlowe Miyuki Gamble, born at 0:17, 2/9/2009. She was born at home after a long labor and long hours of pushing but everything is perfect. She weighted in at 7 lbs and is 21 inches long. She was born on the full moon with a lunar eclipse ( according to Cheryl, very auspicious). I can't believe I am a grandmother! Thanks for all your support these last months, Melissa

Friday, January 16, 2009

New Soft Dolls from North American Bear


The North American Bear Co. is embracing little girls’ love of ballet and fashion with two new products for 2009: Rosy Cheeks™ Big Sister Ballet and Cotton Goody Bags™. Rosy Cheeks™ Big Sister Ballet is a soft jersey knit 18-inch doll with a removable pink ballerina outfit with tutu, floral headband and lace-up slippers. The doll is offered with blonde or brunette long yarn hair, in two skin tones and three different styles. Additional Big Sister outfits and play accessories are sold separately. The dolls are designed for girls ages 3+ (SRP: $32.00 each). New Cotton Goody bags feature whimsically patterned animal shapes that were created to help young fashionistas make a fresh spring statement. The woven cotton 7-inch tot sized totes come fully lined with a central compartment to keep trinkets safe with a Velcro closure. Available styles include Chick Butterfly and Bunny Cotton Goody Bags, all of which are machine washable. For ages 3+ (SRP: $12.00 each) Visit North American Bear Co. at the Seattle Gift Show with Melissa Dodge and Associates, Suite 225, Pacific Market Center

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Sam I Am





It happens during many a stroller walk. You load up Little One, tuck his fave, cozy blankie around him, and nestle his sippy cup and favorite toy by his side. A few blocks later, you gaze at LO to find him with sip and toy, but the blankie had fallen somewhere along the way.
This happened one too many times to Seattle mom Theresa Okell , who while jogging with son Sam would routinely have to break her stride, stopping to pick up Sam's fallen or dragging blanket. She'd see other moms and babes dealing with the same issue: blankets that got kicked off by little legs or that would get caught in the stroller wheels or get soiled by harsh weather.
Okell's eureka moment resulted in the SammySack, a kick-off proof, weather-proof stroller blanket. Made with two fabric layers, the SammySack's outer part is durable, water-repellent nylon, while the inside is soft polar fleece. The SammySack's genius comes in the way it fits. It clips to the stroller so it won't slide off, and it's shaped like an hourglass with a wider upper and lower portion, making it easy for snug tuck-ins without bulky blankie excess. An adjustable foot pocket keeps feet covered but still allows for wiggle room. With 9 designs to choose from, the SammySack is for toddler through 4 years. (Look for the brand new SammySackBaby for infant to 12 months coming later this month). If you've got a double stroller, no problem. Clip two together and you're good to go.
SammySack, $60 - $65

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Seattle Gift Show

The Chalk N Doodle, newest in the line of children’s products from The Piggy Story, features a chalk pad with side flaps to hold chalk or crayons. The chalkboard converts to a lap station for drawing with the Doodle Pad or Activity Book. Owner and principle designer, PeiLing Hwang remarks, “We know our buyers are struggling so this product is priced for this economy. We not only want to make good products but products people can afford.”

The Piggy Mermaids set to debut in January at Market are the follow up to the most popular Piggy Pirates design released in July 2008. Featuring fun underwater seascapes and happy Piggy Mermaids the design will be on a majority of the children’s line including: ArtFolio, Art-to-Go Roll, Handy Notecard Kit, Play Go Go Pack, Doodle Pad and Activity Book, Mini-Chef Apron for girls, Carry All Caddy, Chalk N Doodle, Lunch Tote, Lil Diva Valise and the Beauty Box. All items are available to ship January 15, 2009.