On Boutique Cafe this week we feature the So*Euro stylings of Crystal. Her euro inspired creations are gaining her alot of boutique attention. We’re excited to present a so*euro fashion show portfolio for you – enjoy.

“I have been offering my designs on ebay almost 2 years now and Blossom Street a little over a year. I love what I do! I was away for a little while but am back with all new designs! My designs come from my heart and it starts when I get the fabric in my hands or if I could just touch it, I always joke around and say, “my fabric talked to me” lol but when I see certain fabrics I already know what I want to create. I try to sketch out all of my designs and make alot of my own patterns, so they are unique and fresh! Sewing and creating for me isnt just a hobby, its part of my everyday life, Its my way of therapy, living, feeling free. When I am creating i feel like I am accomplishing something awesome. Daria, I really appreciate this awesome opportunity you have given me to be featured! Its an honor!!” – Crystal

You can learn more about so*euro on her eBay About Me page. You may shop her current auctions on eBay and also on Blossom St.. Please allow time for the show to load. Fashion Shows are in Quicktime format, a free download here.

On today’s show Daria walks our new listeners through a quick Boutique Cafe website tutorial and show you how to use the site and listen to BC. Amy Shearer, owner of Journal Modiste stops by to talk about the Modie Awards going on this month on JM. Don’t forget to send in your entry photo today for the “Where in the World is Boutique Cafe?” contest – All entries due by MIDNIGHT Aug.31st and will be judged by some special guests. Prizes include an iPod and a $100 eBay gift certificate *sponsored by our friends at Journal Modiste. Fun Auction Scrambles within the show – check them out! Podsafe Music: Parlour Dames “I Love You”.

That’s right if you are dissatisfied with your old belly you can trade it in for a new sleek one! Perhaps you have an outie and would like to trade for an innie instead. LOL! Just kidding – the Belly Exchange is far more than a place to swap wrinkly tummies, it’s a place Buy, sell and swap new or gently worn maternity clothes & baby items all from the convenience of your own home!

This new website is in need of some super shopper moms to list their gently used and new items for sale. To join simply sign up for an account on the main page and you’re on your way to either shop or sell, even trade. Did you indulge in the beautiful designer maternity clothes now readily available? Now that you’ve had the baby do you wish you had some extra cash to buy the lil’ one just one more outfit? Well here’s a perfect solution. Free yourself (and your closet) by recouping some of that cash. Post an ad now all from the convenience of your own home.

I’m intrigued by this new Momma site and think it’s a brilliant way to make some extra cash, or find that perfect baby sling or diaper bag for a great price. The ad creation program is super easy and you can even do a WANTED ad if you’re looking for something specific. I love unique websites that show innovation and momma creativity, The Belly Exchange looks like a great find and I wish them well in their new venture. Sign up today and swap those tummies. – Daria

It’s finally the big day! Our “Where In The World Is Boutique Cafe?” contest entries are due tonight Aug. 31st at Midnight. Please be sure to send in those pics of you and your family enjoying the summer time with Boutique Cafe. We’ve already had some amazing entries and are excited that you took us with you in your travels this summer. We’ll be putting up the final entries in the Gallery over the next day or two and then our top secret guest judges will decide who the winner of the iPod and the $100 eBay Gift Certificate will be!! There is still time today to click a pic and enter. Mail your entries to daria@boutiquecafe.com

Here’s the GALLERY - the images enlarge for a better view if you click on them. Lots of room for new entries and you know you want an iPod and a $100 shopping Spree!

Cabana Life is a fashion company with a mission. Not only do they have drop dead adorable styles for boys, girls and moms but this fun in the sun clothing is jam packed with sun protection. How many other companies can you think of that care about your kids that much? We’re talking 50+ UV protection in each of their trendy garments.

One of the things I love about Cabana Life is that not only are they invested in sun protection but they don’t scrimp on style. I absolutely fell in love with their chic stylings for my little ones, my faves include their sweet as can be tunics, roll-up pants and of course the classic terry cover-up that every baby looks precious in! Cabana Life also has a wide assortment of shorts, terry pants, tired skirts, sun hats and more! You’ll be living the “fun in the sun life” all summer long.

Cabana Life founder and mommy of two, Melissa Papcock had her own personal scare after being diagnosed with a malignant melanoma at age 26, the deadliest form of skin cancer. It was this event coupled with her previous experience as a merchandising expert for top fashion and beauty magazines (including Vogue, Vanity Fair, Allure, Marie Claire, Self, Seventeen, O (The Oprah Magazine), and Teen Vogue) that helped meld her idea for a protective and stylish clothing line. Melissa’s hardwork and flair for fashion have truly paid off, with celebrity clientele such as Lisa Kudrow, Marcia Gay Harden, Debi Mazar, Jenifer Biels and Sean Astin. Celebrity parents are helping to get the word out about the importance of sun protection clothing while staying oh so stylish. But it doesn’t stop there, Moms like us can be the example too. With affordable fashion built to protect, Cabana Life gets a big nod from me today. Now go enjoy the sunshine! – Daria

Boutique Cafe readers get an exclusive offer of 50% off ALL Cabana Life merchandise! WOW! Coupon Code: cabana

I know”¦it’s hard to imagine chocolate serves any other purpose in life, but I’ve come across a company whose chocolate is on a mission. Endangered Species Chocolate’s core value is “Reverence for Life.” They believe “all life is precious and deserving of our respect, kindness and care, and this Reverence for Life ethic is at the heart of each our business practices.” How many chocolate companies model their core value after the humanitarian Albert Schweitzer?

Endangered Species uses cocoa that is 100% ethically traded. They buy their cocoa from small family-owned properties, helping sustain the habitats and communities they are in. The cocoa is grown in the natural shade of rich, diverse forests. By choosing””and eating””their chocolate you are supporting sustainable forest farmland and the species that flourish there. Since their cocoa is ethically traded, farmers are ensured humane working conditions and a fair price for their cocoa or a fair wage. And their humanitarian efforts don’t stop there. (Hint: Visit their site to learn more.)

Before receiving samples for review I actually came across Endangered Species chocolate when I purchased a 3 oz. bar of their Dark Chocolate with Chocolate Nibs–it was to die for! And not only was the chocolate fabulous, the packaging was inspiring as well. Each dark, milk, or white chocolate bar is packaged in artwork of an endangered species and is full of environmental conservation information as well as educational information about the plight of the animal it displays. How can you not feel good about eating chocolate when you’re learning something new?

Since then I’ve been able to try out some of their other gourmet products, including their white and milk chocolate and their new Gourmet Baking Rounds. Let me tell you, it was hard to keep myself from going out and buying more once the samples were gone. I even enjoyed the white chocolate, and I am so not a white chocolate fan. I feel an addiction coming on, but it’s one I don’t think I’ll have to give up. Ten percent of Endangered Species’ net profits support organizations involved in the conservation of species, habitat, and humanity. That’s enough reason to shout, “Bring on the chocolate!”

I encourage you to visit their site and learn more about this amazing company that is making a difference in the world, and be sure to pick up some of their delicious chocolate (for educational purposes, of course).

Got a product you think our listeners and readers will love? The Daily Dish at Boutique Café highlights the latest and greatest products for kids and moms (yes Dad’s are included too). If you think you’ve got the perfect product, we want to know!

If you would like your product covered in the Daily Dish we suggest submitting it to Boutique Café for review. By submitting your product to Boutique Café you are hitting one of the largest audiences of buyers and retailers of children’s couture along with moms looking for the next must-have product.

Please read through the following guidelines carefully before submitting a product for review in the Daily Dish. Note: All of our reviews are 100% editorial and unbiased.

Submission Guidelines
- Products submitted to the Boutique Café Daily Dish will not be returned and will become property of Boutique Café© Daily Dish (unless agreed and pre-arranged with consent from both parties).
- It is Boutique Café’s goal and policy to choose companies, products, and services that fit the lifestyle and interests of our listeners and readers. We will be highly selective and may choose not to review companies, products, and services we feel do not meet our standards.
- The Daily Dish will review the product only if it appeals to us and our audience. We will take into consideration not only the product itself but also the look of the product’s website. If it is not appealing and user friendly we will not send our listeners and readers to it.
- Websites showcased in our Daily Dish feature should provide an easy-to-use promotional offer for our listeners and readers on the mentioned sites.
- An email must be sent to Boutique Café© Daily Dish before sending your product. If we are interested in reviewing and testing your product we will provide you with a shipping address where you can send your product.

Products featured on the Daily Dish must meet all of the following criteria:

Link to an attractive, user-friendly website
Be of high quality and craftsmanship
Be in stock and ready to ship within a reasonable timeframe
Meet Boutique Café’s vision of providing its listeners and readers with reviews of the latest and greatest must-have products through its Daily Dish column.

Please read our guidelines and criteria thoroughly before submitting a product for the Boutique Café Daily Dish. If you feel your product meets our criteria, please contact us. We will reply to your email if we think your product is a good fit for our audience. Please include a website where we can view your product; you may not receive a reply if the site is not included.

Also, one of the best ways to generate interest in a product is to offer it in a Boutique Café giveaway. If you would like to submit one product for review and additional products for a giveaway, please include the information in your initial email.

For information on where to send products for review, please email Daria Muirhead, Boutique Café’s weekly host, and Emily Hill, contributing editor, at Product Submissions.

We’re always looking for the next must-have product for kids and moms. If you’ve got it, make sure we know about it!

You should always trust your intuition and for me I wish that I would have trusted mine when I was expecting my last baby. Somehow I knew that there must be something I could do to prevent those stretchmarks, thank goodness I’ve learned about the amazing products made by Mother’s Intuition with their “Tummy Honey Stretch Mark Solution” products.

Tummy Honey is an all-natural line of products with rich ingredients to help prevent or fade those stretch marks. Stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Brooke Shields, Carnie Wilson and Jennie Garth and more have seen super star results with this wonder butter. I tried the Tummy Honey stretch mark prevention butter on those pesky stretch marks over the past week and I admit that I do see a difference, they are fading and to me that’s truly a product to talk about!

Tummy Honey Stretch Mark Solution has unique anti-itch ingredients as well to soothe your every growing preggo belly, and reconstructs the collagen matrix of the skin. I love the Tummy Honey three pack which includes the Butter for prevention, the Cream for fading and the Stick for super easy prevention. The Tummy Honey 3-pack would make the perfect shower gift or new mommy gift! So listen to that Intuition and be sure to check out these products, your belly will thank you. – Daria

* Giveaway! Mother’s Intuition has teamed up with Boutique Cafe to away one of their Tummy Honey 3-packs valued at approx. $59 !! To enter simply leave a comment in under this review! We’ll draw the winner by the end of next week and contact her via email. The winner will have 24 hours to claim her prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Our weekly show is for moms all over the world interested in fashion, motherhood, inspiring entrepreneurial women, great products and more – it’s called Boutique Cafe. We’ve seen great success in our 11 months of operation and have gained thousands of subscribers to our show, as well as many thousands of visitors to our site each day. Women are really investing in Boutique Cafe and we’re excited to showcase great products and designs for their children along with topics of interest for savvy moms! Now Boutique Cafe is available for guest spots and interviews on your show. Interested in interviewing Daria or featuring Boutique Cafe on your program or website? Want to talk about the hottest things in boutique clothing for kids, hot products or moms on the go? Or perhaps you want to chat about podcasting from a work at home moms perspective. email us the details to Appearance Request.

We’re excited to announce a new venue for the hottest deals in the Boutique Community and it’s all right here on Boutique Cafe. Each month in our Chat forum we will have an ongoing thread of deals EXCLUSIVE to our BC members. Designers – if you’d like to offer Boutique Cafe members great deals, free shipping or promotions of any kind for your products during the end of August and through September please post your Coupons here. Please also post your terms and whatever promo code you’ve set up.

Catch ya on Boutique Cafe DEALS thread!

I absolutely, totally love to read. Before marriage and kids I inhaled books by the dozen. Now I’m lucky to read a dozen a year. I’m trying to instill this same love of reading in my children and I never pass up an opportunity to add more books to our personal library. School book fair? I’m so there. Scholastic and Troll book orders? Filled out and turned in. Bag from The Gifted Grasshopper? Working on it!

I stumbled upon The Gifted Grasshopper this morning and couldn’t wait to share. Gifted Grasshopper gift bags are “bursting with books that are hand selected by two teachers based on your child’s different educational and developmental needs.” The bags feature children’s books, children’s storybooks, illustrated books, children’s board books, and picture books, and you can purchase the bags by various age groups, from baby to third grade. You can also custom design a gift bag around a theme or special occasion. Their signature tote is made from high-quality canvas and include long handles for easy carrying. And how can you resist the cute little grasshopper (complete with glasses) embroidered on the front! Just thinking about a tote bag full of books makes my fingers anxious to turn some pages!

The best thing about The Gifted Grasshopper is that their tote bags make the perfect teacher gift! No more hand soaps, candles, or gourmet caramel apples. Teachers are always looking for new books to add to their collection, and The Gifted Grasshopper is the perfect way to end their search.

Wanna know one of my favorite finds for kids so far this year? It’s the Potty Bench by Boon Inc.. This sweetly styled seat is perfect for the discriminating toddler and is the center of attention in our bathroom! Not only does the Boon potty sport classy lines similar to that of a Mac product but it’s so smartly designed with features that you’ll want to run out and buy one for every bathroom in your house.

The Boon Potty Bench comes complete with ample storage on either side, simply roll down the apple green panels to tuck away toilet paper or even a potty book. The top closes down and makes it possible for the bench to become a step stool as well, adding to the versatility of this awesome product. Another smart feature of the Boon potty is the pull out tray for easy clean up, and for little boys the deflector shield protects your floor but it’s made of soft plastic so it wards off any ouch injury for your little guy.

Boon recommends this potty for ages 18 months and up so my baby Noah is good to go! There’s nothing at all that I didn’t love about this potty bench, the design, color and styling all brilliant and grab any toddlers eye – parents too for that matter, in fact every adult that has come into my house has asked about the Boon potty and where they could get one. Boon has a host of innovative products for your family, we’ll be bringing many of them to you over the coming weeks and letting you know what we think. We love working with companies on the cutting edge of baby design and Boon has really made a big splash with us. So grab your toddler and head on over to a Boon potty near you, it’s Potty Time! Bye bye diapers! – Daria

Swollen ankles, aching back, nausea and midnight cravings, ah yes I remember pregnancy well. Recently I was introduced to a new clothing line for pregnant women that might actually make me take back my statement of “never again”, due to their cute and stylish tops for the preggo mama. [bump] baby is all about feeling good during your 9 months of growth.

[bump] baby under manufacturing process is the key phrase you’ll find on the bevy of tees available. I love that these shirts are made of 100% cotton and are cut in a flattering style for your little belly. Gone are the days when people look at you with that question in their eyes of “is she pregnant?” – gone is the doubt. Guys don’t have to worry about inquiring after your new curves, feel free to chat.

Other awesome phrases include “[bump] boot camp”, “I’m not fat [bump] on board”, “[bump]²” for twins, “[bump] in the oven”. “#&@%! this [bump] has gotta come out where?!”, “I (heart) my [bump]“, and “post [bump]“.

The expectant Mom is not the only one [bump] designs for, it’s all in the family with tees for Dad like “without Me, there would be no [bump]“, and carriers/slings for your other children. The Preggy Band really interests me, it’s meant to reduce morning sickness using an elastic wristband and a plastic stud that applies acupressure on the P6 meridian point. Adorned with Swarovski crystals it just might make those yucky mornings less dreary. And their product line goes on and on…

If you have a [bump] in the oven be sure to stop by www.bumpbabies.com for some of the most sought after maternity tees on the market. Embrace those curves and sport your new belly with pride – look at you glow! Daria

**Promo Code – Get 10% off using promo code BC10 when you purchase online.

On 7/16/06 Cali Lewis (and Neal) from Geek Brief guest on the Mark Lowry video podcast. In part two they mention Boutique Cafe and Cali’s interview on our show! View the episode.

What’s more sexy than a full and pretty pout? Lip gloss and lip color are essentials to most women’s daily regime, in fact my mother can’t go into a store or down the block without checking and perfecting her kisser. On today’s Dish we feature FYLO – For Your Lips Only, no it’s not a new James Bond film though I’d love to hear the theme song for this product! FYLO is a system for your lips that keeps you kissable from dawn to dusk.

FYLO has several parts to help you mix and match for your perfect compact. Each FYLO palette is called a “cubicle” and enables you to fill it with over 28 yummy choices of lip color, lip gloss, lip pencils and even a lip treatment. Each gloss or color you choose comes in a little pop-able cube which can pop right into your cubicle and be on the ready for reapplication. The stellar thing about FYLO is the versatility, you can change your colors and gloss to suit your mood and only carry the colors you love and use with you in an attractive and easy system.

Heidi Harris, creator of FYLO is a mother of two and has a passion for the violin. She wanted to bring together her dream of her own cosmetics line together with her passion for music, thus you’ll see that the names of her products have a musical reflection.

FYLO’s product line not only softens your lips and gives them color and shine but is perfect for all of us moms who need organization and portability. I love that their compacts really make things simple, I just grab the colors I want and go. I can be as creative as I want and ready for a kiss from my hubby at any moment. Another thing I love about FYLO is the colors, they are scrumptious and highly wearable. Once I tried a few on I was surprised how many actually looked great on me, I usually struggle with what colors to buy but Heidi has made it easy by designing colors that “work” and are also very affordable.

Each gloss and color features a long lasting, concentrated formula and are infused with organic and therapeutic grade essential oils – talk about lip service! – Daria

* Giveaway! FYLO has teamed up with Boutique Cafe to away TWO of their popular Urban Cowgirl gift sets (featured in the May issue of Lucky magazine). To enter simply leave a comment in under this review! We’ll draw the winner by the end of next week and contact her via email. The winner will have 24 hours to claim her prize or a new winner will be chosen.

I have never been one to use those popular slings so many moms swear by. I’ve tried a couple in the past and never got the hang of them. My sling dysfunction is finally over now that I have my very own Heavenly Bundle (and I’m not talking about my nine-month-old).

Heavenly Bundle slings were designed by Joanna, a Certified Recreational Therapist and mother, who “”¦bought several [infant carriers] to help [her] get through the day (baby needed [her] undivided attention”¦). [She] felt like Goldilocks and the 3 Bears … ‘this one is too hot, this one hurts my back, this one makes me look like I should try out for the Dallas Cowboys!’” I couldn’t agree with her more!

The Heavenly Bundle Sling is a pouch-like, non-adjustable carrier worn over your body on one shoulder and rests on or above your opposite hip for comfort. Though the sling is non-adjustable, don’t worry. All Heavenly Bundle slings come in a variety of sizes. Simply follow the measuring instructions online to find the perfect fit.

Once I received the Heavenly Bundle, I decided to try out the hip hold. It worked perfectly! My arm didn’t feel like it was going to fall off from holding him while running around the house, and he seemed to enjoy hanging out a bit more with Mom. And we can hang out for a while, as each Heavenly Bundle Sling is made to support the weight of a newborn up to a 35-pound toddler.

One of the best features of this sling is the non-bulky leg padding/cushion, which is great for toddler legs in a hip carry or as a head cushion for smaller infants. Each sling also comes with a toy loop and inner pocket with flap. But enough about function””what about fashion? Heavenly Bundle’s got it with its selection of fabulous cotton prints and solids, all of which are reversible and all of which are machine washable. And taking your sling on the go is easy with ties you can use to neatly roll up your pouch and fit it right inside your purse or diaper bag. All this in one little sling””it’s heavenly!

* Heavenly Bundle is offering Daily Dish readers a 20% discount through the end of August. Use the code “daily20″ when checking out.

I have flown several times a year with my kids since my oldest (now 4 yo) was 3 months old and through trial and error, I have learned a few things. After a recent flying fiasco I decided to write them down and share in hopes that it can help others.

10 things every mother should know about flying with an infant/toddler….
#1 Arrive early. Two hours might sound like a lot, but with ever increasing security it’s a good idea to allow yourself extra time to get to your gate especially when toting along a kid or two (or three). Many airports have play places in the terminals near the gates for kids to let out some extra energy before the flight. And if needed, you can ask for a “gate pass” for an un-ticketed friend or family member to go through security with you and help you to the gate.

#2 Be sure to explain when booking your flight that you have an infant/small child flying with you and you MUST be seated together. And re-check your seat assignment when checking in. DO NOT let them tell you that you can “fix” the seats at the gate because there is a good chance YOU will end standing in the isle holding your baby having to play let’s make a deal to get people to change seats, further annoying the passengers who are already looking at you funny because they are afraid your child will scream the entire flight. It is WELL WORTH the effort/hassle/argument to get the seat assignments correct at check-in and tick off one ticket agent rather then tick off an entire plane.

#3 If you are bringing your carseat on the flight (I recommend if you are purchasing a seat for your infant, it’s nice to have somewhere to set them down when they fall asleep, also makes it easier for mom to use the restroom without having to stress about a stranger holding baby) be sure to tell the agent when booking your flight AND checking in at the counter because car seats must be next to the window and cannot be on an emergency exit isle.

Read the rest of this entry »

You may be shocked to hear that right now is actually the perfect time to start thinking Halloween. I know many of you are still lounging on the beach or reading your summer novel and have nary a thought of fall leaves, pumpkins and little goblins at your door, but trust me now is the time to plan. In the Boutique world children’s clothing designers truly come out to strut their stuff for this haunting occasion, and whether you’d prefer an elaborate traditional costume or a total original you’ll find what you are looking for by searching the designers on eBay!

As we speak there are currently over 423 custom boutique Halloween items for sale ranging from costumes to o’alls, shoes, jewlery, hairbows and more – everything you want for your little trick-or-treater.

Perhaps your little girl would love to dress in a Scarecrow costume complete with tutu OR maybe your little guy longs to do the Monster Mash. If you aren’t partial to costumes but still want your little one dressed special there are so many sweet boutique options with great fabrics and designs that will make them the talk of the classroom – like this set by Hip Chick.

Halloween is the perfect time to jump on into the world of custom boutique clothing, I recommend starting your search right away to ensure that your custom costume or set arrives in time for Halloween. Happy hunting! – Daria

*Photos property of HipChick and Mrs.Hattery

Do you ever stumble upon something you wish you’d had years ago, as it would have made life so much easier? That’s exactly how I feel about Baby Bistro Brands. The Baby Bistro Box and Toddler Bistro Box are two must-have resources for today’s moms.

Designed by Santa Barbara nutritionist Christina Schmidt, M.S., the Bistro boxes organize everything we moms want (and should) know about feeding our little ones from birth to age three. The recipe-like cards come in a retro-style flip top box and are overflowing with a wealth of important information such as foods to avoid, nutrient needs at each stage, simple and healthy recipes, shopping tips, and even fun ideas to do as a family. All this and all at my fingertips!

I took a closer look at the Baby Bistro Box to see what guidance it gives on feeding my nine-month-old. It took me a long time to get to the “Entrees 8-12 mos.” section as I got caught up reading everything else along the way. I found information for expectant moms, guidelines on nutrition for breastfeeding, common allergies, foods to avoid (”Fishy Fish,” “Chancy Cheeses,” “Vexing Veggies”), signs your little one is ready for solids, and easy and healthy made-from-scratch recipes””and that’s before you even get to “Entrees 8-12 mos.!” Oh, and I haven’t even touched on the Toddler Bistro Box, though I have looked through it and I can tell it’s going to make for some great reading””and some great nutrition for my kids.

I could go on and on but I think I’ll leave it to you to unwrap the delicious information inside these magnificent little boxes. –Emily

* Giveaway! Baby Bistro Brands is giving away one Baby Bistro Box and one Toddler Bistro Box. We’ll draw the winners from the comments posted for this review. The winners will be contacted via email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Daria answers listener and designer questions today. Designer X writes in from the Designing Minds blog, Daria sings a little ditty for listener Mary and more! The Auction Scramble is for any little girl that dreams of being a Fire Fighter when she grows up. Our Accessory Scramble has Dora all Bottled up.
Today’s podsafe song is “Follow” by 19 year old songstress Caitlyn Smith. Don’t forget to send in your entry photo for the “Where in the World is Boutique Cafe?” contest – only a few weeks to go. Prizes include an iPod and a $100 eBay gift certificate *sponsored by our friends at Journal Modiste.

It’s time again for some serious back-to-school shopping and I’ve got something that should definitely be part of every girl’s wardrobe””the Bitty Bee tee.

Bitty Bee tees were made to inspire confidence in the girls who wear them. Ana Rada George, a mother of three girls and the founder of Bitty Bee, was tired of the “provocative and belly baring shirts”¦often laden with statements that were negative, offensive, derogatory and objectifying our girls.” So in response to mainstream retailers she launched Bitty Bee, t-shirts that empower girls with messages of inspiration and encouragement.

I was sent both the “Most Likely to Succeed” and “Michiko” short-sleeve tees. Both t-shirts are very soft and the artwork is beautiful, but I have to say that although I love the confidence behind “Most Likely to Succeed,” “Michiko” is probably my favorite, as it is Japanese for “child of beautiful knowledge.” How can you not love the sound of that? The t-shirts are a longer length, so I won’t need to worry about telling my girls to pull down their shirts and pull up their pants (something I have to do a lot more than I’d like). I’m definitely going to love having my girls wear their Bitty Bee tees, and I have no doubt they’re going to love them too.

Just as inspiring as the t-shirts are Bitty Bee’s hangtags. Every shirt comes with a hangtag that features a Fabulous Female“”someone Bitty Bee recognizes for her contribution to our world. And Bitty Bee is contributing as well, for a portion of all sales “are given to girls’ organizations and programs that empower our girls, and challenge and develop them as major contributors and leaders of our communities.” I am all for anything that inspires, instills confidence, and improves the lives of our girls.

* Bitty Bee is offering free shipping to Boutique Café© readers. Simply enter “BC” in the Comments section at Shipping/Checkout and you’re well on your way to creating your own buzz!

Journal Modiste has the most comprehensive directory of designer groups on the web. If you are not familiar with the sewing groups on eBay you’ll want to check out their amazing Group Directory. In the listings you’ll find all the hottest groups and designers stiching their way up the custom boutique ladder – oh and the fashions are unbelievable. Go have a peek today and then come back to Boutique Cafe and post about who YOUR fave groups are right now!

You’re in for a treat this week, how ’bout some unbirthday cake?! We’re thrilled to present the designs of Dayna from my*unbirthday in a featured spot on Boutique Cafe. We asked designer Dayna about her beautiful work and here’s what she had to say:

“The thrill for me isn’t one specific aspect of creating. Like many others who sew and design, it starts from going to the fabric store and getting excited about what new great prints I’ll find. Sometimes an idea for a design comes right away from looking at the fabric, and other times I’ll end up hanging on to 10 yards of a print that I love, but just can’t figure out what I want to do with it. I love to create colorful, wearable, fun, and fashionable clothing. You will seldom see me recreate a design more than a few times because I get easily bored. The 2 things that ultimately keep me going are my 2 girls demanding more clothing and my wonderful customers. It fills my heart to hear that a customer’s little girl loves her new outfit. Thank you so much for considering me for this Daria. You don’t know how much of a thrill this is for me! Thank You Thank You Thank You!!!!!”

You can learn more about my*unbirthday on her eBay About Me page. You may shop her current auctions on eBay. Please allow time for the show to load. Fashion Shows are in Quicktime format, a free download here.

I am a big fan of JJ Cole. Their bundleme keeps little ones not only warm but stylish in the winter. Who isn’t a fan of super soft shearling and fabulous colors? So when they said they were sending their new Essentials Travel Pod set for review, I anxiously waited for that package to arrive. I wasn’t disappointed!

I received the Travel Pod set in Pink Flower and absolutely love the design. The set includes one of each member of their popular Pod family: the pacifier pod, the diapers & wipes pod, and the bottle pod. The first thing I noticed was how easy they will be to keep clean, an important detail I look for in just about everything I buy these days. These babies are even machine washable!

The pacifier pod is a great way to keep track of at least one of those magically disappearing pacifiers. It has an “attach-anywhere” handle so you’ll always know exactly where it is. Attach it to your diaper bag, purse, or your little one’s carseat. The best part about the pacifier pod is it keeps the pacifier sanitary. (A much better solution than wiping it on your jeans…)

The diapers & wipes pod comes with a color coordinating changing pad, a magnetic closure (I love those!), and the same “attach-anywhere” handle. The main pocket holds the changing pad, wipes, and two or more diapers. It’s also a great option for keeping that extra change of clothes!

And last but not least, the bottle pod is a fantastic insulated bottle holder with a complete zipper closure and “attach-anywhere” handle (of course!). It’s perfect for keeping your little one’s bottle, food, or even sippy cup warm or cold while on the go. Maybe when he’s not using it my little one will let me borrow it for my bottled water!

Here’s to another fantastic product by JJ Cole. The Essentials Travel Pod set is the perfect gift for friends and family, and at under $30, you can afford to pick one up for yourself as well! – Emily

Daria’s review on Sophie’s Favors reminded me of another great resource for gifting. Paper Source–the be-all, end-all for all your papering needs.

Paper Source began “in 1983 from one woman’s obsession with paper.” The company is now the premiere seller of fine, handmade papers from around the world. Their ginormous selection of paper is sold in a wide range of forms, from large sheets and packaged letter sized sheets to envelopes and accessories. The website even states that their “colors [are] developed by and exclusively manufactured for us.”

Start with a basic like gift wrap and you’ll find everything from roll wrap to gift tags to specialty gift boxes. Move on to invitations and you’ve got do-it-yourself digital invites, embossers, and custom letterpress. Browsing through their envelopes & cards I’m almost embarrassed to send out one from the box set I currently have sitting in my office.

And I haven’t even told you about their rubber stamps, bookbinding supplies, kits & projects, journals & albums, and classy office supplies (think sealing wax and silver clipiolas””I had no idea there was such a word!). I could find an excuse to buy just about everything on Paper Source, especially those cute clipiolas. I may just have to treat myself to a set along with a new gift bag or two to replace the ones I’ve recycled a few too many times. –Emily

a href=”http://www.shopittome.com/”>First, an apology: I’m posting this review all on my own and haven’t a clue how to insert an image, so you’ll have to pretend there’s a nifty one right here in the corner. Got one in your mind? Great! Now here’s a website I recently discovered and one that could possibly change the world.

The site, Shop It To Me, takes personal shopping online. You select your favorite apparel brands (Armani, Prada, Seven Jeans, , and DKNY, to name a few) and sizes. Shop It To Me will scour the sites of leading retailers and email a daily or weekly summary of which new items go on sale in your size. It sounds so easy it’s scary!

If you’ve been frustrated because you’ve found the clothing you wanted on sale but discovered it wasn’t in your size, or if you are just too busy to spend hours each day searching the web for the latest deals, then you definitely need to subscribe to Shop It To Me! It’s free to subscribe and you can choose to receive daily or weekly emails. Retailers are limited to a select few, so you’ll still want to comparison shop if you find something you absolutely must indulge in.

Now all I need is a site that will scour the sites of leading chocolatiers (See’s, Godiva, Ghirardelli, to name a few) so I can receive an email when a pound of dark chocolate truffles goes on sale. -Emily

If you haven’t heard already, our family is 3 days away and neck deep into wedding plans for my sweet Brother-in-Law Conor and his lovely Bride-to-be Katie. Planning a wedding can be a stressful time for everyone involved and it always helps to find a place for inspiration. I stumbled across this outstanding wedding favor website with ideas so rich that I almost considered renewing my own vows!

I’ve visited many a wedding website and an large number of them are not user friendly or attractive. Imagine my excitement when I discovered Sophie’s Favors the site full of unique favors and ideas. Whether your looking for elegant boxes or exquisite tea sachets, Sophie’s Favors truly takes the cake.

I had so much fun dreaming of what I could wrap with their Silk Gift Wrapping Paper with Raised Silver Polka Dots, a must see indulgence to be sure. It Tiffany Blue is your thing Sophie’s Favors will likely have all the things you are looking for. I love to look at all the little boxes and tins and visualize a fun dinner party theme to go with them, you’re all invited.

If you are planning a wedding this year or simply love great packaging and unique ideas be sure to scope out Sophie’s Favors, they truly take the cake! – Daria

Get ready for some lip smacking, sweet cravin’ fun today! If you haven’t seen lollitops by Clothesline Candy you are literally in for a real Treat. These scrumptious tees are high quality 100% cotton with beautiful mouth watering embroidery for your little tot. Each tee is hand-wrapped like a giant lollipop, and are guaranteed to start a craving for all the designs they are just so yummy.

When Noah’s tee arrived announcing him as the King of Rock our entire family was was blown away by the extraordinary packaging. Clothesline Candy really makes getting clothing an event for little ones and parents alike. With designs like Chatterbox, Grease Monkey, Party Animal, Hippie Chick, Slugger, Trend Setter and many more your little one will be the sweetest tike on the block, and oh so fashionable. Available in 12, 18 and 24 months sizes and retail for around $25 nationwide.

I loved the ultra soft cotton of the tee shirt and the fit on Noah was perfection, with his wavy locks he surely was the “king” that day. Lollitops are available at retailers all across the US., simply use the store locator page on the Clothesline Candy website to get the hook up. I love getting my sugar high from things that are sweet and calorie free – Clothesline Candy is the indulgence you will want to satisfy again and again. – Daria

* Giveaway! The SWEET people at Clothesline Candy are giving away a free Lollitop to one of our Boutique Cafe commenters! We’ll draw the winner by the end of next week and contact her via email. The winner will have 24 hours to claim her prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Photo credit: Snapdragon Photography

Good Monday everyone, due to a civic holiday today Emily and I are taking one day to spend with our families. The Daily Dish will be back tomorrow with a must-have review you won’t want to miss! Thank you for coming here daily for all the dish. – Daria

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