None of my little ones have been big on the baby carrier thing. We’ve tried various slings and front-pack carriers and either they tire of it quickly or mom’s shoulders and back tire of it quickly. I had pretty much given up hope of every being “hands-free” with my new little one when I came across the CuddlyWrap from Peapod Creations. It was different from anything I’d ever seen and when they sent a sample for review I was totally happy to give it a try.

The first thing I noticed was the soft 100% cotton, and then I noticed how dang long the thing was. I was a bit overwhelmed by the directions at first, but when I followed them step by step it was actually easier than I thought. And placing my new little one in the Cuddly Wrap was pretty self explanatory (though I did double check those directions just to be sure). Once I had her in the wrap I couldn’t believe how little weight I felt on my shoulders and neck. The fabric cradled my shoulders and the way the wrap was positioned distributed her weight evenly. Within minutes I was hands free and she was out like a light. Being still under two months old, every sleeping moment is something to prize. I have used this wrap more times in one week than all the times I used all the other carriers together. And each time I use it Livi is as happy and content as can be. I’ve even included a photo of little Livi asleep in her new CuddlyWrap, and I never take the time to do photos! Read the rest of this entry »

Boutique Cafe teams with MommyCast and Podango as one of the Inaugural podcasts involved with the new MommyCast & Friends Family Channel.

Read the Press Release here »

Are you ready for some football?

Pickles*and*co is and has created the perfect outfit for your future quarterback! Several appliques adorn the t-shirt and jeans and she will even customize the colors to represent your favorite team!

 Touchdown!!! - Megan

…to express your sense of style.” That is my favorite quote from Hot Toddies Baby Gear, designers of the Hot Toddie car seat cover. And if you’ve got a cover from Hot Toddies then you’ll find it easy to express that sense of style.

I received the Emma Swirl toddler car seat cover in pink. With its swirls and vibrant colors this cover has “chic-yet-fun-loving” written all over it! Machine washable and fitting most toddler car seats (including those with side impact protection) this Hot Toddie cover is a must-have for vamping up your car seat style. The seat covers are easy enough to put on and easy enough to take off, a necessity for those of us who allow food in the car. (I wouldn’t survive a long drive without the goldfish crackers, fruit snacks, and juice-filled sippy cup.) Besides Emma Swirl, Hot Toddies has a fun line of other designs. I love the Tyler Frog and the Millie Stripe. Fabulous and functional–one of my favorite combinations! Read the rest of this entry »

While at the Boutique Cafe Girls Getaway Weekend a few months ago, I had the opportunity to sit down with some of our outstanding attendees, for personal interviews. In the first of our series, Kim the owner of You Can Make This shows some of the cool products that you can learn to make through ebooks on her site. Please enjoy the videocast this week, I’m off to Ontario, California for the Podcast & New Media Expo with Amelia. I look forward to meeting some of you there as well for my Birthday weekend! - Daria

Mommy! Spoil yourself with a gorgeous Denise Tjarks purse from My Chic Things. I was sent the incredible Aloha designed bag from My Chic Things website and fell for this vibrant and fun addition to my wardrobe. That’s right, when you carry a Denise Tjarks bag it feels like you’ve just revived your outfit and updated it with something funky. You’ll love the handy clasp that keeps your purse all together, even in the midst of little kids. I tested the purse, and that clasp really did make a difference when my two year old “assisted” my testing.

My Chic Things offers a bevy of beautiful gift ideas and mama must-haves online. Their webstore is full of goodies and I highly recommend taking a few minutes to browse their unique and drool worthy products. My trip there was quite satisfying and I came out with a little master list of things I would love to buy for either myself or more likely the women I love in my life. Funky tees, sumptuous soaps, cuddle up wraps, sensational scarves and of course those to-die-for Denise Tjarks bags - add My Chic Things to your computer click list and check back often. As they say “Be Chic. Be Unique” - Daria

The Christmas Holiday sales have already begun for the ebay boutique community. There are so many great outfits popping up in all styles! This outfit by crabby*g captures and fun and whimsical side of the season. Bright fun colors, beautiful appliqued designs and her darling elf apron make this outfit a must have for the season! - Megan

My buddy Emily co-owner of georgie tees and her partner in crime LeShan have baked up some bloggity goodness that can’t be missed. Sharing “fresh ideas, tasty treats and a good dose of humor” - well sign me up for some of that! If there’s something Emily knows about, it’s all the yummy stuff you all want to indulge in. Trust me, she’s always talking about chocolate, caramel and more.

Not only are they successful business women, but also super mommy’s with 8 children between them. This blog is sure to bring fun and laughter over the coming months.

Hurry off and share their link with your friends and family, then have your friends post who referred them. You could WIN big with freshly baked - they’re giving away a gorgeous Modern Union diaper bag filled with products from littletwig, baby star and of course georgie tees. (hint…tell em’ Daria sent you!)

Click here for a little freshly baked fun »

Because if you don’t you’ll miss out on the softest, most scrumptious line of hand-knit goods you’ve ever seen–or felt. Jesse Walker has a must-have line (and I mean must-have) of children’s clothing and accessories yummy enough to eat!

Started five years ago after Dale Schlauch, the company’s designer and owner, decided to stay home with her kids rather than teach preschool. Knitting since age seven, Jesse Walker (named after her two children) was an obvious next step. All items are made by hand–not on a loom–by women in the U.S. and all items, as far as I’m concerned, are absolutely adorable. I received the Ear Flap Hat, Puppet Mittens (a bestseller, and I can see why), and the cozy raglan Patch Sweater. My first impression was how amazingly soft the knit goods were. I was so taken by how yummy they felt I almost didn’t realize how incredibly cute they were. I’m sounding like a broken record here but I’m telling you Jesse Walker has a corner on the market when it comes to stylish, soft-ish children’s clothing and accessories. Read the rest of this entry »

If you’re looking for a fun, new take on the ol’ school lunchbox then Built NY’s Munchler is the perfect lunch bag for you. These super sacks are totally cool, and I’m not just talking insulation. Built NY has combined “whimsical fun with practicality” and the end result is a lunchbox every kid–or kid at heart–will love.

I received Boo Munchler, a friendly panda bear who got her nickname from bamboo, her favorite food. How cute is that? Her friends include Benny Munchler (bengal tiger), Meadow Munchler (rabbit), and Lefty Munchler (puppy). Boo arrived unzipped and flat as a pancake. It took me two seconds to zip her up and I was all set to pack some snacks. Though the Munchler is a bit smaller than your typical lunchbox it still has enough room to pack a good selection of healthy (or my favorite, not-so-healthy) snacks. The polypropylene bag is lead and food safe and insulates food just as well as the so-called insulated lunchboxes you typically buy. I love that Boo has small handles for small hands. She is a good fit for my two-year-old. Read the rest of this entry »

Welcome to the Sumptous world of Ritchie Rags, at least that’s the latest and greatest group launch designer Jeramie has been a part of. And it’s no wonder, with classic and dreamy creations for little girls - Ritchie Rags exceeds expectations and keeps us drooling over her next designs. Please enjoy our Fashion Show feature this week of Ritchie Rags, and be sure to post a comment for Jeramie below:

Designer Quote:
“I am so constantly inspired by my own children and the children around me. I also love to travel and be outdoors, and these adventures help shape my visions. I have an eclectic nature…and love everything from retro vintage to funky punk to Euro inspired looks…and sometimes great combinations of them..or whatever else has taken my fancy! Designing allows me to have an artistic outlet that is fun for me and the princess wearing my creation!”

Shop Ritchie Rags in her eBay auctions. You can learn more about Ritchie Rags on her eBay Me page. **Please allow time for the show to load. A HUGE Thank you to Lisa from iza-bella.com for producing our Fashion Show this week!

I’m all for exercise. Not only does it help me keep my sanity amidst the craziness that is my life but it also gives me a much-needed pick-me-up to get through the rest of the day (or the long night if I’m hitting the gym after 8pm). Even when I’m pregnant I try to hit the gym a few times a week until I’m too huge to waddle on that treadmill one more step (about week 39). Now there’s a new website that supports and encourages women like us to “stay active, fit, and healthy during pregnancy and in the first few years of motherhood.” Mom&BabySport gives expectant and new moms the tools they need to do just that.

Started by a mom who accidentally ran a marathon while two-months pregnant, Mom&BabySport offers the clothing, accessories, and support every mom needs whether she’s looking to exercise her body or her mind. The site offers nursing sports bras, maternity bike jerseys and workout capris, and even lavender orange shea butter for preventing those nasty stretch marks. Looking for more info on eating healthy during your pregnancy or an at-home postnatal workout? Mom&BabySport has it all. I love their Fit Tips and “10 Co-Mom-dents”–some really great advice there. Read the rest of this entry »

Daria’s dishin out all the Boutique Cafe news this week, including the launch of our New “Family Photo Contest sponsored by Philips. You can win 1 of 4 Philips Digital Photo Frames. Also on the go is our BC Facebook group where we’ve already reached 100 members in a few short days, come join in the fun. Lisa, the owner and designer for Iza-Bella.com is here to share news of her upcoming fall retail collection.

Amelia is back with our Fashion Forward Friday Challenge for this week, be sure to blog your thoughts on “kickin’ it old school” and come back to our shownotes to post your link. Daria and Amelia are going back to Cali…that’s right we’re heading to the Podcast & New Media Expo in Ontario, California and we want to meet you there! All that and more on Boutique Cafe this week.

With Fall on our heels and the weather beginning to turn, what little girl wouldn’t be adorable in this hat by LullabyLamb! I love the cloche style - such a classic - and combined with the rich colors of fall makes this a must have! She’ll be a hit at the pumpkin patch, Thanksgiving and much more! - Megan

Please allow me to rave today as I share an exceptional pre-school curriculum offered by Itty Bitty Book Worm. It’s September, and the ideal time of year to consider supplementing your child’s education from home. Many of you may be considering home schooling, but are unsure where to turn. While others want to enhance the learning process with their own children, and assist them in learning from Mom. Whatever your goal, BRAVO!! I know that I have this desire with my pre-schooler and Kindergarten aged sons. That’s where curriculum & training specialist Tara Rison comes in. Read the rest of this entry »

Last year, Boutique Cafe brought you a fun filled photo contest entitled “Where in the World is Boutique Cafe?”. Entrants sent in pictures from all over the world, showcasing themselves promoting Boutique Cafe. It was a great hit with our readers, and the entries were wonderful.

This Fall we’re breaking out the camera’s again and turning you into your own personal paparazzi with our “Boutique Cafe Family Photo Contest” sponsored by Philips. That’s right, we’re spotlighting You on Boutique Cafe, by having you submit a family photo that shows the unique spirit and feel of your family.

From Sept.17 - Oct. 25, 2007 - you may enter your photos to be eligible for one of FOUR incredible prizes. Philips has teamed up with Boutique Cafe to giveaway 4 Digital Photo Frames that will rock your world and showcase your family photos for years to come. The prizes will be these gorgeous Seasonal Edition Philips Frames.

As entries are received they will be posted in our online gallery & Flickr account > for BC readers to view and enjoy.

We also invite you to promote the Boutique Cafe Family Photo Contest by placing our contest banner ad on your website or blog and linking back to this page.

Copy the following code and paste it into your html page:
<a href="http://www.boutiquecafe.com/home/2007/09/17/966/" target="_top"><img src="http://www.boutiquecafe.com/images/familyphotocontest/bcfamilyphotocontest.gif" /></a>

Details/Rules:

Only digital photos accepted for this contest. To enter please JOIN our Flickr Group » and upload your photos to our “Boutique Cafe Family Photo Contest” (use tags for your photos: Boutique Cafe, Family Photo, Contest, Philips). You also may submit your digital photos by email to info@boutiquecafe.com (Subject: Family Photo Contest). Each entrant may submit a Maximum of 4 pictures.

By submitting the photo via email to Boutique Cafe, the participant consents to entry of his or her submission and agrees to these Official Rules and Regulations and the decisions of the judges, which are final and binding in all matters to this contest.

Boutique Cafe is honored to team up with our sponsor Philips for our “Family Photo Contest” running from today until Oct. 25th. Check out all the details here. Â »

Enter to win one of 4 spectacular Philips Digital Photo Frames in their gorgeous seasonal design! Get snapping those shots and send them in for our online BC gallery. Thanks for your participation - we’re excited to have your show us your families.

I love the idea behind the pacifier holder. No need to fish around for a lost pacifier. Just find the clip, follow it to the end, and viola! The all-important pacifier is ready to go. Now top off a cute pacifier clip with really cute packaging and you’ve got the perfect gift. Z. Daisy not only offers a fun line of pacifier clips, blanket clips, blankets, and hooded towels but gift wraps them in sweet little silver pails decorated with coordinating stickers.

I received one of Z. Daisy’s chenille Binkie Bungees. This 100% cotton chenille pacifier clip is machine washable (can’t say that about the beaded one I already own) and coordinates with their blankets. It’s hard to say which I love more, the Bubblegum Pink Binkie Bungee or the coordinating pail! They also have a new line of Minky Binkie Bungees–love the Zebra! For the perfect gift pair one of their stroller blankets with a matching Binkie Bungee and top it off with a matching set of Blanket Bungees. Z. Daisy will package the set in a sweet 6″ pail and you won’t have to worry about which gift bag to reuse.

You know I love it when a company supports a worthy cause, and Z. Daisy is one of those companies. Because one of the two families behind Z. Daisy was blessed through adoption, a percentage of each sale helps fund adoptions through Life International. Now you’ve got a great gift wrapped in great packaging and tied to a great cause. Sounds like the perfect excuse to go shopping! –Emily

* Promotion! Z. Daisy is offering FREE SHIPPING for Daily Dish readers until October 17th. Simply enter code DAILYDISH at checkout.

It’s all about Pirates this Halloween season! This swashbuckling trick or treat bag from *ladesigns*is the ideal way to top off your little one’s halloween adventures. Fill it with sweet treasures and haul off that loot in style.

For more information on *ladesigns* you can check out their about ME page. If Pirates aren’t your thing, do not fear - *ladesigns* has oodles of Treat Bag designs that are selling fast! Check them all out here »

We all know about the all-important buddy system when it comes to field trips but I’ve got a new buddy your little one is sure to go for. Skinvestment’s Boo Boo Buddy is one of the best takes on pain management I’ve seen yet! Their Boo Boo Buddy Pets and Sports are a great way to help owies feel all better.

The Boo Boo Buddy is not just another ice pack. This little guy has a very smooth outer material that will actually stay soft and flexible even when frozen. So much better than those solid ones for resting comfortably on a knee or elbow. Plus they’re reusable, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic. Their small size makes it easy for little hands to hold and the gel formula provides up to 30 minutes of cooling relief.

We received a few samples of the Boo Boo Buddy in both the pets and sports themes. They were an instant hit before they were even out of the package! We froze two of them right away (the soccer ball and penguin) to test them out. Little did I know we would have two real “owie” situations with which to test them. First, my almost two-year-old used the soccer ball to ease the pain of a fingernail that was about to come off a very sore finger (does every child have to get his fingers slammed in a door before the age of 5?). Read the rest of this entry »

It’s actually both! The KangaKid from Deuter is a backpack and carrier in one. What I really like about this backpack style carrier is how compact it is. When using it as a backpack it’s not much larger than your typical daypack and yet has one large and one small front pocket, side mesh pockets, and a large interior storage pocket. But this pack does something your Jansport can’t do–doubles as a child carrier!

I was able to check out the KangaKid and I was really impressed with how sturdy and well made the product is. The hidden child carrier not only boasts the company’s Aircontact Back System (provides great ventilation and outstanding comfort) but also a 5-point harness and the ability to carry a child up to 30 pounds. Yes, all this in what Aladdin’s Genie would call an “itty bitty livig space.” You get all this functionality with a sleek and cool style. If you love the outdoors, the KangaKid carrier is a must-have for those afternoon hikes. And if you prefer a hike around the mall to a hike around the lake, the KangaKid has enough room for your precious one and your precious packages!

If you’re into more than an afternoon hike, check out the other child carriers offered by Deuter. You’re sure to find something to suit your outdoor style. –Emily

Better than a locket that hides your loved ones - show them off in this very striking way!Lucky Me Beads on etsy can turn your sweetheart, child, or even your pet into a stylish pendant. She even uses vintage rings to add the right touch of charm! Anyone thinking great gift???? I am!!! - Megan

If you are in and around the Ontario, California area Sept. 28-30th and are a BC listener I’d love to meet you. The conference is free, so drop in and say hello. Be sure to email me if you’re coming so I can watch for you moms and designers!
Cheers! Daria

Click to Register for the PME »

We’re celebrating our Birthday this month on Boutique Cafe!! To mark the occasion we’re debuting our New BC theme song, written and performed by the amazing Geoff Smith. What are your thoughts on the past years? Please let us know by leaving us comments in our shownotes today. We’re back and ready to accept your Boutique News for our next show segment, please email details of your launches and events to megan@boutiquecafe.com. EXTRA EXTRA! Boutique Cafe has a New group up on Facebook and we’d love for you to join in. Please create a profile and then click the link to join our new BC podcast group. Invite your friends/family/group members and fellow BC guru’s - let’s make this a great new venue to spread the word about our community!

It’s time for another Fashion Forward Friday challenge, and since our studio is still being set up Daria issues this week’s challenge to blog about your “Favorite Fashion Designer”. Share a pic of their work, brag about how great they are - and then come back and post a link to your post in our shownotes. We’ll be drawing for a Free 2 week sidebar banner ad on BC from all those who participate. Get posting and watch for our next challenge coming soon with Amelia our fashion guru.

Check out this gorgeous holiday set by Ritchie Rags. Two Turtle Doves is cuter than a partridge in a pear tree!!
View the Auction here »

What’s more a”peel”ing than a brand new baby? Perhaps only the magnificent blankets and burp cloths made by Orange Peel Baby! They combine a little bit of sassy and sweet for baby products with a unique twist.

I was sent a gorgeous euro style blanket and matching burp cloth from Orange Peel Baby. Opening the beautifully constructed blanket was like love at first sight. With minkee backing, and a coordinating euro cotton print on the reverse, I can’t imagine not wanting to break it out and use it everyday for comfort and looks. The stitching was meticulous and the overall effect is one of cuddle-up fun.

Orange Peel Baby offers a great selection of handcrafted baby gifts including, burp cloths, blankets, hats, quilts and bibs. They also offer lovely fabric choices and an easy ordering process. Snuggle up your new little Orange Peel Baby, and enjoy the bonding that comes from cuddling up with the one you adore. - Daria

For all the Facebook/Boutique Cafe guru’s please check out our new little group on Facebook.

Come and meet up with a whole new cross section of women/ moms/ designers/ momprenuers and so much more!

CLICK HERE »

I know what you are thinking? “That’s not a picture of a plaid giraffe! It’s a fish!” Let me introduce to you a designers shop on etsy called The Plaid Giraffe. Her mod red flower tee caught my eye while I was browsing etsy and drew me into her shop only to find more CUTE and irresistable designs! I love Sally the Snail, Sam the Seahorse and Ollie the Ostrich! See’s a must see! check out her store today! - Megan

I’d like to say I let my kids listen to their music while we’re all in the car, that I’m happy to crank up the volume when any Disney CD is playing, but I can’t. Besides a few favorite Raffi songs most children’s music drives me nuts. I grew up listening to Boston and Neil Diamond so I figure 80’s and 90’s alternative is just fine for my kids. Well, believe it or not I’ve found some children’s music that not only the kids will love but parents like me will enjoy listening to as well.

Putumayo Kids offers a line of very entertaining CDs that are as easy on the ears as they are educational. Educational? Yep. Putumayo Kids is introducing your children to world cultures through fun, upbeat, get-on-your-feet-and-dance music. We were lucky enough to receive an advance copy of the new Brazilian Playground CD, and I have to admit I might have enjoyed it even more than my kids! Described as “a lively musical journey that will transport children from the rain forests of the Amazon to the beaches of Rio de Janeiro,” this CD had us moving and shaking to songs full of Brazilian culture. Read the rest of this entry »

The call of the wild is going to be the sound of gift giving this year! Mark this one down on your kids wish list, it was a huge hit at our house. Meet Zoobie Pets, the 3 in 1 toy that will tug at your heart strings and comfort your kiddos. Zoobie’s are an adorable stuffed animal that can be loved, squished and played with all day, then when it’s nap time unsnap his tummy straps and he’s a wild and wonderful pillow. The comfort gets even better as the Zoobie then opens up with a zipper bottom to reveal a sumptuous blanket for nap time or travel.

I’m not typically a huge fan of traditional stuffed animals, I think they take up alot of space in my kids rooms and they lose interest in them fast. However, I was pleasantly surprised by their reactions to the Zoobie Pets. For weeks they have played with, imagined, bonded, cuddled, and loved the Zoobie Pets. I honestly was stunned and excited to see them fall in love with their new safari friends. With names like Lencho the Lion, Rhaxma the Rhino, Winda the Wildabeast, Jafaru the Giraffe - the Animal Kingdom can romp and play in your own backyard.

It’s not hard to see why my kids have had such a strong attachement to the Zoobie Pets, they are charming toys bursting with imagination and innovation. A key factor of their popularity is the loveable and adorable faces, soft squishy bodies, and the inner blanket that feels like butter to the touch. Nap time has never been so fun! - Daria