We Like(d)
Meet Buyers From… Kid’s Stores In The Western US 
This summer, The Tiny Show on Tour set down its suitcase for a successful first edition in Los Angeles. To further explore this market, we wanted to get to know some buyers from kid’s stores in the western United States! Having visited The Tiny Show, Playtime New York, and even Playtime Paris, these retailers are part of our international community.
Let’s turn our attention to kid’s stores in the western United States to see what the market is like there, what the typical customers are looking for, and what makes each of their stores special.
Broomtail Kids is a friendly neighborhood shop in Denver, Colorado. Whether their customers are stopping in after grabbing a morning coffee or on their way home after school pick-up, owner Maris loves being a destination for joy, discovery, and imagination. “Visiting our store is like a treasure hunt with unique, quality items presented in thoughtful displays that make for intentional gifting,” Maris told us. She added that their gift bags are always the first to be opened at baby showers!
At Broomtail Kids, Maris finds that her customers are often looking for comfortable clothing and open-ended toys. To help them get a good feel for the items they carry, customers of all ages are encouraged to touch the fabrics and play with the toys at Broomtail Kids. “We want our store to feel like an extension of home where you can exhale, tap into your inner child, and walk away with something you truly love,” Maris explained. She added that these are the attributes she and her team love about visiting Playtime events! Maris said that our events offer an opportunity to get inspired by the innovative designs coming from around the world. “It’s a busy and stimulating couple of days, but we always return feeling inspired and connected to all the other small shops working tirelessly to bring the best to our customers,” Maris said.
On their shelves: Grech & Co, Cozmo, Mon Ami, Dimpel, The Bonniemob, Angel Dear, Minnow, Anise & Ava, Konges Sløjd, Pierced Co, Collégien, Super Smalls, Maileg, Dear Hayden, Fairwell, Good Apples Kids, Malibu Sugar, Snug, Magnetic Me, Bobo Choses, Zomi Gems…
For over 22 years, Hopscotch Kids has been curating a thoughtful selection of kids clothing, toys, shoes, and essentials for parents and gift-givers in search of something beautiful, unique, functional, and safe. The store’s owner, Bridget, describes Hopscotch Kids as playful, elevated, and heartfelt. “We value offering a seamless buying experience for our customers, who trust us to source items that feel special,” she told us.
Because they’re in a popular tourist destination, their customers come from all over the world in addition to their strong local following. “Our customers appreciate clean design, comfort, and versatility. They love supporting brands with mindful production practices,” Bridget told us. She finds that European designs with vintage aesthetics work particularly well, and people ask for merino wool and GOTS certified organic cotton. “There’s a strong emphasis on community, lifestyle, and products that reflect the outdoorsy, adventurous spirit of the region,” Bridget explained.
Bridget has observed a shift in the children’s market in the western US that has made it harder to view new collections in person. She started coming to Playtime New York because it offers the opportunity to connect with inspiring brands and like-minded retailers. Bridget told us that she always finds new brands that surprise her, reconnects with long-time partners, and finds fresh inspiration on how to bring the best of children’s design to her customers. “We leave Playtime with renewed energy and a sense of supporting the global children’s market,” said Bridget. She found Playtime’s new presence in LA a great resource for west coast retailers as well.
In Hopscotch Kids: Luciole et Petit Pois, Li & Me, Me & Henry, DL1961, Oldsoles, Jamie Kay, Appaman, Hanna Andersson, Lilies & Roses NY, Coccoli, Pepita & Me, Bari Lynn, Reima, Vignette, Riffle Amsterdam…
Started in Seattle in 1952, The Original Childrens Shop is on its third generation with the current owner, Kellie. Her mother bought the boutique in 1989, following her own mother’s love of shopping there. Since its beginning, The Original Childrens Shop has been dedicated to offering an enjoyable shopping experience to their fashion, toys, books, and accessories. Since she took over ownership with her husband, Kellie has opened a second location in Washington and expanded the store’s online presence. Playfully elegant and abundantly joyful, these beautifully merchandised stores have the products and expertise to accompany their customers.
“Our typical customer is someone who appreciates the quality of our selection and the uniqueness of what we offer,” Kellie told us. She explained that a lot of their business comes from gift purchasing, so it’s important they have special items that can’t be found elsewhere. Kellie finds that west coast customers are laid back, often searching for pieces that are easy for children to wear and that hold up in rain or snow. She’s observed strong growth in the region, with a desire for community and supporting local business returning to top of mind.
When she visits trade shows, Kellie is looking for high quality brands that tell stories, support small boutiques, and, above all, that her customers will love and value. At The Tiny Show on Tour this summer, she was able to find brands that otherwise don’t have a large representation in the western US. “I always appreciate that Playtime events are well organized, offer a wide selection of brands, types of merchandise, and price points,” Kellie told us.
Shop these brands: Rachel Riley, Andy & Evan, Babysprouts, PQ Swim, Kissy Kissy, Feather 4 Arrow, MarMar Copenhagen, Sweet Wink, Flap Happy, Hatley, Apple Park, Miles the Label, Molo, Sweet Bamboo…
Opened 10 years ago by a mother of two who was in search of a different shopping experience when she moved to Colorado, meet Pitter Patter! The store’s founder, Liz, told us that Pitter Patter is a boutique where children are cherished, quality matters, and customer service is their priority. “We are known as a friendly shop with a warm staff that helps curate the cutest gifts,” Liz told us. “We love when our customers pop in just to share their latest milestones. We’re here for all of the fun parenting and childhood moments,” she continued.
Liz finds that Pitter Patter customers value quality, practicality, and sustainability. “They spend a lot of time enjoying Colorado’s natural habitats, and they like clothing and gear that reflect that environment. They need products that can hold up to the rigors of having fun outside,” she explained. With clothing and gear for preemies to size 16, Pitter Patter offers the perfect items for the adventurous spirit of their customers.
For Liz, Playtime events are always a highlight of her buying season. “I love the inspiration they give and the variety they bring to buyers in such a lovely venue,” she said. She loves finding new brands, as well as influences from different parts of the world.
In Pitter Patter, you’ll find: Gingersnaps, Petite Hailey, Wheat, Alto Modas, Lola + the Boys, Antebies, Mini Melissa, Daily7 Kids, EMC, Fixoni, Huxbaby, Bellabu Bear, KicKee, Tumble ’N Dry, Bows Arts…
Based in Beverly Hills, English Rabbit opened over 8 years ago to bring a range of styles to the area for newborns to 14 year olds. The store’s owner, Kelly, told us that English Rabbit is high fashion, with a clientele that has a keen sense of style. “They’re looking for exclusive pieces, high-end fashion, current trends, and practical finds,” Kelly explained. “They know high quality and expect nothing less!”. To meet the high standards of their customers, English Rabbit offers impeccable service and a thoughtfully curated selection of brands.
Kelly finds that the western US market is overall more casual. “Our customers want to be comfortable, but still look great,” she said. For this region, fabrics are one of the most important decision drivers. This is why it’s essential for Kelly to see everything in person when buying for English Rabbit. “I always discover something new at both Playtime Paris and Playtime New York,” Kelly told us. “It is by far the best way to see my recurring vendors under one roof and discover something new each season,” she continued.
These brands are there: Tocoto Vintage, American Vintage, Sunchild, Ao76, Bebe Organic, Minois Paris, Gray Label, Louis Louise, Self Portrait, Tane Organics, Hello Simone, Izipizi, Tinycottons…
Since 2014, Skipper & Scout has been serving locals and visitors from around the US and the globe in the ski-town of Vail. Its owner, Kerry, explained that Skipper & Scout is the only store in the area offering apparel for babies to high schoolers, making it a trusted destination for local families in particular. “Our deep roots in the community and consistent presence have earned us loyal customers who feel like family,” Kerry explained. As for the visitors, they often become long-term customers that continue shopping with Skipper & Scout when they’ve returned home.
“Our typical customer values high quality, stylish children’s clothing and a personalized shopping experience that feels welcoming,” Kerry told us. She finds that her customers look for a range of clothing, from everyday wear to special occasion looks for newborns through teens. With over 200 brands and a new expansion to include more fashion-forward brands for high schoolers, college girls, and hip moms in their Scout Girl Room, Kerry curates an offer that covers the wide variety of products her customers come in search of. “They are style conscious, quality-driven families looking for versatile pieces that reflect their laid-back, elevated lifestyle,” Kerry continued.
As for the shows, Kerry loves Playtime New York! “We appreciate the unique opportunity to reconnect with established brands while also discovering exciting new ones,” she told us. “With so many amazing possibilities under one roof, Playtime continues to be an invaluable source of inspiration and innovation for us,” Kerry concluded.
Shop: Little Paisley, Sweet Olive Street, Nomandino, Baby Club Chic, Snapperrock, Flowers by Zoe, The Blueberry Hill, Mia NY, Tractr…
Began by a mother of 5, Pipsqueaks came to life 14 years ago with her own clothing and accessories line and a small storefront. Today, it has grown to include other labels, just as her family has grown to include 4 grandchildren. This wonderful creator, Lisa, has poured her heart into Pipsqueaks, making it a staple in her community. “I’d describe Pipsqueaks as welcoming,” Lisa told us. She finds that her typical customers consist of mothers and grandmas. “New moms often come in looking for that special coming home outfit. Grandmas are usually in search of unique pieces that make their grandbabies feel special,” Lisa said. She’s noticed that customers in the west are willing to pay for products that are high quality and durable.
Lisa visited the debut edition of The Tiny Show on Tour this summer, and was really happy with her experience. “I connected with some great people and found products that I haven’t seen or heard of before,” she told us.
Find them there: Angel Dear, Oomphies, BinkyBro, Vignette, Burt’s Bees Baby, Lusso Cloud, Yo Baby…
Drawing inspiration from Scandi minimalism and a rich background in fashion design and styling, Will & Ivey was first a kid’s clothing line before becoming a retail store in Lake Tahoe 4 years ago. The founder, Sandra, is dedicated to providing children’s clothing that has clean lines and soft, solid colors that keep kids themselves as the true artwork of any outfit, first through her own designs and now through her multi-brand store. “I opened Will & Ivey to create a peaceful place for families to shop brands that prioritize thoughtful design, ethical fabrics, and respect for the people who make our clothes,” Sandra told us.
As for her customers, a blend of locals and tourists frequent the shop. “I find that most customers value quality, eco-friendly fabrics, and the soft neutral colors I display,” Sandra said. In addition to these unique outfits, customers also come to shop her selection of Montessori-inspired toys, plush animals, and books. “My customers care deeply for the Earth and their children’s health,” Sandra said. “This is why I believe it’s important to carry brands that are GOTS or Oeko-Tex certified,” she concluded. Sandra really appreciated having had The Tiny Show on Tour so close to home this summer. The event offered her the opportunity to discover 7AM, Baje Studio, Nature Baby, Senger Naturwelt, and Wheat.
Shop these brands in Will & Ivey: Cozmo, Grech & Co, Wild Wawa, Donsje Amsterdam, Milon, UAUA Collections…
Located in the heart of LA’s shopping scene, discover Eggy! This store is carefully curated to bring a mix of modern and timeless products to the families that shop there. Their hand-chosen products come from around the world and range from fashion and accessories to toys and furniture. Eggy has colorful window displays and a range of styles that cater to every child’s individual tastes. This is one of those kid’s stores leading the way both in store and online! Eggy is a one-stop shop for families, whether they’re visiting Los Angeles for the first time or living there.
You’ll find: Petit Indi, Early Sunday, Yell-Oh, 7AM, Nununu, Teeny Tiny Market, Piupiuchick, C’era una volta, Louise Misha, Sproet & Sprout…
For 25 years, Garage Boutique has been serving their sweet customers fashion, gifts, and accessories they can’t find anywhere else. The store’s founder, Katie, grew up on the East Coast with a mother that was always impeccably dressed. Drawing inspiration from these roots, she curates Garage Boutique to be a leading destination for families. She wants it to be the place to find clothing that celebrates kids’ individual personalities. With a philanthropic aspect as well, Garage Boutique gives back by supporting different organizations. They even offer local kids the opportunity to be an employee for a day to raise money for their schools. Garage Boutique caters to the families that value giving back and growing up in style!
Shop brands like: Le Chic, Tenly, Scotch & Soda, Rowdy Sprout, Cozii, Project6 NY Kids, Design History Girls, Mini Melissa…
Poppy Store opened its first location in Santa Monica in 2008. Since then, it’s continued to expand into new locations to bring their carefully curated selection to even more families! Their vision is centered around dressing children like children. This is why the founders Jenny and Heather carefully select each piece they add to their stores. From the latest fashion to stylish shoes, top toys to amazing accessories, these kid’s stores offer a complete range. No matter which Poppy Store you visit, they have everything kids need to express themselves.
In these kid’s stores: Lison, Oso & Me, Veja, Bonton, Kissy Kissy, Minnow, Louise Misha, Petite Plume, State Bags Morley…
Centered around a high quality customer experience, The Red Balloon is pure magic for its customers. Like many kid’s stores, The Red Balloon is well known for its kind staff. This, and their carefully curated selection of fashion and gifts, creates an atmosphere that is cozy and elegant. In addition to products for babies and kids, The Red Balloon also has clothing for their stylish mothers. Focusing on high quality materials and exceptional service, The Red Balloon continuously earns the love of its customers.
On their shelves: State Bags, Quincy Mae, 1+ in the Family, Noralee, Pink Chicken, Rylee + Cru, Shade Critters…
Because being a kid is meant to be fun, Fiddlesticks is all about giving them clothes that are fun, too! They focus on curating a selection of fashion that is creative and durable to fill the wardrobes of adventurous kids who spend lots of time on the playground. In addition to apparel, they also seek out reimagined kid’s toys, books, and gear to further inspire children’s imagination. With a brick-and-mortar store in San Francisco and online, Fiddlesticks welcomes customers from around the world and their local community.
Check out collections from: Maileg, Tea Collection, Apple Park, Hatley, Feather 4 Arrow, Tiny Whales, Appaman, Wander & Wonder, Iscream…
We hope you loved discovering these kid’s stores from the western United States as much as we did! It’s always so exciting to see what the customers of different parts of the world value. Overall, we find the western market is casual in style, while putting a high value on quality materials and durability. Thank you to each of these kid’s stores for being part of our community! To explore other markets, check out our articles on kid’s stores from Germany and France.
With thousands of kid’s stores from around the world attending our events each season, brands won’t want to miss them! Applications for booths at Playtime Paris (January 24-26) and Playtime New York (February 8-10) are open, so brands, apply here. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet wonderful kid’s stores like these and thousands more!
