Someone told me that April typically is crazy as people come out of hibernation and get ready to party. This certainly has been the case for me in the realm of scheduled events, and last night kicked off Chapter 1 of a crazy but fabulous April, via an event where I played hostess to some of my family, friends, and colleagues as a Boston Method Maven. It was a terrific evening of socializing, getting the dirt on chemical-free cleaning, and eco-crafting with environmental lifestyle guru (and fellow Korean!) Danny Seo.

Continue reading "Just Call Me Maven" »

Posted 17 Apr 2008 in Bath, Beauty & Health; Eco Living; Home; Local; Retail; Solutions | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

As much as I love the convenience of online shopping, I also firmly believe in supporting the local economy, particularly when the offerings are fabulous and eco-minded. Today, Jen reports on Fiddlehead, a lovely new mama and babe boutique in Boston that provides plenty of fuel for Jen’s obsession with organic baby goods. Read on for Jen's review, as well as to learn how to win a $25 gift certificate to Fiddlehead!

Continue reading "Fiddlehead" »

Posted 14 Apr 2008 in Eco Living; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

Today, Kate reports on two local spots to get your comic fill:

“Reading the comics has always been one of my pleasures. Comic strips and comic books were my introduction to newspapers and to independent reading, as my father quickly discovered that a stack of comic books - he still had some Walt Disney classics left over from his own childhood - could keep me happily occupied on weekend mornings and allow him several extra hours of sleep.

Continue reading "Funnies for Grown-Ups" »

Posted 6 Mar 2008 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Today, Sharon offers a fabulous local find for all things shiny and beautiful, plus a couple of suggestions for fueling and refueling, before and after your shopping adventure:

“Sometimes I feel like a raccoon; I instantly gravitate towards things shiny and colorful. And during some recent adventures through Somerville, I was happy to rediscover Blue Cloud Gallery.

Continue reading "Somerville Gems" »

Posted 4 Mar 2008 in Food & Drink; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Today, Kate reports on a local purveyor of glass treasures:

“With the holidays long gone and as the grey of winter persists, finding ways to keep shine and brightness in life becomes all the more important. Colorful accessories can add sparkle and happiness, and a small store in the Back Bay offers a beautiful selection of vibrant glass jewelry - rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, hair ornaments - that is both fun and elegant without being overly expensive. Lalo Treasures is a treat for the eyes: the cozy store is bright, welcoming, and colorful. Not to mention that Lalo's blend of materials makes for unusually durable jewelry (customers are encouraged to try on anything they want), making it terrific for moms with babes equally drawn to pretty baubles.”

Lalo Treasures, 255 Newbury Street, Boston; Tel: 617.437.6666

Posted 21 Feb 2008 in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Who needs the mall this weekend? Instead, consider supporting indie artists and crafters at any of a number of holiday fairs. On Saturday there’s the Cool & Groovy Craft Fair (Cambridge), Winter Artisans Craft Show (Marblehead), and 3rd Annual Craft Show (Milton). And on both Saturday and Sunday there’s the SoWa Holiday Market (Boston), CCAE Holly Fair (Cambridge), and Cultural Survival Bazaar (Boston).

Image credit: SoWa Holiday Market

Posted 6 Dec 2007 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Many thanks to reader Molly for submitting a tip about baby/toddler consignment event Baby Revolution, running November 28 – 30 at the Holiday Inn in Peabody. Volunteers, consignors, and first time moms get first dibs on the goods on the 28th (the last day to sign up as a consignor is Sunday the 25th; check the site for information on first time mom passes and volunteering). The sale is open to the public on the 29th.

Posted 23 Nov 2007 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Take this lead from Kate, and enjoy a shopping trip outside of the mall:

“Let's face it: malls offer reliability and convenience, but isn't it nice to try something new and different? Or, as in the case of the latest and greatest addition to Boston's increasingly interesting universe of vintage fashion, old and different? The Velvet Fly, a small, elegant, and inviting boutique located in Boston's North End, offers a range of designs both vintage and new, for anyone interested in going slightly off the beaten path for clothing, jewelry, lingerie, and handbags. Featuring items most appropriate for days at work and evenings out, The Velvet Fly caters to customers who enjoy fashion but don't enjoy pretension. In this era of the mega-mall, check out The Velvet Fly and appreciate the intimacy of a small-scale shopping experience.”

Want to win a $25 in-store gift certificate to The Velvet Fly? Email us by midnight EST tonight (with “Velvet Fly” in the subject) and name one of the fabulous designers TVF carries.

Continue reading "Soft as Velvet" »

Posted 25 Oct 2007 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

We at Boston Mamas are of a decidedly green persuasion; today Kate reports on a fabulous shop in Cambridge that adheres strongly to an eco-modern philosophy:

Continue reading "Shopping Green" »

Posted 11 Sep 2007 in Eco Living; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Jeans are a wardrobe workhorse so you deserve ones that fit properly and make you feel fabulous. Today, Kate reports on a terrific North End boutique dedicated to helping you find the perfect fit. (Also see our earlier leads on great inexpensive and mid-range denim options.)

Continue reading "Put Your Blue Jeans On" »

Posted 21 Aug 2007 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’ve marveled before about the cool hub that Jamaica Plain has become; and this Boston neighborhood even has it’s own organic baby boutique, Hatched. For today's birthday contest, one lucky winner (local residents eligible) will receive a $25 in-store gift certificate to Hatched. To enter to win, email us (by midnight EST tonight, July 17) the answer to the following question: Name one of the many brands that Hatched carries.

Posted 17 Jul 2007 in Eco Living; Local; Retail; Web (Admin) | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

The other week Kate and I met up for lunch in Davis Square, and we were thrilled to check out Poor Little Rich Girl’s new home on Elm Street. It’s just steps from their former Highland Avenue location, but they’ve upped their square footage by leaps and bounds and the new space suits them well. In addition to an extensive collection of designer & vintage second-hand women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories, they now also carry a small selection of men and baby clothing. Baby items are hand picked – not consigned - by shop owner Meredith, baby gift items are forthcoming, and the shop is looking to consign maternity if your shop is closed, as it were. Their website is currently down, but you can stop in Monday (12 - 6pm), Tuesday - Saturday (12 - 7pm), and Sunday (12 - 5 pm).

Poor Little Rich Girl, 255 Elm Street, Somerville; Tel: 617-684-0157

Posted 12 Jun 2007 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Sometimes (particularly after a stretch of indulgent eating) serving as a fashion consultant to a friend is more fun than shopping for yourself. Yesterday I had great fun hitting the maternity pavement with a girlfriend desperately in need of bumpworthy business attire.

After checking out Target and Kohl’s, both of which have a few business separates options but are better suited for casual wear, we hit the jackpot at Destination Maternity in Natick. Surprisingly not overwhelming in square footage, this one-stop shopping location includes retail areas each for Motherhood, Mimi Maternity, A Pea in the Pod, Destination Maternity, and Edamame Spa, which ensures satisfying a range of budgets and clothing styles, whether you are in the market for a $10 basic vs. $300 designer dress.

Continue reading "Destination Maternity" »

Posted 12 Mar 2007 in Beauty, Fitness & Wellness; Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Pre & Postnatal Services; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’m a sucker for cute kids’ boutiques and since opening in the fall, I’ve been keeping my eye on Bird by Bird in Inman Square. Originally debuting with a modest selection of products conjuring a bit of a spare, upscale boutique feel that intimidated some readers who wrote in, Bird by Bird has since impressively expanded its offerings to feature an array of stylish products from both national and independent (including local) designers; the shop now feels decidedly warm and welcoming. Some particularly cool finds include an impressive, hip collection of screen printed and appliquéd tees and onesies (various designers), beautiful mixed fabric creations from Lorna Lowe Custom Couture and Beary Basics, and the snuggly soft hoodie cardigans by Angel Dear. Apparently, they also have started carrying the stylish, locally crafted baby slings by gOzOzO, in designs exclusive to Bird By Bird.

Bird By Bird also periodically offers programming such as fitness and baby signing; click here for their latest announcements. They also have future plans for an online store.

Bird By Bird, 1361 Cambridge Street, Cambridge; Tel: 617-497-1361

Posted 6 Mar 2007 in Beauty, Fitness & Wellness; Local; Pre & Postnatal Services; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

The other day, Auntie Sha-Sha left her sneakers at our house; this was a major event for Laurel. She wanted to know all about why the shoes were there, what we could put in them, and how fast Sharon could run when she was in them (answer: pretty fast). Ultimately, she wanted a pair just like them.

Laurel’s been in need of more weather appropriate footwear (she’s still been roaming around in her fall kicks) so we decided to check out the New Balance Factory Store this past weekend.

This store is definitely worth a visit. The infant/toddler section is smaller than the kid, women, and men sections (there were about 8 different infant/toddler shoe styles to choose from), but Laurel loved the sneakers she picked out and they apparently fit great (I have never seen her jump around in a store like that before…). They also were a mere $14.99.

New Balance Factory Store, 40 Life Street, Allston, Tel: 877-623-7867

Posted 19 Dec 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Who says good clean fun can’t be cool?

Crib Rock Couture’s ultra hip line of tees and onesies breathes new life into classic nursery rhymes via clever infusion of music and pop culture lingo. These punchy nursery rhyme concert tees are printed on super comfy, vividly colored fabrics, including a fabulous new line of Supima (100% Pima) cotton thermal tees. Laurel went loco over the blissfully soft, perfectly constructed Hey Diddle Diddle tee (shown; $40). She couldn’t get the tee on fast enough (a major coup, given that lately she’s preferred running around the house in various states of undress…), or resist pointing out the characters and singing the tee lyrics repeatedly through the day.

Crib Rock’s collection currently includes designs to fit lil’ rockers from 6 months to 14 years. Coordinated sweatpants and clam diggers for the under 2 crowd are forthcoming, and come spring, adult tees will make a comeback. A fabulously soft tee or tank designed especially for hip mamas is in the works. Stay tuned!

Crib Rock Couture is available locally at Bump (Beacon Hill, Boston) and Oh Baby Love (Salem); alternatively, shop the online boutique and receive 10% off your order when you use the code “BostonMamas” at checkout.

Posted 15 Nov 2006 in Fashion; For Little Ones; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Okay, so this is an odd, ringing endorsement: Maxima Gift Center is so fabulous that it makes my daughter poop. Seriously.

As devoted readers know, I am a scientist by training and while these days I work more on intuition, my empirical persona can’t help but be impressed by repeated trials and consistent results.

So here’s what has happened the last five out of five times I have visited Maxima with Laurel. We arrive with her in the stroller. She strains against the straps and demands “Out! Mommy!” once we cross the entry. She bolts for the children’s section (resplendent with cool toys, stuffed animals, baby accessories, and her beloved, beloved books) and darts around excitedly (apparently too excitedly...), no doubt wondering how on earth such a place could be possible. I keep an eye on her while desperately straining to take in the stylish collection of bags, jewelry, body products, stationery, pottery, and other gifts that are just out of my reach.

And then, within 5 minutes, she poops. Like clockwork.

Maxima’s cool collection of regular retail and handcrafted gifts is better reflected in their physical stores (Waltham & Arlington) than online. Just be sure to bring your diaper bag when you visit.

Posted 30 Oct 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Sometimes it's hard to stomach when the price tag on your babe's shoes is higher than your own. If you’re searching for deals on comfy, quality kicks, check out the Saucony Factory Outlet in Inman Square. My super fit, marathon-running sister (a.k.a. Laurel’s Auntie Sha-Sha) just passed on the tip that the Saucony Outlet also serves as a Stride Rite Outlet.

Saucony Factory Outlet, 1036 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, Tel: 617-547-4397.

Posted 12 Sep 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Jewelry designer Ali Shenk puts it right out there. Her company is You’re Beautiful, a source for handcrafted jewelry that can’t help but give you a bit of a boost. The vibrant Green Apple Stem Earrings, made of peridot chips, green apple quartz, and sterling silver ($33; shown) are a fun and versatile pick.

Purchases from You’re Beautiful will make you feel good inside and out; proceeds from each purchase are donated to charity. September’s charity is the Joslin Diabetes Center.

Shipping is free for first class USPS, or you can find Ali’s designs locally at The Beauty Mark (33 Charles Street, Boston) or Boutique Fabulous (1309 Cambridge Street, Cambridge).

Posted 5 Sep 2006 in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

For an outing equally enriching for both parents and babes, head to Barefoot Books in Cambridge, where the wide array of books, toys, artwork, and magical spaces are imbued with rich artistry and mindful, creative storytelling for all ages. Books for younger babes offer the opportunity to learn about colors, numbers, and objects in smooth, soothing color palettes; books for older kids frame entertaining stories in the context of embracing diversity and culture, multigenerational bonds, and the value of creativity. The approach to storytelling is multimodal: many books include story CDs and offer an accompanying line of music CDs, artwork, and toys; the Folkmanis Puppet Line ($9.99-$21.99) allows kids to continue storytelling, even after you are done reading the words on the page.

Founded by two mamas who started their business out of home so they could continue to be close to their children, Barefoot Books is keen on helping other parents across the globe do the same. Their Barefoot Stallholder program provides support to develop home-based businesses; they also offer the opportunity to earn money and free products by hosting Barefoot Parties.

Check out their current schedule for free events and promotions; you’ll want to make a habit of stopping in for story hour, currently Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30am.

Barefoot Books, 1771 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Tel: 617-349-1610

Posted 10 Aug 2006 in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids; Fun Indoors; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Jack would’ve loved to check out Magic Beans in Brookline. The store is replete with a terrific selection of the latest cool toys and baby gear; friendly staff is available to help you test drive (and figure out how to fold and unfold) any of their impressive selection of high-end strollers. The store also offers a sizeable play area for babes.

Magic Beans, 312 Harvard Street, Brookline, 617-264-2326

Posted 6 Aug 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

The early days of new parenting can be terrifying so why go it alone? Meet up at Stella Bella Toys for the New Parent Coffee Hour, Fridays from 10:30 – 11:30am. The event is free of charge, you can engage with other adults, and the store is teeming with super cool toys for your little one. I love Stella Bella for carrying Corolle’s ethnically diverse baby doll collection.

A website is forthcoming; meanwhile, call to confirm summer scheduling. Among their offerings are playgroups for babies (Tuesday, 10 – 11am; free) and toddlers (Wednesday, 4 – 5pm; $5), and sing along time (Saturday 11am – noon, free).

Stella Bella Toys, 1360 Cambridge Street, Cambridge (Inman Square), Tel: 617-491-6290

Posted 4 Aug 2006 in Fun Indoors; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Looking for the latest in European and American baby and children's designs in a setting so soothing that you might drift off amidst the fine linens? Then check out Lester Harry’s, an upscale boutique offering shoes, clothing, accessories, bedding, and gear for babes and a few spa items for mamas. My babe loves her bunny blanket buddy from Lester Harry’s.

Located in the Back Bay (Newbury Street) and Marblehead.

Posted 29 Jul 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Isis Maternity has become a one-stop mama tour de force in the Boston area. With locations in Brookline, Needham, and Arlington, Isis offers a host of programs such as childbirth education, parenting preparation, fitness, mom & baby groups, developmental groups, music and movement classes, workshops, massage & private consultations, and events.

I give Isis high marks for offering drop in playgroups for babes up to 3 years (separate sessions for immobile and mobile babes) given that committing to a weekly group can be tough. Drop in playgroups are free for members and $5 for non-members. See Isis’ website for details on the drop in playgroups and membership details. Membership fees are reasonable ($39 for first six months, $19 for every six month block following; members of Isis-affiliated organizations can receive a discounted membership) and include discounts on programs, products, and affiliated vendors.

Update 12/12/06: Membership fees are $7.50 per month (pay for the first four months upon joining; members of Isis-affiliated organizations can receive a discounted membership) and include discounts on programs, products, and affiliated vendors.

Posted 23 Jul 2006 in Fun Indoors; Local; Pre & Postnatal Services; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I almost had a retail-induced heart attack when the mysterious block-length Wild Women in Arlington – an enormous space specializing in adventure retail for women – closed and evolved into Wild Women/Wild Child Outfitters. If that wasn’t enough to send the pocketbook aflutter, shortly thereafter Isis Maternity moved into the Broadway side of the Wild Women/Wild Child building (separate post on Isis to follow).

Wild Women/Wild Child is packed with tons of cute clothes, shoes, and accessories for babe and mom, gear, bedding, diaper bags, and toys. It’s a great spot to check out high-end strollers and luxurious baby bedding (from the delicious Dwell) before taking the financial plunge. There also is a little play area for kids; although it seems that the babes have the most fun running up and down the ramp between Wild Child and Isis.

Isis requires a posting of its own, but briefly, the Arlington Isis location is peacefully designed with spaces for classes and groups; their compact retail area has a terrific selection of nursing and maternity wear, breastfeeding and solid food products, books, and toys. And of course they have plenty of diaper changing space and areas to nurse.

Posted 18 Jul 2006 in Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

As a mama, it’s all about multi-tasking. So when you next hit a crisis inspired by a closet full of pre-mama clothing that no longer fits, head to Second Time Around. This boutique offers new and resale clothing – a place where you can sell your pre-mama clothes and boost up your wardrobe all in one stop. A mama friend can’t say enough good things about this shop’s chic collection and tech savvy approach (you can track the status of consignment pieces through your online account).

Check out Second Time Around’s website or contact one of their many area locations (3 Boston stores, Cambridge, Newton, Wellesley, Needham, Portsmouth, NH) for consignment details; however my mama pal did pass along the general rules that consignment pieces should be: 1) in season; 2) from within the last two years; and 3) from a fairly popular store/designer (although they rarely take anything from the Gap).

Posted 15 Jul 2006 in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link