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Company Moms
Meet Some Smart and Savvy Mompreneurs By Belinda Clarke
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Even royalty is getting into the baby product business. Princess Marie Chantal of Greece has recently launched her own line of luxury baby and children's clothing, the bulk of which is imported from Portugal and France. Her inspiration, she says, comes from European designs and fabrics. Marie Chantal baby clothing is currently available in specialty stores and some department stores (Saks, Bloomingdale's and Bergdorf Goodman), with Marie Chantal retail locations -- and a soft luggage collection -- on the horizon. Regarding the need for busy moms to have practical travel gear, she says, "It's not only about ease, but also an appreciation for quality and functionality."
Finally, "Mom" companies aren't just making products for babies. In fact, gifts for new moms are always in style, and many women are making it their business to produce gift items just for Mom – and Grandma. One new company to enter this market is Bead Happy, which was started by Maggie Mell, a mother of two in Eagan, Minn. Bead Happy sells unique, custom jewelry for moms and grandmothers. According to Mell, the most popular item so far is the sterling silver bracelet, in one, two or three strands that has a child's name in sterling block letters. The bracelets include a drop bead near the toggle clasp that comes in onyx, garnet or amethyst.
"People love to give them as baby gifts," says Mell. "To have your new child's name on a beautiful piece of jewelry thrills new mothers."
Response to the bracelets has been so great, Mell has even been asked to make them with dogs' names. "To make those unique we add a silver bone charm," she says.
She also produces little girl-size bracelets with crystals combined with the silver in pink, purple or blue. "The reaction has just been great, and dads love how simple it is to give a meaningful gift that's also sophisticated." Bead Happy orders can be placed by calling (612) 865-9599.
