eBabyShop, a companion newsletter to Baby Shop Magazine

Monday, March 3, 2008 | Read more at BabyShopMagazine.com

Renee Raab Whitcombe, Budding Family Publishing

In May, 2000, I moved from Southern California to Sagamore Hills, OH with my husband Mike and 17 month old daughter Alex. At the time, I was six months pregnant and thought this would be a terrific chance to bond with Alex and who had been accustomed to a full-time working mom before the move. With several life-changing transitions going on at once—moving cross-country, putting a 13-year career "on hold" and getting ready for baby #2—I was dedicated to nurturing a smooth landing for my whole family. » Full Article

Joining a Buying Group—Good or Bad Idea

Is it possible for independent retailers to have some of the advantages that larger organizations have? Yes, and there is a way to have some advantages that large organizations don't take advantage of. It is by stores coming together as an loosely organized group. I do not call them "buying groups" because there is more to what a group might do than just buying. I call them "skull groups". » Full Article

Stretching Your Marketing Dollars

In the budgeting process, every retail store owner should plan to spend a percentage of annual sales to promote his or her business. In today's challenging retail environment, those dollars just don't go as far as they once did. Therefore, it is extremely important to maximize other available opportunities offered in the marketplace. » Full Article

Great Expectations Maternity: Building a Community Around Your Boutique

These days, many businesses, especially niche businesses, are not simply opening their doors to sell product, but they are also offering more free or low cost services to their customers. By doing so, the customer is being presented a total "experience", not just a shopping trip. In the maternity boutique business, this might mean adding some classes or events for new mothers, fathers and even grandparents. » Full Article