eBabyShop, a companion newsletter to Baby Shop Magazine

Friday, June 20, 2008 | Read more at BabyShopMagazine.com

Renee Raab Whitcombe, Budding Family Publishing

Amy Maurer Creel, Smart Mom, LLC

In the fall of 2004, my older daughter was in preschool and I had a little one at home. I had been working as a freelance media planner and buyer for 4 years, having quit my full time job as a salesperson with Clear Channel Communications after my first child was born. I enjoyed freelance work, especially being based out of my home office, but missed certain aspects of my sales career; dealing with people directly (media buyers tend to be behind the scenes), creating and developing new business relationships, and being compensated, in all respects, based on the amount of time and energy I expended in the job. I didn't want to return to a full-time, in-office job but started to entertain the idea of launching my own company. » Full Article

Seeking Strong Vendor Partners

Retailing is a full-contact sport. The difference between eeking by and flourishing can often be in the hands of your vendors. New retailers find themselves feeling their way, guided by instinct and chance tips from old-timers, and usually unsure of what to expect from trading partners. Sometimes you have no choice but to work with a vendor, as when your customers expect to see a particular brand on your shelf. But often you will be choosing between multiple vendors in a category, and should be looking for certain points of differentiation that work to strengthen your position in the market. » Full Article

How To Make More MONEY In the Baby Business

If I asked you what one thing made you decide to be in the juvenile products business, what would it be? Money? Prestige? Envisioning your name in lights on the front of a building! » Full Article

Great Expectations Maternity: Building a Community Around Your Boutique

Ten Basic Categories Every Maternity Apparel Boutique Should Offer

Each maternity boutique has its own unique approach to its individual market. That is what makes working with the various boutique owners across the country so challenging and enjoyable. There are, however, ten basic categories that can be used as a guideline for most maternity retailers. » Full Article