Give-Away #11: Caramel Diezel

If you've been looking for a beautiful, stylish & functional baby shower gift, I really believe hand-knit accessories are really a fabulous choice. Now, if you're like me and are just beginning to learn how to knit, or have no clue how to at all, then it comes down to purchasing them, of course. And hand-made is always better than machine, in my opinion. Always.

I recently received this absolutely gorgeous cap & bootie set from Caramel Diezel. It's hand-knitted from organic cream cotton yarn. The hat has a little knot at the top and a rolled brim, while the booties...the booties. oh so cute! Anyway, while the booties, beyond being just flat-out adorable, have a detail most other knitted booties I've seen don't - a cute little button! Not only that, but the package came bundled in tissue paper and a box, along with a hang-tag attached to the booties with twine - ready to be given away upon receipt, which is oh-so convenient. I really think these would be a show-stopper at any baby shower, and I also cannot wait to put these on my own little bundle of joy arriving next year - I think they'll be fabulous for a photo session!



Here is a bit more about Caramel Diezel...

How did your business start and when?
I’ve always loved to knit and sew. In 2008, everyone seemed to be having babies. I started making baby items as gifts. After seeing an interview on TV about Etsy, I thought I would give it a try. Towards the end of 2008, I started Caramel Diezel on Etsy, selling hand-knitted hats, booties, sweaters and sewn dresses and blankets.

How did you come up with your business name?
Caramel Diezel is a nickname given to me by my grandfather. The nuance of the name is in the tagline of “for sweet and energetic kids”.

How long have you been making your creations?
I only started making baby items last year, 2008. I’ve always knitted. “Knitting is my addiction”, is what I’ve often said. In the past I knitted sweaters which were always given away as gifts. The more difficult the pattern, the more I loved it. It was only about two years ago that I finally knitted a scarf. Before moving to the USA, I used to sew most of my clothes.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?
I like to use different mediums, whatever catches my eye. I like to experiment with different yarns for different textures and feels. My current favorite yarns are organic cotton and cotton blend yarns. I love the way they feel. 100% cotton fabric is my favorite type of fabric, but I also use some seersucker and fleece and flannel for blankets.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
I try to make items that are my unique take on the “norm”. I love to play with color combinations and different patterns. New designs seem to swim around in my head constantly and I can never keep up with creating them! Designing new things is what I enjoy most.

Any other comments or otherwise you’d like to share with our blog followers?
Discount: Free shipping on any orders placed in August and September, 2009. Mention this blog in “message to seller” to receive free shipping.

And now the part you've been waiting for...Caramel Diezel will be giving away a hat & bootie set in the color of choice (size 0-3 months) set one of Haute Tot & Baby Couture's lucky blog readers!

Here is how you can win it!!
*Visit Caramel Diezel to find your favorite hand-knitted (or sewn) delight,
then come back here and comment on it.

Additional Entries:
*Follow this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away with a link to it
(must include link to your tweet in comment).

*Copy the Adam's Blankie button at the top of this blog & paste onto your blog
(must include link to your blog in comment).

*Blog about this give-away & include link to this page (must include link to blog in comment).

Be sure to post a separate comment for each entry, and include your email!!
All winners for our give-away blitz month will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #10: Belly to Baby

I met up with Chelsea from "Belly to Baby" on Etsy and was immediatley intrigued by her product line, which features natural "healing solutions" for your pregnancy, labor, postpartum and baby needs.

I received the Pregnancy Bliss Bath (Salts) & Cheeky Baby Bum Balm recently and am very much looking forward to using them. Now, while I haven't actually used the Cheeky Baby Bum Balm yet, as my son hasn't had any diaper rashes lately, I can't really comment on its use for that purpose. But what I can tell you is that is smells of heavenly lavender and, having rubbed some onto my palm, absorbs quickly onto the skin leaving no sticky or greasy residue. Did I mention it's all natural? That means no strange ingredients or harmful chemicals up nice and close to your baby.


As for the Bliss Bath, as I am currently in my first trimester of pregnancy, I'm also *not allowed* to use it, so haven't been able to test out a bath yet. But again, it smells fantastic (also like lavender, as it has lavender flowers in it) and is quite beautiful actually. It comes in a glass jar, so you can see all the sea salt and lavender flowers...a really nice touch and fantastic presentation. Add to that one of their client's comments that yeast infections have been cleared up after using the Bliss Bath salts, and I think you have yourself a winner!


On the note of the packaging for the Bliss Bath salts I referred to earlier, that's another quality I really love about Belly to Baby ~ their natural packaging "so as to eliminate the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into products" not to mention it's all recyclable.

Here is a bit more about Belly to Baby...

How did your business start and when?
My business partner, Emily, and I met when she became pregnant and hired me as her doula in 2006. Our mutual interest in aromatherapy, natural living and birth inspired the idea to created products especially for the childbearing year. We began our business in the fall of 2007.

How did you come up with your business name?
Emily and I are both doulas and wanted a name that would work with both businesses. We wanted something that fit our philosophy that pregnancy and birth are natural occurrences in a women’s life.

How long have you been making your creations?
We both have been experimenting with aromatherapy for many years and started creating pregnancy specific products in 2006.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?
100% natural and vegetable based ingredients.

Are your products located in any brick-and-mortar stores? If so, where?
We have 20 retail locations across Canada, mostly maternity and baby stores.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
All of our products use 100% pure essential oils known to be safe during pregnancy and for babies in a concentration appropriate for this sensitive time. Our products contain no preservatives, synthetics or chemicals. We use no animal products making our products VEGAN! We also do not package our products in any plastic containers.

Belly to Baby has graciously offered one lucky Haute Tot reader their Pregnancy Bliss Salts & Cheeky Baby Bum Balm!

Here is how you can win it!!

*Visit Belly to Baby to find your most treasured item there,
and then return here to comment on it.

Additional Entries
*Become a follower of this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Copy our Adam's Blankie button onto your blog (must include link to your blog in comment).

*Tweet about this give-away (must include link to tweet in comment).

*Blog about this give-away (must include link to tweet in comment).

Remember to leave a separate comment for each entry, and include your email address!!
All winners for the Blitz Give-Away will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #9: White Mouse Design

If you're a "paper person," then you're going to love this next business. White Mouse Design offers custom prints at an affordable price, because you print them from home. You can get everything from stationary personalized with your monogram to even wrapping paper! I especially love their party kits, covering all needs from the invitations & envelopes to the favor boxes! If you'd rather not deal with the printing yourself, you can also visit their Turnaround Design shop, where they'll do it all for you - from designing to printing.

I received both the printable instructions via email along with a hard copy set of their Modern Bubbles Personalized Stationary and love it! Directions for how to print & trim are included and are easy to follow. It may get a little tedious doing all the "afterwork" (i.e., folding & cutting) yourself, but if you're not in a rush, want to save some cash but also want something personalized by your own fingers, then this is the way to go. I mean, you can have an unlimited amount of your own personalized custom stationary (notesheet, folded & flat notecards & envelope) for just $5! And all you have to do is print from home. The other benefit is once you buy the template, you have it for life and can print away to your heart's delight, making it a very economical option! I think the Personalized Stationary would also be fabulous done in your child/ren's names - you could use the flat notecards & envelopes for them to write on as Thank You's for birthday gifts, Christmas, etcetera. It would also make a great gift for any writer or high school/college graduate. Like I mentioned earlier, however, if you'd rather they do they whole project for you, you can also visit their Turnaround Design store. The quality is fabulous, and you won't be disappointed!

Here is a bit more about White Mouse Design...

How did your business start and when?

I opened my online recycled stationery store, Turnaround Design, in September 2008, and added the White Mouse Design DIY division in February of this year.

How did you come up with your business name?

My trusty Macintosh computer mouse is white, and that's what I use to create my digital designs.

How long have you been making your creations?

I've been designing greeting cards for over a decade, but just started selling them last year.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?

I use Adobe Illustrator on my Macintosh to create my designs. In addition to my white mouse, I also have a stylus drawing pad.

Are your products located in any brick-and-mortar stores?

My recycled cards are found in three stores near the Twin Cities, MN area. Due to the nature of my digital products, they are only available online.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?

I offer personalization of the designs with names and monograms.. I also have coordinating party kits including invitations, thank you's place cards, gift wrap, decorations and more.

Any other comments, advice, feedback, discounts or otherwise you’d like to share with your blog followers.?

Printable DIY paper goods are a fantastically thrifty and convenient way to create your own cards, invitations, personalized stationery and more. Great for giving multiple gifts!

You simply purchase the design once, download the PDF file and print unlimited quantities. Instructions are included for printing and cutting. Then the files are yours forever!

Now the fantastic part...White Mouse Design will be giving away to one lucky Haute Tot reader EITHER the Whale Party Kit (includes everything from the invitations, Thank You's, placecards & envelopes to the boxes, gift wrap & tags) OR any 2 listings of your choice from her shop!

Here is how to win it!!

*Visit White Mouse Design to find your favorite eye candy,

then come back here to comment on it.

Additional Entries

*Follow this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away and post link to it (must include link to tweet in comment).

*Blog about this give-away & post link to it (must include link to blog in comment).

*Copy the Adam's Blankie blog button at top onto your blog (must include link to blog in comment).

Post one comment per entry, and include your email address!

All winners from Blitz Give-Away will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #8: BewBew Designs

Cathy is the owner and creator of "Bewbew Designs," a company specializing in baby goods like the adorable "Diaper Stroller Pouch" I received recently. The stroller pouch's exterior is constructed in a waterproof material, while the inside is water-resistant. It is also extremely light-weight, which is handy considering you don't really need any extra weight to lug around when you've already got the stroller, the accessories and the baby to haul around, too! The feature I personally like the best is the strap with the clip that you can use to clasp to your stroller's handle bar, allowing for easy access to diapers & wipes when you need them most. They also feature a magnetic snap closure to keep things where they belong. There are several different color combinations you can choose from if you want them to match the color of your stroller, for example. I would consider all the fabric portions at the top of the bag to be gender neutral, which is quite convenient. You can also purchase a matching diaper bag tote to go with your stroller pouch - what an awesome gift that would be! All in all, I find the bag very functional & fashionable, which is the winning combination most Moms are always looking for.

Here is a bit more about Bewbew Designs...

How did your business start and when?
The love of bags really started this business. I started noticing diaper bags and thought that, in general, they were unstylish and functional or vice versa. I have a fashion design background, and I wanted to design a line of stylish and functional bags for modern parents. The design and development took almost 2 years. The business finally launch in the winter of 2008 with my online store, www.babybewbew.com

How did you come up with your business name?
Bewbew, pronounced like “few”, is a nickname that my husband made up for me.

How long have you been making your creations?
I’ve been selling my diaper bags and baby accessories for 9 months now. However, I guess I’ve been creating them for a lot longer, since I re-designed and tested the products many times until I was happy with the final result.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?
My medium is textiles. I like to mix fabrics and materials that have different textures and a good weight to them. If a print is used, it must be modern and simple.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
The materials I use are unique to my products. I make sure that my diaper bags are waterproof and that’s not something you see too often. My bags are also well designed for style and function.

Any other comments, advice, feedback, discounts or otherwise you’d like to share with your blog followers?
For the readers of Haute Tot and Baby Couture, I will take 10% off your order, before shipping, on my Etsy store: www.bewbewdesigns.etsy.com. Please contact me stating “Haute Tot” to be eligible for this discount.

Bewbew Designs is offering a $10 giftcard to one lucky Haute Tot & Baby Couture reader!

Here is how to win it!!
*Visit Bewbew Designs to find a product you like most, then come back here to comment on it.

Additional Entries
*Become a follower of this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away with a link to it (must include link to tweet in comment).

*Blog about this give-away and include link to it (must include link to blog in comment).

*Copy the Adam's Blankie blog button at top onto your blog (must include link to blog in comment).


Make sure to post a separate comment for each entry,
and include your email address!

All winners of the Blitz Give-Away will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #7: MamaVada

I am so fortunate to have come across this darling little shop, MamaVada, I must say! Carrie is the owner & creator, and she specialized in baby slings (that actually hold up to a 35 pound child!). If you're wondering why you need a baby sling, check out these tidbits of info on their importance:

"While wearing your baby, you are increasing physical contact. This physical contact from mother to child increases the mother's progesterone. This is the "mommy hormone" that allows our breasts to produce milk, prompts our motherly instincts to kick in, and so much more! Babies who are worn in a sling are known to be calmer. This is because their caregiver can be seen, heard, smelled, touched, and tasted throughout the day. These senses, along with movement, help create an environment similar to what babies experience in the womb.

Babies who are worn in a sling have been known to develop social skills earlier than those who are not. The babies are closer to people and can study facial expressions, recognize speech patterns, and become familiar with body language. Babies who are worn in a sling have a decreased risk of "Position Plagiocephaly" (flat head syndrome). This is caused by babies lying on their backs in a car seat carrier for extended periods of time."

Having received and messed around with the ring sling over the past couple weeks, I found it to be very fashionable and functional, which are the 2 qualities most important to me when researching baby accessories. There are many sling designs out there, but there are a few characteristics about these from MamaVada in particular that I really like and don't always find in other slings. For one, they are reversible. The designs all seem to have one solid colored side, and one patterned side, which I find really helpful. It'd be nice to wear the solid side if you have a "busy" shirt on, but against a plain-colored top, the pattern would probably be nice. (C'mon now, I know you all think about fashion when choosing these things!). The other feature I adore is the large pocket with a zipper that's sewn into the lower portion of the sling. You can keep some diapers, wipes & your keys there, for example, without the need for a purse (great option for taking a walk around the block/park with baby in the sling). Lastly, they're lined, which gives it a little more body and "umph."




Now, if you've never used a sling before, they can be a little tricky. They are a little cumbersome to figure out at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes a non-thinking event, really. The ring design on this one makes it pretty easy to maneuver, although of course any time you're working with a large amount of fabric, everything takes a bit more work. The other nice part about the ring design is that it only wraps around you once...there's no maze of a wrap to figure out in order to get it on and no bulky fabric all over your body, knotted up in strange places. The other huge part is that instructions are included in a little pamphlet. Pictures with step-by-step instructions for different holds are within the pamphlet, which is extremely helpful.

Here is a bit more about Carrie & her business...

How did your business start and when?

MamaVada is a mommy owned and operated business. I started MamaVada with my newborn, Isabella, as my inspiration. Isabella was born three weeks early at only 5 pounds and 14 ounces. She was very tiny and had a hard time nursing. The second day we were home from the hospital, l wore her in my wrap-style baby sling. She was so happy being swaddled up close to me, and would sleep for hours in the sling. When she was awake, she loved to cruise around while slung up close to me. She could checkout her surroundings and explore new environments, while still feeling secure cuddled up close to mommy.

After using my wrap-style sling, I realized that it was very difficult to put on in tight spaces, like the car or a parking lot, without dragging the fabric on the ground. Also, when the wrap was on, I had about three layers of fabric wrapped around me and the baby. I got very warm while wearing the sling in the summer. That's when I started to search for a new baby wearing alternative and came across the ring sling.

I loved the idea of the ring sling. Out of all the slings available on the market, the ring sling was the easiest to use and the most comfortable for me and Isabella. It was also really great for nursing in public with privacy. The only thing was I had a hard time finding a ring sling that I liked. I wanted a sling that was fashionable and functional. So I designed myself a ring sling that was more to my tastes.

My ring sling is double-lined for style and comfort. It also has a large zipper pocket that's big enough for a small diaper bag's worth of items. It's cool in the summer so I don't get too hot, and the fabrics are soft and durable.

Once I started wearing my new ring sling around town, I would get stopped on the street. All the other mommies wanted to know where I got my ring sling, and where they could get one of their own. So, I told them the story I just told you...

How did you come up with your business name?

I come from an Italian heritage and wanted to come up with a business name that was catchy and original but also included an Italian vibe. Vada means “on the go” in Italian. Since MamaVada originally started by designing infant ring slings, I figured a name that meant “Mother on the Go”, would be perfect for representing today’s demands as a mother and how MamaVada could make their lives a little easier, comforting, and fun.

How long have you been making your creations?

I have a 2.5 year old daughter, and have been designing baby and mama creations since she was about 5 months old. It is always fun to include my creations into her wardrobe. All her little girl friends always ask me to make them a pair of bloomers. I have been sewing since I was in Jr High School and find being in front of my sewing machine meditative and relaxing.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?

I use mostly 100% cotton fabrics, but I also enjoy using cotton linen blends and any classy or funky laces and various trimmings I find. I don’t like making many multiples of one design. It makes me feel less of an artist and more of a factory shop. So you will usually see only 1 or 2 of the same creation from me before I move on and create something a little different.

Are your products located in any brick-and-mortar stores? If so, where?

Presently I do not have any of my products in shops. In the past I have had my rings slings in a few consignment shops in my home town of Santa Cruz, Ca. With the current trends of the economy and the cost of materials, I have decided to focus more on internet marketing avenues so I can focus directly to the customer.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?

My ring slings are double lined and reversible, which is unique compared to my competition. I use fashionable patterns of fabrics and colors that complement a wide range of outfits from comfortable to dress up.

My ring slings include a double lined 12” zipper pocket. This is great for using your sling as a infant carrier and purse in one. Many times I have run into a store with my baby in the sling, and keys, wallet, cell phone, diaper, travel wipes, and more all in the pocket. It is great for a complete hands free experience.

My new line of designer baby bloomers include 2-4” cotton lace trim around the legs. Currently I have used over 7 styles of lace trim and am always looking for new styles to create with. I haven’t seen baby bloomers online that include such detailing. This creates a bloomer that can be worn simply with a solid colored shirt, or dolled up under a short dress.

Any other comments, advice or otherwise you’d like to share with our blog readers?

I have been successfully selling my ring slings off of Ebay for 2 years with 100% positive feedback from customers, as well as direct to customers through my website, www.mamavada.com. I have just launched my Etsy store and will be exclusively selling my lines on Etsy through www.mamavada.etsy.com .

I am currently working through my library of fabric to make room for new patterns and styles for Fall 09. In addition to my ring sling and baby bloomer line, I am working on launching a line of apron dresses for 2-4T sizes. I will also be offering special promotions on holiday greeting cards with purchases of my baby line this winter. So mark my Etsy store as one of you favorites for updates on upcoming promotions.

Follow Mamavada at:

www.mamavada.etsy.com

www.mamavada.com

www.twitter.com/mamavada

MamaVada has generously offered to give away one pair of their Lace Bloomers in the fabric of choice to one of our lucky readers!!

Here's how to win it!!

*Visit the delectable MamaVada and find your most desired treasure there;

then come back here and comment on it.

Additional Entries:

*Follow this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away (must include link to tweet in comment).

*Blog about this give-away on your own blog (must include link to blog in comment).

*Copy our "Adam's Blankie" blog button at top onto your blog (must include link to blog in comment).

Remember to include a separate comment for each entry,

and don't forget your email address!

Winners for all give-aways during the blitz extravaganza will be notified

around early- mid September!

Give-Away #6: Bully Design Co. 4 Kids

Deanna & Venus are friends & co-owners of the new Etsy store, "Bully Design Co. 4 Kids." They screen-print onesies & T-shirts for kids, and make their own designs themselves, making them truly unique and custom clothing.

This past week I received what I would consider to be their "trademark" print, (in my humble opinion, that is!) the "angel wings" onesie. And although I don't just yet have a little squirt small enough to wear it, I will next year, and absolutely cannot wait to put him/her in it! Afterall, what infant isn't an adorable little angel??!

The onesie is one hundred percent cotton and adorned with "Angel" printed on the front that also includes a small rhinestone for some extra "bling." But the best part is the back, which is embellished with some angellic wings! The onesies are available in short or long sleeves, along with a variety of colors, making it a great gift any time of year. I washed it in some baby-safe detergent to see how the shrinkage factor was, and it came out beautifully ~ just make sure to tumble dry low and only for about 5 -10 minutes. After that, I'd lay flat to fully dry in order to minimize shrinkage, as the onesies are one hundred percent cotton.




Here is a bit more about their business...

How did your business start and when?
Bully Design Co began almost a year ago as an artistic avenue for two friends/co-workers looking to make some extra money and also work with some fun ideas while learning how to make shirts professionally. We started out with some pretty bad sewing attempts, moved to directly painting designs on shirts with fabric paint and eventually learned how to work with screen printing. For us, [it was] the perfect marriage between quality, efficiency and creativity.

How did you come up with your business name?
100% credit can be given to one loveable American Pit Bull Terrier named Moki.

How long have you been making your creations?
Almost a year, but after several months of trials with sewing and painting, we soon found our niche with screen printing. We have been screen printing since February 2009.

What mediums do you use to create your products?
All of our creations are original; we draw out our designs, purchase the shirts, and apply with them with our screen printing set-up. Our screen printing set-up is in a corner of Deanna’s garage. We just turn up the music and go to work, one screen print at a time. We have so much fun!

Are your products located in any brick-and-mortar stores? If so, where?
Not currently; we are in the process of getting a business license and marketing our products to local boutiques here in Carlsbad, CA and around San Diego County, [though].

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
We believe that our dedication to quality and to preserving a wholesome image sets us aside from other mass producers or small venues. We try out and wear almost all of our own designs/products with family and friends before we sell them. We never settle for poor reproductions and are always looking for quality clothing to place our designs on. We spend a good deal of time researching rising trends in fashion and hope that with our design we inspire some of those trends ourselves. We also believe in customer service. We strive for 100% positive feedback from our customers.

Any other comments, advice or otherwise you’d like to share with your blog readers?
We are always looking for feedback when you purchase our items. The best way to find out what people want is to hear it from those who buy our items. We love to personalize each item when we can and hope that you will ask. Who knows, it might spark another idea. Some advice would be that if you are interested or curious in doing something, but have never done it or worry that you won’t succeed, try it anyways. We have had fun learning, trying, failing and sharing our successful products/designs with others. It is very satisfying to see other people enjoy what we can make.

In addition to their children's line of clothing, they also screenprint clothing for women & juniors at their original BullyDesignCo store.

Deanna & Venus are offering one of our lucky blog readers a chance to win one of their signature "angel wings" onesies!

Here's how to win it!!
*Visit Bully Design Co. 4 Kids and peruse their fashions to find your must-have,
then come back here to comment on it.

Additional Entries
*Become a follower of this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away & include link (comment must include link to tweet).

*Blog about this give-away & include link (comment must include link to blog).

*Copy Adam's Blankie blog button at top onto your blog (comment must include link to blog).


Be sure to post a comment for each entry, and don't forget your email address!
All winners for Give-Away Blitz will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #5: Little Lily Bamboo

I met Jade from Little Lily Bamboo and absolutely adored her products from the minute I read about them. I always keep washcloths in our kitchen drawer to wipe my son off after a nice, messy toddler-esque meal, but don't like the mildewy smell the cloths seem to acquire after a few uses. Having talked to my Mom about this, she had advised trying something out of bamboo because it resists odors and is natural. SO, when I came across this little pearl-of-a-shop, I knew I would love it!

I received a few of their baby wipes and have been using them ever since. I'm actually going to throw away the cotton ones, and start exclusively using the bamboo ones (once I have a big enough supply - need some for the kitchen and some for the bathroom) because there is really no comparison between the two. I honestly believe if you try, too, you'll do the same!


They do come bundled as shown in the photograph above, making them great gift-giving options upon receipt.

Here are some things I learned about bamboo from Jade:

*Bamboo stays SOFT wash after wash and cleans up beautifully.
*Bamboo is soft enough for childrens' faces, but "scrubby" enough that adults can use them in
the shower too!
*Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial & non-allergenic!
*Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on earth, so is a very eco-friendly, sustainable choice.
*Bamboo can hold up to 3 times its own weight in water.
*Bamboo naturally deters insects & pests so is an organic material, as it requires no chemicals as
it grows.
*One side of bamboo is smooth and the other is a little soft like the inside of a sweatshirt - either side is great!

And here is a bit more about Jade and her eco-friendly business...

How did your business start and when?
I started Little Lily in May [2009]. I had been talking to a friend one day and she was telling me how she was having such a hard time finding quality baby washcloths. She keeps a kitchen drawer full of them to clean her kids after meals, and they all wore out so quickly and were so flimsy that they were a pain to wipe the kids off . I saw an opportunity, and decided to run with it. I chose organic bamboo because I have recently developed a large interest in eco-friendly products around my house. So, I made a couple cloths just to try them, and LOVED them, so I opened up shop so I could make them available to others who were like me.

How did you come up with your business name?
It's my nickname for my second daughter. Her name is Tegan Lily, but we love both of her names so much, that we call her by either, and lots of the time, I just call her Little Lily.

How long have you been making your creations?
I just made the first in May. It was a great way to live out the last trimester of my pregnancy!

What medium/s do you use to create your products?
All of them are made from Organic Bamboo fabric. It is a blend of 85% organic bamboo, and 15% organic cotton. I [also] use fleece and french terry and will be adding more bamboo fabrics and products soon.

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
Little Lily products are cute, simple, and very practical. There are a few other bamboo washcloths out there, but not many, and I enjoy educating potential customers on the benefits of using bamboo.

Any other comments, advice, feedback, discounts or otherwise you’d like to share with your blog followers?
I would love to encourage everyone to take some time and learn about the benefits of bamboo as an eco-friendly choice, and you can feel free to ask me any questions about it! Also, if you make a purchase from me and mention that you saw this post on the blog, you will receive free shipping for your items! Happy Shopping!


Jade has also generously offered one of our lucky readers a FREE set of her organic bamboo baby wipes!!

Here is how you can win it!
Just visit Jade's Little Lily Bamboo store and find the most deluxe must-have item you love,
then come back here and comment on it.

Additional Entries
*Follow this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away and include a link to it (must include link to tweet in comment).

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Remember to leave a separate comment for each entry, and include your email address!
All winners for the Blitz Give-Away will be posted around early-mid September.

Give-Away #4: Mels Fun Suds

I stumbled across this simply adorable bathtime-fun shop a couple weeks ago, and instantly knew I wanted to get my hands (er, rather, my son's!) on some of these! Now, my son happens to really love his bathtime, but since he bathes so often, it's always fun to find new "toys" for it, and what better than something like adorable soaps shaped like child-friendly objects that are going to provide a chance to have fun and get clean?? And for those of you who have trouble getting your kids to take baths in the first place, these just may prove to be just the right bait to get the job done! I also think they would make awesome stocking stuffers or party favors, as well, not to mention you can choose your shapes (anything from cars & boats to robots & dragonflies), colors & scents! Yes, that's right, they come in different scents, too - choose from green apple, wild berry, cucumber melon, lavender, baby powder, orange or unscented.





From the moment our soaps arrived in the mail, my son instantly knew they were for him and wanted to use them right away. He didn't realize they were for the bath at first, so once we told him that, he was even more excited. He's been thoroughly enjoying "driving" & "flying" them around the tub at bathtime ever since. They're quite large so are easy for little hands to grip, which is convenient (especially for kids like mine who like to do everything themselves!). We received three different shapes (all adorable!) in 3 different fruity scents. The part I really liked was that the scents are not overbearing at all. They left no mess in the tub at all, and hardly lost any of their size, so I think they should last quite a while.

Here is a bit more about Melanie & her business...

How did your business start and when?
Our family recently had to move due to my husband’s job with the military. Since the move I have become a stay at home mom with my 5 year old son. He has been my inspiration for my products. I wanted to create something fun and useful, so we started making soap together. Not only has he enjoyed the soap, but so have many of his friends. After many compliments on how well the soap worked on getting kids into the tub, I thought I would share them with others. With a recommendation from a friend, I started my store on Etsy last month.

How did you come up with your business name?
My business name Mel’s Fun Suds comes from my nickname Mel. As for the Fun Suds, I know how hard it is to get a child in the tub. That is what put the Fun in Suds. Shouldn’t your suds be Fun?

What medium/s do you use to create your products?
I use a melt n pour glycerin that is good for the most sensitive skin. No harsh chemicals!

What sets your business/products apart from others that create similar items?
As a mom, I have found it difficult to find Fun soaps for children, especially, Boys. My products have been inspired by my son. He helps me choose the designs, smells, and even helps give them names. I believe this sets me apart from others because I am using a child’s perspective.

Any other comments, advice, feedback, discounts or otherwise you’d like to share with your blog followers.
I am so excited to start my new business and share my products kid inspired with others. I love to make people happy and this is a great way to do so. These soaps, although kid-inspired, make great gifts for all ages. From party favors to unique gifts, I am willing to customize your event. Please do not hesitate to ask [me any] questions!

Melanie is offering one lucky winner 3 soaps - one airplane, one car & one train!

Here's how you can win it!

*Visit the cute & bubbly Mel's Fun Suds & come back
and comment on your favorite item in her store!

Additional Entries
*Become a follower of this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Add our blog button for Adam's Blankie Couture to your own blog
(must include link to blog in comment).

*Tweet about this give-away & include link to this page
(must include link to your tweet in this comment)

*Blog about this give-away & include link to this page
(must include link to blog in comment).

Make sure to leave a comment for each entry,
and don't forget to include your email address!
All winners in the blitz give-away to be posted early-mid September.

Give-Away #3: My Organic Breast Pads

Here is a fantastic option for mothers out there who are nursing...not to mention these would also be part of a fabulous baby shower gift...introducing "Breast Buddies." Have you ever used the disposable, thin nursing pads before? They don't fit well, they don't necessarily feel the greatest (think "papery"), not to mention all the money you're spending every month on buying a new box of them? Well, My Organic Breast Pads has such a better answer: an economical, earth-friendly & fashionable approach to preventing leaks onto your clothing.

I received this pair of the "Breast Buddies" a few weeks ago from My Organic Breast Pads, and upon first glance was immediately impressed with the fashion point of them. They're constructed with designer cotton fabric and are embellished with a cute scalloped edge. Having used disposable nursing pads before, I found these so much more feminine...heck, they almost make you want to be back to nursing, they're so adorable! Then once I actually touched them...what a huge difference in softness compared to the disposable kinds you buy in the big-box stores! What makes them so soft? 6 layers of soft flannel, organic bamboo, & cotton. As their store claims, " Bamboo is one of the few fibers that are naturally antibacterial. No sprays or chemicals are used, therefore reducing the chances of allergies and skin conditions. Inherent thermal characteristics offer great breathe ability; wicking moisture away from the body." Add to that the fact that you're actually saving money by buying pads that are washable (instead of throwing them away!), and I think you've found yourself a winner!




I did wash them to see how they'd hold up, and they fared rather well. There was some fraying around some of the scalloped edging, but nothing that took away from their function, and it really only added to their shabby chic style, in my opinion. The stitching was perfect and sturdy. They do come with instructions for laundering, so that makes them great for gift-giving, as well. I found that tumble drying for just a few minutes and then laying flat to dry worked best (the few minutes in the dryer help soften them).

Here is a bit more about My Organic Breast Pads....

How long have you been creating your products?
My etsy shop, myorganicbreastpads opened on July 20th of this year. My sister shop on etsy, head2toedesigns has been up and running since September, 2008.

How did you come up with your business name?
Coming up with a name is so hard!!! My signature item is My Breast Buddies, but I didn't want the word Breast to be in my shop name ;) {The author has since changed her shop name due to a legal matter with another business of a similar name}. I will eventually be adding more to my shop than just breast pads so that is how my name myorganicbreastpads was born. I want my items to be very helpful to mom's and their babies just like a best buddy is!

How long have you been creating your products?
I have been selling on etsy and another online site for about a year now and it has been a great experience so far. I have learned a lot along the way.

What materials do you use to create your products?
Inside my breast pads I use organic cotton and bamboo, which is a fairly new product. It is so soft and absorbent, and bamboo is one of the few fibers that are naturally antibacterial.

What sets your business apart from others that create similar products?
Although making reusable, washable breast pads is not a new concept, I wanted to make mine a bit different than two pieces of flannel and some cotton batting. I really did my research and found organic cotton and bamboo to be not only the most eco-friendly but also the best fiber to use in a pad for a breastfeeding woman and her baby. It is a win-win combination for mother earth and for every mother living it! I have many fabric choices, thread color choices, stitch choices, and My Breast Buddies are very pretty flower shape, no more boring circles!

Any other advice or specials for the blog readers?
Please note that my business cards say, MyBestBuddiesBoutique but my {new} etsy shop name is myorganicbreastpads. I currently have a special going on where the 7th pair of breast pads is FREE with FREE shipping!

Now for the part you're going to love! My Organic Breast Pads is giving away two pairs (you choose the fabrics!) of their Breast Buddies to one lucky Haute Tot & Baby Couture reader!

Here is how you can win it!!

*Visit My Organic Breast Pads and find your favorite fabric,
then come back here and comment on it.

Additional Entries:
*Follow this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Tweet about this give-away (must include link to tweet in comment).

*Copy the Adam's Blankie button at the top and post to your blog
(must include link to blog in comment).

Be sure to leave a separate comment for each entry, and include your email address!
All winners for the give-away blitz week will be posted early-mid September!

Give-Away #2: Garden of Holly

I met Holly of Garden of Holly a few weeks ago, and was impressed with her line of baby products she carries in her store, especially now that I'm expecting baby #2! She sent me her belly butter, and I've been religiously applying it ever since! Along with the belly butter, I tried her Baby Dew Herbal Baby Bath. Now, this makes for not just any old bath. It really is likened to experiencing a fine tea. You essentially are "steeping" your own bath ~ from filling a muslin tea bag with the herbal blend and adding to the bath water to your likeness. You can also customize it for an even stronger bath by first steeping in boiling water before adding to the tub! But more on the Belly Butter & Baby Dew Bath later...

First I want to get to what was even better than the actual products I received - that is, the information Holly sent. It truly was enlightening to read about the natural remedies out there and what amazing qualities they have. For example, did you know that rose hip seed oil can successfully treat stretch marks & eczema? Did you know that wheat germ oil can be effective for treating a dull complexion or prematurely aged skin? How about that kokum butter helps prevent dry skin & wrinkles? One thing I do know is that Holly has pored over information for hours upon end, and thus has a vast knowledge of what natural products work and specifically what they work for. Natural. That's all she uses. Because as she relays, most commercial cosmetic & cleaning products contain petrochemicals, parabens & phthalates, not to mention they're actually used in baby products, if you can believe that!

So here's the thing...as all these ingredients are natural, you need to be thinking "spa" or "Sedona therapy" (I had to throw that one in...if you're not familiar with this Southwest "paradise," as some might call it, you should look it up! It would make for a fun vacation!). The fragrance of the Belly Butter is earthy and natural because, well, that's what comprises it. It truly does remind me of what you might find in a high-end spa. It is very aromatic, but in a grassy, meadowy way. The consistency is a thick buttery-yellow cream that glides right over your skin. The Baby Dew Bath is very fragrant, as well, not to mention, quite beautiful with its dried flowers & buds. And I quite love the muslin tea bags used...it really makes for an experience, not "just a bath." Again, think high-end spa.

The other part I haven't yet tried but am very compelled to do so now would be to try any of her natural cleaning products. So if you haven't yet checked it out, please be sure to stop by
Garden of Holly, and do you & your family a favor but going green with some of these fantastic products!

Holly shared a bit more about herself and her business with me...

How did your business start and when?

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always had a passion for plants, soil, and sky. My interest in natural medicine became serious after I was injured in a motor vehicle accident at the age of 14. I underwent many forms of treatment to assist with the pain and depression that followed. I was helped most dramatically with massage therapy and natural medicine. My massage therapist became my mentor. Then, in 1999, I became a nationally certified massage therapist. During my schooling, I had several lessons on wild crafting herbs and preparing herbal infused oils and salves. This whet my appetite for more herbal knowledge. I began reading every book on herbs, homeopathy, aromatherapy and flower remedies I could find.

Later on, in 2004, my husband and I found out we were going to have a baby. This inspired me even more to make our home as nontoxic and healthy as possible. I also became very concerned about the types of products I was willing to put on my body with a growing life inside of me. I did extensive research and learned about the parabens, petrochemicals, and phthalates used in commercial cosmetic and cleaning products. Even more alarming, these harmful chemicals were in all of the grocery store baby products. I became determined to not introduce these poisons and damaging synthetic products to my precious little baby. I began handcrafting my own safe organic body products for both myself and my son, as well as making my own household cleaning products. I was very pleased with the results. I was also very excited to share these products with friends and family. So, before long, I was making products and giving them away.

My father suggested that I begin selling my creations, and so began Garden of Holly. I am still avidly pursuing more knowledge and in the process of getting my herbalist certification under the training of Rosemary Gladstar and her fantastic team of educators.

How did you come up with your business name?

A friend of mine came up with the name Garden of Holly and I thought it fit beautifully , not only since my name is Holly but also because Holly has been revered for centuries for its evergreen properties. It is my business mission to remain Ever "Green" and sustainable, both by using natural ingredients as well as local ingredients.

How long have you been making your creations?

I have been steadily making my own products for 5 years and I have been doing it for a business for 1 year.

What medium/s do you use to create your products?

Garden of Holly is proud to offer a line of beauty products and cleaning supplies that are nontoxic and synthetic free. All of our products are handcrafted in small batches and made to order. We use only fresh organic, certified organic, and wild crafted ingredients. Only therapeutic grade essential oils are used in our products. Also, none of our materials are ever subjected to high heat. These facts, as well as obtaining almost 100% of our supplies from local suppliers, allows us to offer the most fresh and potent products possible. Our products are rich in minerals and vitamins readily absorbed by the skin. Here at Garden of Holly, we recognize that everything you put on your skin enters your body through your pores and is carried throughout your entire body by the circulatory system. That is the reason we never use any parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, synthetic preservatives, artificial fragrances or dyes.

Are your products offered in any brick-and-mortar stores?

It is my personal commitment to offer only the best ingredients possible in my products. It is also my commitment to keep my prices in a range that most people can afford. I feel that everyone deserves organic, healthy, beautiful bodies and homes. Since I choose to use almost exclusively organic ingredients, my profit margin is slim. Therefore I have put off trying to wholesale my products to any brick and mortar stores. However I am in negotiations with a local high end spa who is interested in not only selling my products but also using them on their clients during treatments. I also have a small display at one of my Favorite little restaurants Tomaselli's in Elkton, OR.

What sets your business/products apart from others that sell similar items?

My products are different in that I handcraft all of them by hand personally, unlike many other similar companies who use pre-made bulk bases for there products. I also focus on the purest possible ingredients and I will not compromise by adding harmful synthetic ingredients.

Holly has generously offered one lucky winner some of her amazing belly butter!

Here's how you can win it!!
*Visit Garden of Holly to find your favorite item,
and come back to this blog and comment on it.

Additional entries:
*Become a follower of this blog.

*Subscribe to this blog.

*Copy the Adam's Blankie button onto your own blog
(must include link to blog with comment).

*Tweet about this give-away with link (must include link to tweet in comment).

* Blog about this give-away with link (must include link to blog in comment).

Please be sure to leave a separate comment for each entry, and include your email address!
All winners from the Blitz Give-Away will be posted around early-mid Septemer.