Paris Buying Trip

With so many of you off at the river, traveling, or simply navigating the juggle of summer life, we thought we’d switch things up for this week’s email!

Instead of a 'new in' shop update (but also there is a lot of NEW IN though!), we’re taking you behind the scenes of our recent buying trip. I headed to Paris (with my little sister in tow) via the the Eurostar from London. We visitedPlaytime Paris, an amazing trade show that showcases the very best in children’s wares and accessories. The last time I was there was back in 2016, armed with my printed business plan and some inspiration images of my dream store (I hadn’t signed a lease or even decided on a location yet), I managed to convince brands to take a chance. It all came together (phew!). The store you visit today is that same one — just a lot more packed with colorful finds.

Hope you enjoy the little escape!

We caught up with one of our favorites from Australia — Halcyon Nights. I absolutely love Kim, the founder and wholesale manager Zenobia, and find the brand and the people behind it incredibly inspiring. Kim used to run a retail store but closed it to focus on creating a kids’ clothing line that collaborates with illustrators from around the world. The result is a brand that really aligns with us — super fun, colorful, and made to last with that perfect hand-me-down quality. There new collection will be with us in a few weeks (ready for a fun back to school look!)

Before leaving the show, we visited a few more brands and then headed across town to check out Tiny Cottons.

Tiny Cottons, a Spanish brand we carry, had rented an apartment in Paris to showcase their new collection. We hopped on Lime bikes and zipped past the Arc de Triomphe, under the bridges, weaving through stylish crowds — the bike lanes made it easy and fun!

The Tiny Cottons collection was truly incredible. Maybe it was the stunning view of the Eiffel Tower or the chic apartment setting, but everything felt so special. We’re really looking forward to bringing this collection to the store next season!

My Top Spots when Visiting Paris:
There’s so much to do in Paris — you definitely need more than 48 hours! Take these as a starting point:

• Merci Paris — An iconic and super fun store with amazing branded everything. My sis and I both ended up with. matching leopard bags - so good for gifts too.

• The Sunday Flea Market — Saint Ouen Flea Market (we rode our bikes here btw, again super easy!) Everything you can imagine, from $10 vintage finds to stunning vintage artwork and jaw-dropping furniture I wish I could’ve brought home. If vintage Chanel is your thing (or iconic vintage designer bags, accessories and clothing), this market is gold — we spotted celeb stylists there, so you know it’s good! If you do end up going, let me know and I can tell you what cafe to head to that's directly opposite some of the best stalls.

• La Marais — This area is perfect for people watching, with lots of great spots to grab a drink or a bite, plus some fantastic stores to browse.

• Next time, I'll be checking out these iconic places to eat, sleep and shop as recommended by Portland based interior designer Tiffany Thompson.