Born out of necessity. Babes in Black

Entrepreneur: Gillian Crawford
Businesses: Babes in Black - Clothing for Babies and Toddlers
URL: www.babesinblack.ca

Babes in Black came about after the birth of my son in March 2003. I wanted to find a black t-shirt for him and had some difficulty finding one...eventually I did come across a plain black t-shirt. This is when the idea began. Like many new Mums the thought of going back to work after your maternity leave is a difficult thought process. First there was a need to fill, black clothing not being accessible and the second thought...what could I do to stay at home more with my child. Babes in black is a simple concept with three logos. The idea behind it is to put our little ones in black. It is an alternative to pastels and the standard navy blue for boys and being more accessible to the public.

The company began with an idea in the Fall of 2003 and with nearly a year in planning stage it was born in September 2004. Babes in black is in it's second successful year, with the first year going nationwide and having US customers and now in it's second year it had gone international. There are people who search the web for black or funky clothes for their children and that is where babes in black comes in.

I ended up negotiating going back to work 4 days, instead of five, which allowed me to be home an extra day with my son and also work on my business venture. It has worked thus far and the online boutique runs itself. I am currently pregnant with my second child and would love to progress with the business and keep getting the word out there about the company...maybe one day I can stay at home with two children and work from home. Although I am sure that will present some challenges in itself.

I chose to use a sweatshop free line of clothing, which is more expensive to purchase but felt much better not having it made in sweatshops by young children. The line wears beautifully and generally fits up to and over the projected size. I have really enjoyed having the business and I am looking forward to my third year.

Come check our online boutique at www.babesinblack.ca

Contact:
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416.516.5876