Mommy and Mini Monday

I am loving all the matching looks these days for us Moms to match our littles. This has inspired me to add a new category to the blog called Mommy & Mini Mondays. On these blogs I will feature three different ways you can match your mini. Fraternal Twins- similar looks, Accessorize- Add just a touch of matching fun, and Identical- go all out and be the spitting image of your mini. From maxi dresses, matching Sunnies, and identical pullovers today I feature some of the coolest ways to match your mini!

Fraternal Twins

Kids fashion is right on trend these days, and there are pieces available which are similar in cut and print to some of the most recognized contemporary collections. Here are some of my favorite Mommy and mini styles that compliment each other in the cutest way possible! 

Pouty Pals

Left (Mommy) Alice + Olivia

Right (Mini): Bobo Choses

Tunic Twins

Left (Mommy): Marc by Marc Jacobs

Right (Mini):  Zara

Maxi Match

Left: ( Mommy): Parker

Right: (Mini) : Old Navy

Accessorize Together

A fun way to match your mini without looking like twins, is to find some cool accessories that are similar in style. Matching cat eye shades and gold gladiator sandals are styles to be equally chic on both Mommy and her mini. 

Left: (Mini) Gap Kids

Right: (Mommy) Chloe

Left : (Mommy)  Vince Camuto

Right: (Mini) Crew Cuts

Identical Twins 

Looking to be identical twins? Some of my favorite online shops have casual and simple styles for you to match your little. 

Hello Apparel

One of the fastest growing and beloved clothing lines for both adult and children have a ton of twinning styles available. One of my favorite twinning looks are these adult hello tanks (which are unisex, men can rock a tank too!) paired with a hello onsie to match your tiniest little. Check out their shop to see all the awesome Hello twinning styles.

Slyfox Threads

Slyfox Threads is one of my favorite tee shirt lines. They recently launched some new styles for this Spring. These "All we need is love" styles are sure to be loved by both Mommy and her mini. 

Whistle & Flute

Twinning with your little was never this easy! These "Je T'aime" (I love you in French) pullovers can be purchased in a duo. 

Hope you enjoyed our first addition of Mommy & Mini Mondays.  

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Shop Spotlight: Hudson + Ruthie

 Another fabulous "Momma-preneur" on the blog .Today I share with you one of the coolest handmade clothing shops for babies and toddlers out there. Hudson + Ruthie is owned and created by Amanda Burton, a mom to two kiddos by the name of you guessed it, Hudson & Ruthie. She started the company shortly after she had Hudson, and became bored of the styles available. She decided to give it a shot and design something on her own. Her first design was an adorable appliquéd Octopus, which started the company Eight Baby Legs. When her daughter Ruthie came, she became inspired to create some girly duds. The business was then transformed to Hudson + Ruthie, the perfect mix of handmade styles for both boys and girls. 

I found Hudson + Ruthie online one day, and their darling designs immediately caught my attention. Designed with rich and unique color combinations like pink and emerald, mustard and navy, and olive and grey, they are a vintage lovers dream come true. 

I'm a girl who loves her bows, like any girly girl. The bigger the bow the better I say! For my fellow bow lovers, Hudson + Ruthie have the coolest tees, onsies, and even boyfriend cardigans adorned with the most fabulous big bows. A great every day piece to pair with bloomers, printed leggings, and even a tutu for a special occasion like a tea party. 

For the boys, Amanda has created the raddest storm appliqués created from felt. Stitched onto sweatshirts and body suits, these pieces are sure to be a special and unique piece your little boy will love, and look completely and utterly adorable in. 

Hudson + Ruthie also carry some awesome accessories like their jersey wrap scarves to complete the looks of your chicest tots. Their neutral Camo, and heather navy styles pretty much go with anything. Other accessories include a gorgeous cinnamon play capelet that your littles will love wearing for everyday superhero and royal play. It's a must see in their shop. 

(All photos sourced from Hudson + Ruthie) 

Check out her entire collection here : Hudson + Ruthie

I like big bows and I cannot lie! This gorgeous emerald green bow stitched on a pink tee will be a favorite for your girly girl. 

I feel like I just hit the onsie jackpot. These double ruffle and scalloped Peter Pan collars adourned on  classic onsie styles are on another level. 

It doesn't get sweeter than these big bow cardigans. A must have outerwear piece for every fashionable tot.

Felt Storm Cloud appliqués Onsies & Hoodies 

Soft Jersey Wrap Scarves for Kids 18 months + 

One thing that I love about small business is their willingness to please a customer, even if it is to make sometching that is not even in their shop. Hudson + Ruthie is one of these businesses that is willing to go above and beyond for a customer, by offering custom pieces. She just loves making her customer's ideas and designs come to life. Just another reason to shop and support small!

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Black, White & Gold: Stella's OOTD

I have had this little outfit hanging in the closet for close to a month now waiting for a special outting, but I just couldn't take it any more. I was off, and we were going to meet Daddy on his lunch break so that was special enough for me! 

I have been loving all the gold accents this season for kids. Leggings, collar necklaces, bows, and now suspenders.... As Sugarplum Lane Baby Boutique puts it "gold is the new black" Every piece in Stellas OOTD I highly recommend for your littles. This little Dudette tee is perfect for summer, and these high waisted shorts from Sugarplum Lane Baby Baby Boutique are so comfy and easy for your little to play in. These shorts also come in multiple color ways of polka dot print, pink chevron,  floral, and chambray. 

One of my favorite bow/ hair accessory shops is Little Kate Designs. This particular bow featured is handmade with leather, and attached to the metallic glitter band of your choice (gold or silver). While you are shopping Little Kate Designs, you might as well throw in some of their leather braided headbands. Any orders $30 and over receive 25% off their entire purchase. Just enter code: Little25 at checkout. 

Since I loved Stellas little #ootd so much I thought a small photo session with my iPhone in our driveway and backyard was a grand idea. I know I'm her mom and I am biased but she looked pretty darn cute. 

If you love this look below are links to each item and their shops. Also see blog post ( Black, White, and Gold All Over ) for more inspiration. 

High Waist Shorts & Suspenders Sugarplumlane Baby Boutique| Little Dudette Tee Slyfox Threads| 

Black & White Leather Pinstripe Bow Little Kate Designs | Gold Mary Janes Mini Melissa | 

Hope your day sparkles! 

Yours truly,

Melissa

It's A Jungle In There : Little Digs

Pottery Barn Kids recently launched their new Summer collection, and everything is gorgeous... I know shocker! (everything is always so perfect) One of my favorite additions are these modern safari room decorations to create a jungle oasis in your child's room. Gorgeous beaded wild animal statues, a paper machet elephant head, and even a safari tent canopy bed are just a few of the new additions that will help create the perfect space for your wild ones. Add neutrals like rustic wood, and burlap, paired with bright orange accents, and the room will blend nicely. A soft grey painted wall will make the bold oranges and greens really pop!

Shop all my favorites for this Safari inspired Room at Pottery Barn Kids.

1.  Burlap Shade | 2. Safari Toys | 3. Branson Quilted Bedding | 4. Beaded Animal Decor | 

5. Elephant Storage | 6. Owen Nightstand | 7. Paper Machet Elephant Head | 

8.   Triangles Rug | 9. Sawyer Canopy Bed | 10.  Jackson Round Mirror | 

11. Life is Beauty Art | 12. Elephant Beaded Nightlight | 13. Chalkboard Frame | 

14. Jumbo Giraffe Plush | 15. Tiger Sham | 

16.  Animal Bath Wrap |  17. Tiger Sheet Set | 18. Beaded Lamp | 

Hope you enjoyed this version of little digs! 

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

1,000 IG Followers

When starting this blog two and a half months ago, I had no idea what I was doing. I am still learning every day, and know that I still have a quite a ways to go to until this blog is at the level I am hoping to reach. We are still woking on the overall design of the blog, and I am definitely out of my comfort zone with all this computer programming stuff. I have purchased my domain name, however, between juggling my duties as a wife, mom, and friend, and working 30 hours a week at my job, I have yet to really sit down and try to figure this thing out. What I have learned along this journey, is that it is ok to not be perfect. What matters is that I am doing something that I love! I am having so much fun sharing my ideas, thoughts, and shopping finds with you all, and will continue to push this blog as long as I find fulfillment and happiness in doing so.

I want to thank those of you who choose to take time out of your day to read my posts. It means so much, to know that my ideas and voice is being heard through this blog. Today we reached our 1,000 follower mark on Instagram which I m beyond excited about. I wouldn't have been there without all the shares, reposts, and tags from all my friends, family, and the amazingly talented shops I feature on the blog. 

I have been promoting the blog through three forms of social media: Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. You can follow news and updates on the blog in all three forums. Also, if you would like to subscribe to future posts just go to the bottom, and enter your email, and all news from the blog will go straight to your email. 

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Thanks again for following @theparkismyrunway !! I hope you are enjoying the feed! 

Yours truly,

Melissa 

What's in Stella's Easter Basket

So, the Easter Bunny emailed me the other day, and everything is prepped for Stella's basket come Easter morning. You should know I absolutely LOVE the holidays, and try to make them fun.  Since Christmas was just four months ago, and we were overloaded with toys, I thought some fun Spring/ Summer necessities would make great basket fillers, and of course some candy peeps (It wouldn't be Easter without them).

Today I share with you what's going to be inside Stella's Easter basket, in case you need some inspiration and ideas for your own littles' baskets.

Beach Towel

Ibiza Flamingo Beach Towel (Pottery Barn Kids)

With the sun making its appearance these days, you are bound to be spending a lot of your time by the pool, near the beach, or on vacation. A beach towel is a necessity that will be used for all these events so why not add one to your child's basket.  Flamingos are all the rage right now (prepare for a round up of my faves soon), so this flamingo print is right on trend. Pottery Barn Kids has recently launched their new Summer collection, full of the cutest beach towels for your babes you can even have personalized. 

Sidewalk Chalk

Egg Chalk (Pottery Barn Kids)

We spend many afternoons outside playing in our back yard, and on our driveway. One of Stella's favorite things to do is doodle on the sidewalk. Some new sidewalk chalk is sure to be on every kids wish list, and is an inexpensive addition go add to your basket. This Egg chalk set from Pottery Barn Kids is too adorable, and fits right in with the Easter theme. 

Lunch Box

Mackenzie Aqua Moroccan Retro Lunch Box (Pottery Barn Kids)

Stella's Lunch box I bought for her last year needs a replenishment, so I thought the Easter bunny should grab her a new lunch pail. I'm loving the retro lunch box style, and this Moroccan aqua print is gorgeous for the spring/ summer season. 

Peeps

This iconic Easter candy belongs in every basket. End of story. 

Toy

Disney Animators' Collection Doll (Tinkerbell)

Of course, one very special toy had to be included in her basket, and since Peter Pan is one of her favorites right now, this new addition Tinkerbell Animators Doll is going to make her scream with excitement on Easter morning. Other princesses in the collection include Ariel, Belle, Pocohontas, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Jasmine, Merida, Tiana, and Snow White. 

Bathing Suit

Tulle Ruffle Bikini & Swim Cap (Janie and Jack)

Since you added a beach towel, might as well add a new bathing suit while you are at it. Janie and Jack has some of the cutest retro swimsuits for girls, and this Pink Ruffle Bikini and swim cap is pretty much to die for. The Easter Bunny grabbed this one during their Friends and Family event, I recommend shopping early to grab your favorite pieces during promotions and sales.  I cannot wait to see Stella hit the pool in this number this summer. 

Moccs

Sunshine Bow Moccs (The Coral Pear)

I totally have hopped on that Moccassin band wagon, and am loving all the fabulous styles out their for kids right now. One of my favorite Mocc Shops is The Coral Pear, and their Bow Moccs make the perfect gift for girls. They just launched their newest color "Sunshine" that are going to look great with all of Stella's Spring/ Summer wardrobe. 

Book

"If I Were a Rabbit" (Jellycat)

A book to add to your child's library makes a great basket filler. I'm a huge fan of the touchy/ feely books from Jellycat, and this Rabbit version is perfect for Easter. Great for Infants, and toddlers. 

Accessories

Knotted Headbands Mod Collection (House of Mia)

Whether it be sunglasses, a bow, or jewelry a fashion accessory to use for the new season is sure to be cherished. I am so in love with the trio sets from House of Mia, and this Mod collection has all the gorgeous spring colors featured to pair with your child's wardrobe. 100% organic. 

Can't wait for Stella to dig into all her new goodies. Wishing you and yours a Hoppy Easter! 

Just for fun here is a sweet little throw bak of Stella last year when she met the Easter Bunny for the first time. 

Where did this sweet little bald baby go? Time sure does fly... 

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Kitty Cat Chic

Hey Cat Ladies (and Men), today's round up is purrrr-fect for you! If your kiddo is anything like Stella, they are completely amazed by their kitty cat. Not only are they beautiful animals, but they are  full of curiosity, a little bit sassy, and undeniably cool, kind of like our kiddos! Some of my favorite designers have adourned their newest styles this season with our beloved furry friends. Rompers, tees, handbags, and even wall art feature the chicest animals around. 

First up screen tees! Everybody loves a good screen tee, and the unisex "Right Meow" from Indie Nook, and "Are you Kitten Me Right Meow" from Little Blue Arrow are a Cat lovers "go to" piece.  Easy to style, or wear buy itself with diapers, either way completely adorable! 

 I have been loving all the edgy cat designs from Beau Loves this season , and this one piece jumper is truly the coolest.  One of the cats even has a superhero mask on, can you say Ah-doable! Another  cat loving one piece  jaw dropper is this Mini & Maximus "cat party romper". That's a party I definitely want to crash. 

As far as accessories go, these cat pieces truly go with anything. The ever so popular Mini Melissa Cat Mary Janes are easy to wear, and are sure to "cat"ch an eye! Mini Melissa shoes are extremely comfortable for your child, easy to put on, and style approved! Finish your cat woman baby style with this retro print Cat Bow from the Potluck Store (one of my faves), and this gorgeous knitted cat purse from Hello Dear Kids (handmade with love from a shop in South Korea, featured on Etsy). One reason to love Etsy, is you can shop and connect with these talented designers from all over the world. 

If you really want to show your cat loving pride, grab this stylish "I Like Cats" print from Little Island  Company to frame and hang in your child's room. These silly cats making all kinds of fun faces have a crisp modern style, yet silly enough to always bring on a smile when gazing upon.  This shop also has this fantastic print avaiable to order in a tee, onsie, and even adult apparel. 

1. Right Meow Tank  Indie Nook |  2. I Like Cats Print 12 x 12 Little Island Company | 

3. Retro Black Cat Bow The Potluck Store | 4. Marl Cat Jumpsuit Beau Loves | 

5. Cat Ballerina Costume H & M Kids | 

6. Cat Party Romper Mini and Maximus (available at Shop Sweet Threads) |

 7. Ultragirl II Cat Shoes Mini Melissa | 8. Cat Purse Hello Dear Kids |

9. Kitten Sleep Set Gap Kids | 10. Little Blue and Arrow

Have a Meowvelous Monday! 

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Rompers under $20

One of the biggest trends I'm loving this season for girls are rompers! Sure they have been around for children  as early as the 1900s, but this season all the major retailers have launched their spin on this fun and playful silhouette. From gingham, chambray, polka dots, and geometric prints, these rompers are full of style and all under $20. Who doesn't love a great deal?! I'm all about styling high low, so pair these with your designer Moccs, and custom made hair bows and headwraps.

Here is a sweet little romper I scored for Stella at Baby Gap during one of their promos. For under $20 this look is full of style, and not hard on the wallet. Bow (Birdie Baby Boutique)

Get the look  below...

Polka Dot Romper $14.00| Ruffle Print Romper $14.94 | Coral Print Romper $12| 

Floral Print Romper$12 | Railroad Stripe Romper $15 | Gingham Romper $12.99

Bow Romper $20 | Camera Print Romper $15|

Sunny Citrus Romper $15 | Geometric Print Romper $20 | 

Genuine Kids from Osh Kosh

Floral Print Romper $15 | Chambray Romper $15 | Coral Patterned Romper $15

Stripe Jumpsuit $19.95 | Alice Blue Jumpsuit $19.95 |

Statement Romper $19.95 | Heart Print Romper $26.95 (use code to receive under $20) | 

*Enter Code STYLE to receive 35% off Regular Price Styles ( Valid through 3/23) 

Birdie Print Jumpsuit $12.95 | Stripe Jersey Jumpsuit $12.95

Heart Denim Romper $19.50 |  Tahitian Print Romper $16.95 |

Plaid Romper $17.95 | Dotted Romper $16.95

Happy Saving! 

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Shop Spotlight: Imagination Kids

Oh Saturday! A day for family. A day for fun. A day for relaxing. A day for traveling. .....A day for SHOPPING!. Small business shopping to be exact, here on The Park is my Runway. 

Today's featured shop is the uber talented toy maker Imagination Kids. The owner, designer, and creator of Imagination Kids is Erin Freuchtel-Dearing, who is also a mom to two young kiddos.  Based out of Carthage, IN, Imagination Kids toys are all carefully handcrafted by Erin and her husband Nick. Their toys are completely Eco-friendly being made from "natural wood, AP certified non-toxic paint, and their very own homemade natural wood polish made from beeswax, jojoba oil, and essential oils" making them not only adorable but safe too! 

This shop is full of toys that will make your kids imaginations go wild, which might explain the name. Wooden play food like sushi and vegetable sets for your aspiring chefs, wooden fairy wands for your princesses, animals from all walks of life on push toys (that are sure to become a favorite for your infants and toddlers), and of course their infamous wooden stackers. Not only are these toys gorgeous and well made, but the prices are fantastic and well within reason. For example, their gorgeous, super popular rainbow stacker is only $25! That's a total steal if you ask me! 

These special toys make a great gift for a baby shower, childs birthday, or a holiday. You can even go crazy and buy a special Toy of the Month club membership for a 3 or 6 month timeframe. The recipient will be delivered a package from Imagination Kids each month with a speial toy that is not currently in the shop. That's some mail I would love to receive! 

(All photos sourced from Imagination Kids) 

Here are some of my favorites available from Imagination Kids. 

You can shop the entire wooden toy shop here: 

Imagination Kids

Made from substantially harvested wood, these wands are the perfect toy for dress up time. You can even purchase a set as a party favor at your child's next birthday bash. 

One of my favorite toys designed and created by Imagination Kids are their stackers. Each stacker is so creative, and made with the upmost quality. A morning sunrise, a cloud, a rainbow, a sun, a wave, and an iceberg are just a few of the impeccable stackers included in their shop. Theses are toys you wouldn't hide in a toy chest, and would even display on a shelf in your child's room. 

With Eater right around the corner  these wooden eggs would make a great basket filler, and can be used for a fun Easter Egg Hunt. These sure beat the plastic ones, and you will use these for years to come. 

Farm Animals Set 

Circus Toys (sold separately) 

Other fun animals included in the shop include: Deer, Bugs, chickens, and horses 

Push Toys  

I seriously am truly amazed by these shop spotlight designers, and their passion go after their dreams. Like so many of our features, Erin started this business on a "whim" one day when she had an itch to purchase a scroll saw. Stories like this are so inspiring, because it teaches us to listen to our instinct, and tap into our passions. You never know what could come from one uneventful afternoon. Your own business? A charity? A blog? Go after what you love and don't be afraid to make mistakes. 

Shop & support small! 

Yours Truly,

Melissa 

Tiny Whales. Huge Crush.

I have a huge new brand crush alert. Being a SoCal local, I want you to know that the stereotype is completely true. Most people walking around here (myself included) are wearing a tee shirt, jeans, and flip flops in all public places. The mall, the movie theater , the museum, out to dinner, a wedding (haha ok not all weddings) but you get the picture! The only time I realized just how casual we were is when I had taken a trip to NY for work a few years back. As I walked the streets I couldn't help but notice all the men and women dressed in head to toe tailored  suiting, dress shoes, and heels. I of course walked the walk since I was there for work, but I couldn't wait to get home and put on my beloved pair of rainbow flip flops, and cotton grey V-neck tee.

There is seriously nothing better than a soft, relaxed fitting tee, and I think it's totally cool that there are companies out there like Tiny Whales who can give her kiddos the same style pleasure. Tiny Whales is a company created by a couple Shaun and Brittany (So Cal Locals),  who were inspired to create some fun apparel for their nephew. After taking their work to a few local craft shows, they realized that their designs and vision was truly going somewhere. Now married with their own children, Tiny Whales is now one of the most sought after casual apparel lines for your littles.

This season SS14 season Tiny Whales collection was inspired by grunge and 90s fashion. This tye dye "Buzz Kill" tee might just be the coolest tee on the market right now. You know if Kurt Kobain's babies were still babies, and he were still with us, they would be rocking this Buzz Kill tee on the regular. One of their most popular styles this season is inspired by the Kings of Grunge, Nirvana, with this gnarley Meowvana screen that comes on a tank and classic tee shirt style.

For your bohemian grungey girl , the high low tanks and tees from Tiny Whales are seriously the cutest ever. I would totally rock the "Wake up and Smell the Roses" tee in a heartbeat. Pair these with a cool pair of distressed relaxed denim shorts, and a boho headband, and you have an outfit that will take you through many hot summer days.

(Photo Source: Tiny Whales)

Tiny Whales also designs some of the coolest trucker hats for your kiddos. Check outthink shop for all the awesome products they have to offer. 

Tiny Whales

These tees screw cool! Perfect for your little bro babe. 

Just recently Tiny Whales has started a Tee Shirt of the Month Club. As a member you will receive a tee designed by a top notch guest artist. (The first month the clog was launched Jeremy Fish created that months tee. It was pretty cool to say they least and available to purchase.) By purchasing the a membership you are a member for 3 months and will receive the tee each month, which ends up coming out to a $12 savings, which is pretty darn awesome. 

Be sure to check out Tiny Whales on Instagram for updates on their shop, and new designs for their tee shirts of the month club. 

Yours Truly,

Melissa