It's All About The Little Ones At Baby-Go- Round

In these tough economic times, it is refreshing to find local entrepreneurs who are willing to go the extra mile for their customers while at the same time providing a service to the county. Boundary County is blessed to have many such business owners and the ladies who have recently opened Baby-Go-Round, Bonners Ferry's consignment store dedicated to serving the smallest residents of the county, are no exception.

In just the last two months, Patty Lopez and Erica Denning have created not only a darling shop where locals can purchase infant, baby and toddler clothing, accessories and equipment at rock bottom prices, but they have also provided an outlet for selling gently used items that are no longer needed by local families. In fact, Baby-Go-Round fills a niche that is very much needed these days.

"People just rave," said Patty Lopez. "They come in and are so happy we are here. They thank us for opening up. We've had a 100 percent positive reception from our customers."

Patty emphasized that the purpose of Baby-Go-Round is to offer good quality items at extremely reasonable prices so that people can shop in town and not have to travel all the way to Sandpoint or beyond.

"We have had an extremely positive response from all who enter our door, most saying, "What took you so long?" Patty commented. "We have dozens of consignors already. The trick is to keep prices at a point where all parties are benefiting."

Entering Baby-Go-Round is a treat. The shop is very well organized and has a charming atmosphere. Patty and Erica painted a large tree in the corner of the space with the name "Avi" on it to commemorate the little girl who was the inspiration behind the shop.

Specializing in items for newborn to size 5T, Patty said that Baby-Go-Round handles the smaller items for very small tikes. Prices are about one-third of the original full price and there is a nice selection of name brands such as Baby Gap, Gymboree, Carters, Faded Glory and Oshkosh B'Gosh.

Because of the nature of consignment, the inventory is constantly changing so Patty advises popping in frequently to see what new bargains have arrived. In addition to high quality consignment items, Baby-Go-Round also carries some new items as well as Kirkland brand diapers. There are also items for bedroom decoration, children's books, strollers, cribs, dressers and toddler beds.

Patty explained the history and the inspiration behind the shop.

"There are no babies or even small children in our immediate family," she said. "We love to yard sale and find a good bargain and started by picking up a few articles for the neighbor's daughter, Avi. We got a bit carried away and began buying in all sizes from newborn to about 5T without a real plan of what to do with the stuff. It was just so much fun and the clothes were so cute that we wanted them to "find a good home." Erica suggested we open a store where mothers in Bonners Ferry could buy good quality clothing and baby gear at very affordable prices. Additionally, there was a need for families to sell children's items no longer needed but with a lot of use left. It was pretty much an overnight decision made in August, 2009. We leased our location in early September and opened October 23, 2009."

Patty and Erica accept clean clothing and shoes in very good condition, near new baby gear with all working parts and some like-new toys, with batteries. They sort and return items that do not fit their criteria or articles they feel will not sell. Items are kept in the store for approximately 60 days. Consignors are paid cash on a regular scheduled basis as their articles sell.

Baby-Go-Round is a great source for baby shower gifts, diapers and holiday shopping. Many items are currently at 25 percent off the original price. Patty and Erica also offer gift certificates year round. Customers who come into the store between December 14 and December 22 can enter a $30 store credit drawing. The first customer on December 23 will choose the lucky winner. With such fantastic prices, $30 at Baby-Go-Round goes a long way.

Patty concluded, saying, "We're very pleased with the way the store turned out. I have a good feeling about this."

Baby-Go-Round is located in the same building as Jill's Cafe but at the opposite corner, just north of Quality Farm and Garden. Anyone wanting to consign items should stop in or call 304-7689 for information.