Children’s Boutique Features Mom-Tested Clothes

Children’s Boutique Features Mom-Tested Clothes

Children’s Boutique Features Mom-Tested Clothes

12
JUNE 2019
BY REBECCA CALAPPI
LBN Community Series
Birmingham
Walking in Petite Cabane is enchanting. Inspired by European stores, the serene atmosphere and well-made children’s clothes are cultivated beautifully by owner Carrie Martin.

For Martin, Petite Cabane was a long time coming. When she was 17, she was scouted by a modeling agency. From there, she moved to New York City, then Europe. Her career took off and, with it, her knowledge and attention to fashion.

CARRIE MARTIN

OWNER, PETITE CABANE
“The first inspiration came when I moved to Europe and became pregnant with my first,” Martin said. “I just noted how differently they dressed their children, just more attention to detail and style. It sparked something. It stayed and grew from there.”

Years went by, 24 to be exact, and her first son is grown. She has three more children; the youngest is her 5-year-old daughter. She was with her little girl when Petite Cabane finally materialized.

“I was riding past with my daughter on the front of my bike. I literally just peeked in and thought, ‘A-ha,’” said Martin.

The boutique is at 205 E. Maple in a cozy section of downtown Birmingham that could be mistaken for a street in Paris or London. It’s Martin’s dream.

“In Europe it’s called a concept store, which means it’s not just clothes,” she said. We have sizes for newborn to eight years. Ton of books, toys, balance bikes, pedal bikes, we have all things children.”

Shoppers can find the perfect gift for a new baby or a quality outfit for family photos.

“I currently have France, England, Denmark and Sweden, but it will be ever-changing,” said Martin. “I have about eight different lines represented right now, and I will be bringing in three new lines for autumn/winter. That’s what I love, I’m not married to one particular line.”

A huge part of her focus for the boutique is quality and detail.

[metaslider id=”47245″]
“A lot of these clothes are tried and tested by me from being a mother for nearly 24 years,” said Martin. “I still have the raincoat that’s been through my three boys, cousins, friends and now my daughter. I’ve also focused on keeping the brands sustainable and women-run, which happened by accident. That’s my favorite, really supporting the small businesses.”

In becoming part of the fashion industry, Martin is very conscientious about leaving a footprint. Fashion is known to be one of the most wasteful industries on the planet, so she’s trying to do her part to reduce waste and harmful lasting effects.

“I try to be minimalist and thoughtful about my purchases, so the brands I carry are organic, certified sustainable, for example the shoes for babies use vegetable dye. We really do focus on what our footprint is,” she said.

While she knew there was a market for girls’ clothes, boys’ clothing was a different story. She opened the store March 16 with a smaller inventory of clothes for boys for a very specific reason: boys’ clothes are basic and she wasn’t sure if the market was ready for well-made pieces for boys.

“People have responded so well, and it helped me decide which direction we can go forth with,” Martin said. “They are responding and understanding what my mission was.”

She also plans on carrying more layette, which is a set of clothing and linens for a newborn, because she sold out so quickly. But that’s part of shopping at an upscale boutique—once an item is gone, it’s gone.

“I wanted people to feel unique, but with that comes the fact that we’re going to sell out of things,” said Martin. “Nobody in the area represents any of these lines. The only place anyone can buy these is online. People like seeing them in person. People are used to have everything at their fingertips.”

Later this year, she plans on opening an e-shop, where customers can get their favorite pieces from the comfort of home.

Christina Wincek of Birmingham loves having Petite Cabane in the neighborhood, especially when shopping for her daughters, ages 4 and 6.

“I have always loved the vintage look and more traditional style children’s clothing, it’s really hard to find,” Wincek said. “Shopping little small businesses is a passion, so when Carrie opened the shop, it was an instant for me.”

While the style is what drew Wincek into the store, the quality is what keeps her coming back.

“Knowing they’re nice clothes that wash well, a lot of the pieces can transition and layer really well,” she said. “A lot of Carrie’s fabrics are lightweight and soft, so they breathe. Kids can run around and not get the clothes stuck to them. It’s such a wonderful addition to downtown Birmingham.”

Martin isn’t just selling clothing for families. She truly feels part of the community and welcomed by parents and grandparents looking for a special something, or a classic piece for everyday wear.

“It feels like an extension of myself and my home,” Martin said. “I feel a sense of the community. I love the children, I will remember the children’s names more than the parents’ names. I’m so excited to see them grow and their families grow.”

Petite Cabane
205 E. Maple Road
Birmingham, MI 48009
248.792.7979

petitecabaneshop.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[et_bloom_inline optin_id=”optin_6″]

LATEST BIRMINGHAM POSTS

Birmingham – June 11, 2019

Birmingham – June 11, 2019

Votes to Consider Bond Proposal

On Aug. 6, voters will be asked to consider a bond proposal to support demolishing the North Old Woodward Parking Structure, constructing a new parking structure and extending Bates Street to North Old Woodward, also known as the Birmingham N.O.W. Project.

The proposed parking structure will have a minimum of 1,150 public parking spaces, 400 more spaces than the 50-year-old existing structure, located at 333 North Old Woodward. While still operable and safe, costs to maintain the aging structure continue to escalate.

The funding to support repaying the bonds will come from the Automobile Parking System, which is supported by user fees. Revenues from the parking system will be obligated to fund the bond debt, which will not exceed $57.4 million. Taxpayers will not be charged for any elements of the project.      

More information on the Birmingham N.O.W. project can be found on the city website.

Quarton Elementary Playground Closed This Summer

Steer clear of the Quarton Elementary playground this summer. The playground will be under construction June 22 through July 15, weather dependent. For the safety of the children, please plan playdates at another park. An update will be sent if the date needs to be extended.

Bernhard Brenner, the president and founder of Knitcraft

Calling All Kindergarten and First Grade Summer Campers

Openings are available in K-1 Camp at the Birmingham Early Childhood Center. Students who have completed kindergarten or first grade this school year are welcom to register. Most sessions are two weeks long throughout the summer.

In addition to enriching activities to extend school year learning, students walk each day to the Seaholm High School pool to swim, as well as to Lincoln Park to play. Click for more details and registration information or call 248-203-5803.

Congratulations to Groves Student Kaidan Mbereko

Groves High School freshman, Kaidan Mbereko, was selected to join USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and will compete on the U.S. National Under-17 Team in 2019-20 season.

The National Team Development Program is the pinnacle of USA Hockey’s amateur player development program. The goal of the full-time development program is to prepare student athletes under the age of 18 for participation on U.S. National Teams and success in their future hockey careers.

 

Join a Discussion of Architectural Wonder

An Architectural Legacy

Wednesday, June 19 at noon

Birmingham NEXT is hosting author Brian D. Conway and photographer James Haefner in a discussion about their book An Architectural Legacy. Join the discussion on the vibrant design culture that thrives to this day in Michigan This beautiful book takes readers on a privileged tour of iconic buildings and interiors designed by some of the world’s most renowned and celebrated architects and interior designers. One breathtaking view after another invites readers to enter what are often private realms not open to the public to explore the innovative and often breathtaking designs. Click here to register.

 

Help in the Community Garden at Berkshire Middle School

Looking for summer family fun? Berkshire Middle School has a community garden that feeds those in need with produce going to local soup kitchens and food banks.

Local families are invited to help out in the garden this summer. Celebrating its 11th year, the garden includes a drip irrigation system on a timer, so watering isn’t necessary. The raised beds and wood-chip walking paths make the garden neat and low maintenance. Volunteers are needed to help weed and harvest.

Sign up for one week (or more) and come at your convenience the week you sign up. Two to four families per week are needed to help. Garden equipment is provided, including gardening gloves.

This year the garden features tomatoes, zucchini, summer squash, sweet peppers, eggplant, spring greens, green beans, cauliflower, broccoli raab, brussels sprouts and more.

Sign up to help today.

 

 

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Troy – June 11, 2019

Troy – June 11, 2019

Big Beaver Shuttle Makes Last Run

On Friday, June 28, the Big Beaver Shuttle service will run for the last time. The program was discontinued and funds for this service will be redirected to enhance transportation services for seniors and people with disabilities.

 

Sign Students up for MiCareerQuest Southeast

The region’s largest interactive career exploration event for high school students is coming this fall.

Students will experience a broad range of exciting, rewarding career opportunities to help them prepare for their futures.

Thousands of high school students from Oakland, Macomb, Monroe, Wayne, Washtenaw and Livingston counties meet with working professionals who have built successful careers in a variety of fields. In addition, young people will have the opportunity to touch, feel and work with the equipment, tools and technology used by people every day in a broad range of in-demand jobs. The goal is to connect classroom learning with real-world jobs and their requirements. Students also will discover engaging workplace opportunities, such as internships, job shadowing and more.

The event takes place on Nov. 8, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.  If your business is interested in participating, please click here for more information.

Troy Farmers Market Starts Up on June 21

The second season of the Troy Farmers Market starts Friday, June 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Troy Library Parking Lot at 510 W. Big Beaver Road.

Every Friday through Sept. 27, get fresh, seasonal, local Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, meats and more. Market goers can also enjoy weekly musical entertainment, children’s activities and giveaways.

Visit troymi.gov/farmersmarket for up-to-date information.

Save the Date for the 12th Annual Troy Traffic Jam Car Show

Sunday, Aug. 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Columbia Center
201 W. Big Beaver Road

Car buffs, save the date for the Troy Traffic Jam Car show. The event features more than 250 classic cars, hot rods, muscle cars and specialty vehicles. Enjoy children’s crafts, music and plenty of great food available for purchase. Register your restored, modified or original vehicles at www.troytrafficjam.com or onsite for $20 per vehicle.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net
Royal Oak – June 11, 2019

Royal Oak – June 11, 2019

Oakland Elementary to Host Summer Food Program, Activities

This summer, Oakland Elementary will be a Meet Up and Eat Up location, providing breakfast and lunch to those 18 and under. The program runs Monday through Friday, June 19 – Aug. 9, with no meals on July 4-5. Breakfast will run from 9:30 to 10 a.m. and lunch will run from 11 a.m. to noon. No pre-qualification is necessary. Meet Up and Eat Up is open to students and children of any city or school district. In addition, the site may host some special activities around breakfast and lunch. Oakland Elementary is located at 2415 Brockton Avenue in Royal Oak.

June Board of Education Meeting to Feature Former Lincoln Elementary Time Capsule

At the June 13 Board of Education meeting, administrators and board members will open a time capsule from the former Lincoln Elementary. The capsule was put together in 1965, and it was recently rediscovered. All are invited to attend the meeting to see what was preserved in the 54-year-old capsule. The meeting is Thursday, June 13 at 7 p.m. at the District Administration Office, 800 Devillen in  Royal Oak. Golfers invited to join Royal Oak Schools Foundation Golf Outing On Monday, June 24, the Royal Oak Schools Foundation is hosting its 26th annual golf outing to benefit the students of Royal Oak Public Schools. The event takes place at Red Run Golf Course, a private club, but for this occasion, golfers don’t need to be a member. Sign up for the Golf Outing or entering and paying online.

‘Zoom to the Zoo’ with a SMART – and Sustainable – Transit Option

The Detroit Zoological Society and SMART are protecting the environment one bus ride at a time – while improving accessibility for Detroit Zoo-goers – with its partnership called “Zoom to the Zoo.” Now through Sept. 30, each visitor who rides the SMART FAST bus to the Zoo will receive a $2 discount on Zoo admission with proof of their ride shown at the gate, a wristband for free fountain drinks at Zoo concessions on the day of their visit and a free return bus ride.  Detroit Zoological Society Members and guests who Zoom to the Zoo with pre-paid admission tickets will receive a free ride on the wildlife carousel. “This is a great way to improve accessibility for guests who may have trouble getting to the Zoo and it also eases the challenges associated with traffic, parking and construction,” said Ron Kagan, Detroit Zoological Society executive director and CEO. “The best part is that by riding SMART, Zoo visitors can both save money and reduce their carbon footprint.” One bus has the potential to eliminate 60 vehicles on the road, according to SMART, Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider.

Blast Into Summer and Celebrate the Opening of the New Parking Structure

Celebrate the grand opening of the new 11 Mile Road parking structure on June 15 with giveaways, yoga and more. From 7 a.m. to noon, the first 100 people who park in the structure will receive free reusable market bags, plus the chance to win “market bucks,” which are redeemable with any vendor at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. At 9 a.m., Namaste Yoga will host rooftop yoga, and from 2 to 4 p.m., children can enjoy a pop-up park with games and crafts. Learn more at romi.gov/blast

Royal Oak Makes List of Top 25 Cities with the Most Breweries Per Capita

According to the Brewers Association, a craft beer trade group, Royal Oak is ranked 15 in the nation for the most convenient access to craft breweries per 50,000 people. As a result of the Brewers Association research, 85 percent of drinking-age adults now live within 10 miles of a brewery. So, it’s fair to say that most Americans now have convenient access to freshly made beer. While Portland, Maine came out on top with 18 breweries per 50,000 people, Royal Oak finished 15 over all with six.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

Clawson – June 11, 2019

Clawson – June 11, 2019

Clawson to Host Art from DIA

The DIA chose Clawson to participate in the DIA Inside Out program, which brings art reproductions from the DIA collection to outside venues.

This year, DIA masterpieces can be found at: Clawson City Hall, Blair Memorial Library, Clawson City Park, Black Lotus Brewery, Triple Thread, Old Port Inn, Twyfit/Traffic, Salt & Sugar Co. and the Maker Mark.

Art will be on display until July 15.

Sign Up Budding Actors and Actresses for Summer Workshops

Acting Out Kids is holding summer workshops beginning this month for kids wishing to test their acting chops.

The workshop begins June 21.

ACTING & IMPROV WORKSHOPS (Ages 7-18)

Kids will learn acting, improv and public speaking skills through a variety of acting and improv games, activities and skits. Children will learn in a fun, friendly, casual and noncompetitive environment. Monthly workshops are a great way to make new friends, learn about theatre and have fun on a Friday night.

June 21, July 19 and Aug. 9
7 to 9 p.m.

$10 per child for each monthly workshop

Located at the Hunter Community Center in Clawson at 509 Fisher Court.

Advance registration is required. To register, please contact actingoutkids@yahoo.com.

Improvements Coming to Clawson Schools This Summer

Tim Wilson, superintendent of Clawson Public Schools, reported in the district newsletter that improvements to the schools will be coming over the summer.

The district is using funds left in the facilities and technology bond accounts for replacing the three parking lots on the south side of the high school. The Clawson School District WiFi system will also receive a major upgrade, which will make the system much faster as well as provide greater online opportunities for students.

Additionally, the district received a safety grant for $230,000 to replace and upgrade every district building PA system, and there will be new laser projectors installed in every classroom to help enhance teaching.

Free Summer Concert Series Begins June 17

Join the Friends of The Blair Memorial Library and Clawson Parks & Recreation Department for a free Summer Concert Series in Memorial Park.

These family-friendly concerts feature award-winning singer-fronted trios that are sure to have your toes tappin.’ Salt & Sugar Company will be there serving up sweets, treats and more.

In case of inclement weather, the concerts will be moved to city Hall.

For more information please contact The Blair Memorial Library at 248-588-5500.

Concerts run 7 to 8:15 p.m. On Monday, June 17, The T-bone Paxton Project will perform popular songs from artists like Hoagy Carmichael, Louis Jordan, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer and more.

Parks and Recreation Wants Your Input

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board would like residents’ feedback.

The Board would like to know what interests the citizens of Clawson. Call the Parks and Recreation Department at 248-589-0334 or email parksrec@cityofclawson.com to voice your opinion on what you like about the Holiday and Beautification award programs, or what you’d like to see instead.

Rebecca Calappi

Rebecca Calappi

City News Editor

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net