It doesn’t get more authentic than Pitter Patter. Located in the heart of Bath, right on Front Street, the slogan is, “the sound of happy”, which is right on the nose, because I’m pretty sure the sounds coming from both mom and child are probably in the top three happiest sounds category when you enter this boutique! “CUUUUUTE” and “Can we buy this?!” come to mind, ha! But seriously, it’s always fun to browse small-owned children’s boutiques that house unique and well-made gems! The owner, Colleen, focuses on quality products that also serve a purpose. Two of my favorite products are kleynimals and the Maine River Otter Blanket.
- What is your business? A children’s boutique
- How long have you been in business? 15 years
- What inspired you to open your business? I worked for the previous owner
- How did coronavirus impact your business? I saw a significant decline in business but did have a supportive following from all over the country. I rearranged the floor plan to accommodate social distancing, touchless payments as well as a rebuilt, more user friendly, website among many other changes.
- How has your business impacted your community? We have been a part of our community for 15 years which means I have seen some customers go from newborn to drivers ed! We have been called a “must visit” destination when in Bath and we bring people from all over. Once our customers are here, they realize how amazing all the stores and restaurants are in Bath & they come back again and again.
- What is your most popular item/s in your store? It’s hard to choose just one but right now, Bonsies are wildly popular. They are an item designed by a brilliant woman in Brunswick and they are the solution for anytime, easily accessible skin to skin wear for baby. Another would be the Maine River Otter Blankets.
- What do you love most about being a small business owner? I love that Pitter Patter reflects me. It has allowed me the freedom to attend all of my children’s events while they were growing up and the joy I get from making all customers happy and confident with their purchase.
- What is the biggest challenge of being a small business owner? I could work 24/7 if I allowed myself. It is challenging keeping a good balance between work and home life.
- What advice would you give someone looking to open up a small business like yours, or in general? Choose something that will bring you joy. Find your passion and run with it. Make it the best of whatever you choose to do. Whether it’s a shoe store or a pastry shop, make it the best one out there!
- Anything else you’d like to share with us about Pitter Patter? We are so proud of all the items we carry at Pitter Patter. We are conscientious about everything from fabrics and materials used to how they are made, environmental impact as well as production practices no matter where they are made. I can confidently stand behind every item represented at Pitter Patter to ensure any item chosen is safe, healthy, of course adorable, and perfect for any little one.
