Little Flea Christmas Issue 8 - The Love Issue

Christmas Gift Guide 2016 Issue 08

magazine

The

Issue 1

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LETTER

FROM THE

EDITOR Have you started Christmas shopping yet? Nope... me neither!

Lucky for you then that we have a jam packed Christmas gift guide to give you loads of inspiration and to get you set up for the mammouth task of gift finding.

Whether it’s for a newborn baby, a toddler, older kids or a mum to be. We have it sorted!

For book lovers, Ottie & the Bea share some of their favourites for all different ages, including the adults - I’ve already got my eye on a few... plus there’s homeware, toys, fashion and Christmas goodies galore.

We chat to the mighty Instdads: Father_of_Daughters, Papa_Pukka and London_Dad about family life and what Christmas is like in their house.

Plus we also get Christmassy with Carrie from Mère Soeur and her cuter than cute little boy, River.

Donna Tweedale talks to Pepa & Co about her gorgeous shop and she also finds out all about the amazing brand BearGood and how they raise money for charity through the sale of their bears.

This is a mega festive issue to get you in the Christmas spirit. We know you’re going to love it. Happy Shopping!

Have a wonderful Christmas.

Lots of Love, Anna x Find us on

Photo: Sharon Cooper.

Styling: Anna Cascarina Clothing from Yellow Lolly.

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Contents

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8 Dear Santa

What is on the list to Father Christmas

this year?

Santa Baby Cute baby gifts for little tots

58 Christmas Toy Store 16 Ottie & the Bea We dig out the best toys to give your

The super cool people at Ottie & the little ones this Christmas

Bea give us the lowdown on books for

all ages this Christmas.

60 A Modern Mum 22 Who Run the World...Girls!

We get Christmassy with Carrie from

Lovely gifts for lovely girls.

Mère Soeur and her little boy River.

24 Boys will be boys!

Fabulous gifts for boys.

27 ‘Twas the night before Christmas

Amazing pyjamas to go to bed in on Christmas Eve!

68 BearGood

Donna Tweedale finds out about this

amazing charitable brand.

74 Dad Life

We find out from Simon Hooper, Matt 28 A White Christmas Farquharson and Gregory Stanton

Our Xmas shoots takes us to a snowy

playground of fashion for boys and about life as a dad. girls.

42 Pepa & Company

Donna Tweedale interviews the

amazing Pepa about her gorgeous

collection and new store.

80 Mama Flea Super cool gifts for mamas and mamas-to-be.

84 A Beautiful Home 46 Ruby Loves We find some gorgeous interiors to

The cute range of gifts and accesso get your home looking tiptop. ries from Lapin & Me. 50 Pippas Picks 94 Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Pippa chooses Yellow Lolly as her Take a look at our selection of

brand of the season.

gorgeous Christmassy goodies.

On the Cover: Carrie & River from Mère Soeur wearing faux fur bomber jacket, The Design Studio.

Grey salopettes, The Wee Department Store.

Photo: Sarah Winborn.

Styling: Anna Cascarina.

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Stocking Fillers Little toys and trinkets to fill those sacks on Christmas eve.

98 Listings page Links to all the Little Flea brands

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www.laraandollie.co.uk

For little people with big imaginations

Rockahula Kids For all your little girls accessory needs this winter, there’s no better place than Rockahula Kids. With a wide range of hair accessories, jewellery and winter woolies, your little princess will think all her Christmases have come at once!

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Waddler Add a magical touch to your kiddies wardrobe with this beautiful collection from Waddler. The mix of ruffles, pom poms, tassles and harlequin prints teamed with the softest Alpaca wool makes for the snuggliest range in the land. Little Flea is in love!

Dotty Dungarees Every child looks super cute in a pair of dungarees and these one by Dotty Dungarees are super soft, come in a range of colours and styles and grow with your child due to the roll up legs and adjustable straps.

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Indikidual Keep cosy warm with this ultra cool waterproof coat from Indikidual. With an all over banana print, this fur trimmed coat will keep your little monkey toasty all through winter!

Gugguu We love the simple and comfy collection from Gugguu. Soft separates perfect for layering in the colder months and so wearable your little one won’t want to take them off. For boys and girls aged 0-12 years

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Atticus & Gilda These amazing travel bags make wonderful gifts. They include a pyjama or nightdress of your choice, an organic lip balm, a wooden hair brush, a sleep mask of your choice and a bamboo toothbrush. Such a cool idea for sleepovers!

Abc123me The cool understated range by Abc123me has had us hooked since day one. Soft denim, corduroy, organic cotton and shearling make up a collection made for playing hard and to last.

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Amy & Ivor Soft, buttery leather to protect your little ones toes, gorgeous earthy colours and soft shearling. The AW collection by Amy & Ivor ticks all the boxes every time.

RaspberryPlum This space age AW collection will transport you straight up to the moon with it’s cosmic prints and angular lines. As always RaspberryPlum ensures sustainability and ecological factors remain at it’s core and along with the long lasting, beautifully designed aesthetic, these pieces are a must have.

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Olivier Baby & Kids Christmas is coming and you’re in for a treat as Olivier Baby & Kids have launched an amazing collection especially for the party season. Find sumptious velvets, silks and linens that’ll take your kiddies right through the Christmas season.

Piupia We are so in love with the new Piupia collection. Called, The Great Chill, this beautiful range includes Eskimos, foxes, trees and bears all in gorgeous colours and super soft organic cotton. Perfect for your little cubs!

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Blog Shop Lifestyle Life is for living Live it. Breathe it. Love it.

www.aphoenixfromtheashes.com 15

Ottie & the Bea If you are after a wonderland of toys, gifts and books, then Ottie & the Bea is the place to go. The shop is a place of playfulness, creativity and possibility, bursting with colour and all the stock needs to meet the following criteria: Usability, Design and Value! You’ll find an array of products for the home, to be creative, to play with and to wear. Items you and your children will love. A big part of Ottie & the Bea is their amazing selection of books for all ages. Here, the lovely peeps from Ottie & the Bea give us the lowdown on what books to buy this Christmas.

Pre-School Touch Think Learn ABC is a wonderful series of unique and beautifully designed books- using scooped out die cuts and raised shaped elements on each page.

This super-duper ABC from Chronicle Books

is the ultimate edition of this series by Xavier Deneux at £14.99 Bear Song by astounding French artist/ illustrator Benjamin Chaud is packed with charming details that make the book a treasure to return to and enjoy again and again. Little Bear takes us on a journey to Paris and with his Father following behind even through the opera house in his hunt for honey. finally up on the roof and 16

under a brilliantly starry sky we discover that “adventure is best enjoyed together”.

Chronicle and Abrams £10.99 Hug Me is Simona Ciraolo’s debut novel. Felipe is descended from a famous family of cacti but his family aren’t the “ touchy feely type” so we follow him on his journey to find a best friend.

A beautifully gentle book with wonderful illustrations and a charming sense of humour – make sure to enjoy the illustrations on the inside of the back cover.

From Flying Eye Books £11.99

Primary School Beetle Boy if you are 8+ this is a must read. A tale of a young boy called Darkus, who with his new friends is on an adventure to find his father. His father a Director of Science at the Natural History Museum has mysteriously disappeared from a vault whilst looking at specimens of beetles. There is no other possible way out other than through a locked door. The mystery begins. MG Leonard’s debut novel is the first in a trilogy and we are waiting with baited breath for Beetle Queen , part two which is due in the summer of 2017.

From Chicken house £6.99

The Wolves of Curumpaw by the young award winning illustrator William Grill. Is based on a true story and set in New Mexico in 1892. A wolfpack is preying on valuable cattle and evading capture by local ranchmen. As a last resort a British naturalist, Ernest Thompson Seton is employed to hunt down the wolves notorious pack leader, king Lobo… which takes him on a surprising personal jour-

ney. William’s personal research and fascination with the story is tangible. His illustrative technique, the use of coloured pencils, and the layers of shading all contribute towards the evocative and atmospheric illustrations that will take your breath away, and brought tears to our eyes.

From Flying Eye Books £14.99

Botanicum is the latest stunning new book offering from Big Picture Press’s ‘Welcome to the Museum’ series celebrating the plant kingdom in all its glory. Through intricate and beautiful illustrations by artist Katie Scott and with text by Kew’s Director of Science Kathy Willis, this gorgeous book brings the plant world to life. A perfect book for the whole family to enjoy.

From Big Picture Press £20

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Teenagers Rookie Year Book My teenage daughter Bea introduced me to Tavi Gevinsonwhat an amazing role model she is. 352 glorious pages of articles, interviews, photos, illustrations, collages created by and for young women to make the best of the beauty, pain and awkwardness of being a teenager. £19.99.

Marvels is the third book from Brian Selznick in a unique format. You open up the book with its golden edging and for the first 390 pages you enter the world through Brian’s dream like pencil illustrations. When the words do begin you find you’ve invested far more in this magical story of two worlds than you might have ever expected possible. A phenomenal book and possibly my top recommendation today…. there are just so many incredible books coming out at the moment. £16.99.

To see more books, to find out about their book club, shop for toys, clothing and lovely gifts, visit www.ottieandthebea.com

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Adults

What Is A Child Beatrice Alemagna is an amazing French illustrator and in this book she manages to instil what the key elements of childhood are through beautifully illustrated full page pictures and no more than 6 lines of text. A perfect book for all adults who need reminding of just how precious childhood is and it’ll make you smile and laugh out loud! £12.99.

Nobody Told Me Holly McNeish is a British poet, author and spoken word artist. This autobiographical work takes us on her journey through pregnancy to parenthood. ’There were many things that Hollie McNish didn't know before she was pregnant. How her family and friends would react; that Mr Whippy would be off the menu; how quickly ice can melt on a stomach.’ She is frank, irreverent and funny and an important contrast to the many pregnancy and birth books that are currently available. £13.99.

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Colourful, cosy and a little bit special, that’s what little girls want this Christmas

Palava

Palava Sas & Yosh

Palava

Knit Planet Smalls & The Bright Company

Papu

Indikidual 22

Pearl Lowe Petite

Knit Planet

Rosita Lollipop

Pepa & Co.

Bax & Bay

Doodle Do

Vevian

Rockahula Beanie & Bear

Knit Planet

Tiba & Marl

Olivier Baby & Kids

Rockahula 23

Papu Girlstalktoboys

Tui B. Doodle Do

Dotty Dungarees

Indikidual Piupia

Little Lulu’s

Sophie Ochera 24

Sproet & Sprout

Olivier Baby & Kids

Mr Wolf

Annaliv

Boys

Well Grounded Company

Will be Boys

Sally Nencini

Sproet & Sprout

Abc123me Tigerbella

Papu Rosita Lollipop

Tigrbella 25

LONDON

Start your Christmas shopping with our fabulous nighties, pyjamas, bloomer sets, sleep masks and overnight bags.

Gorgeous colours and designs and up to 50% off!

FREE P&P UK www.atticusandgilda.co.uk See us at: www.rptchristmasmarket.co.uk www.theshopup.com

’Twas the night before Christmas..

Amaia

Panda & the Sparrow

Every child needs a new pair of Pj’s on Christmas eve.

Only problem is choosing which ones!

Lala & Bea

Atticus & Gilda Panda & Ping

The Bright Company

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A White

Christmas is for family time dressed in fun prints and colourful separates. Think checks, chevrons, frills, bows and cosy knits. Let’s hope it snows!

Styled by Donna Tweedale Photography by Hayley Willis Post production by Animatic.co.uk Models: Thomas, Audrey, Rosie and Amelia

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From Left to Right: Check top, Milk & Biscuits and Knitted skirt, The Animals Observatory both from Olive Loves Alfie. Grey socks, Stylists own. Shoes, Young Soles.

Checked dress, Bobo Choses at Olive Loves Alfie. Bobble hat, Bobo Choses at Yellow Lolly. Socks, Stylists own.

White shoes, Young Soles.

Jumper, Raspberry Plum. Green knitted sleeveless cardi, The Animals Observatory at Olive Loves Alfie. Stripe trousers, Bobo Choses at Yellow Lolly. Boots, Young Soles. Knitted toy, Sally Nencini.

Chevron stripe jumpsuit, Wolf & Rita at Olive Loves Alfie. Spotty tights, Braveling. Pink shoes, Chapter 2.

Christmas

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Checked dress, Bobo Choses at Olive Loves Alfie. Bobble hat, Bobo Choses at Yellow Lolly. Socks, Stylists own. White shoes, Young Soles. Grey knitted toy, Sally Nencini

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Pink dress and socks, Raspberry Plum.

White shoes, Young Soles. Bunny toy, Sally Nencini.

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Check top, Milk & Biscuits and Knitted skirt, The Animals Observatory both from Olive Loves Alfie. Grey Socks, Stylists own. Shoes, Young Soles

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Chevron jumpsuit, Wolf & Rita at Olive Loves Alfie. Spotty tights, Braveling. Pink shoes, Chapter 2.

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Jumper with yellow cuffs, Raspberry Plum. Green sleeveless cardi, The Animals Observatory at Olive Loves Alfie. Stripe trousers, Bobo Choses at Yellow Lolly.

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Stripe top, Bobo Choses at Olive Loves Alfie.

Burgundy cardigan, Knit Planet. Grey trousers, Albababy at Yellow Lolly. Brown lace up boots, Young Soles. Grey knitted toy, Sally Nencini.

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Black top, Knit Planet. Harlequin knitted trousers, Waddler. White shoes, Young Soles.

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Check shirt, Raspberry Plum.

Bird mobile, Willa & Bobbin.

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Check top, Milk & Biscuits at Olive Loves Alfie. Mustard skirt, Girlstalktoboys.

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Top: Grey dress, Bobo Choses at Olive Loves Alfie. Black chequerboard boots, Chapter 2.

Bottom from left: Yellow trousers, Raspberry Plum. Black boots, Chapter 2.

Green floral skirt, Zara. Navy cardigan, Models own. Grey socks, Stylists own. Pink shoes, Chapter 2.

Stripy top, Bobo Choses at Olive Loves Alfie. Burgundy cardigan, Knit Planet. Red joggers, The Animals Observatory at Olive Loves Alfie. Shoes, Young Soles. All knitted toys from Sally Nencini.

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Pepa

&

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Co

Donna Tweedale meets Pepa Gonzalez, the lady behind the beautiful Spanish boutique, Pepa & Co. She explains what she loves about Spanish clothing and what it feels like to have The Duchess of Cambridge choose Pepa & Co to dress her children.

Pepa & Co initially launched just 3 years ago as an online boutique selling a beautifully curated collection of smart quality Spanish apparel, handmade for children. Since then Pepa Gonzalez has grown her business through to her own line of designs to recently announcing the opening of Pepa & Co head office and boutique just off the Kings Road in Fulham, London.

online boutique.

Then having listened to what the clients liked and didn’t like, I built up a huge knowledge bank and decided to launch my own label Pepa & Co; designing the clothes myself and always with the clients in mind.

My own label became my most successful collection so it seemed natural to continue designing the clothing myself.

How important is it for Pepa & Co. to have this more personal shopping expePepa, Congratulations! What a journey. rience with your families and little cusYou must be so excited to see the first tomers?

Pepa & Co. boutique come to fruition?

For me, customer service is such a nice part Thank you! Yes, it’s been a long journey, but of it! I really care about this in our company, just 3 years ago! We have finally opened a as I think it´s what makes us different to the space to show our collections to whoever big brands. Dealing with clients, who 95% is happy to pop in to our studio. We are al- of them, are so patient and understanding. ways delighted to welcome anyone who is They understand we are a small company interested in having a look, have a chat and and don’t expect, return labels or free delivery. They value the quality of the clothwe can help them to buy what they need.

Initially it started with me hand-picking my ing. When they send us pictures of their favourite children’s clothing brands from babies saying thank you, it’s emotional, it is Spain and bringing them to the UK via my definitely the best bit! especially if it’s been 43

a busy or hard day.

What colours are his favorites? He really helped me to design the navy and beige Your collections of classic shapes and whale print striped sweater. The final result timeless styles lend themselves to heir- being really popular! loom pieces, namely your celebration line. Is there an outfit that is particularly Oh wow, taking that family involveclose to your heart? ment is so special, Claudio will be one to watch!

The Pepa & Co. collections are charming oozing an effortless nostalgia, your childhood memories; particularly how your Mama chose to dress you and your siblings. How do these inspire you in your design process?

I love fashion, In Spain we care about what we wear, it’s a way of expression, It makes us feel good. We also care about the quality and where the items that we or our children wear have been made, in a fair process.

When I started I found more fun designing clothing for others rather than for myself, so I can see others wearing it and children are the perfect inspiration.

I always enjoy our sweater prints, and try to get help sometimes from my nephews. This year I was talking with one of them, Claudio – 5, about what design to chose for our summer sweaters, If there was any special animal he would like to wear on the front?

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I come from a large family of four brothers. My mother loves children clothing, not only shopping for clothes but she can hand make stunning pieces for babies and children and always in an exquisite style. That sticks with me. I have a lovely collection of smocked dresses from when I was little. I remember wearing them and how special they made me feel. In a family of 5 the budget for beautiful dresses was not very high‌ so my Mother turned her hand to making our own and was very good. She handmade beautiful pieces for me, what now I think was even more special.

That is why every dress and piece I design now, I try to be transported to those days and remember what I liked to wear when I was little; colours, shapes etc.

Then after every collection when we see our little clients looking so gorgeous in those pieces, that for us is another source of inspiration.

Bringing the vintage style with a con-

temporary twist to our new generations of children, that is Pepa & Co’s goal!

With your Mama having 5 children she must have shared your passion for style in childrens wear and had fun dressing you all, with her often being told how her 4 young son’s looked like Princes; a sentiment at the core of Pepa & Co. So, Seeing Prince George of Cambridge in your pieces earlier this summer must have been such an incredible moment for you and your family?

We feel really honoured that the Duchess of Cambridge selected our brand for dressing her children on several occasions. It is always so nice for us to see pictures of our little clients looking so sweet in our clothing. It was such a surprise for all of us when those pictures were released as we didn’t even know they had some of the garments!

That moment was really exciting for us and one we will always remember.

We wish you all the very best with the opening of the boutique. We’re sure with the busy Christmas season looming Pepa & Co. will prove to be an exciting time for you, We look forward to seeing what 2017 brings!

Thank you so much! For 2017 We will keep listening to our clients and design what they like and we will do our best to bring the most beautiful summer and winter collections to dress babies and children up to 8 yrs.

We look forward to seeing it.

To see the full Pepa & Co collection visit their website.

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Ruby Loves

Baby Lapin lamps £64.

LAPIN & ME Ruby loves the super cute collection of unique design led gifts from Lapin & Me. The Japanese retro toys and iconic Baby Lapin lamps are loved the world over and Ruby thinks they’re perfect for children’s rooms.

Combining the vintage look with modern style, the Lapin & Me range is loved by both adults and children alike due to it’s simple yet fun style.

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Pax and Heart print, £35. White Panda light, £60. Woodland money box, £24.

This stunning ‘Crying Heart’ print By Pax and Heart is a favourite. As is the Panda lamp and the Woodland money box. Well yellow is Ruby’s favourite colour after all!

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Ruby Loves

For the Christmas season Ruby loves this sweet snowglobe and advent calendar which Look perfect alongside the white Baby Lapin night light. These pretty fawn pendants are perfect for wearing Christmas day!

Baby Lapin lamp £64. Advent calendar, £4.95. Snowglobe, £11.95. Fawn Pendant, £12.95

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Black Panda light, £65. Ryo Chan Panda, £7.95. Setsu Panda, £14. Woodland Dolls, £15.95. Miko Chan Doll, £14.50. Cuties, £4.95.

The ‘cuties’ collection consists of fawns, pandas, elephants, rabbits, bears, giraffes and dogs. Collect them all to play with or to put on a shelf for a fab colourful display. Other toys include the Setsu panda on wheels, the Ryo Chan Panda, the Miko Chan doll and the gorgeous Woodland Dolls.

Visit Lapin & Me for the full collection.

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Pippa’s Picks

Yellow Lolly

Photography: Sharon Cooper Styling: Anna Cascarina 50

Pippa loves the gorgeous range of clothing from Yellow Lolly. You’ll find clothing, accessories and gifts from big brand names such as Bobo Choses, Beau Loves, Mini Rodini, Bang Bang Copenhagen, Papu and many more.

The owners, Claire & Ellie love cool, sustainable kid’s fashion, and stock good quality, stylish, fun clothes that they hope will be worn, loved, handed down, and loved again!

This fanatstic range of clothing goes from birth to 8 years, so you can find that perfect newborn gift or just update your little ones wardrobe in time for Christmas.

Have a litle explore of this gorgeous online store at www.yellowlolly.com Skirt, jumper and coat all Bobo Choses at Yellow Lolly. Tights and shoes, models own.

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Pippa’s Picks

Stripe top with bow and braces detail, Bang Bang Copenhagen. Skirt, Beau Loves all from Yellow Lolly.

Tights and shoes, models own.

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SANTA Little Lulus

Avery Row

Mainio

Doodle Do

My Baby’s Name Is

Squidge & Pip

Om Baby 56

Little Indians

Olivier Baby & Kids

BABY Lara & Ollie Swaddle scarf, BearGood Parent Apparel & Lara & Ollie

Om Baby

JaxonJames

Question Everything London

Sproet & Sprout

Braveling

Olivier Baby & Kids

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£35.20, Doodle Do

£48, Scandiborn

£34, Knit Planet

£94, Ottie & the Bea

£27.50, The Wee Dept Store

The Little Flea Magical

£22, The Magic Door Store

£10, My Baby’s 1st

£18, Ottie & the Bea

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€28, Pinch Toys

£17.95, The Wee Dept Store

£54, Ottie & the Bea

£49.99, Lulla Doll by Roro

£245, Scandiborn

£84.99, Toyella

£34.99, Olive Loves Alfie

Christmas Toy Store

£18.50, Rosita Lollipop

£10.50, Tulipop

£10, My Baby’s 1st

€32.99. Toyella

€49, Bisou de Lou

£23.50, Noodoll

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A Modern Mum Meet Carrie, the bad-ass mum behind mama and baby brand, Mère Soeur. Since she began documenting life with her baba River on Instagram, life has totally changed for the girl from the Valleys. A supporter of women and celebrator of sisterhood, Carrie has a loyal fanbase who love her honest bare-all approach to parenting. With a following of 23.5K followers and counting, this lady is set for the big time.

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Photography: Sarah Winborn Styling: Anna Cascarina Location: The Clapton Laundry

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Overleaf: Carrie: Raising the future tee, Mère Soeur. Satin & lace skirt and silver shoes, both ASOS. River: Bebe Gang tee, Mère Soeur. Grey salopettes, The Wee Department Store. Grey leather moccasins, Amy & Ivor.

This page: Carrie: Grey t-shirt and pink velvet jogging bottoms, both ASOS. Red stiletto shoes, New Look.

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We caught up Carrie and her adorable little boy River to find out about tacky Christmas decorations and her favourite party outfit!

Carrie: Fake fur bomber jacket, The Design Studio. Jeans, H&M. River: outfit as before.

LF: Where are you going to be this Christmas - Wales or London?

I’ll no doubt be squirrelling away in the studio in London packing lots of gift orders for deserving mamas to open on Christmas morning, right up until Royal Mail stops posting.

But then I’ll be rushing back to Wales for a few days off to see the family.

LF: What’s on your Christmas wish list?

I’ve never been one for BIG presents, I just want lots and lots of little things I’ve had my eye on throughout the year. I have an Amazon wishlist full of books I’ve been meaning to buy. If only someone could give you the gift of spare time for Christmas. Maybe then I’d have a good shot at being able to read them! I do have my beadies on everything Lazy Oaf just released as well as the entire Red Temple Prayer homeware section, and some new DMs, and a boob ring from Joy-BC, and I could go on but I’ll spare you...

LF: Most magical thing about Christmas?

The most magical thing about Christmas, for me, is taking time off! Also, the sparkle, the excitement, the dark, early nights. Telling cashiers, strangers who help me with my pram on the tube, taxi drivers, and anyone else who’ll listen to “have a good christmas” is one of my favourite things about this time of year.

LF: Christmas tree - Real or artificial?

Absolutely no preference as long as I can cover it in the tackiest festive delights.

Although, you can’t beat the smell of a real one can you!?

LF: Favourite food at christmas?

It’s gotta be the dinner. I mean, what beats a Christmas dinner?!? When your plate is piled so high that you have to be careful not to make any sudden movements when you’re carrying it to the table for fear of a gravy spillage or losing a roastie. The sort of meal that’ll wipe you out for the rest of the day and that’s ok because its CHRISTMAAAAAAS. 63

Carrie: Orange velvet dress (tucked in), ASOS. Denim patch jeans, Levi’s. Silver shoes, ASOS. River: Outfit as before.

LF: What are you buying River this year? LF: What’s your go-to outfit for Christmas parties?

Riv’s birthday is December 16th so it’s a month-long celebration for him! My This year I have a dusty pink floor length bank balance is crying at the thought of low cut velvet number and I CANNOT it. He’s getting a trip to Peppa Pig world wait to pull it outta the closet! But (his latest and greatest obsession) and honestly, anything pink and/or sparkly is his very own skateboard (complete with good for me.

25 helmets and all the velcro pads I can get my hands on because, y’know, safety LF: Decoration - Classic or over the top! first).

I have flamingos with santa hats on, LF: Favourite Christmas song? glittery hotdogs, and candy skulls with wreaths around them waiting to show Step Into Christmas - Elton John. Always their faces this year so I’d say OTT. Aland forever. It reminds of working in re- ways. tail, serving all the Christmas shoppers, spreading some Christmas cheer and looking forward to a few drinks after We hope Carrie and River have a fabuwork. lously tacky and glittery Christmas and hope it’s full of Peppa Pig, pink velvet LF: Heels or flats? and lots of love and sparkles!

For Christmas, HEELS! The bigger, brighter and sparklier the better.

To see the Mère Soeur collection, visit www.meresoeur.com 64

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BearGood

BearGood is a range of handmade, limited edition teddy bears, swaddle scarves, blankets, books and organic retro t-shirts. Inspired by the arrival of their first child, BearGood was born with a mission to do good and to help children improve their life, health and education. Donna Tweedale finds out more about this brand that donates 10% of every item sold to charities.

Particularly in recent times we sadly see more and more children suffering in times of crisis. Their homes, families everything that makes them feel safe. Those shocking images of children struck by the events in Syria hit us as Mama’s like a punch in the gut.

Literally. Taking our breath away.

Rachel founder of BearGood says ‘’We believe that every child has the right to a safe and caring living environment access to healthcare and an education.’’

We’re excited to find out more...

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LF: As a Mama having read articles and seen the news about families in other parts of the world, it breaks my heart to think of children living in such conditions and I’ll donate to charities where I can. What was that pivotal point that made you take offering support to the next level and want to do so much more, creating BearGood?

It was the birth of my first child that inspired me - it took us a very long time to have a family, so when she came in to our lives I wasn’t just happy, I was so grateful too that I had been able to become a mum. I knew that I would, like most parents and carers out there, do everything to keep my child safe, happy and healthy. Before I became

a mum, I’d donate to lots of charities and watch with horror some of the stories on the news, but as a new parent I became more emotionally involved. I wanted to do something. So I coupled my background in

made. They are something very special with real heirloom potential, A real sense of occasion. Is this something you wanted for them to exude when creating the Bear collections?

advertising and marketing with what I was now immersed in, motherhood and children, and decided that I wanted to launch baby and children focused products that had an in-built ‘give back’ factor to help those less fortunate. By having an in-built donation, it enables people to do something good without even thinking about it, it’s a ‘nice to have’ as you’re not just making one child happy, but helping improve other lives too.

I certainly did - they were designed to last a lifetime! We have so many things in the world of babies and children that are too easily thrown away, that for me, quality was key when producing them. I didn’t want them to look old-fashioned, that’s why we chose moleskin and corduroy fabrics in contemporary colours, I think we found the perfect balance between the traditional shape and the modern finish. The jointed bears have been handmade in the UK and I wanted them to be special, to reflect the important occasion for which they would be bought, such as a birth, baptism, baby shower etc. That’s also why we make a limited run of them, with each bear being numbered and certificated there’ll only ever be 60 of each of them. With having the jointed bear range and the bambino range, we really have bears for every occasion and budget (and the bambino’s are very soft

LF: The charities you support do incredible work, offering support for the long term community, ensuring the children will have the framework to grow up in a stable and positive family environment. To see donations go to your chosen charities and make a difference must be so rewarding?

Yes it is, but we have a long way to go because we are a relatively new business.

You’re right, the charities do incredible work (and go beyond the community too, such as working in disaster relief areas) and that’s why I’m passionate about each product we sell donating - the more we can give back to help, the better - because without donations they wouldn’t be able to do what they do.

LF: Your Jointed Bears are beautifully 69

and cuddly too, very popular as a new baby gift).

The bears were the first product we designed when I started the company, as it represented the essence of what we wanted to give back. A teddy bear is comforting, provides a sense of security, is loved, and in many cases, is beside you as you journey through life. For me, those sentiments reflect how we want to help children live better lives, and the amazing work that SOS Children’s Villages do.

LF: We love the Coveted Things Swaddle Scarves, A few slogans especially resonate!

And your fair trade blankets, just beautiful. What a great way to make a smaller purchase but still make a difference, These must make great gift ideas?

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Absolutely! I wanted to bring in some lower value products specifically for that reason. I’ve been sourcing new products recently and wanted to balance the ‘everyday’ need such as blankets with more ‘design-focused’ products that are still ultra useful, like the swaddle scarves. With my youngest being over two, I was using mine

on the beach this year, so they’re a product that you can just keep using and using.

We’re very much focused on stocking items that make beautiful gifts that last, are well-designed and cover different budgets. I’m really excited about the next couple of months as we are getting new product ranges in from some fabulous brands such as Amy & Ivor, From Babies With Love, Candylab, Storksak and the like.

We’re also expanding on our range of books which I can’t wait for - I’ve found that people do like to buy for an older sibling so we’re starting to cater for that too, not just with the tees and books but have new products coming in soon.

We’ve been asked quite a few times if we can make larger sizes so you never know!

Thank goodness for Mama’s like you Rachel for working hard to endeavour to make deprived children’s lives a better, safer, positive environment for them to LF: Your Organic Bear T Shirt range has thrive. You’re doing incredible things gorgeous colourways and each Bear’s charand we can’t wait to see what other acter is adorable. Will we be seeing any products are in store soon. plans for some BearGood Sweaters in the coming seasons?

See the full range from BearGood here.

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Dad life Move over Instamums - it’s Daddy’s turn on Social Media and we love following the humourous tales of parenting from a man’s persepective. We asked Simon (Father_of_daughters), Matt (Papa_Pukka) and Greg (London_Dad) what being a dad means to them and what the Christmas mayhem is like in their house!

Image: Emily Gray Photo

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Clockwise from top: Simon Hooper and one of his beautiful twins modelling Parent Apparel.

Gregory Stanton with his wife Alice and daughter, Etta playing with make-up.

Matt Farquharson and daughter Mae in front of the infamous Camille Walala wall!.

Image: Emily Gray Photo for Parent Apparel

have to nurture and protect her as well as providing for her but no one else can teach her that lesson.

LF: What has being a parent taught you?

Greg: It sounds so cliche but it taught me about what being rich really is, I gave up an amazingly well paid career to be home with my girls and to focus on the things that you cannot buy, family and time. I feel like I was born to be a family man hanging out with them all day and I didn’t know that until Etta taught me so.

LF: What do you feel is your primary role as a father?

Simon: To be a good male role model for my children. This means being kind, funny, loving and generally showing them what a good man should be like.

Matt: Beyond the basics, like providing food, shelter, clothing and education, it's about finding that balance between making someone feel respected and valued but not overindulged. I don't really buy the idea that 'girls marry their dads / boys marry their mums', but I'm aware that on some minor level, the relationships we have with our kids influences how they act with (and what they expect from) their future friends and partners.

Greg: Wow, what happened to a couple of easy questions leading up to the important ones :) I am only joking to really try and buy time so that my brain can have a proper think about this. My primary role as a father is to treat Etta’s mother right so that she can learn by example how a woman should be treated. Of course I

Simon: Patience. Kids have been designed from day one to test you. They know how to push your buttons and the only way to deal with it without losing your mind is to develop the patience of a Saint. Long deep breaths, count to 5 and start again. It’s also taught me that being a parent isn’t as scary as it might look from the outside. No one is born knowing what to do when it comes to looking after another human being, but we all adapt pretty quickly and before you know it, we’re a pro.

Matt: Children are hungry, but reluctant to eat. They are tired, but reluctant to sleep.

Mine is happy, sad, and funny in the time it used to take me to yawn (there's not time for yawning anymore).

LF: What advice would you give expectant dads?

Matt: It comes more naturally than you might expect, and becomes more rewarding than you might ever imagine. For the first six months newborns don't give much back: they're like really demanding Tamagotchis, but ones that soil your clothes. However, you're so full of giddy new-dad hormones that you don't notice and after that, they slowly start to become actual people.

Greg: This seems a tough one but actually it’s really easy. I would tell all expectant dads 75

Greg’s daughter Etta.

to take it all as it comes. If you plan too much you will forever be planning or be disappointed. Every day is different and they change so quickly, so just be reactive to what happens to you each day and you will enjoy it more.

Simon: Don’t go into it with too many preconceptions about what being a parent will be like or what kind of parent you’ll be. Every baby and family situation is different. You’ll find a rhythm that works for you over time so don’t rush to force a routine that may not work for you or your new family.

Also don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.

You may have a ready made network of friends who have already had children, so don’t be afraid to ask them if you have questions (I know men aren’t good at this, but try it, what do you have to lose?)

dren is to be on a level with them although of course, sometimes you do have to put your adult hat on being a parent. I also love watching them develop into wonderful little individuals, with their own hopes, dreams and aspirations.

Matt: Rediscovering the wonder of simple things as your nipper sees them for the first time. Seeing a mind develop. Also, it's reassuring to know that your sperm works!

Greg: Nothing beats cuddles with my little girl.

If I have been out all day both Etta and Cat the Dog charge down our hallway to meet me and give me the best cuddles and a welcome home that you can’t describe the feeling of.

LF: What's the funniest thing LF: What do you enjoy most you've done to try and embarrass your child? about being a dad?

Simon: It gives me a great excuse to act like a child again! The easiest way to relate to chil76

Greg: Dad’s don’t embarrass their children do they? I think she is too little to get the embar-

as it starts at about 5.30am and ends late but we wouldn’t have it any other way. Just to see their faces light up when they open that present they really wanted is enough to get me through the day, or at least through to lunch Matt: I have not even begun. She regularly tells time. me to stop dancing/singing/talking in our own home, yet seems oddly open to me pretend- Greg: Christmas is all about family and the ing to be a flamingo that one time in our local food. I have always enjoyed Christmas but havsupermarket. ing children gives it a whole new lease of life.

It’s nice just to have everybody all under one Simon: Dancing in public or doing loud im- roof but that doesn’t stop the obligatory argupressions is a sure fire way of making the kids ment and tug of war about whose parents we turn a wonderful shade of beetroot. I try and will visit first. keep it to a minimum, but sometimes I see an opportunity and just have to take it.

LF: What Christmas traditions rassing thing, luckily she is still at a stage where she thinks her daddy is the coolest man in the world. In the future she better look out for my dancing. I have moves.

did your parents pass on to you LF: What does Christmas mean that you have passed on to your to you? children?

Simon Hooper. Image: Emily Gray Photo for Parent Apparel

Matt: An empty current account and a full Greg: Well we have way too many sweets in stomach. our house at Xmas, we go to the midnight serSimon: It’s really all about the kids nowadays. vice in the church across the road from my parit’s possibly one of the longest days of the year ents house. I am not too sure about real tradi-

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tions but its the little things, salmon and eggs for breakfast, silly hats around the table and if you get new underwear as a present you have to wear it at the dinner table.

downstairs and the presents in them weren’t wrapped - I couldn’t believe this! I was brought up in a house where stocking presents were wrapped with labels and they were always in our bedrooms (waking up and seeing the Matt: Always blaming flatulence on the young- bulge of random shaped things sticking out of est member of the family. the stocking was always so exciting). I insisted on doing this for our kids and after Clemmie’s Simon: I don’t know if this counts as a tradi- initial resistance, she finally came round and it’s tion, but Clemmie’s family opened stockings now tradition that we sit down on Christmas

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eve and wrap presents while swigging wine and watching crap TV.

and Home Alone. I start watching around November 1st!

LF: What is a typical christmas morning like in your house?

Matt: The Princess Bride. It's not really a Christmas film, but it's one I associate with that time of year.

Matt: Bleary eyed.

Simon: Home Alone. there is nothing that comes close.

Simon: As I mentioned earlier, it starts early.

The girls all come into our room at first light and open their stockings on our bed (but not before I’m kicked out of bed to make tea and bring up biscuits). After that the girls take their opened presents downstairs and play for a bit while we get breakfast ready, usually bagels, cream cheese and salmon washed down with some Bucks Fizz. Around 9.30 / 10am we’ll all go into the living room and hand out the presents under the tree. Finally, it’s on with some rubbish TV while Clemmie and I make the dinner which we’ll aim to have at 2.30pm (but actually end up having at 4.30pm if we’re lucky).

Thanks so much to our superstar dads. We love that Salmon and Bucks Fizz seems to be a favourite at Christmas time!

We hope Christmas is every bit as exciting as it sounds.

Have a look at Simon, Matt and Gregs brilliant Instagrams for an honest and funny view of parenting the Dad way!

Greg: The obvious wake up at silly o-clock followed by strong coffee, a few presents before we chill out for some good breakfast food, salmon and eggs and some Bucks Fizz. My parents used to make us wait until after dinner to open presents and due to that torture we are all about the present opening and face stuffing.

LF: Most memorable Christmas present from your child?

Matt: She's not managed much, which is disappointing. I'm hoping for a bottle of Lagavulin single malt this year, but our local offie will have to take a fairly lax view of licensing laws for that to happen. I'm guessing there will be some 'art'.

Greg: I have a drawing that she did for me last year which is pretty cool, she is a huge painter.

LF: Greatest Christmas film to watch with the family?

Above and opposite: Matt with his wife, Anna from Moth-

Greg: National Lampoons Christmas Vacation er_Pukka and daughter Mae. Photo: Emily Gray Photo 79

MAMA FLEA Tiba & Marl

Cadence London

yesmum® cards from Scandiborn

Mère Soeur

Avery Row

Cult of Youth Dilli Grey 80

Scandiborn

Don’t Buy Her Flowers Lala & Bea

Parent Apparel Parent Apparel

Lara & Ollie

Southwood Stores

Bax & Bay Southwood Stores 81

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A beautiful

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home _ things for all the family to love & enjoy

Barney & Wilf Barney & Wilf create bespoke gallery quality collages made from your childs paintings and drawings. From their first little squiggle to their latest masterpiece, now you can keep them all on display in a beautiful contemporary piece that will look beautiful hung anywhere in the home.

Ingrid Petrie Design Ingrid Petrie designs contemporary monochrome prints with a touch of colour. We love the playful yet simple designs that would fit in any childs bedroom. There are so many gorgeous designs, it’s hard to choose a favourite!

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Scandiborn There’s so much to explore over at Scandiborn from storage to furniture to bedding to clothing. Everything has a Scandinavian influence with contemorary design and beautifully simple pieces for the modern home. Find brands such as Tiba and Marl, Nor-Folk, Wildfire Teepees, Sirch and many more

Willa & Bobbin Willa and Bobbin is a handmade, design led soft furnishing boutique for babies nurseries and children’s rooms: Mobiles, cushions, banners and wall hangings. All of

which are handmade with the wonderful Liberty of London fabric and vintage found fabrics.

Engel Stunning decorations, bamboo tableware, bunting, garlands, presents and more. You’ll find it all at Engel. With design at it’s core, these beautiful pieces will ensure your setting is perfect.

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Love Frankie We love the new bedding range from super cool Love Frankie.

Bright, colourful and ultra fun.

The range includes Junk Food, Clouds, Unicorns, Good Vibes and Prickly cactii - there’s something for every bedroom. We want them all!

Doodlemoo Doodlemoo create prints, cards and stationery. Their designs are full of colour, playfulness and humour combined with an element of design and typography.

Everything starts with a doodle and all designs are original illustrations made with love. This love print is one of our absolute faves!

Dilli Grey Dilli Grey offers the most beautiful artisan pieces from mama and child loungewear to bedding to accessories. Recent collections include handblocked items from India including toddler and baby quilts, kaftans, pj sets, embroidered cushions and poofs. Truly beautiful items for the home and for you.

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Yellow Lolly Find gorgeous interiors from light boxes to childrens plates to banners at super stylish online store, Yellow Lolly. Simple products with a monochrome theme that fit into the contemporary home.

Willa and the Bear Willa and the Bear produce beautiful artisan muslin blankets, quilts and pyjamas using block printing and hand stitching. A percentage of all proceeds from their Made in Nepal collection is reinvested straight back into the local community. We love!

Bisou de Lou BdL creates beautiful objects from kites to balls and from dreamcatchers to cushions. Every piece is lovingly handmade in exquisite fabrics that are soft and sumptuous in a simple delicate colour palette.

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Lala & Bea Update your childs room with these gorgeous woodland wall stickers. Children can create a different story every night by moving the stickers around easily without losing stick. FabriStick™ re-usable fabric wall stickers are designed exclusively for Lala & Bea by artist Katherine Griffin.

Ottie & the Bea Offering an array of accessories for the home, there are some fantastic finds at Ottie & the Bea. This incredibly soft, cosy, and reversible blanket from Donna Wilson is perfect for cuddling up in on a cold day. Made from 100% very soft lambswool, woven in Scotland.

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Noodoll Oh how we love the colourful and playful characters from Noodoll. These fabulous wall hooks will add a touch of fun to a bedroom, playroom or hallway and you never know, might encourage your little one to hang up their coat and bag!

Southwood Stores This amazing space is full of gorgeous Scandinavian inspired finds for the home. From delicious smelling candles, to plantstands to wall art. Southwood Stores has everything you need all under one roof.

Tulipop Meet Gloomy, Bubble, Fred, Miss Maddy and Mr Tree. The colourful characters from the world of Tulipop. With so many products to choose which one is your favourite? We love this Fred coin box and the Miss Maddy bamboo dinner set.

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This could be your brand!

Would you like to advertise in our next issue? Get in touch for our media pack. hello@littleflea.co.uk

All clothing by Knit Planet

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Your daughter is unique, let’s achieve her potential.

Excellent independent boarding and

Tel: 01462 670 511

day school located in Letchworth

prep@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Garden City for girls aged 3 - 18 years.

www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

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Santa Claus is coming to town

Tree decoration, Scamp

Puzzle Advent calendar, Engel.

Hair accessories, Rockahula

Advent calendar, Rowen & Wren

Sweatshirt, Little Mashers

Xmas music box, Rosita Lollipop

Tattoos, Party Ark 92

Magic Xmas tree, Olive Loves Alfie

Christmas tree skirt, Southwood Stores

We’ve selected some Christmassy goodies to get you in the festive spirit.

Christmas babygro, Scamp

Stocking, Scandiborn

Snowflake, JaxonJames

Reindeer decoration, Rosita Lollipop Elf crackers, Party Ark

Xmas card, Lisa Jones

Magic key, Party Ark

Himli table setting angel, Engel.

Stocking, Party Ark

Sparkle tree, Southwood Stores 93

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brands

D Darlo DilliGrey

FIND US ON LITTLE FLEA

Don’t Buy Her Flowers Dotty Dungarees Doodle Do Doodle Moo A Abc123me

E Elodie Details

Amaia

Elfie London

Amy & Ivor Annaliv

Engel.

G Girlstalktoboys Gugguu

Atticus & Gilda Avery Row B Barney & Wilf Barsham Barns Bax & Bay Beanie & Bear

I

Indikidual Ingrid Petrie Design

J JaxonJames K Knit Planet L Lala & Bea

BearGood

Lapin & Me

Binky Nixon

Lara & Ollie

Bisou de Lou

Lisa Jones

Bobo Choses

Little Indians

Braveling

Little Lulu’s

C Cadence London Chapter 2 Cult of Youth

Little Mashers Love Frankie M Mainio Mere Soeur

Image by Hayley Willis.

Styling by Donna Tweedale.

Top, girlstalktoboys. Playsuit, Beau Loves from Yellow Lolly. Shoes, Chapter 2.

Knitted monkey, Sally Nencini

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Miss Nella

S

Moluk

Sally Nencini Sas & Yosh

Mr Wolf

Scamp

My Baby’s 1st

Scandiborn

My Baby’s Name Is

Sharon Cooper

N Noodoll Smalls

O Olive Loves Alfie

Sophie Ochera

Olivier Baby & Kids

Southwood Stores

Om baby

Sproet & Sprout

Ottie and the Bea

Squidge & Pip

P Palava Panda and Ping

T

Tattoofab The Bright Company

Panda and the Sparrow

The Magic Door Store Papu

The Wee Department Store

Parent Apparel

Tiba & Marl

Party Ark

Tigerbella

Pearl Lowe

Toyella

Pepa & Company

Tui B.

Pinch Toys

Tulipop

Piupia Q Question Everything

V

Vevian

W Waddler

R Raspberry Plum

Well Grounded Company

Rockahula

Willa & Bobbin

Roro

Willa & the Bear

Rowen & Wren Rosita Lollipop

Y

Yellow Lolly Young Soles

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