Moo G Clips: Pretty Clips for Little Hair

by Kate on January 13th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Clothes, Reviews

Anna-Alisa faced an issue that many of us mamas of girls do – her daughter didn’t have much hair but she still wanted to top baby’s pretty little head with a bow. Unable to find affordable, cute clips that stay in baby fine hair, Anna-Alisa decided to make her own. And Moo G Clips was born! Anna-Alisa says, “My goal was to make a style of clip that would stay in a baby’s hair, even super fine baby wisps; a clip that doesn’t hurt when you put it on but is still fun, stylish, and comfortable. A clip that is affordable yet made from the highest quality materials with the utmost care.”

I had so much fun checking out the huge selection of clips and bows – over 100! – at Moo G Clips. I’ve purchased more than my fair share of hair accessories for my daughter, but I’ve never seen a lot of the styles offered. They are really unique, with a range in colors, types of clips and “fanciness.”

After some serious deliberation (hair accessories are important, y’all!), I decided the Pink Owl, Alpha Snaps and Sparkling Silver Simple Clippies were my favorites. The clips arrived packaged in very cute little containers that are great if you want to give them as a gift.

Owls are all the rage right now and, for some reason, they really are cute. And, this felt Pink Owl clip is just perfection. Considering my daughter’s stash of Gymboree’s fall owl collection, I knew she’d get a lot of use of the clip. What I didn’t expect was how much she’d like it. She wore it for two days straight (even when it totally didn’t match) and even wanted to sleep with it. What can I say? Girl loves her accessories.

One of the things I like best about the Alpha Snap is its small size. My daughter has a lot of oversized bows that grab attention, but I am really loving this little clip to hold back the front of her hair. Her hair is still very baby fine, but it’s growing longer and the hair around her face just hangs and she looks a bit ragamuffin even when she’s wearing adorable clothes. I love this option when I don’t feel like putting her hair up in a small pony on her head. It’s a very easy and stylish way to take the hair from hanging in her face. And you know that I love the ability to personalize it with her initial.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… Moo G Clips are unique and the high quality is undeniable. The clips are nice size for babies but also work well on toddlers to hold back that weird hair that’s not quite bangs. And, with the awesome selection, you’ll easily be able to find a clip to match any outfit.

Or Not to Buy… I do find the traditional bows to be a little more expensive than other places, but the clips we tried are definitely worth the money.

Shop! Moo G Clips – and bows – are available online at www.moogclips.com. The sparkly set of clips are $5 and the Owl Applique and Alpha Clip are $6. The Gift Sets are a great choice for new babies or to try a variety of clips.

We received clips and snaps for my daughter to wear and me to review. Although, I did accidentally leave the house wearing one after she helped me get pretty. Opinions are my own.

Thursday Giveaway Linky

by Kate on January 13th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaway Linky, Weekly Features

Happy, happy Thursday! Thanks for stopping by to link up and browse some great giveaways. You can find our current giveaways on the sidebar, but if you do anything today it should be to VOTE FOR THE SHOPPING MAMA in the Wilton Pops in a Post Contest! Shannon did an awesome job creating the Brownie Bouquet and would love your support! You can VOTE once a day from today (starting at 11AM EST) through Wednesday the 19th.

If you’re linking up giveaways, make sure you visit Baby Loving Mama and link up there, too. Also be sure to enter Emilie’s Tyson Any’tizer giveaway.

And, hey… remember to VOTE starting today at 11AM EST

Personalized Valentines Cards for Kids

by Kate on January 12th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Despite the fact that my local grocery store has Easter candy out (HUH!), the next holiday we’re shopping for is Valentine’s Day. I know it’s easy to hit the store and pick up some fold up cards for $3, but you can’t deny these personalized Valentines for kids are fabulous.  There are so many absolutely adorable little cards to personalize with your little one’s name that I had a hard time narrowing the cards to feature.

owl be my friend, Minted (15 for $30, 25 for $43)

Air Arobatics, Tiny Prints (10 for $12.40, 20 for $18.80)

Roarin’ Wishes, Minted (15 for $45, 25 for $61)

Dinosaur Fun, Tiny Prints (10 for $12.40, 20 for $18.80)

There are some great options to get even more personal like including your child’s photo or likeness.

Fairytale Charm, Tiny Prints (10 for $12.40, 20 for $18.80)

Charming Request, Tiny Prints (10 for $12.40, 20 for $18.80)

Olligraphic Valentines, Sarah + Abraham (12 for $20.50, 20 for $29.50)

Olliegraphic Valentines 2 Kids, Sarah + Abraham (12 for $24, 20 for $33)

Shop! Click on the links above to find these particular cards – and browse lots more. If you shop at Sarah + Abraham, use code FREESHIPUS for Free Shipping on orders over $50.

Mom Style Q & A: Casi from CupcakeMAG

by Kate on January 12th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Fashion & Beauty, New Year New Mama

As part of the New Year, New Mama series, we are featuring some very stylish moms. We’re hoping the quick Q & A will give us all a little style inspiration to kick it up a notch in the new year.

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We are excited to introduce Casi Densmore-Koon. She’s one chic mama, who shares “all things sugar coated and the sweet desire of fashion” as the editor of CupcakeMAG. In addition to sharing FAB Etsy finds and the latest fashion trends, Casi shares awesome celebrity interviews.

The Shopping Mama: How do you define your style?

Casi: I call it “Trendsetting Classic” – I would say I am mix of a trendsetter (Sarah Jessica Parker, Kourtney Kardashian, Gywneth, Natalie Wood) because I have an individualistic approach to style but not to the point where I like to grab attention. I am not big on going full on trends. I know what I like and how to pull it together in fresh & modern ways. I always keep up with the trends but put my personal twist on them and like trying new things and never the same look twice.

With style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Lauren Bacall — I like to do it in a way of my own. However, I also like to look polished and ladylike. I adore classic pieces that never go out of style but give them my personality. I aim to be neither a trend follower nor a trendsetter — women always look great in black dresses & red lipstick and still do – think Sabrina and Breakfast with Tiffanys! My must-haves are eye-catching accessories, cool vintage bags, something animal-print (a zebra coat?), and to keep it all balanced, the perfect crisp white blouse, at least one luscious cashmere sweater, ladylike slingbacks, and the perfect black dress.

TSM: What’s your favorite thing in your closet?

Casi: One of my favorite things in my closet is a Saks Fifth Avenue vintage clutch from my Great-Grandmother. It is perfect for every season and I adore the ruffles, shape, and vintage brass buckle. It is something that I could never buy so it makes it super special. I know I will never run into someone carrying the same clutch as me when I attend Fashion Week or an Event.

TSM: Describe your image of a stylish mom.

Casi: To me, a stylish mom looks put together. It takes seriously, five minutes ladies to glam it up in the morning. I know many of you, like me, are only getting a few nights of sleep but it drives me crazy when I see a mom at drop-off in her pajama pants. It is so easy to throw on some comfy skinny jeans or leggings with a fab sweater and boots or even a cardigan in flat – add some bling, a long necklace and earrings – and dab some gloss on your way – it is so easy and takes give minutes to make yourself that stylish mom. You don’t need to put hot rollers in your hair and a full face of make-up. Just through up your hair in a chic chignon and head out the door! That to me – is a stylish mom!

TSM: We’re often seduced by cheap finds (anything at Target comes to mind), when is it okay to go cheap and when is it better to buy one, more expensive piece?

Casi: Oh, Target! How I love you! Yes, Target is amazing and grabbing up your Littles play outfits, the essentials, fab boyfriends tees for yourself and always, the great Target designer! It really is okay to say I got it at Target. But, yes – there are times when you have forget the budget. When would that be? It is called an investment piece. Something that you will always wear year after year, something classic that will never go out of style. A great diaper bag you can use for years is okay to spend a little extra on along with a FAB handbag for yourself. But, make sure it is classic – don’t go for the $3,000 trendy “it” handbag because it won’t be in forever. Another “okay to splurge on piece” for me would be a FAB trench coat. This is something you can throw on season after and season and look so chic – something that never goes out of style.

TSM: What is one must have piece of clothing or accessory for this season and / or spring?

Casi: I know this Spring we will seeing FAB handbags – it is all about the perfect handbag. The ASOS Leather Drop Lock Lady Bag is perfect for Spring along with this FAB Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Leather Bag or Cross Body Satchel — this Spring it is a must to buy yourself a spankin’ new handbag – the perfect accessory.

Trend wise we will see LOTS of floral along with brights in the wardrobe department. Bright colors will be a HUGE trend – just remember, make sure you don’t over-do them and sometimes less is more! Blazers are a must-have essential in your closet along with Romantic Blouses.

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Thank you, Casi, for sharing some of your fashion wisdom with The Shopping Mama. Love your style and LOVE those bags! You can keep up with the latest fashion trends and tips at CupcakeMAG.com and follow Casi on Twitter @CupcakeMAG.

Check back next week for another Mom Style Q&A.

Heart of Haiti – Shop for a Better World

by Kate on January 12th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Today, January 12, marks the one year anniversary of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. In the days and weeks (and months and years) following such a catastrophic disaster, our instinct it to reach out and help in any way possible. Often that’s through monetary donations, service trips or offering words of support. Through a unique partnership, Macy’s has created a way to directly impact communities affected by the earthquake in Haiti by offering artisan products called Heart of Haiti.

About Heart of Haiti

The Heart of Haiti Project is an initiative founded by Willa Shalit (daughter of Gene Shalit) and her company, Fairwinds Trading, a for-profit company that uses business as a strategy for economic empowerment of people, especially women, in the Majority World. The Majority World is where two billion of the world’s three billion people live, in poverty.

Macy’s says, “This initiative offers the first sustainable income since the earthquake, enabling artisans to repair homes, pay school fees and feed and clothe their families. With steady income comes better nutrition, improved education and access to healthcare.” Now that is some feel-good shopping.

Handcrafted Treasures

The pieces offered on Macy’s vary from colorful wall art to subdued metal candle holders at various price points. Here are a couple of my favorites.


Heart of Haiti Mirror, Agwe ($75)


Heart of Haiti Napkin Rings (set of 4, $25)


Heart of Haiti Tray, Crazy Quilt ($25)

Shop! Heart of Haiti products are available on Macys.com. You can get free shipping on Shop for a Better World products with code ONEHEART.

I was selected for this very special “CleverHaiti” opportunity by Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity. All opinions are my own.

Long Winter Farm Lip Balms

by Kate on January 11th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Ten Dollar Tuesday, Weekly Features

Long Winter Farm is based in Maine, where Amanda and Joe make homegrown soaps, body cream and lip balms. I know my lips take a beating during the winter and I seriously never seem to have a lip balm when I need it. My solution? Stock up on these natural beeswax-based, original scented lip balms.

There are SO MANY unique and decadent sounding lip balm varieties… I can’t wait to get some of these in my hands. Er, on my lips.

Brown Sugar Oval Lip Balm

Mojito Lip Balm

Peppermint Oval Lip Balm

Red Currant Lip Balm

Vanilla Pear Oval Lip Balm

Shop! An individual tube of Lip Balm from Long Winter Farm is $3 and you can also purchase a set of 3 in a sweet bag for gifting for $9.25 and a set of 5 for $14.50.

Which Lip Balms do you think look good enough to eat?

Smart Trike 3-in-1 Tricycle Giveaway

by Kate on January 11th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways

Last month we shared a review of the Smart Trike 3-in-1 Zoo Tricycle. We liked it so much it even made our Top 10 Toys and Games of 2010. Given our adoration of this awesome tricycle, we are super excited to offer a giveaway to one lucky reader. But, before we get to the giveaway, let’s go over some of the coolest features of the Smart Trike.

Stroller to Parent-Controlled Tricycle to Tricycle

The Smart Trike Zoo is truly convertible to grow with your child. It’s recommended for use from about 10 months to 3 years of age.

  • Stage 1 – 10 Months+: Use as a stroller with adjustable parent steering handle for full parent control, a clutch for free-wheeling, a seat with a long back support, safety straps, bottle holder and play phone, and removable canopy to protect baby.
  • Stage 2 – 15 Months+: Remove high back support and canopy to create parent-controlled tricycle, with waist strap to keep toddler in place.
  • Stage 3 – 24 Months+: Child powered and controlled tricycle.

Practical. Fun.

Given the crazy weather, it might be hard to imagine how much you’ll enjoy the Smart Trike. Indeed, we haven’t used it nearly as much as I’d like because it’s just too cold right now. But, I do know that as soon as the ice thaws and the temperatures rise, we’ll be outside and my daughter will be zooming (er, pushed guided) up and down the sidewalk.

Check out the full review of the Smart Trike 3-in-1 for more detailed information on our experience, the assembly, and safety features.

Shop! The Smart Trike Zoo is offered in a number of colorful patterns animal and insect patterns. Obviously we reviewed the Bee , but you should totally check out the Cow – also cute as can be! The Smart Trike Zoo retails for $139.99 and is available at Toys R Us, Babies R Us and Amazon.

Win! Smart Trike 3-in-1 Zoo – Bee Pattern!

How to Enter: Visit Smart Trike and check out the awesome tricycle products. Leave a comment with another product your little one would enjoy.

Bonus Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

Giveaway ends January 26. Open to US mailing addresses only.

Disclosure: Thanks to Smart Trike for providing the giveaway prize. Opinions are my own.

5 Must Have Organization Tools {Guest Post}

by Kate on January 11th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Guest Posts, New Year New Mama

January is the time of year when all of us are focusing on doing things “better” or “differently”.  One of the top 3 new year’s resolutions is to get organized, which is a great one to have on your list.  The problem is that once someone puts it on their goal list, they are often stumped on how to actually get it done.  No worries!  It is not as hard as you might think.

These are my favorite organization tools that you can use to get started to organize yourself and your home:

1.       A laundry sorter for each bedroom.  A laundry sorter that lets people sort while they are taking off their dirty clothes (whites, darks and dry cleaning) is a huge time saver for Mom when it comes to laundry.  This stand up one – Supreme Laundry Sorter - is great but there are many options to choose from.

2.       Lazy Susans.  Lazy Susans are my favorite tool for maximizing cabinet and under sink storage.  Use them in the kitchen, bathroom and even playroom and you will see how much easier it is to find what you need.  Target and Walmart have many reasonably priced options.

3.       Over The Door Shoe Organizer.  These are great to maximize space and store your shoes but also are useful in playroom to hold small objects or art supplies.  One I like a lot is from The Container Store.

4.       Trash Can in EVERY ROOM.  Yes, every room needs a trash car from kitchen to bedroom to bathroom to den….even the closet.  Put a trash can in every room and the mess will be much easier to control.

5.       A Car Organizer.  You need something to wrangle all of the stuff that makes it into your car.  Any who among us doesn’t spend way too much time feeling like we live in the car?  This is a great one to try from Organize.com.

So will these 5 things solve everything?  No!  You will still need:

  • Time set aside to get things done
  • A good paper or electronic calendar for 2011
  • A pad of paper and a pen to write down what you need to get done so you do it

One you have all of that, you are armed for the organizational battle.  Go out there, get things done and have fun!

Alicia Rockmore is a co-founder of Buttoned Up, a company that seeks to help busy stretched women get successfully organized.  Come visit our site or follow us on twitter @getbuttonedup.

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