EllaNews

We attended the JPMA trade show in April. I really wasn’t sure how the show would be, because I’m not adept at self-promotion (as evidenced by this blog!). Turns out, Kim (our Sales Supervisor) and I had a great time. We got to meet several of our retail customers in person, which is always fun. We even met Naomi, who won second place in our Wrap Colorway Contest last year (NB: we’ll be doing another one this August). Who would have thought?

We had quite a few retailers come to the booth having heard of us from customers. It doesn’t get much better than that. We also received a really positive response from those who hadn’t heard of us before. People were drawn into the booth by our beautiful Mango Sky Ring Sling, which was positioned strategically near the aisle. Once the silky sateen was in their hands, we would mention that the fabric is organic. Sold!

People are so used to organic textiles coming only in brown, green, or natural colors. Give them something gorgeously colorful and organic and they can’t stay away. We were so inspired by the recognition and desire of stores to bring sustainable products to their customers.

This trade show was our first step in bringing Ellaroo products into more local stores. There is just no substitute for touching and trying a baby carrier before deciding what is right for you and baby. (That’s why it’s so important to find online retailers with generous exchange policies.)

We gave show attendees a sneak-peek at our newest product line, due Fall 2007: 100% organic diaper/sling bags that coordinate with our carriers. Three styles, each with two inner compartments, one for your baby carrier and one for your diaper needs. Feedback on the bags was very positive. I’ll post pictures here when the final prototypes are ready.

So despite my reservations, we came back to Ellaroo World Headquarters feeling energized and connected to our customers. We’ll be at the ABC Kids Expo in Las Vegas in September. This time, I can’t wait!

-Vesta