“I had absolutely no idea what I was doing,” quips Pam DiCapo, owner of Lauren Alexandra in Kansas City
Pam DiCapo can design and outfit your nursery.
“When I first opened my store, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing,” quips Pam DiCapo, owner of Lauren Alexandra in Kansas City, MO. But she wasn’t a complete novice—her jewelry-store-owner parents introduced her to retail at a young age. And after 21 successful years, the busy entrepreneur is clearly onto something. Her idea for the shop formed after having children and noticing a need for more sophisticated nursery design options. So, within 90 days of spotting a space for lease, DiCapo opened Lauren Alexandra—named after her daughters—in 1994. She offers an impressive array of apparel, gifts and accessories, but designing rooms for babies and adults alike is her specialty (and her favorite part of the job). Another favorite activity? Shaking things up. Case in point: To celebrate the shop’s 20th anniversary last year, DiCapo installed salvaged wood from a barn on one wall. And she has no plans of slowing down. “We stand on our toes and reach for the stars,” DiCapo declares.
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- “I’m crazy about Atsuyo et Akiko right now. They do sequined pillows, exquisite accessories and beautiful tutus. It’s my new favorite line. I wear their necklaces myself.” (atsuyoetakiko.com)
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- For a twist on hair accessories, DiCapo recommends Jolie. “The headbands and barrettes are so beautiful. They’re really delicate and sweet.” (jolieusa.com)
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- For furniture that is kid and mom approved, DiCapo likes Lil’ Pyar poufs. “We have a pink macaron-shaped one and another one with an alphabet print. They’re great for playrooms and nurseries.” (pyarandco.com/collections/lil-pyar)
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- “I love Baby I Candy tulle dresses. They make amazing first birthday party and flower girl dresses.” (thecoffs.com)
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- As a sweet alternative to baby shoes, DiCapo stocks ToeBlooms. “They’re so clever; they’re the perfect wrap for babies’ feet. They show off painted piggies and they stay on.” (toeblooms.com)
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- According to DiCapo, it’s never too soon for a pedicure. “Piggy Paint is all-natural nail polish for babies. When you put it on teeny toes, it’s about the cutest thing you’ve ever seen.” (piggypaint.com)
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- Everbloom is one of my favorites. The colors are always bright and happy. I adore the tassel necklaces and purses and a new line of pillows has just been added.” (everbloomstudio.com)
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- For a foolproof (and adorable) way to hang on to a pacifier, DiCapo suggests a WubbaNub. “These are a no-brainer. People come in for them all the time.” (wubbanub.com)
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- Pehr Designs is a go-to gift brand. “The Hi Blanket is my favorite item in the store because it’s so happy. I’m in love with the whole collection and I constantly reorder.” (pehrdesigns.com)
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- It isn’t all about baby and mom all the time: DiCapo keeps dads in mind too, by stocking Chewbeads Dog Tag Teething Necklaces. “There’s hardly anything for dads so I try to bring in whatever I can find for them.” (chewbeads.com)
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