Everyone asks how to avoid Target and Babies R Us when it seems that the smaller stores keep disappearing.  Or more importantly how to afford the smaller businesses - think of that extra dollar or two per product as an insurance fee that these small stores will be there next time you need to grab an essential and want to avoid the flourescent lights and the crowd of a bigger store. At least that's what I tell myself.

These stores need our continued support:

East Bay

• Crackerjacks in Oakland
• Monkey Bars in Alameda
• Tot Tank in Alameda
• Rockridge Kids in Oakland
• Baby World in Oakland
• Nurture Center in Lafayette
• Day One in Walnut Creek
• Tulip Grove in Montclair

San Francisco

• Natural Resources
• Day One

There are also many online boutiques typically run by stay at home moms. Another lovely alternative to the big box stores without leaving the comfort of home.

Support your village, your community!