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Children’s boutique fills clothing gap

Cathy Dobson When a long established second-hand children’s clothing store closed at Northgate plaza, Charlene Kelvin recognized a good business opportunity.
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Sophie Plante of Tiny Treasures, a new second-hand children’s clothing boutique. Cathy Dobson

Cathy Dobson

When a long established second-hand children’s clothing store closed at Northgate plaza, Charlene Kelvin recognized a good business opportunity.

“As a mother, I really missed the gently-used clothing store we used to have and I know others did too,” she said. “It was really sad when it closed.

“I knew Sarnia needed a new one.”

In March, she opened Tiny Treasures Second Hand Children’s Clothing Boutique at 545 Murphy Rd., next to the Music Box.

Initially, Kelvin was inundated with local residents anxious to sell their second-hand clothing for resale at Tiny Treasures. Inventory quickly filled up to the point Kelvin has now put a freeze on cash offers for used clothing and baby accessories.

Instead, she will provide in-store credit until more inventory moves off her shelves.

“I believe the secret to success is carrying the right stuff,” she said. “It can’t be older than four years old or it is out of style.”

She inspects every item that comes in her door to ensure it is like new. Many clothing items at Tiny Treasures still have their original tags and have never been worn.

Kelvin also favours name brands for little people, like Carter’s and Baby Gap.

“People are just wowed when they see the brands and the prices here,” says salesperson Sophie Plante.

For instance, a newborn’s layette with two Carter’s gowns priced new at $24, sells for $6 at Tiny Treasures.

A never-worn pant and top set for a three-month-old sells for $7 and a little sun dress is priced at $4.

Onesies sell for $1.50 to $2 each.

There’s a wide variety of shoes and clothing for newborns to children’s size 12-14. Everything in the store is washed before it goes on display, said Plante.

Larger baby accessories are also available, such as a gently-used Evenflo stroller and car seat for $40.

Call 519-466-4809 or check out Instagram at tiny_treasurescb or facebook at: tiny treasures gently used children’s boutique.

NEW OWNERSHIP AT SARNIA E-BIKES

Dave Matchett has bought Sarnia E-Bikes and relocated the business to 758 Campbell St. He offers sales and service to all makes.

“We have models that are power assisted when pedalling and others you can just turn the throttle and go,” said Matchett. “At about 10 or 15 cents a charge, riding an electric bike will be easier and cheaper than any car or public transit.”

Sarnia E-Bikes can be reached at 519-383-2429.

Got an interesting business story?  Contact Cathy Dobson at 226-932-0985 or [email protected].


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