austin newborn & Family PHOTOGRAPher

Are you that Round Rock mom who can’t leave Target without that cute little dress or overalls for your baby? Are you hoarding baby outfits in the closet with the tags still on? As a mom of two girls, I am 100% guilty!

And with Amazon and big-box stores offering everything under the sun, it’s so easy to click “add to cart” and call it a day. 

But what if you could support a local business and actually get better products?

That’s exactly what shopping at a local boutique offers—expert advice, unique finds, and a personal touch you won’t receive from a warehouse. I sat down with Jessica at Hometown Gift & Decor, a small boutique in Round Rock, and she shared her own perspective as a mom of 4 and boutique owner.

If you’ve ever wondered whether shopping small is worth it, this interview will completely change the way you see shopping local for your kids (and you)!

Interview with Jessica at Hometown Gift & Decor in Round Rock, TX

What are some children clothing items moms buy too many of—and what do they actually need more of? 

I really think this depends on the mom and her lifestyle. As a mom of 4 kids, with my youngest now 7 years old, I always felt that the most worn items were those that were most comfortable and easy to get on and off! This really comes into play when you have multiple children and you are in and out of the car, taking older kids to practice, dance and school.

What makes boutique kids’ clothes different from what we find at big-box stores?

At Hometown, we want to offer quality over quantity. We all shop at big-box stores because it’s easy. And when you have kids in childcare, you do need clothes for them to be messy and have fun in! With that said, clothing from a boutique will offer you unique pieces for all occasions. Combined with higher quality materials, these clothes will also stand the test of time and can be passed from child to child.

Do you offer clothing for kids of all ages or for a specific age group at your Round Rock boutique? 

We offer children’s clothing from size newborn to 4T. But, we also carry gifts for all ages including toys, books, blankets, and gifts for the soon to be Mom. From Easter to Christmas we love to bring in seasonal items as well as Texas themed baby gifts for our local customers.

How do you help Round Rock parents choose styles and sizes?

Many of our customers are shopping for a baby shower gift. So we start with asking them what season the baby will be born in. From there, we help them choose the best style and size for the type of item they are purchasing. I personally always like to suggest sleepwear because those are great year-round!

Can you explain why some boutique clothing is more expensive—and what moms are really getting for that price?

This truly comes down to quality. We have carried a variety of brands at our shop, some very high end, including Angel Dear, Quincy Mae, and Pink Chicken. These are unique pieces, often meant to be worn for special occasions, yearly family photos, or simply gifted to a new mom. Ultimately, they’re high-quality clothes made to last, which often come with a higher price point.

What clothing pieces do you consider “investment items” for kids, and why?

Definitely the Easter, Christmas, or first birthday items are the ones I know us moms like to hold onto. Those are special memories that we don’t like to let go of. Or, it could also be the funny pajamas that were a gift from a special grandparent and become a keepsake!

Do you carry anything that solves a common parenting “dressing struggle” (like potty training, seasonal changes, etc.)?

Many of the pieces that we sell throughout Spring and Summer can easily be moved into Fall when you add a cute jacket or leggings. Living in Texas allows our summer pieces to last quite a while!

You offer more than clothing for kids. What else can a mom find at your Round Rock boutique?

We offer unique gifts, kitchenware, home decor, jewelry, soaps and so much more! We love supporting many local artisans so we offer a variety of hand-made products as well. Both myself and my partner, Celise, are moms, so we love to see our mom customers enjoy time shopping for themselves!

Every Time You Shop, You Make a Choice

Buying from Hometown Gift & Decor means getting handpicked, high-quality items, as opposed to mass-produced from a warehouse. 

Instead of guessing online, you receive real advice from people who care. Instead of rushed checkouts, you enjoy a personal experience.

Plus, shopping small means supporting your community and local families just like yours.

So next time you need a gift, a new outfit for your little one or the perfect birthday present, skip the big-box stores!

Visit Hometown Gift & Decor in Round Rock, TX and see the difference for yourself!

Click here to visit Hometown Gift & Decor.
Click here to learn more about your Round Rock Newborn and Family Photographer.

Lydia Suzanne Photography is a newborn and family photographer serving Austin, TX and surrounding areas including Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Hutto, and Pflugerville. With a light and airy style, Lydia Suzanne offers a full-service photography experience focused on preserving your family legacy with custom artwork for your home.