At the end of 2023, Jess Reed found herself at a crossroads in her career, feeling stuck and in need of a new direction. Opening a children’s concept store had been a distant dream, something she had often thought about since working for a family business abroad, but an idea she had never seriously considered.
However, a conversation with friends and the discovery of a perfect location brought that dream closer to reality. Harnessing her passion for children’s education shaped by previous job roles, as well as three years as an au pair in New Zealand, Reed felt motivated to take the leap and opened Bee & Bloom in Cowbridge, Wales on 10 February. “It was terrifying, but I’m incredibly proud of what Bee & Bloom has achieved in our first six months,” says Reed.
Bee & Bloom offers a range of products for children aged 0-4 years, including clothing – much of which is handmade locally in The Vale of Glamorgan using British-milled organic cotton – classic toys from sustainable sources, organic skincare, handmade felt mobiles, gifts and nursery furniture. In addition to local brands, the shop also carries well-known names such as Jellycat, Little Dutch, Orange Tree Toys, Little Green Radicals, Avery Row and Threadbear, to name a few.
On asking Reed whether community involvement and in-store events were important to her business, there was no hesitation.
“Absolutely! One of my main motivations behind the business is to connect with parents in a genuine way. Our goal is to remind customers that they’re not alone on their parenting journey, and we’re here to support them every step of the way. Although we had to pause our workshops due to some changes behind the scenes, we’re excited to be able to resume them soon. Planned events include infant and baby first aid, sleep workshops, weaning workshops, and much more.”
Reed has lots in store for Bee & Bloom, starting with the launch of a new gifting option for baby showers, birthdays and more. She is also looking to introduce a larger offering for new and expectant mothers, including a maternity and breastfeeding-friendly range, and is working to involve dads in some of the workshops and events. Looking ahead to Christmas, Reed hopes to host a Christmas grotto and more family workshops. “There’s so much more in the pipeline,” she concludes. “I’m trying to be sensible and walk before I run, though where’s the fun in that?”
3 Westgate, Cowbridge CF71 7AQ
www.beeandbloombaby.com
