We’re always excited to highlight the beautiful retailers we partner with that help make The Rylee + Cru Collective what it is today. Each one all over the world has its own look, feel, and story, so this is where we get to share that local feeling with all of you and the inspiration behind each store.
For our next feature we are excited to introduce you to City Sprouts!
Q&A
Q. Tell us about your store! What made you decide to open up your own retail space?
A. It’s hard to believe I began dreaming about City Sprouts 19 years ago when I was pregnant with my first child, Maxine. At the time I owned a wonderful gift shop with my sister. We traveled all over the US looking for unique products. When I started to create my baby registry I was very disappointed by the product selections at our local baby stores. They were very traditional, everything was pink or blue, flowers or footballs, and most everything was smocked. While many of these products were lovely, they were not my style. I wanted something more unique, modern and interesting so I started searching for all of the best modern baby brands. City Sprouts went from a dream to a reality in March of 2005.
Q. What is your favorite thing about running your store?
A. I love all of the people I have met and all of the relationships that have formed over the years. I have many customers and vendors that have become lifelong friends. I also really enjoy watching my customers grow up. A new mom that was a customer 18 years ago may be a grandmother soon, I love this! We are a multi-generational store.
Q. How do you select the brands you carry?
A. I look for brands that are modern and playful and not represented in our area. Lately I have been looking for brands that are sustainably made.
Q. What does a typical day look like for you?
Q. What does a typical day look like for you?
A. As a mother of three my days can be a little crazy. It usually starts with getting kids ready and off to school. Then I get myself ready and head to the shop to pull web orders and prep for the business day. Most days I work on creating, receiving and processing new merchandise. I am constantly creating new displays, rearranging the store, and visiting with customers. Owning a small business is never boring, we wear many hats. Last year I taught myself how to fix the toilet. Thanks YouTube!
Q. If we had one day in your hometown, where should we visit?
A. This is a tough question, we have so many great places in St. Louis. Our zoo is free and is one of the best in the country. But if you come to St. Louis you have to visit the City Museum. There is nothing like it anywhere else. It is amazing!
Q. If we had one day in your hometown, where should we visit?
A. This is a tough question, we have so many great places in St. Louis. Our zoo is free and is one of the best in the country. But if you come to St. Louis you have to visit the City Museum. There is nothing like it anywhere else. It is amazing!
Connect with City Sprouts
Location: 8807 Ladue Rd St. Louis, MO 63124
Website: citysprouts.com
Instagram: @citysprouts
