Interview with Kathy Messenger, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I was in sales prior to deciding to open the shop. When my husband, Paul, and I would go on vacation, I would find myself drifting into children’s shops. The industry I was working in was going through a lot of transition back then, which got me thinking about the future. Sometimes what you desire the most can be right in front of your eyes, as it was for me and having a children’s shop. I did quite a bit of research prior to making any decisions. It helped that I had worked in retail during school. Once I had gathered all the information and felt it was possible, I gave my resignation and began the journey.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Three Blind Mice leans more traditional than many of the other businesses in our category. I believe that kids should be kids — not mini adults. The early years go by so fast anyway, why rush it further. I share with my customers “savor these early years, because you only get to experience it once.” High-quality, age appropriate attire is what we are known for. We start with premie and newborn clothing going up to size 14/16 for girls’ clothing and limiting boys to size 7 with a few exceptions. We have always had a focus on special occasions, ordering flower girl dresses for weddings, christening gowns and dresses for first communion.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I have always enjoyed the opportunity to help customers find just the right baby gift or the perfect outfit for that special event in their lives. I consider it a privilege when a customer seeks us out and I can make their lives a little easier by providing direction and good service. When your business is sought out for christenings, weddings, family photos, school photos, first communions, etc., these are significant events in young lives.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Getting new customers through the door and explaining to them that we only sell new clothes. Children’s shops have a unique challenge; you eventually outgrow us. Many of the customers we have worked with at the beginning are now in high school or college. When the store opened 15 years ago, most people shopped local. Sure, we have had catalog shopping for years as well as shopping while on vacation; now the shopping done online is staggering. I understand it — we are all so busy. Shopping online is convenient, and the sheer selection is amazing. The challenge is attracting customers back to shop local.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I love children, but don’t have any of my own. Summer is just around the corner. We sell reusable swim diapers up to 140 pounds for customers that have special-needs kids. They go right under a regular swimsuit and no one needs to know.
Profile
Business: Three Blind Mice “Cute Clothes for Cute Kids”
Address: 5664 S. Prince St., Littleton
Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Founded: 2000
Contact: 720-283-6423,
Employees: 1
