ZooNique Baby

Hidden Treasures Auction OPEN!

2012-02-01T09:01:00.000-05:00

Hello ZooNique Friends!

I wanted to invite you all to drop by Hidden Treasures Auction that opened today and see all the great items you can bid on to help a precious family on their journey to adopt 3 sweet boys!

ZooNique Baby is very proud to offer the following items for bidding...

All bids open at ONLY $5 too!!!

It's a great chance to help another while getting yourself a great deal at the same time, so make sure to take a minute to check it out! And please, spread the word!
Thanks for your support!

Happy ZOO Year!!!!

2012-01-06T17:00:00.001-05:00

Whew! Well, our Christmas and New Years were a wonderful whirlwind of family and travel and celebrations with lots of memory making! We hope the same was true for you!

Wanted to take a moment to wish you a very Happy New Year! And also, direct you to the ZooNique Baby website for any further information about us and the products we offer. I'm currently unable to keep the Hyena Cart regularly updated, so if there is anything you need, please don't hesitate to email. Local customers can of course see our in-stock merchandise in the Echelon Gift Shop.

And if you'd like a glimpse into some of what's keeping me extra busy these days, you can check out the charity sewing fun going on at Hopeful Threads.

Here's wishing you and your families a great 2012!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T08:42:00.001-05:00

One of my Sweetest Fans!

2011-12-12T09:43:00.000-05:00

Let me introduce you to one of my sweetest fans, Sean!
WARNING....it doesn't get much cuter than this little fella!

He was born just a few short months ago and it's been a blast for me to watch him grow into things I made for him while he was still in his mama's tummy!
This is him rockin' his "Punked Out" Hemp Fitted...

And how about this Construction print pocket & BabyLegs???

This was one of our limited Dragon Brocade pockets, and he seems especially pleased with it! ;)

Sean likes to spread awareness for important things just like we do, so here he is showing his support for Autism Awareness.

And last but certainly not least...I think this might be my favorite, looks at those squishy jaws!!! Eeeee! :) He's wearing a fleece soaker here.

His mama is one of my favorite and most faithful online ~~customers~~ friends :) and I am so very thankful for her continued support of ZooNique Baby!

If you have pictures of your lil' sweeties using any of our products, we'd love to see and share them! Just send us an email.

Auction of DEALS! To make a DIFFERENCE!

2011-12-01T07:27:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends!

Wanted to let you all know about an auction full of wonderful items going on over at Hidden Treasures! ZooNique Baby is offering a few different items and all bids START AT $5!!!

Here are the items you can bid on from ZooNique Baby:

HUGE Box of Hair Accessories valued OVER $100!

Here is a sample pic of some of the bows I have made...LOTS of goodies in this box!

Summer Memories Gift Set - Includes Small Wetbag, Reversible Bib & Hair Accessories

Total Retail Value $25

Puppy Playtime Gift Set - Includes Medium Wetbag, Reversible Bib & Fleece Cover

Total Retail Value $30

(Cover Size Medium r-17", w-15-17", thigh-9-10"

So jump over to Hidden Treasures and find out how you can make a difference while getting a great deal at the same time! And please, spread the word so we can make an ever greater impact!

Auction will go from December 1 - December 7 and highest bidders will then be announced on the blog. Items will ship promptly once payment is received! Thanks for your support!

Added here with others:

Holiday Open House!!!

2011-11-01T07:47:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year!

ZooNique Baby and Echelon Florist & Gifts invites you to the annual

Holiday Open House!

Friday, November 4, 2011

9am - 6pm

AND

Saturday, November 5, 2011

9am - 3pm

Come by to see our large selection of fall and Christmas merchandise, sample some of the finest gourmet snacks around, register for door prizes and more!

Be the first to check out our newest items for the holidays...

Loads of great gifts and stocking stuffers including

all Hair Accessories BUY 2 GET 1 FREE!!!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T09:41:00.000-04:00

Hope you and yours have a fun and safe Halloween!

Make sure to stop by Echelon Florist & Gifts for some TREATS too!

ALL ZOONIQUE BABY HANDMADE HALLOWEEN GOODIES 30% OFF!

Limited Time ONLY! Limited to items in stock!

Happy Fall!

2011-09-29T15:06:00.001-04:00

We had a great summer around the "Zoo House", but living near the gorgeous mountains of East TN, we love to see the transformation of color that fall brings!

We are busy as ever with family, foster care, charity sewing and keeping our area of Echelon's gift shop fully stocked with lots of handmade cuteness! We also just moved a bunch of goodies into their summer clearance section at 50% off, so if you're nearby, you'll want to check that out!

As well as see all of our new seasonal additions!

Thanks for your continued support!

It not only allows me to continue doing what I love, but allows me to share that with others!

Happy Fall!!!

**Please note, due to life as it is, I am not currently accepting custom orders or regularly updating our Hyena Cart. If I can be of assistance to you though, please email me!

Fall Preview!!!

2011-08-27T15:14:00.005-04:00

Check out this playful sampling of fall goodies coming your way from ZooNique Baby...

As always, make sure to keep up to date with all the ZooNique fun on our ZooNique Baby facebook page!

Refreshing Reminders

2011-08-13T09:41:00.007-04:00

Every once in awhile you are blessed with the moments in life that serve as reminders of why you do what you do. That recently happened for me and I wanted to share.

These precious faces are of little sweeties at the Starfish Foster Home in China, waiting for their forever families. They are wearing bibs and using burpclothes I recently made as part of a sewing project at Hopeful Threads.

I don't think there is anything quite as motivating!

A glimpse of the "Why?" behind ZooNique Baby.
Thank you for your continued support! Each purchase you make from ZooNique Baby enables us to help more in ways like this!

Blessings,
The ZooNique Family

Family Learn & Play Day!!!!

2011-07-05T13:00:00.003-04:00

Make sure to mark your calendars for this upcoming fun & FREE family event!

Family Learn and Play 2011

Saturday, July 30th, 2011 from Noon to 4:00 p.m.

At John Tarleton Campus (2455 Sutherland Ave.)

Hosted by the Knox Area Home Visitation Coalition

Family Learn and Play Day is a day of fun, education, food, activities, and entertainment for families. Our goal is to promote community awareness of resources in a fun, informal way while strengthening families and our community.

ZooNique Baby is once again proud to support this exciting family focused event!

We have paired with Echelon Florist & Gifts to donate this awesome gift basket to the Silent Auction!

This basket if FULL of all kinds of playful and creative fun!

Books, craft supplies, sweet treats, soft friends and even a gift certificate for more fun!

If you are in the Knoxville area you won't want to miss out on this great event!

For more information, call Rachel Nielsen at (865) 523-8695 ext. 1265.

Summer Style!

2011-06-02T15:01:00.008-04:00

Loads of colorful, new, summer inspired products stocked

in the gift shop of Echelon Florist & Gifts!

One-of-a-Kind Clothing

Scrumptuously fluffy Fitted Diapers

Bibs, burpies and bows galore!

Of course a little local flavor...
Sweet sundresses with a purpose...an identical dress to each was donated to support the efforts of Dress A Girl Around the World.
And to top it all, a little Red, White & Blue for the upcoming holidays!
Shop now for best selection!
Many of our fabrics and ribbons are of limited supply, so when they are gone, they are gone!

You can visit the Echelon gift shop at 7505 Northshore Drive in Knoxville
or our on-line shop on Hyena Cart.

Hope your summer is off to a perfect start!

WINNER ANNOUNCED!

2011-05-16T16:35:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all who participated in our diaper giveaway to support Paxton and his fundraising efforts for the Hydrocephalus Association! We are very excited to announce the winner of our Mr. Robotics ZooNique Baby diaper is........

Rhiana said... 3: I just donated.
Reference ID: 122861095

RhianaW14 at gmail.com

Congratulations Rhiana and THANK YOU!!! We'll be emailing to get your address to send your diaper to you!

Birthday Bash Begins!!!

2011-05-03T14:15:00.004-04:00

May is the "official" birthday month of ZooNique Baby and we have lots of fun plans in store to celebrate turning 3 years old! Including some fun giveaways and FREE DIAPERS of course!

To start, let me introduce you to my friend Paxton.Isn’t he a little cutie? Yea, we sure think so!

Paxton is the most precious son of a very dear friend I’ve known since high school. (we're just not saying how long that's been!) ;) Pax is part of a pretty amazing family and is special for many reasons, but one is that he has Hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus is a chronic brain disease in which there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within cavities of the brain called ventricles. There is no cure and very little medical advancement since the 1950's. Hydrocephalus affects 1 million Americans and 1 in every 500 children are born with it. Children with hydrocephalus will likely grow up into adults who do not have the basic needs we all take for granted, unless we find a cure. The most common treatment for hydrocephalus — and the most common procedure performed by pediatric neurosurgeons in the United States — is surgical implantation of a device called a shunt. A flexible tube and valve system, a shunt drains cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another part of the body. About 40,000 shunt-related operations are performed every year in the US for hydrocephalus — that averages out to about one every 13 minutes and over 100 every day.

You can learn more by visiting the Hydrocephalus Association and by following their facebook page.

Now, about free diapers...

We want to kick off our birthday month celebration by raising both awareness and funding for the Hydrocephalus Assoc. Paxton currently has a fundraising goal of $2000 and he is less than $500 from his goal! WAY TO GO PAX! Let's help him reach his goal! And to make it even more fun, for any donation amount made to the Hydrocephalus Association via his page you can be entered to win a Mr. Robotics diaper just like Paxton’s! You get to choose the size too!Here’s what you need to do...

* Make your donation here. The money will go directly into his fundraising account and is even tax deductible!

* Come back here and comment that you donated w/ receipt # Make sure to include an email where we can reach you if you win. You can write it like, info (at) zooniquebaby (dot) com if you prefer, just so we have a way to notify you if you win.

* Tell your friends! Seriously, you will want to spread the word on this one! Why? Because, you’re helping Pax and other cuties like him! PLUS, if Pax reaches his goal by May 15th, in addition to the Mr. Robotics diaper one of you will win, we will additionally give away TWO "Summer Fun Prize Packs" valued over $50 each with goodies like a wetbag, diaper, insert, wipes! And you even get to select boy/girl and size if you are a prize pack winner! That also increases your chances of winning since there would be three prizes!

So, breakin' it down...
1. DONATE!
2. Comment here with your donation receipt/email
3. Tell your friends!
4. Be part of something great!

***One Entry per person. Winner(s) will be expected to provide proof of donation. International participants welcome with the understanding that you will be responsible for shipping cost if selected as a winner.***

Winner(s) to be randomly selected using Random.org number generator on Monday, May 16th. We will announce the winner(s) here and on our ZooNique Baby facebook page, as well as, send an email to the email address left in the comment. Winner(s) have 72 hours to claim prize(s) or they will be considered forfeited.

So, let’s get to celebrating and spreading the word about Hydrocephalus and how we can help raise awareness and support for a cure!

SPRING BREAK!

2011-04-19T08:55:00.002-04:00

We will be on spring break Friday, April 22-Sunday, May 1. We'll resume our "normal" activities and respond to emails/orders in the order in which they were received, beginning Monday, May 2.

Thanks! Hope you are enjoying the springtime too!!!

Bib Set WINNER!!!

2011-04-15T14:22:00.002-04:00

A huge thank you to each of you that shared your knowledge and caring about Autism and also to those who continue to help spread the word!

The winner of our Autism Awareness Bib set, selected via random number generator is....

#5

Augusta said... 5: I am following World Autism Awareness Day on Facebook. (Augusta Rodrigues Arwood)

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Email us with your address at info@zooniquebaby.com and we'll get your colorful prize on it's way to you!

Thanks for participating! Oh yea, psssst....next month is ZooNique Baby's birthday month....more fun coming! ;)

April - Autism Awareness

2011-04-02T09:53:00.003-04:00

Did you know, Autism affects 1 in 110 children? 1 in 70 boys? Those are really staggering statistics. Chances are, your life has been touched by someone with Autism or you at least know someone's who has.

We are blessed to love some very dear friends who live with the reality of autism and the affects of it on their children, their families and their day to day lives. There currently is no "cure" for Autism, but I, like many others, hold out HOPE that one day there will be answers that provide the individuals and families living with it peace, support and acceptance.

Today, April 2, 2011 is World Autism Awareness Day and we want to help get the word out! Will you join us?
We would like to offer this colorful, one-of-a-kind Autism Awareness Gift Set to one of you! It includes an embellished prefold/burploth and a reversible bib in the Autism puzzle print. The prefold/burpcloth is trimmed with plush ric rac and the bib is backed with super soft, red dot minky. Here's what we ask to get entered:

Leave a comment here sharing a FACT you have learned about Autism. This can include science, ways to advocate, services for families, opportunities to give, other awareness projects or any other factual effort to get the word out. (keyword here is "fact"...I for one have emotions tied to the reality of autism, but for this specific project, we want to focus on informing readers about the facts facing those with autism. Thanks for understanding.)

WANT ADDITIONAL ENTRY OPPORTUNITIES??? Ok! :) After doing the above you can,

2. Share this post on your blog or facebook page and leave an additional comment with the link to it.

3. Follow World Autism Awareness Day on Facebook and comment here that you do.

Please note, because unfortunately some folks like to try and use comment sections for their personal business advertisements, we moderate all comments. Only comments pertaining to Autism Awareness will be approved. We will approve comments daily. Thanks again for understanding.

We will randomly select a winner from the comments on April 15th, and post the winner here and on the ZooNique Baby facebook page. Please make sure we have a way to contact you if you win either by leaving your email address with your comment or making sure it is connected to your profile.

Thanks for participating and helping others become more Autism aware!

10 days for JAPAN

2011-03-15T12:39:00.003-04:00

I've been trying to brainstorm a creative way to extend our help to Japan since news of the catastrophe hit. Seems sometimes over thinking it just makes it complicated, so here is what ZooNique Baby can and will do right now to help our friends in Japan...

Starting today, Tuesday, March 15, 2011 - Friday, March 25, 2011, the money from any sales made through our Hyena Cart will be sent to support relief efforts in Japan. That's 10 days for Japan.

Here's your chance to support those involved in this terrible tragedy AND get a little something you can use at the same time.

Please, share this with your friends and continue to keep those in Japan in your thoughts and prayers.

Kickin' Off Our Cart!

2011-02-28T08:49:00.000-05:00

We are very excited and happy to announce that you can now find ZooNique Baby on the incredible Hyena Cart!

And to kick off the 'Grand Opening', we have stocked our cart with LOADS of fabulous SALE! items, Giveaways and Ready-to-Ship products! So what are you waiting for, get on over there and find out what you're missin'! All the fun starts tomorrow, Tuesday, March 1, 2011 but you can get a sneak peek now!

Oh, and for all you local folks, you are of course welcome to join the Hyena fun, but I also wanted to mention....we just stocked the gift shop at Echelon with LOADS of great new stuff too! Yep, we HAVE been busy! ;)

Sunshine makes me HAPPY!

2011-02-18T08:09:00.003-05:00

Ok, I can't help but sing it these past few days...

"Sunshine on my [sewing machine] makes me happy!!!"

My kids always love it when I put my own words into songs. ;) I have been very much enjoying the warmer, spring-like days we've been having around here. It has inspired lots of creativity and cleaning, which means 2 things....new products and a SALE! Trying to decide how best to offer that so both my local AND long distance friends can enjoy.....I'll keep you posted. Spring is still "officially" a few weeks away anyway, and unfortunately around here, Winter doesn't usually leave this quietly, so I suspect.....nope! Not gonna say it! Let's go back to the song...

"Sunshine on the water looks so lovely..."
:)

Grown up sewing!

2011-02-09T19:58:00.003-05:00

Well, it isn't as often that I sew for those above a size ending in "T", so I wanted to share one of my latest creations. This pattern comes from the lovely Whimsy Couture and I was proud and thankful to be one of the pattern testers for this new design....not to mention, I love how it turned out!

Inspiration!

2011-01-29T13:07:00.005-05:00

So what inspires you to do what you do? A spouse? Friend? Child? Need? Supplies to create with? Books? Music? Quotes? Tradition? Outdoors? Season? There are so many ways I find inspiration....all of those listed above for sure! This month however, inspiration has come in the form of CLEANING!!! Clearing out my sewing studio from top to bottom! Every bin, stack, box and corner. Even the furniture has been moved around, and I love it! I feel ready to create in this fresh environment! Now the fun.....just figuring out WHERE TO START???? :)

Hopefully this new found inspiration will produce some fun, new goodies to share......and maaaaaybe even a seasonal SALE in the months to come! ;)

2010-12-20T20:54:00.002-05:00

Yay!!! Yay!!!! Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!
We are so excited to announce that the goal was not only reached, but exceeded, and enough funds were raised through the Project 320 Giveaways this year to BUILD A WELL!!!

We are so blessed to have played a small part and THANK each of you for participating as well through donations and spreading the word. Make sure to watch the Project 320 blog for updates regarding the well.....and of course remember to mark your calendar to check back for next years big event too! (I know we will be back!)

And.......the winner of our Creative Kid Gift Set is......by the random number generator.....comment #4!
****CONGRATULATIONS***
#37
Jessica (jah019@shsu.edu)

Giveaway Final Day!!!

2010-12-19T09:47:00.003-05:00

Hi Friends!

It's the final day to get entered in the Project 320 giveaways, so make sure and check them out!!!

We will announce our giveaway winner Tuesday, December 21.

GIVE WATER FOR CHRISTMAS and WIN!!!!

Thanks for sharing in the fun and supporting this great project!

Give Water & Win!!!!

2010-12-12T17:53:00.010-05:00

Friends, I am so incredibly excited to share with you what the ZooNique Baby family has the privilege of being a part of this month! Together with a wonderful group of talented artists, hand-crafters, and kind-hearted gift givers we are going to strive to BUILD A WELL! Read on….

Water. Is it something you think much about? It wasn't really for me until the recent years. Learning how so many people, worldwide, don't have the provision of a basic life necessity like clean water has made me aware on a much deeper, even daily level. Clean water. How so many of our brothers and sisters drink filthy, often contaminated water each day, because that’s all they have....it is an overwhelming thought. It’s also all they have to offer their children. Can you imagine? I can't! I’m certain my drain sees more clean water each day from simple activities like washing my hands, rinsing fruits and vegetables and brushing my teeth than some of these dear people have access to in their lives.

That…..is not……ok.

But rather than allow the reaction of guilt to set in or the idea that it is far too big an issue for me to have an impact on, I’ve chosen to team up with the lovely ladies of Project 320 and help build a well.

That’s right, A WELL!!!

A well that can provide CLEAN drinking water for an entire village! A well that will allow a mama to give her thirsty child a drink that she doesn’t have to worry will make her sick. A life sustaining well! That is GOOD! And that makes me very excited!

So excited that I want to offer you the opportunity to win a special gift as you participate in making this well, for a group of people just like me and you, a reality!

Here's what we are giving away...

Creative Kid Gift Set!!!

The kiddos in our home can't get enough of creative, craftiness, so they've helped me put together this gift set that is so much fun and would make the perfect gift for any little artist in your life! The gift set includes: A ZooNique Baby Wipe Clean Apron in the adorable, gender neutral, sock monkey print, one of our fun Travel Crayon Rolls, and a plethora of art supplies from paints, pencils, glue, stickers, dough, ribbon, scissors, felt, fabric pieces, you name it! All beautifully gift boxed for your holiday presentation.

Your lil' Picasso will be all set to create whatever masterpiece they are inspired to and YOU will have helped build a well for someone who didn't have access to clean water....WOW!

Here’s all you need to do:

Every $10 donation you make to Charity Water via this link qualifies you for one entry in ANY of the participating giveaways! (You can see all the giveaway possibilities at Project 320.)

So, make your donation using the above link and come back here and comment on the post that you did so and would like to be entered to win our Creative Kid Gift Set! The winner will be chosen at the end of the week long fundraiser. We will then post the winner with congratulations and get your gift set on it's way*. Simple and FUN! (not to mention LIFE CHANGING!!!)

What are you waiting for???? Get entering and help us spread the word so we can bless others with the GIFT OF WATER.....together! Thanks for sharing in this awesome and exciting experience with us!
Holiday Hugs,
~The ZooNique Family

*Please note, FREE USPS Priority Mail shipping applies to entrants in the lower 48 states. Others are welcome to enter with the understanding that they are responsible to pay shipping cost minus $10 we will cover. Thanks!

PS. Comments are moderated so they will not appear immediately, but I will check in and approve them daily. :)

FUN! Gift Wrap Alternatives

2010-12-03T10:19:00.006-05:00

Pillowcase Gift Wrap

This time of year stores are full of colorful paper gift wrap, bags and bows. While paper gift wrap makes a nice presentation, it's really nothing more than trash. So, we want to offer a few alternative, but equally colorful, nicely presentable and even more, practical options!

For my nieces and nephews this year, their gifts will be wrapped in pillowcases made especially for them. I imagine they will each know which gift is there's without reading the tags, as I chose fabrics that matched each of their personalities or interests. I love that this wrap keeps on giving since they get to use it on their pillow over and over and remember how much their Auntie S. loves them!!! :) Another advantage to the pillowcase wrap, it can be folded to accomadate many size gifts or used as a bag for larger boxed items. And if you don't want to make them, they can also be purchased ready made....and for about the same price as some holiday gift bags!

Cute don't you think?

Now, this is a fun one that the kids will enjoy helping with! Our laundry soap comes in these nice fabric bags that I just can't bear to throw out. You could use them as is for a nostalgic kind of wrap or, turn them inside out and let the kids have fun decorating them with markers or paints, again, personalizing the presentation, not just the gift! (Love this one of my lil' guy's hand....think I'll wrap something for myself with it!) ;)
How 'bout a classic that you just can't go wrong with, the newspaper comics. I remember getting Christmas gifts as a child wrapped in the comics and tied with yarn. I always loved that! And of course, you can choose your recipients favorite comic strip and then they get to enjoy reading it as well! Talk about colorful!....not to mention, newspaper, in general, composts and recycles more easily than that shiny gift wrap.

Don't ya just love Garfield!?!?!?

This last one the kids will have fun with too! We used a formula can, but you could also use an oatmeal canister, coffee can or any can with a smooth surface and snap lid. We also used fabric scraps from all those holiday projects we've been making, but again, use your imagination here....you could use newspaper or magazine cut outs, last years Christmas cards or whatever. Glue your decoration choice to the outside of the container and Viola! These are perfect for breakable gifts like ornaments....especially if you are a holiday traveler.

So, have a little fun, save a little money and avoid a little unnecessary waste this year with creative alternatives to paper gift wrap!

BRAG BOOK - Customer Pic!

2010-11-07T09:22:00.005-05:00

Just had to show off this little cutie wearing her ZooNique Baby diaper in the fun Groovy Floral print... Isn't she just PRECIOUS!!!???A BIG THANKS to her mama for sharing this adorable pic!

If you have a photo of your lil' one using any of our products.... diapers, bibs, aprons, bows, you name it, we'd LOVE to see it too! Just email us at info@zooniquebaby.com.

TREATS!

2010-10-17T12:37:00.003-04:00

We wanted to thank all of our loyal fans and followers for continuing to be so supportive during our custom "off" times like our current foster moon.
So... are you ready for a lil' spooky fun??? :)

Each day this week, Monday-Friday, we will post a question on our Facebook page. All you need to do is answer the question with your preference to be entered to win the prize pack that will be announced on Saturday, October 23rd! Each day that you answer enters you again for a new item added to your prize pack, so answer every day and if you win, you get 5 prizes, all selected based on your answers!!!! FUN right???

What you need to do...

Be a Facebook Follower! (since that's where the daily post will be!) :)
Comment on our question Each Day! (we will close the previous days question when we post the new one each day.)
Check back Saturday, Oct. 23 to see if you're the winner!

**Please note, only one response per person, per day will be counted**
**Giveaway open to US residents only this time, thanks.**

And if you're local, we've put lots of NEW items in the gift shop of Echelon and have more coming for the holidays, so make sure and stop by!
Thanks again!

Family Learn & Play Day...Great FUN in spite of the rain!

2010-09-12T11:09:00.003-04:00

We had a wonderful time at the Family Learn & Play Day yesterday in spite of the yucky weather, which did finally let the sun break free for at least a bit of our time at World's Fair Park! We are so grateful for the invitation from the Knox Area Home Visitation Coalition to participate and loved getting to meet the faces behind the wonderful services they provide...some very fun and lovely people! To learn more about some of these family focused services, visit Healthy Families East Tennessee.

Additionally, we met lots of other AMAZING local people who's focus is helping support families and encourage healthy development of children, and they live this out through the services they provide. It was so exciting and inspiring to see the huge network that exists right here in our own backyards! I wanted to mention a few that I had the specific pleasure of getting to know even more.

YouthVillages - YouthVillages offers a variety of healthy, family centered programs including intensive in-home services, foster care support and adoption. I love their simple and clear mission statement, "Youth Villages helps children and families live successfully".

Littlebug's Learning Leaf - This family run daycare offers a fresh face to traditional childcare, with a heart to treat your children the way they want theirs treated! In addition, they are making deliberate and gradual steps to create a more eco-aware facility. LOVE IT!!! I had a great time getting to know this mother/daughter team!

Art for Asperger's - Anne, the heart behind this beautiful program is such a gentle and artistic person. She embraced every person, that stop by her table with tenderness and complete acceptance. She believes and demonstrates how art really is a window of opportunity for your child. My girl's and I loved being set up next to Anne!

There were loads of other great supporters too like KnoxMoms, Lisa Ross Birthing Center, The Boys & Girls Club and the always popular Knoxville Zoo! We also enjoyed the entertaining puppet show and face painting of the family team behind Creative Expression. All in all, it was a super fun, family event that we are so happy to have been a part of....and we're already looking forward to next year!

Thank you again to the Knox Area Home Visitation Coalition for hosting this fun family event and for truly caring for the children and families in our community!

FOSTER-MOON

2010-08-18T17:03:00.004-04:00

I've been debating on how to alert when I am unavailable due to a foster placement, and since all would understand when I would say I was on leave for a "baby-moon" if we had just added to our family by birth, I've decided we will call the time just after a foster placement a "foster-moon".

And so, we are officially in a "foster-moon" at the ZooNique home right now! This simply means that I am closed to custom orders until further notice to allow my attention and energy to be focused on helping these precious ones feel safe, loved and secure in their new home.

All in-stock items are still available locally at Echelon Florist & Gifts in Knoxville and through our Hyena Cart store.

Please feel free to continue to contact us at info@zooniquebaby.com... with the understanding that it may take us a just a bit longer to get back to you than usual. :)

Thanks for your kind thoughts, prayers and continued support!
The ZooNique Family

Hoot! Hoot! HEMP!!!

2010-07-28T15:48:00.005-04:00

I LOVE FABRIC!!! No really....I do! So when asked to pick a favorite fabric, print or designer, it's nearly an impossible task. BUT...asked to pick a favorite DIAPER fabric and it's an instant, hands-down, HEMP!

Hemp is truly fabulous! And especially for cloth diapers. Hemp has so many positive qualities and having the opportunity to work with it this week, for some very special customer's custom order, has reminded me again of why I love it so! It's soooo soft and squishy and makes the most perfect Fitted Diapers! But, it's SO MUCH MORE!
A quick google search on hemp and it's sustainability, uses and positive properties will turn up an overload of information...like this, did you know the original draft of the Declaration of Independence was written on hemp paper??? Pretty cool huh!?

With that, let me share a little of the Hemp Love....

Hemp is one of the most environmentally friendly crops to be grown. It's sustainability is an absolute fact. It can grow in a variety of climates and soil types, requires less water, has a shorter gestation and higher yield than similar crops AND is naturally resistant to most pests - therefore not requiring harmful chemical pesticides. (unlike cotton which consumes an estimated 50% of the world's pesticides!)
Hemp as a fabric...well, it just doesn't get any better! Hemp fibers are stronger, and therefore more durable. It also serves as a great insulative and even offers UV protection from the sun. Hemp is highly absorbent and has natural antimicrobial properties. It's also mildew resistant. See why it's perfect for diapers?!
Hemp is biodegradable, can be a good source for food, medicine, fuel, weed-control, paper, building materials and more. Basically, we could only benefit from the expanded growth and use of hemp, and I for one am hopeful that it's availability will increase in the US!

So, there's your science/history/health lesson for the day! :) Hope I've caused someone else to catch the LOVE for HEMP!!!

Bib-A-Licious!

2010-07-13T16:30:00.008-04:00

Pastel Paisley

What more stylish way to wipe those lil' smackers and save those tops from stains than these adorable AND reversible bibs?!?!?! I had so much fun working with these great prints and super soft textures, I couldn't pick a single favorite! Designer cotton prints on one side, with cozy chenille, minky or cuddle soft fabric on the other. Only thing that makes these great bibs even more scrumptious is the price, only $6 each! Here's a few we had to share...

Fruit Salad (yes, you can sing along if you'd like!) ;)

Football Frenzy...cause when you live near a college town it's never too early to celebrate!
The COW - So lil' one can be dressed for those Chic-fil-a fun nights too!
Sunny Days
Pink Scroll

Playful Pup

Precious Zoo
Curious Monkey

Butterfly Gardens
Palm Breeze
Robot Gadgets
Now, jump on over to our facebook page to find out how you could win one for your lil' sweetie!

SUMMER BREAK

2010-06-25T10:04:00.004-04:00

I will be soaking up some summer fun time with the ZooNique Family from June 26 - July 11th. Please be aware that there may be delays in response to contact or questions during this time. Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Hope you are having a very Happy Summer!

NEW ITEM - Scrappy Stationary!!!

2010-06-16T16:38:00.005-04:00

I've been enjoying one of my favorite summer (or anytime!) pastimes....SEWING!!! And the more I sew, the more lovely fabric scraps I accumulate. These scraps just beckon to be turned into something creative! And sooooo......I introduce our newest item, scrappy stationary! I've sewn different patches and designs cut from the fabric right to blank note cards, ready for you to fill with your own personal messages. What a fun and unique way to add a little texture and creativity to your handwritten notes, making them even more special! On top of that, they are only $4.50 per 3-pack of coordinating cards & envelopes! Here's a sneak peak at some of the fun.....

Cowboy Hoedown

Love Notes

Ballerina Blossoms

Spring Garden

Fly A Kite

Mushroom Love

Family Blooms

Paisley Dreams

Threads of Hope - Waiting Children

2010-05-27T15:19:00.004-04:00

We have been having a lot of fun working with our friends at Threads of Hope this week to bring you some great deals and giveaways! We hope you are having fun as well! :) I think I can speak for the Threads of Hope family and say how grateful they are for each purchase and donation that has brought them one step closer to bringing their little one home.

Threads of Hope is one of several individuals, groups or organizations we support that specifically has a heart, purpose and drive to help children....orphan children. We're a family that absolutely adores children, so it's a real honor to be able to contribute in any way to the protection, betterment or adoption of a child in need of love and a family.

The Threads of Hope family, the Littles, has a special burden for the Waiting Children of China. Of their 4 amazing children, their biological daughter is autistic and their youngest was adopted as a waiting child from China in 2007. He was considered "special needs" because he has a heart defect known as ToF. His heart was repaired in China, and he is a thriving and beautiful child who brings an abundance of joy and laughter to all those who know him!

What is a "Waiting Child"? Waiting Children are orphans who have special needs or are considered hard to place. There are thousands of Waiting Children all over the world, including right here in the US, where in 2006 we had 129,000 children waiting for a family. The special needs of waiting children can range from things as simple as age, sex, skin color or number of siblings to more serious lifelong physical or mental disabilities. Healthy infants who are registered for adoption get matched to families very quickly. Unfortunately, this is not the case for children with special needs. These children wait for a family to choose them. Many are never chosen.
The label "Special Needs" can be frightening and intimidating. But when the label is peeled off, it becomes clear that these are just children - children who want to be loved and cared for - children who cling to the hope that a family will choose them. When someone adopts a waiting child, they decide what special needs they feel comfortable adopting. They are able to make the list of needs they can accept as short or as long as they would like. They have the opportunity to meet other families who have adopted children with similar special needs and even discuss the health records of a child they may be considering with a physician who can advise them on the potential condition and care a child's specific needs may require. This allows adoptive families to be better prepared and informed, which is obviously best for both the parents and the children in the long run.
This video gives a beautiful glimpse of some of these SPECIAL kids!

Whether adoption is something you've ever considered before or whether it is the right fit for your family are very personal things to explore if you feel so led. However, helping these children, waiting children worldwide, is something within the reach of us all! Educating, advocating, donating, supporting others are all necessary and important ways to make a difference in the lives of children.

So now you understand a bit more about our love and support of Threads of Hope! We pray your hearts have been touched as ours have, and your are able to find a personal way to make a difference in someone's life today!

GREAT Local Services!

2010-05-10T20:16:00.004-04:00

We met some fabulous people at the Doula Paloosa in Knoxville, TN this past Friday and wanted to tell you all about them and the unique services they provide, so check them out! :) If you're local, how lucky for you to have all these great choices in your backyard!

Birth & Beyond Doula Services - Lori Wade

Hallmark Doula - Abigail Hallmark

Oh Baby Doula Services/Childbirth Classes - Nancy Lantz

Tennessee Birth Coalition - Grace McNeeley (gracemacneil@gmail.com)

Chickamauga School of Art - Amelia Loehe Breed

Twilli Pie Design/Baby Wearing Advocacy - Renee Holiday

Miracles From Heaven/Home Birth - Lisa Coomer

The Glowing Body - Prenatal Massage/Yoga - Molly McClellan

Happy Birthday ZooNique Baby!

2010-05-03T07:27:00.003-04:00

May is the "official" birthday month for ZooNique Baby and we want to include you in the celebration! Here is a highlight of what we have planned.... first though, if you aren't a Facebook follower, you'll want to add yourself so you don't miss out on any of the fun! :)

* We'll be offering a weekly special each week this month....some really great stuff too! (to be posted via Facebook!)

* FREE Surprise Gift with every purchase!

* Random Giveaways! (once again...on Facebook!)

* Every person who completes an order this month will be entered to win a $25 Gift Certificate, which will become a $50 Gift Certificate if we reach 200 Facebook friends by the end of the month, so make sure and spread the word to all your friends!!!

* And as an added BONUS, YOU can help support something really cool!!!! 10% of all our May Sales will be sent to 3Seams to help support the development of a Haitian seamstress program....GOOD STUFF! You'll want to check them out, they are on Facebook too! :) Here.

Thanks for your support that has allowed our family business to continue growing and making a difference! We love what we do and look forward to the excitement in store for the next year!

Blessings,

The ZooNique Family

Spring Break!!!! (and P.S. Birthday Celebration!!!)

2010-04-23T10:07:00.004-04:00

Just a quick note to let you know that ZooNique Baby will be on SPRING BREAK starting Saturday, April 24th - Sunday May 2nd. We will respond to all contact as quick as we can once we return from our break. Thanks for your patience! We are very excited about the down time with our family!

Hope you and your family are soaking up your share of spring, sunshine and family time too!!!

OH YEA...almost forgot... :)

May is the "official" birthday month of ZooNique Baby, and we will be celebrating our 2nd birthday next month. (woot!! woot!!!) We have LOTS of fun surprises (like giveaways, weekly promos, a chance to win a $50 gift certificate...uh huh! Good stuff!) in store, so stay tuned! And if you haven't "liked" us on Facebook yet....now's the time! We'll be posting all our surprises there!

HAPPY SPRING!!!!!

Shop for a Cause!

2010-04-22T10:40:00.002-04:00

ZooNique Baby has the privilege of participating in 2 different fund raising auctions this month and we wanted to make sure you knew about them! :) Both auctions opened today! We've included links to both in our sidebar and below.

*** Love Without Boundaries - Born In My Heart Art Auction ***

This auction supports the work of Love Without Boundaries which includes providing life saving surgeries for orphaned children who may otherwise have no chance.
Donated items with the theme "Love, Family, Diversity and Adoption" being auctioned include,

Artwork
Hand-crafted items
Scrapbooking Kits
Toys
Clothing
Chinese Memorabilia
Books
DVDs
Gift Baskets
Gift Certificates
AND MORE!!!!!

Love Without Boundaries - Changing the lives of orphaned and impoverished children in China
Learn More by visiting Love Without Boundaries

AND

*** The Cloth Diaper Foundation - Green Mama Benefit Auction ***

This auction supports the work of The Cloth Diaper Foundation which provides cloth diapers to qualifying families all over the United States.
Donated items with a "Green" theme being auctioned include,

Cloth Diapers! (of course!)
Clothing
Accessories
Special "Mama" items
Books
Toys
Baby Carriers
Items for Home
Organic Fabric
Diaper Bags
AND MORE!!!

The Cloth Diaper Foundation - Empowering Families. Improving The Environment.
Learn More by visiting The Cloth Diaper Foundation

So, go SHOP FOR A CAUSE and support something GREAT! :)

DOULAPALOOSA!!!

2010-04-20T17:44:00.004-04:00

Are you pregnant, trying to conceive or beginning to consider childbirth options? If so, we invite you to join us for DOULAPALOOSA!

WHEN: Friday, May 7th - 5:30-7:30pm
WHERE: YWCA - 420 W. Clinch Ave. Knoxville, TN
WHAT TO EXPECT: A chance to visit with several area doulas and other birth/family related businesses as you enjoy light snacks and learn more about your childbirth options. Demonstrations, birth art & more!

Email us at info@zooniquebaby.com if you have questions or require further info.
Everyone is welcome!
Hope to meet you there!

Fitted Fluffiness = Squishy Yumminess!

2010-04-17T09:00:00.004-04:00

Fitted Diapers are some of my most favorite diapers! They are so soft and squishy, easy to use and super absorbent! We most often make our ZooNique Baby Fitteds either with a fluffy cotton Sherpa or a luxuriously soft Organic Cotton/Hemp blend against baby's skin. There's a 3 layer, sewn in soaker, and 2 additional body layers of flannel...the hidden flannel layer is a thick and absorbent Killington and the outer layer a fun and colorful print. All of our fitted diapers include a convenient overlapping tab to offer a more adjustable fit, in your choice of Aplix hook & loop or snap closure. Our fitted diapers are also a great stash expander as they start at only $12 each!

When paired with one of our ZooNique Baby Covers, you're all set for a functional, super absorbent, easy to use cloth diapering system!

Charity Spotlight! - One Girl/Tiny Hands International

2010-04-15T07:17:00.003-04:00

In case it weren't obvious, :) the ZooNique Baby family is passionate about children and families! We hope that a quick glimpse at our About Us page gives you that immediate understanding, as you are able to see a list of the individuals, businesses and organizations we support.

We wanted to highlight one of these amazing organizations to give you the chance to get to know a little more about them, what they do, and why we support them!

Today I want to share about the One Girl project of Tiny Hands International.
Child-trafficking is a devastating reality in our world today. The number of children who are stolen or sold into slavery each year is overwhelming. From Nepal alone, over 10,000 girls are trafficked each year. 10 THOUSAND! While this number can be hard to imagine, imagining how we would feel if 1 of that 10,000 was our child makes this horrifically personal for us!

So, what can we do? The One Girl project provides the opportunity for individuals like you and I to reach out to these girls in a real and tangible way. When you make a $10 donation to One Girl you will receive a bracelet like the one pictured above, that has been made by one of the girls who was rescued from a life of servitude. The bracelet serves as a reminder to pray for them, and others like them who are vulnerable to potential trafficking.

Your donation allows Tiny Hands to not only help rescue and protect children already affected by trafficking, but also, help identify and prevent others who are particularly vulnerable to being trafficked themselves.

Isn't it amazing that something so simple and nearly effortless can have that kind of impact?! We think so!

AND, in addition to wearing our bracelets for these girls, we want to offer a little something extra to HELP INCREASE THE TRAFFIC AGAINST TRAFFICKING!!! It's a SURPRISE! Wanna know what you need to do? Here ya go...

Make a donation to One Girl
Post a comment here saying "I donated!" with your first name/last initial
Tell others!!! (BECAUSE, as the number of donors contributing to One Girl increases, the value of what we are giving away increases!)

This Spotlight effort will go from today, April 15th-Friday, April 30th. We will post the name of our "winner" here Saturday, May 1st. So please, help us spread the word and make sure to check back to see if you WIN the surprise....we ALL win by helping these girls!

*Please note, posts are moderated, so don't worry if you don't see yours immediately, I'll get it up asap! :)*

**Open to US residents only, but don't let that stop you from checking out this awesome organization!**

Earth Day Giveaway!

2010-04-07T16:43:00.002-04:00

Check out our ZooNique Baby Facebook page to find our how you could WIN this adorable diaper in honor of Earth Day - April 22, 2010!

What have we been up to lately???

2010-03-26T20:26:00.006-04:00

Sewing! Sewing! Sewing!

For Family...
For Friends...
For Football Fans...
For Boys...

For Girls...

For Mamas...

For Donation...

For Review...

For FUN!!!

....and that's just the beginning! :)

Spring is in the air!

2010-03-14T17:00:00.005-04:00

Or at least getting closer! :) We are certainly ready for a little more sunshine around here! With Easter just around the corner....yep, only 3 weeks away, I'm having lots of fun working with all the colorful fabrics. Here's a glimpse of some of our latest creations to celebrate the season....

And don't miss out on the chance to snag up several discounted ZooNique Baby items being offered by our friends at Threads of Hope Boutique. All the proceeds go to their adoption fund to help bring their next lil' blessing home, so you get a good deal and the opportunity to support something very special! They also have some "FREE" items being offered as well, so make sure and check them out!

Celebrate St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-02T11:43:00.005-05:00

Whether you're Irish or not, St. Patrick's Day is always a fun holiday. I can remember as a kid trying to find a creative way to adorn the green and looking forward to the fun of pinching those that didn't! :) Well, to help you're lil' one eliminate some pinching and provide a little extra adorable style, we've made some special "GREEN" items to celebrate festively! Check 'em out...

Inspiring Handmade

2010-02-26T14:40:00.004-05:00

When you buy handmade it is so much more than just getting a product. Handmade items offer that unique character that can only come by being individually hand crafted. Whether creating or purchasing, these kinds of items offer imagination, inspiration and a sense of true contribution. As a mother, I love being able to offer my children the gift of hand made items both that I have made or that I have purchased from another artisan. The instant pride and care it encourages, knowing that the gift was made especially for them, is priceless in itself! As a hand-crafter, the opportunity to share my love of creating one of a kind gifts with another offers an inspiration that never gets old!

Zoonique Baby - Passing on a love and a legacy of Handmade.

Take the Handmade Pledge for yourself!

Did you know???

2010-02-21T15:47:00.004-05:00

Did you know that there are an estimated 147 million orphans in the world today? 147 MILLION. That's a number so big it's hard to even picture. Zoonique Baby supports orphan care and adoption in many ways, and would like to introduce one to you this month. We have donated items to Threads of Hope Boutique as a fundraiser for the Little family's adoption. This is the Little family's 2nd adoption and they are just a precious family! Visit Threads of Hope often as they are just getting started and will continue to have a variety of unique items to offer.

In addition, you can get a glimpse of some of the other organizations we support by visiting the About Us page at ZooniqueBaby.com

New Year - New Perspective

2010-01-05T18:30:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! We hope this year has started off full of possibilities and the things you love most! (for our almost 3 year old one of those is his boots!) :) We are thankful for the New Year and New Perspective it brings.The past year has offered many challenges for our family and along with that, many opportunities to evaluate how our time and energy are spent.

We are thankful to report that I have begun to sew again! While things are moving at a welcomed slower pace, I am very excited to be back at my sewing machine, creating things I love! The time away has allowed me a renewed appreciation, excitement and inspiration for the art. I am beginning to sew new Zoonique Baby items that will continue to be offered through the gift shop of Echelon Florist & Gifts on Northshore Drive in West Knoxville. For the time, I will not be offering the option of custom orders so that I can concentrate on updating our website and working on several new cloth creations I've been pondering! Fun, fun! In the future, custom orders will most likely be offered on a very limited basis, as I have also learned the importance of better balancing my sewing for Zoonique Baby and for my family and those in need.
Stay tuned for continued updates, and if you are in the Knoxville, Tennessee area, stop in Echelon to check us out! And as always, more info available at ZooniqueBaby.com.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-10T09:27:00.005-05:00

We absolutely LOVE this time of year! There are so many wonderful memories for our family around the holidays and this time of year gives us a chance to celebrate and be thankful! Due to recent events, we are doing both with a whole new appreciation and inspiration and we pray it is one of the most positively memorable years for you and your families as well!

Zoonique Baby is still in a "pause" sort of place as I continue to recover from my recent surgery. For now, we have filled our display at Echelon Florist in West Knoxville, Tennessee with our carefully and uniquely hand-crafted, in-stock items, for your convenience. While we aren't sure what the New Year holds, we are looking forward full of the HOPE this Season offers!

Many Blessings to you and your families,
The Zoonique Baby Family

Email Issues....now resolved!

2009-11-16T20:59:00.001-05:00

We have had technical issues over the past 4-6 weeks that may have resulted in lost emails. If you have had trouble getting in touch with us by email, we apologize and ask that you please try again. Everything appears to be resolved and back on track! Thanks for your patience and understanding.

Slowing Down for a Bit

2009-10-05T18:36:00.002-04:00

This time of year we are usually "gearing up", getting ready for the holidays ahead and sewing even more. Well, sometimes life has a way of slowing things down for us, and that's where we are with ZooNique Baby.

All of ZooNique designs are sewn by me, one mama, working in my home studio. I recently experienced an injury to my arm requiring surgery. The recovery time for me to regain the use of my arm is estimated to be around 4 months, so I & therefore ZooNique Baby will be taking a break as I heal.

For now, all of our ready made products can be found in-stock at Echelon Florist & Gifts in West Knoxville. We anticipate being back in full swing early 2010. We will keep you posted!

Thanks for your prayers and continued support!
:) Your ZooNique Family

Besides Diapers.....

2009-09-08T15:35:00.010-04:00

We hand-craft lots of adorable baby items that are perfect for your little one or as a gift for a shower or new baby. Take a look at some of our other ZooNique Baby creations....

Super Soft & Luxurious Reversible Bibs

Custom & Designer Wetbags

Gentle, Reusable Cloth Wipes

Fun Doll Carriers - so they can wear their babies just like Mommy & Daddy!

Doll Diapers

We also enjoy making one of a kind designs like these for infants, toddlers and older children as well....One of a Kind VINTAGE Designs

Special Requests from Special Lil' People

Stylish Hair Accessories

We proudly offer other quality products that are sure to provide a unique option for your stylish baby or special gift giving. These include....

Crocheted Baby Booties by "Grandma's Goodies"

Custom Collaborations with "Threads of Hope Boutique"

And the ever growing, changing, stylish & functional BabyLegs!

So, in addition to thinking of us for your cloth diapering needs, think of us for all of those special occasion, hand-crafted, one of a kind gifts for the young ones in your life!

ZooNique Baby - Unique, Family Focused, Earth Friendly Designs

FAQ - Why & How to "strip" diapers?

2009-08-20T12:11:00.002-04:00

A procedure often heard of in the cloth diaper world is to "strip" your diapers. What is this? Why do you have to do it? and How is it done? are all questions that follow.

WHAT? - To "strip" your diapers is to remove various types of build up from the inner layer of your cloth diapers.

WHY? - It can become necessary to "strip" your diapers for several reasons, all of which can cause your diapers to leak and lead to recurring rashes (neither of which are desirable for you or your baby!). The leaking occurs due to build up on the inner layer of fabric causing that fabric to repel liquid rather than wick it away from baby's skin. Build up can be caused by several things such as, diaper creams that aren't cloth diaper safe, detergents that contain additives that can build up on the fabric over time, or use of fabric softeners and dryer sheets. It is my opinion that attentive care of one's cloth diaper stash can prevent, or at least lessen the need/frequency of having to "strip" the diapers.

HOW? - In nearly 2 1/2 years time, we have only had to "strip" our diaper stash 2 times....both times we could directly connect the problem to the source. The first time, it was due to "over the counter" diaper cream and the second, well....we were kind of experimenting with ways to freshen our stash and got a little over zealous with the Borax! :) (FYI, less is better.) Here is how we do it.

Fill the sink with Hot water and the diapers.
Using a grease fighting dish liquid, we chose Dawn since we had heard it suggested most often by other cloth diapering parents, squirt a small amount on the inside of each diaper and scrub with a dish brush. (we suggest labeling this brush "for diapers" so it doesn't end up being used on your dishes later!) ;)
Allow the diapers to soak in the sudsy, hot water for 30 minutes - 1 hour after scrubbing.
Rinse thoroughly.
Run through your regular diaper wash/rinse routine, and you should be ready to go again!

It really isn't hard, just takes a bit of time. And when in most cases can be prevented, it's worth taking the measures to prevent the issue and save that time for something fun....like cuddling your baby!

Best wishes for healthy, leak-free cloth diapers!

Monkey N' Around!

2009-08-09T12:06:00.003-04:00

Fun Pirate Monkey prints! We love these!

FAQ - What detergent is best for washing cloth diapers?

2009-08-06T11:08:00.004-04:00

We try to offer answers to lots of different questions from our customers and cloth diapering friends. Many of these questions are often the same, so we are going to begin "FAQ-Frequently Asked Questions" posts to highlight some of these in hopes that it can be helpful to others.

THE ANSWERS PROVIDED ARE SIMPLY OUR SUGGESTIONS BASED ON OUR OWN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. THERE ARE MANY, MANY DIFFERENT IDEAS ABOUT WHAT IS BEST, AND WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU READ THE LABEL & CONSIDER THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF YOUR FAMILY FIRST.

FAQ #1 - What detergent is best for washing cloth diapers?

Why it matters: Function and healthy skin. Detergent additives can cause build up on the inside of your diapers. This build up creates a barrier that will often repel liquid, causing leaks. The biggest culprits of this type of build up are softeners and oils, as well as, dry sheets...you don't want to use any of these with your cloth diapers.
In addition, diapers washed with detergents containing perfume or dyes can often become irritating to baby's skin and cause rashes.

What we recommend: We believe it is best to use only additive free detergents for your diapers to function properly and endure lengthy use. Additive free means no softeners, no bleach, no perfumes, no dyes, no oils....just plain ol' washing goodness! We have chosen to use Charlie's Soap http://www.charliesoap.com/ We use this detergent for all of our laundry and being a family with sensitive skin, we love that it gets the job done while still being gentle on our skin. It costs around $8 for a bag that washes 80 loads, and if using this only for your diaper laundry, would then last for 160 loads.

What we've heard from others: There are other detergents that we have heard also offer a great option for cloth diaper care. These include Allen's, Country Save & Free & Clear detergents. With Free & Clear detergents, again, we suggest that you read the label, as we have heard some reports of the Free & Clear detergents still containing some additives that over time caused build up on the inside of the diapers, in turn causing leaks.
We've even heard of families that continued using the same detergents they always had....some with no problems, others had to "strip" their diapers from time to time to remove build up.
Being that cloth diaper loads only require half the suggested amount of detergent, any of these options are going to be long lasting and cost effective.
For those looking for an even less expensive option, we've heard of mixtures of common household items like Dawn dish liquid, baking soda & vinegar, so you can certainly be creative since there really are many possibilities. (we just chose the simple route!) :)

POINT TO REMEMBER: Less is more! Stay away from perfumes, dyes, softeners, oils and other additives when choosing a detergent for your diaper care system.

Concerned about stains and lingering odor? Want to know how to "strip" your diapers when necessary? Stay tuned for our next FAQ posts!

Why we do what we do......

2009-07-31T07:37:00.008-04:00

Our family loves cloth diapering. We love the many benefits cloth diapers offer, including financial savings and environmental kindness. We love the feeling it gives us to believe that we are truly doing what is best for our baby. We love that I am able to do my job from home while raising our family. We love that it's an opportunity for our children to witness our work and the results of our efforts firsthand. These are all reasons we started our small, home based, family business. However, there is a much bigger reason, a much more meaningful inspiration than even these things.....

We started Zoonique Baby as a tangible way to give to those in need. Particularly orphans. We believed, and still do, that these father and motherless children deserve the very best as well. We have experienced the overwhelming blessing it has brought to our lives to reach out to these precious little people and so look forward to the opportunities ahead! But, to back track just a little and tell you "the rest of the story".

About 3 years ago now, we were excitedly following some close friends who were expecting a son to join their family. This precious child was already born and awaiting them in an overseas orphanage. As we followed the regular updates they would receive about his care and growth and atmosphere, it became very clear to us that there are many, many children worldwide who live with so little. Even struggling with just basic needs being met on a daily basis. This was something that wouldn't settle well inside me, and I had a prayer to find some way to help. Some tangible way, but they were so far from where I was geographically.

In a matter of days, my friend sent an email of a mother who was picking up her own child from a nearby orphanage of her son's, and the mother was expressing the needs of the children she witnessed. One of the first on her list was cloth diapers. Well, at this point, I had been sewing diapers for my own new baby, friends and for a worthy US organization, Miracle Diapers, so you can imagine my immediate thoughts and excitement upon learning that something I was already doing (and love doing!) could also help these babies so far away! I immediately set to work, and our first huge box of cloth diapers, wipes and baby care supplies accompanied my friends to an orphanage just months later when they traveled to bring their son home.

THE BUG HAD OFFICIALLY BIT!

The "letdown" of sorts that swept over me when I realized our project was complete was enough to prove this didn't have to be an isolated event. This could and should carry on. Our family's prayer to offer tangible aid to orphans had been answered, and we continue to actively pursue opportunities to love these children from the distance we have to. We have sent multiple boxes of baby care supplies to various countries across the world. We've organized local sewing events to assist and equip mission teams with materials to deliver on their trips. We work with organizations like Annabelle's Wish and our local FBCK's Outreach 2 Orphans to continue to bring cloth diapers and other comfort and necessity items to babies/children in need, and our family continues to receive overwhelming blessings for doing so!

While we love our Zoonique Baby customers, spending time with local families assisting them in their own cloth diapering adventures, educating people about the benefits and ease of using cloth diapers today, the core of why we do what we do is still, and will always be the faces of the children across the world, now etched on our hearts, that we have been given the unique and tangible gift of loving through cloth diapers!

Thank you for your support.

SNEAK PEEK!!!

2009-07-24T09:25:00.005-04:00

Here's a little peek at some of the NEW PRINTS we have coming in right now! We are so excited! Lots of cute ones for boys, girls and gender neutral prints as well. As always, all our prints are limited in quantity so don't miss out if there is something you LOVE! :)
Oh my! Oh my! What to cut and sew first??? I just don't know! :) SUCH FUN!

Celebrating INDEPENDENCE DAY!

2009-07-03T08:02:00.002-04:00

These fun prints were part of a special series to help celebrate the 4th of July and show our patriotism! We have dear friends and family who serve our country through the Armed Forces, and we are so very grateful to them for the enormous sacrifices they make daily!

Hope you and yours have a safe and memorable Independence Day!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

FRESH PICKED!

2009-06-11T10:40:00.002-04:00

Getting in the Summer spirit around here and gearing up for all those YUMMY picnics! One of our favorite picnic treats of course......WATERMELON! The obvious inspiration for this fun set of ZooNique Baby designs.

WHY ZOONIQUE?

2009-06-07T18:55:00.005-04:00

So what makes ZooNique Baby cloth diapers special? What makes them different from the rest? Why should someone choose ZooNique Baby cloth diapers over others? Well, we're so glad you asked! :)

Here are some of the things that make ZooNique Diapers....ZOONIQUE!

Individually Hand-crafted - Our diapers are individually made from start to finish, not mass produced. This offers you a quality product with a unique, often one of a kind style. We love what we do and trust you can tell that from our finished products.
Front Opening - Unlike most "pocket" style diapers, ZooNique Diapers insert opening is on the outside, front of the diaper rather than the back. The main reasoning for this is to make diaper changes and insert removal cleaner. Since the mess is on the inside, it made perfect sense to us that our hands wanted to be on the outside!
Wider Opening - The insert opening is wider to make placing the insert easier, especially in our Medium and Large sized diapers.
TRUE Small - Our Small diaper is made with baby's comfort in mind! We have specifically made the crotch are of this size diaper more narrow for this reason. We also make special smaller inserts to use with these. While placing the insert in our Small diapers may require a little extra effort than our Medium and Large, your baby will be so thankful for the better fit!
Cushioned Tummy Panel - The snap front tummy area where you place your insert provides a little extra padding against baby's tender tummy. We love that this also prevents the "velcro" fastener from rolling in towards baby's skin.
Unique Designs - We are constantly on the search for more fun prints and embellishments for our diapers so there is ALWAYS something new to offer!
Customer Service - ZooNique Baby takes great pride in providing top notch customer service! We love our customers and want to assist and encourage them in their cloth diapering and natural parenting adventure anyway we can!

ZOONIQUE BABY - UNIQUE, FAMILY FOCUSED, EARTH FRIENDLY

New Features!

2009-05-27T20:37:00.008-04:00

FLEXIBILITY. A key ingredient to a happy life! (and a successful business!) We take this approach with our diapers and if we feel there is a change to our style that will make them more functional, user friendly or comfortable for baby we make the change! If we find a component that is of better quality, we switch. Here are some of the most recent things we have done to make our ZooNique Baby Cloth Diapers even better.

* APLIX brand hook & loop - We've switched all of our diapers over to Aplix hook and loop because it is the highest quality we've found and is both durable and super soft.

* HIDDEN SNAPS - The snaps that close the insert opening on the front of our diaper are now hidden! This is one of our favorite new features, since the snaps no longer touch baby's delicate skin!

* CUSHIONED TUMMY PANEL - This is more of a hidden new feature, but one that makes the diaper easier to fasten, as well as, more comfortable for baby. The tummy panel has a little more "squish" to it now, which helps keep the loop fastener on the front from rolling in towards baby's skin.

* FUN NEW PRINTS! - And as always, we are keeping fun, new prints rolling in all the time! Here's a sample.... Ooga Booga, Ice Giraffes & Mint Chocolate Zoo .... TOO CUTE!

Happy Anniversary ZooNique Baby!

2009-05-21T23:03:00.008-04:00

It's hard to believe that we are celebrating 1 year in business this month! While ZooNique Baby was on our hearts and in our minds for sometime longer, we officially filed and signed all the forms to start our business in May 2008. We are so excited about what this year has brought and taught us and are looking forward to expanding our outreach and sharing our information and love for cloth diapers with more growing families!

We have made many adjustments to our ZNB Diaper Pattern, we have added many new items like Fitted Diapers, Diaper Covers and Nursing Pads....often at the inspiring request of our precious customers! Our products have been tried and tested by numerous families and babies of all shapes, sizes and ages. AND.....We have big plans for what we'd like to see in the next year for ZooNique Baby, but are patiently waiting as it unfolds at a pace that is perfect and manageable for our family. As our tag line says, we are Family Focused! In our home, in our business, with our products and with our time and energy. Family is the core of all we do and the reason for why we do what we do. Keeping that as our focus allows everything else to stay in perspective. :)

We hope you will join us on this ZooNique adventure and learn, share, be encouraged and excited about how your family too can demonstrate being UNIQUE, FAMILY FOCUSED & EARTH FRIENDLY!

ZooNique Baby

Hidden Treasures Auction OPEN!

Happy ZOO Year!!!!

Merry Christmas!

One of my Sweetest Fans!

Auction of DEALS! To make a DIFFERENCE!

Holiday Open House!!!

Happy Halloween!

Happy Fall!

Fall Preview!!!

Refreshing Reminders

Family Learn & Play Day!!!!

Summer Style!

WINNER ANNOUNCED!

Birthday Bash Begins!!!

***SPRING BREAK!***

Bib Set WINNER!!!

April - Autism Awareness

10 days for JAPAN

Kickin' Off Our Cart!

Sunshine makes me HAPPY!

Grown up sewing!

Inspiration!

Giveaway Final Day!!!

Give Water & Win!!!!

FUN! Gift Wrap Alternatives

BRAG BOOK - Customer Pic!

TREATS!

Family Learn & Play Day...Great FUN in spite of the rain!

FOSTER-MOON

Hoot! Hoot! *HEMP*!!!

Bib-A-Licious!

***SUMMER BREAK***

NEW ITEM - Scrappy Stationary!!!

Threads of Hope - Waiting Children

GREAT Local Services!

Happy Birthday ZooNique Baby!

Spring Break!!!! (and P.S. Birthday Celebration!!!)

Shop for a Cause!

DOULAPALOOSA!!!

Fitted Fluffiness = Squishy Yumminess!

Charity Spotlight! - One Girl/Tiny Hands International

***Earth Day Giveaway!***

What have we been up to lately???

Spring is in the air!

Celebrate St. Patty's Day!

Inspiring Handmade

Did you know???

New Year - New Perspective

Merry Christmas!

Email Issues....now resolved!

Slowing Down for a Bit

Besides Diapers.....

FAQ - Why & How to "strip" diapers?

Monkey N' Around!

FAQ - What detergent is best for washing cloth diapers?

Why we do what we do......

SNEAK PEEK!!!

Celebrating INDEPENDENCE DAY!

FRESH PICKED!

WHY ZOONIQUE?

New Features!

Happy Anniversary ZooNique Baby!

SPRING BREAK!

Hoot! Hoot! HEMP!!!

SUMMER BREAK

Earth Day Giveaway!