our story
About Stringbean Co.
Growing up the oldest daughter in a family of seven really prepared me for parenthood (as much as anyone can be prepared). I was always coming up with creative ways to re-purpose various materials to get the most possible use out of them and was very into making things for myself – a practice that followed me into my adulthood. Then, when my first daughter was born, I started making different wraps and slings to use with her, as well as the Skidnees. People began asking me about them (mostly in airports where I frequently found myself). So I started to make more – first for my family and friends, then for friends of friends. I have a background in fashion and used to be an art teacher, so making these pieces for my kids to wear was an outlet for my creativity. Also, I love smart products that can be reused a lot and that stimulate creativity in both kids and parents.
And so Stringbean Co. was born.
The Inspiration
The wraps were inspired by the women I saw in various African countries I visited, as well as in some places in the Middle East and Asia. I would see these women haul their kids around sans strollers, sometimes multiple kids in one wrap through an airport! As for the Skidnees, my daughter, who was EC’d, used to sit around without her diaper (chilly!), so I fashioned some leg-warmers out of socks to provide some warmth. What started out as a functional necessity quickly turned into a fun accessory for her little outfits, with both style and substance.
The Family
My husband and I met in 2001 and have been globe-trotters ever since. Our two little girls and baby boy, have been the joy of our lives, and we look forward to showing them the world as we continue with our adventures.
Thank You
A big thank you to all our family and friends who have supported our business from day one when we were just sewing Skidnees and Baby Wraps on the dining room table. None of this would be possible without all the physical help, as well as the constant encouragement.
A special thank you to an Kristi Lane, an amazing photographer who showed up very pregnant to do a photo shoot with a bevy of kids under the age of 5! If you are in the Dallas area and want the best family photographs that money can buy, here she is: www.KlanePhotography.com
If you are in the Los Angeles area, you would be so fortunate to have your family, baby, pregnancy, engagement, etc…photos taken by Bethany Baird. She is so patient and will work with you to get everything just right. Plus, she has such a way with kids (having 3.9 of her own) and nothing seems to frazzle her! Her pictures turn out incredible – see for yourself at… www.BethanyBaird.com
