This weekend, I had the pleasure of participating in a "Mommy Market," an event spotlighting mom-owned local businesses. We not only got to hang out in a delightful preschool space, but we also got to swap stories and lessons learned about juggling business alongside motherhood.
And with Mother's Day around the corner, it seemed like the perfect time to spotlight some of the mom-owned brands I've come to love. Not only are these businesses and organizations that I turn to in my own parenting journey, but they also have inspiring founders I look up to. Check them out, and please share and amplify the stories of your own favorites -- moms are some of the most expert, creative, adept entrepreneurs out there.
An SF-Local Shop: Picky Monday
Picky Monday is a curated, high-quality second-hand clothing store for kids, owned and run by a local SF mom. The shop itself is as vibrant and warm as the products, even including a craft station kids can enjoy while you shop. Each piece is in immaculate condition, from quality brands. My latest purchase from Picky Monday: a pair of orca-patterned swim trunks that my son is obsessed with. If my kids aren't wearing First Peak, they're probably wearing something from Picky Monday.
Bonus: we'll be popping up at Picky Monday from May through mid-June!
A Mom-run Non-Profit: Outgrown
I first came across Outgrown while my family was on a cross-country roadtrip in 2022. As we visited new towns all across the US, we wanted to connect with local families and get recommendations for the best outdoor, kid-friendly spots. Luckily, we found Outgrown. The nationwide nonprofit works to connect parents of young kids, and encourage them to get outside, one baby step at a time. I've loved staying in touch with the organization, and the amazing moms who lead and run it -- their events and activity recommendations are always high-quality.
https://www.weareoutgrown.org/
An Inspiring Women's Brand: Wild Rye
I often see Wild Rye as the "grown up" version of First Peak. They describe their mission as, "to create apparel that inspires more women to get outside," which is so deeply reminiscent to our own mission here at First Peak. Better yet, they strive toward this goal with a strong focus on community and uplifting women. Their styles are functional and cute, and optimized for outdoor adventures.
A Mom-founded Community: Auggie
I was first introduced to Auggie by a friend and mom who raved about a new parent community she'd come across. She praised true, quality product reviews and honest discussions on forums. Auggie sets itself apart through this authenticity: their guides, conversations, and social media are all created by parents, for parents. Rather than a ton of sponsored content and potentially scammy Facebook groups, Auggie feels like a mega text thread of mom friends you can turn to for advice.
A Duo-Mom Kids' Brand: Iksplor
I've been following Iksplor for years, admiring the founding sister team with awe and admiration. They've nailed such a simple and quality product: Merino wool base layers for women and kids. They've been raved about by top publications from the New York Times to Outside Magazine, all while raising their own young families. My son used Iksplor base layers under his First Peak this past ski season -- their products are extremely high quality, even as their business has grown at a rapid clip.