Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Quillen
Nicole, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The idea for Birdie Lane Baby + Kids was born alongside my daughter Birdie in 2020. I had worked in high-end retail for years and always dreamed of creating something of my own. When Birdie came along, I saw an opportunity to combine my love of quality fashion with my new role as a mom.
The pandemic played a big role in shaping the business as well. Being a stay-at-home mom during COVID with little kids was challenging, but it also gave me the time to dream and create. This platform allowed me to stay present with my children while building something meaningful and creative.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have definitely been challenges, especially in the beginning. One of the biggest obstacles was buying products wholesale, without being able to go to market to see or feel them beforehand. It was frustrating to receive items that didn’t meet my standards and then not be able to return them. That experience pushed me to start researching where top brands were manufacturing their products.
After working with over 20 different manufacturers, I finally found one that aligned with my vision. They’ve been incredible to work with, and I’m extremely loyal to them now. Having this direct relationship allows me to cut down on my profit margins and offer my customers high-quality products at more affordable prices, which is a big win for me and my customers.
Managing inventory has also been a learning curve. It’s hard to predict demand, and sometimes you have to take risks and try different approaches. I’ve learned that you can’t master these things overnight—it’s all about trial and error. Being featured in four shops all around the tristate area, and preparing to expand into two more this year, has taught me so much about scaling, forecasting, and staying adaptable.
While these challenges have been tough, they’ve also been some of the most rewarding parts of the journey. Every obstacle has pushed me to grow and has made the success of Birdie Lane Baby + Kids that much more meaningful.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think the heart of what sets us apart is a combination of quality, affordability, and intentional design. I’m inspired by Scandinavian design and the mix of colors, patterns, and textures. I love combining old with new to create an aesthetic that feels natural and easy.
In a market where trends can sometimes feel repetitive, I focus on making Birdie Lane unique by staying true to my vision. I want every piece to feel special and timeless, something parents will love and kids will feel comfortable in.
Another thing that sets us apart is our focus on unisex designs. I believe in creating versatile clothing that can be passed down from sibling to sibling. It’s a more sustainable approach, and it resonates with families who want their purchases to go further.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve been fortunate to have a couple of amazing mentors who have shaped my journey. Being in the industry, I’ve built close friendships with some of the most creative people—women who are constantly innovating, growing, and running profitable businesses. These are people who not only understand things like profit margins but also know how to build something meaningful.
I’ve also been surrounded by women who’ve given me opportunities, like allowing me to sell my brand in their shops, and who’ve encouraged me when I felt defeated. That kind of support has been invaluable.
My advice for finding a mentor is to look for genuine cheerleaders—people who don’t take from you but push you to think outside of the box, especially when things feel competitive. If someone feels like they’re competing with you, they’re not your people. True mentors build you up, inspire you to grow, and celebrate your wins as if they’re their own. Surround yourself with people who genuinely want to see you succeed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.birdielanebaby.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdielanebaby/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/birdielanebaby/
