In a previous post, I talked about the mutual admiration society that exists among the group of CPSIA reform advocates. If there were documentation about those who founded this society, Marianne of Polkadot Patch Boutique, would be high on the list. She always has a kind word for others and in the midst of it all I feel she sometimes forgets to realize all that she’s done to help others trying to make sense of this law.
We hear a lot about the small manufacturers affected by the CPSIA, but don’t hear a lot about the retailers. Marianne lends a voice to a segment of business that is also greatly impacted by this law.
How, you ask, are retailers hard hit by CPSIA? Let’s look at the mission of the Polkadot Patch Boutique to shed some light:
- Provide the best online selection of unique, colorful, whimsical, creative, high quality and fun children’s clothing, accessories, and gifts to discriminating customers like ourselves.
- Support artisans who create unique children’s products by providing an online shopping presence to market their exceptional products, and
- HAVE FUN!
With the passing of CPSIA, every part of this mission has been challenged. In order to ensure that her business isn’t fined, Marianne has to require the very artisans she wants to support to provide the necessary paperwork to prove CPSIA compliance. This means that many of her valued vendors can no longer provide her with the unique products that have made her online boutique so popular.
In the midst of the mess, we certainly haven’t been having all that much fun as we repeatedly appeal to Congress to reform the law, as we explain to people why our businesses have closed or are having a hard time staying open.
Despite all of this, Marianne continues to fulfill her mission. She provides a great selection to her customers while also supporting artisans by informing and educating them on how best to comply with the law so that they can continue to sell their products. (And she also blogs!)
CPSIA didn’t stop Marianne and Polkadot Patch Boutique so please support her business this holiday season by perusing her store. I’m certain you’ll find something for a special child in your life.
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Thanks! I’ll have to go take a look.