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Going Green With the Sharing Economy Rental Movement – Earth Day Baby Blog #4

Aside from offering cash saving solutions to classic consumer issues, the emerging sharing economy is also quite green in nature. Owning less stuff = less garbage later.

Below are some great ways to leverage the sharing economy rental movement to save some money and reduce your family’s environmental footprint.

  • Easy One-Offs – Need a jogging stroller for a mommy & baby run? Taking the family on a hike? Don’t buy gear that will spend of its time on a shelf. Save money, and the planet, by renting gear you will seldom use.
  • Upgrade Your Celebration – If you’re hosting fifteen or twenty children for a birthday party and need extra trains, toys, games or even a complete soft play zone, stay green and reduce your carbon footprint by renting gear instead of purchasing new.
  • Try Before You Buy – Before you purchase that expensive jogging stroller, only to find it’s a challenge to get it in and out of your car and, as a result, doesn’t get much use, consider a short rental to make sure it’s right for you.
  • Use it or Lose it – Babies age out of some gear rather quickly. Consider renting equipment, like infant swings, that have a short shelf life but a high sticker price.
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CEO Fran Maier Announces Babierge Funding!

I’m thrilled to share this VentureBeat article out today announcing that we have closed a $1.3M Seed Investment funding round. The new investors were impressed with how Babierge has emerged as the only national brand in this space as evidenced by the rapid growth of our Trusted Partner community to 220 and our expansion to nearly every state and over 170 markets. And we did this before our 2nd birthday!

I have always been super impressed with how hard our Trusted Partners work to serve our customers and their dedication to delivering clean and safe gear on time and with a smile. I’d like to give a special call out to Trusted Partners that have been with us from that first summer: Kathleen Chaput and Meredith MacNeill, Laura Espino, Blair Gross, Laura Herndon, Joe and Debra Moreno, and Lindsey Meyer and Sarah Huff. Thanks to all of the other Trusted Partners too: You have made a difference to our company, community, and to our customers’ lives.

I also want to recognize the HQ staff, starting with Trish McDermott, VP Communications, and Andreas Stenzel, VP Demand Generation and Business Development. I invited them to join Babierge in that first summer and for many months they worked for only equity or a pittance of a salary as we pursued funding. I’m so pleased that they are now applying their talents to Babierge full time. More recent hires, such as Joe Maier and Nicole Kitzman, as well as Adam Heymann and Ana Vela, have really immersed themselves into the nuts and bolts (or digits!) of this business and I look forward to continued contributions!

We have big plans for the funding:

  • Open new markets and recruit more Trusted Partners
  • Support current and new markets with unsurpassed marketing and lead generation
  • Improve our technology platform and enhance our mobile experience
  • Train and develop our Trusted Partners for increased impact
  • Pursue new distribution and other partnerships
  • Add needed expertise to our team (some of whom who are already from our TP Community!)

We are also super excited about owning the two leading baby equipment rental directories, now with Rent-Baby-Gear.com. This will support both lead generation for our Trusted Partner community and help us recruit more Trusted Partners and expand into additional markets.

The market for baby gear rental is massive and heretofore underserved. We know that parents and grandparents alike are looking for a relaxing vacation with their friends and families and that Babierge is allowing them to “Pack Light and Travel Far.” The reviews and ratings that our Trusted Partners receive, with so many saying that Babierge “Saved the Vacation,” or “Came to the Rescue,” are testaments to the quality service and gear we are providing.

We also know that many of our Trusted Partners are enjoying gratifying work and bringing home income that makes a difference to them and their families. We are proud to be part of their lives and hope to continue helping them succeed as they become entrepreneurs in their own right.

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Spring Cleaning Baby Gear Storage Tips – Earth Day Baby Blog #3

Are you constantly assaulted by toy mines waiting to attack your feet at any moment as you meander through your own home?

Veteran TP Bethany Baker has a patented storage system that will both protect your soles, and teach your children about organization and tidiness.

  1. Yes Pile, No Pile – First minimize by getting rid of anything you or your children don’t use or doesn’t bring you joy.
    • *Protip: If you are struggling to get rid of something for sentimental reasons take a picture of it. That way you can save it without it taking up any space.
  2. Sort it Out – Sort the stuff you’re keeping by item size so you know how much of each category and you can get the right sized container.
  3. Store it Well – Store smaller things in containers that stack securely on top of each other, or the green option: diaper boxes. They’re free and the boxes are smaller and easier to move around in storage.
  4. Clean it – It’s important to make sure everything is clean before you store it. We like Babyganics brand or similar organic cleaners for sanitizing toys and soft items.
  5. Have a System – Clear tubs you can see into without opening are great, but color coordinating categories with colored tubs is preferable for others.
  6. Document it – Label the tubs with a general category and then list the contents. For example, “Craft Supplies: paper, cutting utensils, adhesives, ribbon, stickers, popsicle sticks.”
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Ingenious Ways to Reuse Baby Gear – Earth Day Baby Blog #1

Baby clothes, blankets, toys, potty trainers, cribs – parents can extend the shelf lives of all these items by creatively repurposing them into all kinds of things: book shelves, porch benches, plant feeders, and new stuffed animals. These projects will have your old baby gear working for you instead of sitting in a dumpster.

  • Clothes into Companions – There are so many different items you can make with your baby’s old clothes and blankets. Rather than donating them, you can always consider creating a new stuffed animal, quilt, pillow, or headband for your baby.
  • Cribs into Porch Benches – Got an old or broken crib? You can turn that into a beautiful porch bench, with very little work or skill required.
  • Toys into Treasure – Reusing toys is just a matter of imagination and creativity. Have extra trucks lying around? They can be used as planters for flowers and succulents in your garden. Or, grab a 2×4 piece of wood and superglue toy figures on to create a coat hanger your kids will love.
  • Gear into Cash – If you have extra quality baby gear in excellent condition lying around and want to make some extra income, Babierge awaits. Babierge helps you start your own baby gear rental business renting out cribs, car seats, highchairs, toys and more to traveling families.
  • Make it a Contribution – Watch what gets played with and what doesn’t. If it doesn’t get played with then it becomes donation material.
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Babierge’s Spring Cleaning Fun – Earth Day Tips and Activities

In honor of our beautiful planet and the wonderful experiences and people it provides us, here are 5 blogs that offer some great ways to lend a hand in keeping the Earth healthy, all while having fun with your kiddos improving your home.

From Babierge to you, have a wonderful Earth Day, Arbor Day, and Spring 2018!

Ingenious Ways to Reuse Baby Gear

Baby clothes, blankets, toys, potty trainers, cribs – parents can extend the shelf lives of all these items by creatively repurposing them into all kinds of things: book shelves, porch benches, plant feeders, and new stuffed animals. These projects will have your old baby gear working for you instead of sitting in a dumpster.

  • Clothes into Companions – There are so many different items you can make with your baby’s old clothes and blankets. Rather than donating them, you can always consider creating a new stuffed animal, quilt, pillow, or headband for your baby.
  • Cribs into Porch Benches – Got an old or broken crib? You can turn that into a beautiful porch bench, with very little work or skill required.
  • Toys into Treasure – Reusing toys is just a matter of imagination and creativity. Have extra trucks lying around? They can be used as planters for flowers and succulents in your garden. Or, grab a 2×4 piece of wood and superglue toy figures on to create a coat hanger your kids will love.
  • Gear into Cash – If you have extra quality baby gear in excellent condition lying around and want to make some extra income, Babierge awaits. Babierge helps you start your own baby gear rental business renting out cribs, car seats, highchairs, toys and more to traveling families.
  • Make it a Contribution – Watch what gets played with and what doesn’t. If it doesn’t get played with then it becomes donation material.

Organic and Green Products for Baby

Often times green products are not just healthy for Mother Nature, they’re also healthier for our bodies. When it comes to baby products this is especially true. Babies grow rapidly and each thing they interact with has the potential to affect their health, for better or worse. Here are some basic starting points to keep your baby healthy and happy with environmentally friendly products.

  • Teething – The American Association of Pediatricians policy states that any teething toy or pacifier your baby uses should be BPA, PVC, and phthalate free.
  • Bath Time – Newborns only need a sponge bath and rinse with warm water. Once a baby is a couple months old green products are a great choice as they are free of chemicals that can irritate skin.
  • Crib Sheets – Newborns sleep more than half a day on average, so a healthy sleeping place is important. Consider organic cotton sheets that are soft, chemical free, and most importantly, cozy. How you launder is important – an all-clear detergent, no perfumes/dyes.
  • Bottles – The bottles humans drink from are surprisingly impactful. Even when bottles are certified BPA free, they can give off other harmful chemicals. For babies and mommies, glass bottles and high-quality, green baby bottles are safest.

Spring Cleaning Baby Gear Storage Tips

Are you constantly assaulted by toy mines waiting to attack your feet at any moment as you meander through your own home? Veteran TP Bethany Baker has a patented organization system that will both protect your soles, and teach your children about organization and tidiness.

  1. Yes Pile, No Pile – First minimize by getting rid of anything you or your children don’t use or doesn’t bring you joy.
    • *Protip: If you are struggling to get rid of something for sentimental reasons take a picture of it. That way you can save it without it taking up any space.
  2. Sort it Out – Sort the stuff you’re keeping by item size so you know how much of each category and you can get the right sized container.
  3. Store it Well – Store smaller things in containers that stack securely on top of each other, or the green option: diaper boxes. It’s free and the boxes are smaller and easier to move around.
  4. Clean it – It’s important to make sure everything is clean before you store it. We like Babyganics brand or similar organic cleaners for sanitizing toys and soft items.
  5. Have a System – Clear tubs you can see into without opening are great, but color coordinating categories with colored tubs is preferable for others.
  6. Document it – Label the tubs with a general category and then list the contents. For example, “Craft Supplies: paper, cutting utensils, adhesives, ribbon, stickers, popsicle sticks.”

Join the Green Rental Movement

Aside from offering cash saving solutions to classic consumer issues, the emerging sharing economy is also quite green in nature. Owning less stuff = less garbage later. Below are some great ways to leverage the sharing economy to save some money and reduce your family’s environmental footprint.

  • Easy One-Offs – Need a jogging stroller for a mommy & baby run? Taking the family on a hike? Don’t buy gear that will spend of its time on a shelf. Save money, and the planet, by renting gear you will seldom use.
  • Upgrade Your Celebration – If you’re hosting fifteen or twenty children for a birthday party and need extra trains, toys, games or even a complete soft play zone, stay green and reduce your carbon footprint by renting gear instead of purchasing new.
  • Try Before You Buy – Before you purchase that expensive jogging stroller, only to find it’s a challenge to get it in and out of your car and, as a result, doesn’t get much use, rent it for a few days to make sure it’s right for you.
  • Use it or Lose it – Babies age out of some gear rather quickly. Consider renting equipment, like infant swings, that have a short shelf life but a high sticker price.

Earth Day Garden Projects With Children

Earth day is all about enjoying the world we inhabit and showing it our love and respect. What better way to honor the world than to contribute to it with the ones you love and show them how wonderfully beautiful it is? Here are some great garden projects to share your appreciation of the earth with your children.

  • Start from Scratch – A superb way to introduce gardening to your children is the bucket garden experiment. Just give each child three things: A big bucket, lots of happy soil, and seeds from their favorite plants and flowers. Put it all together and add water!
  • From Plaything to Flower Pot – Old RC cars, stacking toys, aquariums, and whatever else the imagination comes up with can become a plant feeder. Why buy another flower pot when you have an old potty chair?
  • Plant a Pizza Garden – Create some excitement with a garden that comes with a pizza guarantee – kids are more willing to plant tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other veggies they love on their ‘zza.
  • Use it then Reuse it – There’s great lesson in conservation and creativity in saving all the water bottles you produce this month and turning them into nifty hanging tomato planters.
  • Bring in the Butterflies – If your children enjoy butterflies, hummingbirds, or ladybugs, you can plant plants that entice these beautiful creatures.
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Babierge Above and Beyond Trusted Partner Award April, 2018 – Amber Brown

This month’s Above and Beyond Trusted Partner recognition award goes to our community’s walking ray of sunshine – Salt Lake City Trusted Partner, Amber Brown. A mom of three energetic kiddos, she juggles a part time career as a disability lawyer while always finding a way to make time for those around her who need help or advice.

Since joining the Babierge platform in May 2017, Amber, along with other Salt Lake City Trusted Partner Annie Kocherhans, have been the ideal example of how two Babierge Trusted Partners can put their energy, capabilities, and time together to create more opportunity and business for the whole rather than working exclusively for themselves. In fact, Annie chimed in to illustrate just how important Amber has been for her:

“Last month Amber definitely went above and beyond! We have started helping each other by borrowing gear when we are out of something. Our market was really busy the few months during the peak of ski season in Park City. We both had all of our cribs out and and had helped each other out quite a bit that week. But Sunday night I ended up having my appendix out. Amber was so helpful in getting all my gear returned that week after and doing 4 pickups for me as well as taking a couple orders that I was unable to fulfill. She definitely deserves this award.”

Looking for someone to pull out the stops for your next vacation in Salt Lake City? Amber and her little helpers are ready to make your vacation unforgettable.

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Grand-Gigs: Retired Folks in the Gig Economy

Newsflash: The gig economy isn’t just a club for hip millennials and slick gen x’ers. According to GoDaddy’s recent research, a quarter of Baby Boomers have a side hustle and it’s really not surprising. Retired folks are ideal candidates for the gig economy. They’re creative, warm, social, flexible, and of course, wise!

Need more convincing? Check out these surprising perks of joining the gig economy.

1) Make Extra Money – You may not need it, but the gig economy provides fun, social jobs helping other people… for money! Drive people around, help with odd jobs, walk dogs, deliver baby gear to traveling families – there are new, ingenius gigs emerging constantly.

2) Stay Busy With a Flexible Schedule – Work in retirement shouldn’t feel like a “job.” Gigs are more flexible than part-time jobs, letting you work when you want while still having time for play, rest and personal hobbies.

3) Be Your Own Boss – Speaks for itself. Most working Americans have a boss. When it come to the gig economy, you are the boss! Feeling lazy today? Don’t work! Want to hustle hard and make some money? It’s in your hands.

4) Unleash Your Inner Creativity – Some entrepreneurial gigs provide great room for creativity. The right marketing idea, a flyer on your local recreational center bulletin board, or networking at a local meet-up or Chamber of Commerce l event can lead to more customers than you ever dreamed of.

5) Develop Skills and Learn About Yourself – One of the best parts about a gig in retirement is that it provides an avenue to learn more. Whether you worked in construction, education, tech, or business, running your own gig business provides many chances to learn new skills.

6) Keep Young – Recent research indicates that working into late life is good for health and longevity. This isn’t a surprise considering gigs and their supportive communities engage you mentally, provide purpose, and keep you on your feet.

7) Tell Friends About Your Job in the New, Hip Gig Economy – Tired of having your kids tell you you’re behind the times? The gig economy is the perfect solution! People will see you in a new light when they tlearn you’ve got a side hustle.

8) Make a Difference – Many gigs are ingenious solutions to age-old problems – no dog walker, no lift to the gym, no way to find a helping hand, the impossibility of lugging babies and baby gear through the airport. Joining the gig economy often means solving real, everyday problems for people in your community. 

Here at Babierge our Trusted Partners range from age 25 – 75, including a constantly growing number of retired folks and couples. If you’re retired and looking for a side-gig that offers better-than-average gig economy earnings, helps you acquire news skills and make new friends, we invite you to sign up and join the Babierge community.

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Spring Break Hotspots – Local Tips from the Babierge Trusted Partners

Spring break with your little ones can’t be beat – whether you’re hitting the beach as the weather turns up, catching the last snows of the year, or hoping to watch the foliage return at your favorite national park, there’s family fun to be had! Not sure where to go? The Babierge Trusted Partners have got you covered with some great local activities, eats, and accommodations in their cities.

Don’t forget to rent your Spring Break baby gear early to receive a 10% discount.

 

Penelope Hayes – Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has been a perfect spring season family vacation destination for centuries because of the variety of activities it offers.

See: Now is the perfect time to hit the beach and avoid the crowds. There are so many other family fun things to do – boat rides to Fort Sumter, horse-carriage rides downtown, an excursion to the South Carolina Aquarium, a day at the Children’ Museum, and much more.

Eat: There are several great restaurants on Shem Creek that will be a hit with adults while keeping children entertained too. Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual setting while the kiddos are watching the return of shrimp boats and dolphins playing among the paddle boarders.

Sleep: The perfect places for families to stay are along the great wide beaches on the Isle Of Palms. There are many homes and condos available for rent, and it’s located only 12 miles from downtown Charleston.

Recommended Baby Gear: Carrying all of your beach gear is a breeze with an all-terrain folding cart.

 

Michelle Ross and Chrissy Gutierrez – Orlando & Daytona Beach, Florida

Orlando is the classic family destination, get it while it’s (not) hot!

See: Orlando offers all of the theme parks: Disney World, Universal Orlando, and it’s not 100 degrees outside yet in Spring, so it’s much more enjoyable. Epcot Center also has a International Garden Festival every Spring from February 28 through May 28!

Eat: Yellow Dog Eats is your one stop shop for family eats with American staples like BBQ, hamburgers, salads, tacos, and an affordable kids menu! Skip the food lines at Disney World and fill up at this restaurant, about a 20 minute drive from Disney world.

Stay: Any of the Disney hotels are pricey but REALLY awesome! For example the Jamba Lodge at Animal Kingdom actually has safari animals outside the resort so you can see them right from your room if you’re facing the right side – so cool! The Art of Animation is another great place for families with an epic pool for the kids.

Insider Tip: Bring a backpack full of your favorite snacks so you can keep bellies happy between meals. Food and snacks don’t have to be a big expense on a trip to Orlando.

Also: Buy tickets to the Typhoon Lagoon water park after 2pm, they’re discounted and it’s not as hot or crowded.

Recommended Baby Gear: A fun day at the beach requires a lot of bulky beach gear like pails, balls, shovels, and more. Rent a Beach Package instead of lugging all that gear! It includes an umbrella, beach towels, four personal fans, four beach chairs, a tote, and sunscreen for the family and baby as well.

 

Carolyn Pugh – Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola offers a perfect mix of relaxing beach life and engaging cultural history.

See: Visit the Naval Aviation Museum to see over 150 beautifully restored aircraft, one-of-a-kind flying machines, flight simulators, and a giant movie theatre to catch some footage of America’s fastest machines at work.

Eat: Peg Leg Pete’s is a must visit! Fresh seafood straight from the Atlantic as well as basic items like chicken tenders, steak, and pasta parmesan for those who prefer the cuisine of landlubbers.

Stay: Holiday Inn has a pirate ship & lazy river and Kids ages 19 and under stay for free when sharing their parents’ room. Up to four kids ages 12 and under eat free any time of the day in any Holiday Inn on-site restaurant.

Insider Tip: If you visit the National Aviation Museum on a Tuesday, you’ll see the Blue Angels practicing!

Recommended Baby Gear: A full-size crib! So many families thought they would be fine with a pack ‘n play, only to find out the hard way during their first night that babies sleep better in cribs, just like at home. A sturdy stroller is also a must-have for taking relaxing strolls along the island.

 

Stephanie Walsh – Sonoma County, California

Sun, wine, open spaces, and great food are all in store during a family trip to Sonoma and Napa counties.

Eat: Luma is the go-to spot for any occasion, special or not! A small restaurant tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in Petaluma, their staff is always friendly, the ambiance is comfortable, and the food is superb!

See: Did you know that Santa Rosa was the home of Charles M. Schulz? His legacy and cherished Peanuts Gang continue to be loved by new generations at the Charles M. Schulz Museum. Next to the museum is the Snoopy Ice Rink and Warm Puppy Cafe where you can cool off and grab some lunch. On the other side is the Children’s Museum of Sonoma which is a wonderful indoor and outdoor space for the kids to play.

Stay: El Dorado Hotel and Kitchen is right on the Sonoma Square and is the perfect place to stay to enjoy the area. Bonus you don’t even have to leave the property to enjoy a great meal; their Kitchen is a great spot for brunch.

Insider Tip: Wine country has become more family friendly and there are many wineries that have made a point to keep your entire family comfortable while mom and dad sit back and do a little tasting. My family’s favorite is Larson Family Vineyard because my daughters LOVE the goats out front and the pups that roam the property.

Recommended Baby Gear: If you are visiting the area in the Spring or Summer I suggest a jogging stroller and an outdoor blanket or pop-up shade structure to enjoy the many wineries and parks this area has to offer.

 

Mary Martin – Carlsbad, California

A relaxing beach town, Carlsbad is a perfect middle ground for families wanting to enjoy expeditions to both Los Angeles and San Diego.

Eat: Take a nice walk down the Oceanside pier to Ruby’s Diner. Enjoy a burger and milkshake and ocean views all around you. You might even spot some dolphins!

Stay: Consider staying at an Airbnb or VRBO in Carlsbad or Encinitas. Many rentals include bicycles or kayaks for your family to use and are located in prime locations near the beach.

See: If you’re wanting an all day adventure, Legoland Theme Park California has lots of fun to offer for families. There’s even a water park open in the summer months. If you’re looking for a more casual day, Moonlight State Beach offers picnic tables, a playground, volleyball courts, and beautiful scenery.

Insider Tip: Consider finding a place to stay within walking distance to the beach. It will be worth the couple extra dollars to not have to worry about parking and really maximize your stay.

Recommended Baby Gear: You’ll definitely want a Beach Package to keep your family safe and comfortable all day at the beach.

 

Judi Greenhill – Savannah, Georgia

Avoid the typical hot spots and check out Tybee Island, known as “Savannah’s Beach.”

Eat: The Crab Shack is not awesome because of their seafood feasts and great non-seafood options, but they also have exotic birds and an alligator pond to wow your kiddos.

Stay: Beachside Colony is Tybee Island’s only oceanfront resort, this all inclusive experience has different accommodations for your family’s needs.

See: The Tybee Lighthouse has been guiding mariners safe entrance into the Savannah river for over 270 years! Plus children five and under get in for free.

Insider Tip: Best beach for beachcombing is Mid-Island Beach. This is your best bet for finding seashells!

Recommended Baby Gear: Single or double BOB stroller works great on the beach!

 

Clara Trujillo – Aspen, Colorado

Come to Aspen in the early Spring to enjoy North America’s premier skiing spot, or watch the snow melt as Spring sets in.

Eat: Jimmy’s Aspen, never disappoints. Offering innovative, American cuisine and the best tequila selections.

Stay: Stay at the luxurious, world renowned, Little Nell, right at the base of Aspen Mountain.

See: Skiing and snowboarding, of course! The little ones always love dog sled tours at Krabloonik, Snowmass.

Insider Tip: Hit up Snowmass Mountain, Naked Lady run for the noon groom. Beautiful sunny, blue skies and undulating slopes make for a perfect ski day. If you’re looking for something more extreme, hike up to the top of the Highlands Bowl for the most epic ski/snowboard ride down you’ve ever had. (Experienced riders, only!)

Recommended Baby Gear: Snowy streets means that having a stroller that can cruise through the snow, ice, and slush is essential. Rent a BOB, Joovy or City Mini GT Stroller so you can enjoy your stroll through town.

 

Megan Clark – Charlotte, North Carolina

Eat: A unique, local favorite restaurant, enjoy locally sourced pizza at Pure Pizza, located in an old townhouse uptown – you will never tire of this pizza spot, voted Top Best Pizza in 50 States!

Stay: You got to stay at the Ritz Carlton Charlotte! In the heart of a beautiful, walkable, art-filled downtown.

See: US National Whitewater Center is known for whitewater rafting, canoeing & kayaking but they have so much more things to do to name a few: rappelling, rock climbing, hiking & biking trails, live entertainment, craft beers & delicious eats. A fantastic spot to hang out with the family in a relaxed atmosphere that is fun for all ages. Bring a blanket to relax on the lawn enjoying the sights and sounds of the water.

Recommended Baby Gear: The Kelty Backpack Kid Carrier makes moving around the city, parks, hiking trails more mobile & enjoyable.

Insider tip: Charlotte has an amazing “secret garden” that exists here called Wing Haven. It’s one of Charlotte’s best kept secrets & is an escape from urban life. Filled with winding brick trails, water features, sculptures, birds & flowers.

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Strollers, Car Seats, Cribs, Oh My! Lisa Brown – Kansas City, Kansas

Mom-of-all-trades Lisa Brown is a wife and at-home mom to two (soon to be three!) kiddos. Prior to having children, Lisa worked as a Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist serving children in Title 1 multicultural public-school environments. These days she strives to provide a variety of fun and educational experiences for her children, and they can frequently be found at the local children’s museum, the Kansas City zoo, library story times, gymnastics class, or at a local park. Ask you can tell, Lisa always has her hands full, but when she’s not parenting, she works as a Babierge Trusted Partner to provide wonderful vacation experiences to traveling families. Being a Babierge Trusted Partner has fit great in the nooks and crannies of her day, so she can focus on her family and still earn extra side income.

Funniest Delivery Experience: The funniest experience Lisa had was when she had to call a client from the Emergency Room about an order. She had planned to be home to receive a car seat from grandparents who had rented it for the weekend, but she ended up in the ER with a badly dislocated shoulder, and no cell phone reception. She had to use the ER landline to call the grandparents and re-arrange drop off. She wonders to this day what those grandparents were thinking when ER came up on their caller ID!

Biggest Surprise: What I’ve been most surprised to learn is how much time and organization it takes to keep track of the business side of things. Buying, cleaning, and delivering the gear is only one side of the coin. Figuring out taxes, revenue vs. profit, tracking expenses and mileage. My degree is in speech-pathology, not business, but throughout the course of becoming a TP, I’ve discovered that I can run my own business!

Trusted Partner’s Story in Her Own Words: After my oldest daughter (now 3 ½) was born there were a whirlwind of changes for our family in a short amount of time. Within 9 weeks, we had a baby, my husband completed his Master’s degree, I left my full-time job, we moved from the DC area back to my husband’s hometown of Kansas City, and my husband started a new job. Whew!

I quickly went to work finding ways to trim our budget without compromising our priorities-I figured that if I wasn’t making an income, I may as well find ways to save or even create income! One day a friend and fellow at-home mom read an article in Brit+Co and sent me a message “I was reading about side-hustles and thought of you. Have you seen Babierge? Looks like it’s not in KC yet. Such a good idea for a business”. As I read up on the company, I realized she was right, and that this was something I wanted to try out. I love baby gear and everyone knows it!

I love being a Babierge Trusted Partner because I can actually work with my kids! They’re with me all the time, so they’re in on all the Babierge fun, helping to move gear around and meeting wonderful customers. If I have a delivery in a different part of town, I try to make an outing of it! Once we went to the KU Museum of Natural History and saw dinosaur bones since we had a delivery at a hotel just down the street. That was something we wouldn’t have done otherwise since it was about a 40-minute drive. Usually we do something fun after deliveries, like a play date with someone who lives in that part of town, or we go out to Chick-Fil-A for ice cream or drive through Starbucks for a special treat! My kids are growing up so fast so I really enjoy how being a TP allows me to focus on my family while contributing financially to our household. It gives me an outlet for my professional skills without compromising my dedication to my family.

Lisa Brown is the perfect choice to take care of all your baby gear needs during a visit to Kansas City. Check out her gear selection at www.babierge.com/lisa208

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Babierge Above and Beyond Trusted Partner Award January, 2018 – Kaylee Tucker

 Any successful organization has “glue” – those people who are more than willing to sacrifice their time and effort to improve the lives of those around them. At Babierge these people are a shining light in our community, providing big smiles, advice, support, and opportunity to their team members.
Meet Kaylee Mae Tucker, the January 2018 Babierge Above and Beyond award winner. Kaylee was selected because her positive attitude and helpfulness within the Babierge Trusted Partner community make her the textbook definition of a “glue” person. She has referred and recruited several Trusted Partners to the Babierge platform and continues to do so, and also led the charge to have stylish Babierge branded shirts and jackets ordered, printed and shipped out to the Trusted Partner community. She does all this while being a contributing author to the Wenatchee Mom Blog too, writing about life and travels with a baby and her experiences as a Babierge Trusted Partner.

Kaylee’s customers rave about her flexibility and generosity too:

“…Kaylee was fantastic from start to finish. I contacted her with less than a week until our arrival, and she responded and had my rental booked in less than 24 hours. She asked questions that helped clarify the order, and the order itself was perfect! I even asked to add on two humidifiers last minute, and she made it happen. Everything was super clean and looked new and amazingly organized. My husband thought that renting a box of toys wasn’t going to be worth it, but it absolutely was! She put together a box that my toddler loved and kept him entertained for the whole week. Kaylee was so helpful throughout the process, extremely thoughtful, and I would recommend her to everyone!…”
In addition to all Kaylee has done for other Trusted Partners, she embodies the Babierge Core Values both when interacting with Customers and within our Community. She is an active contributor to Mastermind, sharing marketing ideas, tips and useful travel trends. Kaylee is someone we all love having on the team!

Rent baby gear from Kaylee so she can ensure your time in North Central Washington goes above and beyond too at https://www.babierge.com/kaylee802/