Locally-owned children’s boutique, Southern Children, has been in business for over 34 years!

Southern Children first opened its doors February 20, 1989, and owner and operator, Susan Broom has been there every step of the way!

For 26 years, the store was located in Spring Valley Commons shopping center on Two Notch Road. However, eight years ago, Southern Children moved from its Two Notch Road location to the Forest Park Shopping Center in Forest Acres on Forest Drive.

Variety is Key

Southern Children offers a large selection of traditional and classic clothing and shoes for girls and boys. Broom says they pride themselves on their “value, selection and quality” of inventory. The store offers an extensive range of sizing ranging from preemies and infants to girl’s size 16 and boy’s sizes 12-14. 

Carrying popular children’s clothing brands such as Feltman Brothers, Florence Eiseman, PRODOH, Bailey Boys and Zuccini Kids, you’re sure to find something that fits everyone’s style and budget.

And don’t forget the shoes! Aside from their large assortment of children’s clothing, Southern Children also carries quite a variety of shoe brands. From Cienta, Keds, to L’Amour, Robeez and Sun-San shoe brands, you’re sure to not leave their store empty-handed!

To Market, To Market

Always looking to keep inventory trends current, Southern Children is consistently refreshing and revamping their store’s offerings. Broom says that they have new and special lines of clothing that are always sought after at the children’s fashion markets each season. 

Come SALE Away

To keep up with an ever-changing inventory, sales are a must to keep up with the store’s seasonal changes. Sales are offered on the Southern Children website, as well as in-store. 

“We have two, long rolling racks that are filled with marked-down inventory on a permanent basis, ” explains Broom.

The sale racks are currently marked at 50% off. And Broom reveals that merchandise is added to these sale racks frequently.

In addition to clothing sales, Southern Children also devotes a table just to marked-down shoes!

“We have a table filled with shoes that are 30% off on a permanent basis,” says Broom.

“Shoes are additionally reguarly added to the sale table. We bring in new styles and brands of shoes every season, while discounting others,” she adds.

Special Promotions

Southern Children loves to be extra! Extra-special promotions, that is. They offer everything from photography and silhouette profiles to character experiences. Broom states that in the past, they have been fortunate to have multiple photography offerings from various photographers and silhouette cuttings by Lena Bengtson.

She mentions they’ve also had character visits from Barney (the purple dinosaur), the Easter Bunny, and even the B106.7 radio station Bumble Bee mascot at their store. She says they have active plans to continue to do more special offerings in the future!

Happy Customer, Happy Store

Broom says what she loves most about owning a children’s boutique is “the friends and relationships.” 

 “We love building bonds with customers and our sales representatives.”

Needless to say, Broom notes that “customer service is a top priority.”

A Family Affair

Southern Children now has multiple generations as current shoppers. Broom shares that, “several of the store’s original customers are grandmothers now buying for their grandchildren.”  

“We often recognize some of the individuals who were once the children we clothed, now buying for their own children,” she declares.

A Dream Come True

Southern Children first began as a long-realized childhood dream of Susan Broom’s. She shares that she “has wanted to have a retail establishment since she was 12 years old when her mother would take her shopping in specialty stores.”

In order to make that dream a reality, however, Broom explains she worked for over nine years in various retail establishments to gain the necessary experience. She then decided to further her education in Fashion Merchandising. Ultimately earning two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Columbia College, in both Elementary Education and Religion, she was now ready to make her dream a reality.

She says her education was necessary in order to “learn and prevent failure as an entrepreneur.” And as they say, the rest is history!

The Future

Southern Children currently has a website, a Facebook page, and an Instagram account. They have also advertised in countless newspapers, magazines, and online publications, as well as on billboards and radio. But Broom is always looking ahead. She explains that the store is considering creating another website in the near future. Always growing, Broome adds that Southern Children has additionally hired more employees in 2023.

Having it All

When I asked what would she like people to take away from visiting Southern Children, Broom couldn’t choose just one thing. She says proudly, “We pride ourselves on customer service, building bonds and relationships with customers, an enjoyable and happy shopping experience for customers, the largest selection of children’s clothing, shoes, bonnets and hats, hairbows, socks and tights, jewelry, lovies, and stuffed animals in the state, as a children’s specialty boutique.” 

“Most importantly, we would like for customers to know we appreciate the opportunity to be of service to them and that they truly matter to the operation of Southern Children. We could not survive without their patronage, needless to say,” Broom says in closing.

Be sure to give Southern Children the opportunity, and shop locally in this well-known Columbia establishment for all your children’s clothing, shoes, and accessories!
Southern Children
4711-13 Forest Drive
Columbia, SC 29206

Love shopping local for kids?

Here are 6 Locally-owned Children’s Stores in Columbia, SC

Tootsies Children’s Shoes has been Columbia-community staple for over 30 years. First opening its doors in 1987, Tootsies has been specializing in fitting children for their first pair of shoes for generations.

They Have it All: Tootsies Columbia SC

If you’re looking for a place to get your toddler’s first “walkers,” or dress shoes for your school-aged child, Tootsies has you covered. In fact, they have an exceptionally large inventory, ranging from infants all the way up to youth sizes 6-7.

Tootsies, known for their wide range of sizes and a vast selection of brands, rivals any competitor. Carrying brands such as Stride Rite, Native, Footmates, L’Amour, Sperry, Birkenstock, and Hunter, there’s something for everyone!

A Shoe for Every Season

Tootsies isn’t just a shop for special occasions, however. Autumn Harper, Tootsies’ owner, insists, “You want kids playing in their shoes. They’re meant to be worn.”

Tootsies is a shoe store for every day and for every season…and every occasion in between. Whether it’s for a daily-wear sneaker, formal loafer, rain boot, cowboy boot, or a cozy pair of Uggs, their shoes are intended to be lived-in.

In a League of Their Own

Tootsies has its own special little niche, unlike other children’s stores, explains Harper. Exclusively dealing in shoes only (*with the exception of accessories like socks and hair ribbons) is what really sets it apart from every other children’s store. In fact, Tootsies is the only locally-owned children’s shoe store in Columbia!

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Located in the Shoppes of Forest Village, in the heart of Forest Acres, Tootsies is the neighbor everybody knows by name. 

“Everyone knows Tootsies…it’s always been around,” says Harper. 

Full-Circle: 30 Years of Tootsies

Being a part of the Columbia business community for over three decades, many of Tootsies’ customers are not only repeat customers but multi-generational, repeat customers. Mothers that once brought their children to Tootsies to be fitted for their first pair of Stride-Rites are now shopping for their grandchildren to be fitted for their first pair as well. 

“Our customers grow up with us,” says Harper. 

“The fun side of being in this business is the relationships and friendships you build. You see these little people grow up,” she muses. 

Unforgettable

And some customers’ relationships are so strong that they continue despite a move across state, or even cross-country!

Harper says, “People move away, but they still call us about shoes!”

“We still have customers that call us from Seattle, Washington; California, and Texas just to name a few,” says Harper. 

On the Record

Tootsies keeps meticulous records of all your child’s shoe sizes, as well as all of your purchases. They keep track of your children’s foot growth, so you don’t have to! 

Buy More, Save More

A perk of purchasing shoes from Tootsies is earning points. Because ultimately, the more you spend, the more you save. 

Speaking of savings, Harper adds, “We have a 50% off section sale that’s ongoing.”

Harper also mentions that periodically, they do special occasion sales throughout the year. Check out Tootsies’ social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest up-to-date information on the store’s most recent inventory, events, and sales!

The Future

Harper explains that “getting Tootsies’ online shop up and running, and utilizing that platform to gain more of a presence,” is their largest goal in expansion. She confirmed that the “online space,” (online stores) is, by far, their biggest competitor. 

And speaking of expansion, Tootsies notably opened their second location in Greenville over two years ago. Should you find yourself in the Greenville area, be sure to pay a visit to Tootsies at 1803 Augusta St. Greenville, SC 29605! 

That Legendary Slide

In close, Harper describes Tootsies as a “special place.”  

And if you’ve been to Tootsies and witnessed your child go down that “legendary” in-store slide while you’ve shopped, then, you too, know Tootsies is a special place indeed. Run, don’t walk to check out Tootsies!

4517 Forest Drive, Columbia

Looking for more locally-owned children’s shops?

Check out this list of 6 Fabulous Locally-Owned Shops for Children.

Have you shopped at Enchanted Closet for children? The Enchanted Closet, Irmo’s locally-owned children’s clothing boutique, has been around since 2007. Conveniently located in the Murraywood Shopping Centre, it has been owned and operated by Allison Beck for over 17 years! 

A Southern Classic: Enchanted Closet Irmo, SC

If you’re searching for traditional, classic, and smocked children’s wardrobe staples, look no further! Enchanted Closet carries both boy’s and girls’ clothing, in a large array of sizes. Additionally, the Enchanted Closet boasts baby gifts and any and all children’s accessories!

A Cut Above the Rest

Enchanted Closet is unlike other children’s clothing stores, especially the big box and chain stores. According to Beck, what sets Enchanted Closet apart is its “specialty and curated collection” of clothing and accessories.”  

“It’s different from anything you could expect to find in a big box store,” says Beck.

Carrying brands such as The Beaufort Bonnet Company, Posh Peanut, Trotter Street Kids, and Saltwater Boys Company in their store, you’re not likely to find all of these brands just anywhere, especially in a department store.

Unique In-Store Experiences

Something else that makes the Enchanted Closet unique, is its in-store experience offerings. Featuring momentous events such as artist Donna McMahon’s pastel portrait sessions and third-generation silhouette artist Clay Rice’s profile silhouettes, you’re sure to leave the store with an extraordinary keepsake…or two!

Additionally, each year the store offers traditional seasonal offerings like Santa Claus and Easter Bunny visits and photo sessions. And back-to-school photography sessions has also become new tradition!

Seasonal Sales

Savings, savings, savings! If you love sales, then you’re in luck, because Beck says her boutique offers special semi-annual sales in both the fall and spring! And periodically, a sidewalk sale will even pop-up! So keep your eyes and ears peeled so you don’t miss out on some incredible deals!

Steadfast Customers

Return customers are the heart of the business. The Enchanted Closet is fortunate to have an extremely loyal customer base that Beck says, she “couldn’t be more thankful for.”

“We couldn’t do what we do without the wonderful members of our community,” Beck confesses. “It has been so rewarding seeing the little ones grow up, and seeing them in their cute outfits from Enchanted Closet,” she gushes.

Mother Knows Best

When asked what she would like people to take away from visiting her store, Beck replies, “My mother instilled in me the importance of customer service at a young age and that has always stuck with me.”

“Everyone that comes through our door is greeted with a friendly hello and a smile,” declares Beck.

So next time you’re in the Irmo area, stop into small business, Enchanted Closet, and be prepared to be greeted with, not only a smile, but also a great selection of children’s clothing and accessories!

Looking for more locally-owned children’s shops?

Check out this list of 6 Fabulous Locally-Owned Shops for Children.

Ready to do a little shopping for kids in Columbia, SC? With a bevy of online shops at the stroke of our fingertips at anytime, anywhere, we sometimes need to be reminded that there are a variety of brick-and-mortar stores right in our own backyard and they go beyond typical department stores and shopping districts. Locally-owned shops offer variety and a personal touch.

In fact, Columbia is booming with a large variation of locally-owned children’s stores that will surely satisfy even the most fastidious shopper. From toys to shoes, to classic and even modern clothing, there’s something for everyone, and a little retail therapy…just around the corner.

Be Beep A Toy Shop 

Locally-owned and specialty toy store, Be Beep Toys, has been a Columbia staple since 1986. Offering brands like Lego, Playmobil, Tonies, and Jellycat, Be Beep has all your toy needs covered. Additionally, they conveniently offer complimentary gift wrapping, personal shopping, as well as call-ahead service!

4525 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206
803.787.5772
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm, Sunday – Closed
Be Beep Toys Website

Duck Duck Goose

Duck Duck Goose children’s boutique offers a wide variety of classic and hand-smocked clothing and accessories for boys and girls, as well as monogramming options and a gift registry. The store also offers free local deliveries for customers who live within a five-mile radius of the store!

2800 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205
803.451.0014
Monday – Friday 10 am – 5:30 pm, Saturday 10 am – 3 pm, Sunday – Closed 

4525-C Forest Drive, Columbia, SC 29206
Monday – Friday 10 am – 5:30 pm, Saturday 10 am – 3 pm, Sunday – Closed
Duck Duck Goose Website

Enchanted Closet

Enchanted Closet children’s boutique has been an Irmo-area fixture for over 17 years! Specializing in classic southern and smocked children’s clothing, as well as baby gifts and accessories, it has everything you’re looking for. Enchanted Closet also features specialty events throughout the year, such as pastel portraits and silhouette profiles, as well as seasonal events with Santa and the Easter Bunny!

Want to learn more about Enchanted Closet?
Here’s our Kidding Around article all about Enchanted Closet.

7001 St. Andrews Road #A10 Irmo, SC 29212
803.732.1984
Monday – Closed, Tuesday – Saturday 10:30 am – 5:30 pm, Sunday – Closed
*Website coming soon

Marigold Modern Kids

Marigold Modern is a locally-owned children’s store that celebrates sustainable craftsmanship and clothing, offering both modern and traditional brands of clothing, toys, and accessories. If you’re looking for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces, Marigold Modern is your one-stop shop for all your clothing and gift-giving needs!

2732 Devine Street, Suite D Columbia, SC 29205
803.931.3995
Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm, Saturday 10 am – 4 pm, Sunday – Closed
Modern Marigold Website

Southern Children

Southern Children clothing store has been dressing Columbia-area kids for over 34 years! Located in Forest Acres, Southern Children offers traditional clothing and shoes for both girls and boys. From preemies and infants all the way to girls and boys size 16, this locally-owned store has every stage of life covered with its large and highly-curated inventory.

See our article on Southern Children

4711 Forest Drive #13 Columbia, SC 29206
803.736.2753
Monday – Friday 10 am – 5:30 pm, Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday – Closed 
Southern Children Website

Tootsies Children’s Shoes 

Tooties Children’s Shoes has been a permanent fixture in the Columbia community for over 30 years! Tootises has been fitting babies for their first pair of shoes for generations. Offering brands such as Stride Rite, Native, Footmates, L’Amour, Sperry, See Kai Run and Hunter, this store is the one-stop shop for all of your child’s shoe needs.

From walking shoes to sandals, to formal and athletic, Tootsies has your little one covered for all occasions!

Do you want to know more? We have a full Kidding Around article on Tootsies Children’s Shoes.

4517 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206
803.738.1873
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday – Closed
Tootsies Children’s Shoes Website

Enjoy some local shopping, Columbia SC!

Where is your favorite store to visit when you’re shopping in Columbia, South Carolina for children?