Nestled on the border of Oakland and Berkeley in a bustling shopping district, Bird & Bean is an expertly curated children’s shop founded by Janel Andersen. After over a decade in the children’s apparel industry and growing her own successful brand, Nohi Kids, Janel set out to realize her dream of opening her very own brick & mortar.
“I had been looking for the right space and opportunity for years and the stars finally aligned to make this dream come true,” said Janel, a longtime Bay Area resident and mother of two. “After being in the industry for almost 15 years, I knew so many designers/brands that I adored and went well with my own brand aesthetic. Having this knowledge helped me to feel confident that I could curate a special shop. I also started this whole business doing street festivals and other local shopping events and totally loved the interaction with customers and the community. So, this shop is like going back to my street festival roots”
In the summer of 2016, Bird & Bean first opened its doors for Bay Area families and visitors, offering customers a convenient destination to buy high-quality clothing, gifts, and accessories from top brands. In addition to carrying their own collection, Bird & Bean (formerly Nohi Kids), the shop stocks Pink Chicken, Blueberry Hill, Egg, Quincy Mae, Meri Meri, Level, and Wild Wawa, to name a few. Sizing starts at newborn and goes up to size 12, with a retail price range of $20 to $90 for most items.
Named after Janel’s young children Margot and Cohen, nicknamed Bird and Bean, the cozy shop on College Avenue aims to be a one-stop shop for families seeking well-known brands as well as undiscovered independent labels handpicked by an industry veteran. Janel’s goal is to provide impeccable customer service and share her years of baby/kid product expertise with new and longtime customers.
Looking ahead to spring/summer 2020, Bird & Bean’s collection will introduce two brand new styles- lively new prints and a beautiful (but still fun, easy, washable, and wearable) tulle/tutu party dress, already a top seller for wholesale orders.
While many retail shops come and go, Bird & Bean has their roots firmly planted in their community, with in-store events and a focus on fostering relationships. Bird & Bean is located in the heart of the Rockridge and Elmwood shopping districts at 3212 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA. To learn more, please visit www.birdandbeanshop.com.