Frustrated at the lack of options for good quality baby sleepwear and toddler pyjamas, Kiwi mum Madison Bate set out to create her own collection, sharing her passion for natural, comfortable clothing with other families. At Cosy Boutique, they specialise in soft organic sleepwear and essentials for babies and toddlers, whilst being dedicated to providing families with a delightful shopping experience. They carefully craft their collections to ensure that each piece is not only stylish but also made with love and attention to detail. They believe that children deserve to be dressed in nature’s best, in clothing that allows their beautiful, delicate skin to breathe. Their priority is to offer cosy and comfortable clothing that both parents and children will adore. Here Madison talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the passion behind her business, the challenges she has faced along the way, and her hopes and dreams for the future.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
I noticed a lack of options when it came to baby sleepwear and toddler pyjamas: the choices were either too expensive, poorly made, or simply unappealing. I found this especially true as a boy mum (if I see one more dinosaur or tractor print…!) and when I did stumble upon something I liked, it always seemed to be out of stock! This frustration led me to realise that there was a need for something better. I wanted to create a collection that combines pastel colour palettes with practical styles, both in sleepwear and everyday essentials.
Additionally, the increased use of plastic derivatives like polyester in children’s wear (and apparel in general) saddens me. I am passionate about the importance of wearing natural, breathable materials, especially for our littlest ones. Our children deserve to be dressed in nature’s best, allowing their delicate skin to breathe and thrive.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
Flashback to May 2023 – I was a stay-at-home mum and working from home in a (very) part-time position. We had moved from suburban Auckland to rural Northland little over a year earlier with our 4-month-old at the time, in search for a simpler way of life, closer to nature. But my part-time job was coming to an end, so I was thinking about what I could do next. My background was service-based marketing, but I have loved working with physical product in recent years.
I wanted to stay at home with my son but have a flexible job that works around us and our lifestyle – not the other way around. I wanted to create something I was really passionate about and that wouldn’t really feel like work. So, with my husband cheering me on, I launched the business in November 2023!
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
I searched for and found a supplier who works with organic clothing and has an ethical and sustainable production process from concept to completion. They use organic cotton that is certified with the Global Organic Textile Standard. (GOTS). They work with small boutiques just like me, so they value quality over quantity. The world of apparel manufacturing is new to me so it’s been amazing working with a team who have held my hand through the process!
