Robin Godwin: Aww Baby Organics Opens on Light Street in Federal Hill

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Aww Baby Organics Opens on Light Street in Federal Hill

Federal Hill has a new store for babies as Aww BABY Organics opened last weekend at 1123 Light St. at the former home of Her Heelz. Owner Marsha Barracato is leasing the 1,500 sq. ft. space with a 900 sq. ft. showroom for her brand new business.

All products sold by Aww BABY Organics have been thoroughly researched by Barracato to ensure they are non-toxic and flame retardant-free baby gear and clothing. Brand names at the store include Kate Quinn, Finn+Emma, Moby, Boba, Penguin, L’ovedbaby, Green Toys, and Nuna.

Aww BABY Organics will sell organic baby clothing, baby carriers, Oeko-Tex certified strollers, bouncers, high chairs, PVC lead-free toys, and other infant items. Barracato is currently researching a mattress brand to offer at Aww BABY Organics.

Barracato, who has a background in real estate, told SouthBMore.com the idea for her store originated after reading tragic stories about babies dying due to chemicals and about materials that are banned in other countries, but not in the United States. “We have to protect ourselves and I wanted to provide good products for other parents and their kids,” she said.

Barracato grew up in South Baltimore and once lived a block from the new store. When researching spaces around the Baltimore area for her first store, she knew South Baltimore would be the best place to focus her search after meeting young families during a trip to Federal Hill Park. “Every time I drive through the area, I see so many kids and strollers,” she said.

Barracato spent about a month looking at different spaces in the area and was happy to find a turn-key space on Light St. She performed some light cosmetic repairs to the interior and exterior of the space. She described the foot traffic in Federal Hill as “awesome.”

Aww BABY Organics will employ a small staff. It will be open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 7pm, Saturday from 11am to 6pm, and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. Aww BABY Organics will host its grand opening on September 24th and 25th with gift certificate giveaways and a face painter on Saturday from 11am to 1pm.