It all started when my friend Alice proposed that we create flowers out of baby clothing to give to the expectant mothers whose baby showers we were hosting. In addition to being gifts, we used them as decorative centerpieces for the events and we received numerous compliments. With her praise, encouragement, and need for more baby gift baskets, I became inspired to be more creative and the notion of an entrepreneurial venture slowly began to take form. {Thank you, Alice.}

Since I always envisioned having my own business, I was excited about doing everything myself. I enjoyed browsing and selecting supplies, researching ideas, and crafting a labor of love that others were proud to present to their friends. But as time went on, my list of things to do became overwhelming. It became obvious that doing it all on my own was not a sane option.

Gifts by Chris and Ro quickly became a family affair, monopolizing everyone’s time. My brother-in-law graciously traded sleep to slave over my product pictures and other design-related aspects, my husband minded the bills and neatly organized my supplies in disheveled piles, my sister helped me with anything and everything else that I didn't quite get to yet, and my mother made sure my kids were looked after. My 5 year daughter appointed herself the quality control expert and inspected every basket to make sure it looked “perfect, wonderful, great”. Even my 17-month old son contributed by handing me flowers to prod me along, before toddling off to play with his blocks.

It goes without saying that without their generous efforts, Gifts by Chris and Ro would still be just a dream. I sincerely thank you, my beloved family, for making it a reality.