From Dance Wear to Diversity: The Inspiring Evolution of Buttercup Children’s Boutique

Buttercup Children’s Boutique, a locally owned children's clothing store, is known for its unique products and the inspiring story behind its evolution. Founded 16 years ago primarily as dancewear shop, it has since transformed into a haven for children's clothing, specializing in sensory-friendly options. In September 2023, Carmen Roberts and her husband Brent took over the boutique. Nearing their first anniversary, they are committed to reimagining the store to provide a safe, inclusive shopping experience for children with diverse needs.

The couple's journey began with a personal challenge: as parents of two neurodivergent children, they struggled to find clothing that met their sons' sensory needs. Traditional clothing often proved uncomfortable for children with sensitivities. To address this, they started importing sensory-friendly clothing for their son from the U.S., which inspired them to expand the boutique’s offerings for all children with similar needs. Their mission is simple yet impactful: to provide high-quality, sensory-friendly clothing with a touch of style for every child.

Buttercups offers a wide range of items, from shoes and socks to dancewear, all carefully chosen to be comfortable and non-triggering for children with sensory sensitivities. Carmen and her team are dedicated to creating a safe, pressure-free environment where families can explore and find what works best for their children or grandchildren. The store is more than just a retail space; it’s a community where customers feel understood and supported.

Carmen’s dedication extends beyond selling clothes; she wants to improve the retail experience for children and families with sensory needs. By involving her own children, Sawyer (6) and Vivienne (4), both diagnosed with autism, in testing products, she ensures that every item is "tried and true." These experiences motivate her to continuously research and bring in brands that work well for children with autism and stand up to daily wear and tear.

Inclusivity is a core value at Buttercup Boutiques, not just for customers but also for employees. Carmen actively hires neurodivergent staff, recognizing the unique perspectives they bring and providing them with opportunities to learn and grow in a supportive environment. "It's nice to watch the staff grow," she says, "seeing the difference in confidence, learning, and becoming independent." The store offers a safe space for autistic employees to learn communication skills and adapt to new experiences.

Looking ahead, Carmen hopes to expand through franchising to reach a larger demographic and continue creating a judgment-free, understanding environment for families. "The world is not always kind to people who are seen as different," she reflects, "and as a mom, I want to make a difference. It's a no-brainer."

The journey has not been easy for Carmen and her family, but it has been worthwhile. Their involvement with the Pacific Autism Family Network brought them support and community when they needed it most. Their children, once non-verbal, are now thriving. Vivienne, once told she might never speak, now enjoys socializing with friends and family and is thriving as a growing child.

Buttercups goes beyond selling clothes; they are creating meaningful conversations through experiences and engagement with their customers. “Autism may be a diagnosis, but it does not define who you are.” Carmen explains. “We do not let the diagnosis define who our children are either. We focus on giving them as normal a life and experiences as possible while supporting their needs.” Her message is simple yet powerful: practice kindness, embrace openness, and nurture inclusion from an early age.

Buttercups is a testament to what can happen when passion, personal experience, and a desire to make a difference come together. It’s about more than just clothes; it’s about creating an inclusive, understanding space for everyone. Carmen reminds us that we must continually learn and push ourselves to be more inclusive. Through hiring practices, product selection, and customer interactions, Carmen and her team are committed to making the world a better, kinder place, one sensory-friendly piece of clothing at a time.