Caring for Kootenay kids

This family-oriented entrepreneur is taking in the Kootenay lifestyle with unbridled enthusiasm

by Danielle Cameron — September 14, 2014

Judy Banfield, owner of Mountain Baby. — Photo courtesy Judy Banfield

Nelson resident Judy Banfield created a baby supply and toy store in 1994, originally calling it Comfort and Joy. Now known as Mountain Baby, the business has taken off, and is now a hot spot for parents to find all the items they need for their little ones. Banfield took a few minutes out of her busy schedule to tell us a bit about herself and her company.

What inspired you to create Mountain Baby?

I have been involved with babies and young children my whole adult life. I have a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education, I am an Internationally Certified Lactation Consultant (breastfeeding counsellor), have taught young children for years, worked in post partum programs for years and taught early childhood education at the college level for years. Babies, young children and families are my passion. When Mountain Baby was started in 1994 (as Comfort and Joy), I had a home-based business selling baby carriers and breast pumps and developmentally sound toys (they were not available anywhere in the Kootenays.) I had been home with my children, who were 10 and 12, and starting a real store seemed like a logical way to move back into the work force.

What are your favourite activities outside of work?

I cross-country ski, hike,canoe, just started stand-up paddleboarding, sing in a choir, take piano lessons, do volunteer breastfeeding support, write a parenting blog (and) go to lots of concerts.

What's the best part of working and living in the Kootenays?

This place is magical. Even after living here for 24 years I am still amazed every day at how beautiful this area is. The people here are wonderful. I love the people I work with at Mountain Baby and I love my customers, and I love my friends. I love walking down the street and saying hi to so many people. This is a very family-friendly community and parents care deeply about their children. It truly warms my heart to see children who are so loved. I feel very blessed to live here.

What aspect of running a business has surprised you the most, and why?

When I started Mountain Baby I knew absolutely nothing about running a retail business. I had worked only in the public sector. I was absolutely shocked at how much work is needed to keep a retail business alive and well. The retail world has changed dramatically since I started and it's absolutely essential to keep on top of the changes. You can never relax. Now it's essential to have a website, to maintain a Facebook page, a Twitter account, send out emails, write blogs - over and above just running the business. It's hard to take days off, and even when you do, you're constantly thinking about the business. I had very challenging jobs before, but this is by far the most challenging. The most fun is being on the floor and interacting with adults, babies and little kids.