Nest Maternity and Baby store has gained higher visibility and attracted more customers since relocating to a popular spot on Reid Street.

It is just under a year since the store moved from the corner of Dundonald Street and Cedar Avenue, to the heart of Hamilton.

Owner Lara Leite is very pleased with the move. The shop has improved access for customers, and an upstairs area which means the retail area is now about three times greater than before.

“It was a great opportunity,” said Ms Leite, explaining the store is now able to give a better show to its products.

“It has helped us, being more central. The other store had two steps that could prove tricky if a customer had a stroller.

“The parking is easier here, even though we’re on Reid Street. And it is convenient for shoppers to pop by at lunchtime and on Saturdays. There is also much more space so people can walk around.”

The shop is at 44 Reid Street, next door to Butterfield Bank.

Ms Leite said the shop strived to keep prices competitive when compared with what is available overseas, thereby encouraging customers to buy locally without the hassles associated with overseas purchasing.

Customer service is also key for Nest, with staff interacting with shoppers and getting to know about their lifestyles so they can direct them to the most suitable items that will meet their needs.

The original Nest store opened for business three years ago. The idea grew from Ms Leite’s experiences as a new mom.

“When I was having my first child, the [product] brands I wanted were not available on the island, so I brought them in.” Friends began asking where they could get the same products, which led Ms Leite to open Nest.

The store started out with a 50-50 split between maternity items and baby items, although it now leans more towards the baby side of things, targeting parents with babies and toddlers up to the age of three.

Products range from clothing to furniture, baby gear accessories to strollers and reclining infant car seats.

“Most of the brands are exclusive to our store. And we make sure that all the staff are knowledgeable on the products.”

Ms Leite said the baby products are designed to make “mom’s life easier, and family life easier”.

She has a strong interest in maternity and baby products and stays up to date with new trends and merchandise through trade shows and by researching forums and blogs.

Ms Leite is glad that she made the decision to open Nest and seized the opportunity to relocate into a central Hamilton position. She thrives on assisting other new mothers to find what they need, and giving them assistance.

“It has been a positive experience, and I can probably tell you the names of all our customers and their children’s names. I do enjoy the business.”

Nest has a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/nestbermuda