Hi, toddler friends!

As some of you may have noticed on our social media feed over the last week, we’re introducing Matilda the elephant. She is named after the amazing 19^th-century American woman’s rights reformer Matilda Joslyn Gage (and expect to hear more about Gage’s inspiring life as time goes on). Every week Matilda will act as our ambassador while we celebrate the people and places that make Denver so special.

“Made in Denver.” Why does that commitment matter?

It’s no accident that at Little Colorado we handcraft each and every piece of our wooden toddler furniture within view of the majestic Rocky Mountains. The privilege of living in such close proximity to our nation’s stunning natural architecture reinforces our commitment to American-made toddler and kids’ wooden furniture, even though most of our competitors now make their products in Asia, where manufacturing is easier and cheaper.

People: in Asia, factory employees often work long hours and in dangerous conditions. They are not paid a living wage and don’t enjoy the freedoms we do. We care about people, both employees and customers.

Places: manufacturers can operate more cheaply in China because they are allowed to pollute, and forests are not managed sustainably. We love Denver and want to protect its air and water quality—and to reduce our carbon footprint.

Products: companies who manufacture overseas can cut their prices because their products are inferior in design, and their materials are sometimes unsafe. You can be comfortable knowing that Little Colorado’s heirloom-quality wooden toddler furniture is non-toxic, sturdy, long lasting, and sustainable. All our designs are handcrafted with love.

We’re excited to shine a spotlight on some of our favorite Denver spots, week by week. We started where we live, in the Highland Square neighborhood, highlighting el Camino Community Tavern, the Highland Square Farmers’ Market, and Bug and Belle Bakery.

el Camino is our favorite neighborhood Mexican restaurant. We love that it is certified green and supports its awesome staff, all while donating a portion of its proceeds to local schools. Everyone feels like family there.

The Highland Square Farmers’ Market is a bustling, energetic Sunday event open from 9 AM to 1:00 PM, from June through September. From fresh vegetables, cheese, and butter, to handmade quiche, bread, and sweets, and to flowers, succulents, and dog treats—there is something for everyone.

Bug and Belle Bakery offers homemade sweets and savories to die for, including savory rolls, cookies, muffins, hand pies, sweet breads, mini cakes, and cinnamon rolls. We recently tried Erin’s green cheddar and fontina roll with a chocolate chip cookie. Amazing! We’ll be back for more!

Intrigued? This is just the start of our local adventure with Matilda: hop on board and join us!