SAGE Babes + Tots: A Beautiful Boutique for Parenthood

There’s something really special about businesses that are born from real life experiences. Particularly, from parenthood…the sleepless nights, the milestone moments, the long days, the tiny socks, the overflowing diaper bags, and the indescribable joy that comes with raising little ones (IYKYK). As a mom myself, that’s exactly what makes SAGE Babes + Tots feel so relatable.

Founded by Angela Barth—or “Ang,” as most know her—SAGE Babes + Tots is a thoughtfully curated boutique for babies, toddlers, and the people who love them most. From cozy clothing and practical essentials to meaningful gifts and beautifully assembled baby shower baskets, every piece inside the shop is chosen with real families in mind. And while the products are adorable (they truly are), what stands out most is the heart behind the business.

For Ang, SAGE is much more than a boutique. It’s the result of a dream over a decade in the making, shaped by her own experience as a mother to two young children and inspired by the realities of everyday family life. What began as an idea years ago finally came to life in 2024 after motherhood gave her a new perspective on what parents truly need: products that are beautiful, practical, comforting, and designed for real life. Today, her cozy pop-up inside Wild Iris Home in Avon, Ohio has become a go-to spot for thoughtfully curated baby and toddler finds, heartfelt gifts, and a shopping experience that feels personal from start to finish.

As a mom and female entrepreneur, I love getting to know the women behind some of the local businesses that make our community so special. After first meeting Ang years ago, and seeing her navigate her own career and parenting journeys, it was easy to see that SAGE was created from real experience, genuine care, and a deep understanding of family life. We asked her to go “behind the design” of SAGE Babes + Tots and share more about the inspiration behind the boutique, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and how motherhood ultimately gave her the final push to bring the business to life.

"What Inspired You to Start Your Business?"

I had been dreaming of opening a boutique for over a decade, I even looked at a few spaces in 2021 – but, something didn’t feel right. Subconsciously I knew I needed to wait, even though I know there’s never the “perfect time” to make a move as big as this. But, the right time did present itself in the summer of 2024. Becoming a parent myself was definitely the final push + motivation I needed! Opening the shop right after my youngest turned one year old was wild, but SAGE is basically my third child.

"Why is Wild Iris Home in Avon the perfect home for your pop up shop?"

Opening a shop within Wild Iris Home has been a dream! When I met the owners, Sheri and Ashley, we immediately connected and collaboration was seamless. Fortunately, we have similar aesthetics, and the vibes were just right. It’s an honor to have a cozy little nook within their beautiful store.

Learn more about Wild Iris Home and their unique home decor experience on our “behind the design” feature of them here!

"Why is it important to have women-led businesses in our community?"

Diversity of all types is so important in business…and in life! There is a special magic when women connect for collaboration reaching for a common goal – and I love to be part of it.

"What are the most rewarding aspect(s) of being an entrepreneur? What’s the most challenging aspect?"

I find that the best parts of entrepreneurship are also the most challenging:

• It’s great not having a set schedule – in my head, SAGE was supposed to be side-gig, something fun while my kids take naps. But, now my kids don’t take naps, and I find myself awake crazy hours working to meet the demand – which is a great thing, I’m actually quite thankful for those long nights. They offer reassurance that SAGE is meeting a need for families in our community.

• Owning your own business means there is not a limit to what you can earn…exciting, right?! Also, scary, because there is no minimum – there is no salary as a security blanket to rely on. 

• I’ve never really had an “issue” with a boss in my career, but the thought of “no boss” was sure fun. That is, fun until I turned around to ask someone a question…and no one answered! It’s fun to be the boss, but not having a team is challenging. I love bouncing ideas around with fellow entrepreneurs, it helps fill the void of not having a team at SAGE.

"Who are Your Role Model(s)?"

My daughter! Filomena does everything her way, making her own decisions – this includes when and how she came into this world. She arrived early at 28 weeks and has not stopped running the show since. Her confidence, independence, and pride in a job well brings a smile to everyone’s face she encounters.

"How Do You Relax or Unwind at The End of the Day?"

Reruns of Million Dollar Listing with my husband…it’s the perfect background while I (attempt to) wrap up any loose ends from the day and plan tomorrow.

"What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming an entrepreneur or starting their own business?"

A support system of fellow business owners is key! Get to know other entrepreneurs, they don’t need to be in your market – just other people who have experience with what you are going through to chat and touch base with regularly.

"What is Your Favorite Quote?"

“The way you make people feel is your reputation.” - Eugene Gess Man

Get In Touch

SAGE Babes + Tots is located in Wild Iris Home in Avon, Ohio. Visit SAGE's website to learn more or follow them on Instagram.

All images above courtesy of June & Holly Photography

Behind the Design: CNC Home & Design

At CNC Home & Design, we create timeless, family-friendly interiors for busy professionals and families throughout the Cleveland area. Known for our warm, elevated aesthetic and detail-driven approach, we specialize in full-service interior design for remodels, new construction homes, and thoughtfully curated furnishings.

Our personalized design process is built to simplify complex projects while creating homes that feel beautiful, functional, and deeply personal to the people living in them. From space planning and finish selections to furnishings and final styling, every detail is thoughtfully considered to create a home that feels cohesive, welcoming, and designed for real life.

Discover the experience of working with a full-service interior designer who values quality, comfort, and timeless design—and let us help you create a home that feels as good as it looks.

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