SLIDESHOW: Moms Flock to Blossom Beanstalk Grand Opening

, a local nonprofit organization that provides support and resources for new and expecting parents, celebrated the grand opening of its new store, Blossom Beanstalk, on Monday.

On hand to cut the ribbon was Debra van Duynhoven, sustainability coordinator for the City of Palo Alto, and Blossom Birth's original founder, Anne Hurty. Hurty founded the resource center 12 years ago when she noticed a lack of support services for new parents in the area.

"Women need a village," she said as a nod to the old saying, "It takes a village to raise a child."

In addition to selling gently-used clothing for boys and girls, newborn to 3 years old, Blossom Beanstalk has also partnered with two local companies, Tiny Tots diaper service and The Playstore, who are selling some of their brand-new products in the store as well, such as baby carriers, bottles and sippy cups, blankets, hats and more. Owners of both companies were also on hand for the celebration.

Moms from all over the South Bay and Peninsula flocked to Monday's grand opening celebration, which featured door prizes, parenting workshops and refreshments, as well as great shopping.

Moms such as Sarah Schrader of Sunnyvale, who shopped while carrying her daughter, Katie, 6 months, on her chest, said they were grateful to have a store like Blossom Beanstalk open up.

"Katie finally made it into the next size up, so I'm trying to stock up. I think this store is a great idea," she said of what she was shopping for. "It's nice to be able to find good second-hand clothes for children, there's not much in the area."

Blossom Beanstalk is located inside Blossom Birth at 299 S. California Ave., Ste. 120, in Palo Alto. The store is currently open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Blossom Birth executive director Mora Oomen said they soon hope to be able to have the store open on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings as well.

For more information, visit www.blossombirth.org.