Our Story

See our feature in the Natural Parent Magazine!

 

Shiv & Teddy

 

In 2022, during one of my late-night pregnancy scrolls through Instagram, I discovered Bub & Bear and was immediately captivated by their products. I ordered nearly everything on the site and was delighted when the items arrived. The products were beautifully soft, made from 100% breathable cotton, easy to wash, and featured adorable designs on neutral white cloth – a signature detail of Bub & Bear. When my baby Teddy was born, these products quickly became a staple in our household.

Three months later, the opportunity to take over Bub & Bear arose. My love for the products as a customer, the connection to my son's name, and the rapport I developed with Naina, the previous owner, made the decision clear. Despite Teddy being very young and my new role as a mother, the transition was swift, completed within 10 days, and felt absolutely right.

By day, I teach financial literacy and commerce to high school students, a fulfilling job that I am passionate about. Owning a business during my maternity leave was unexpected, but it has been an exciting challenge. It has allowed me to apply the principles I teach my students to myself: determination, seizing opportunities, passion for one’s work, and giving back to the community.

Teddy was born early via emergency caesarean due to placenta complications and my Type-2 diabetes. His first days in the NICU at Auckland Hospital were incredibly challenging for us. The dedication and care from his doctors and nurses were extraordinary, and today, Teddy is a thriving toddler. This experience underscored the importance of quality hospital resources and comfort. As part of the Bub & Bear community, we continue to donate a portion of our proceeds to Starship to support other families during such difficult times.

My goal with Bub & Bear is to help parents provide the best for their children with high-quality and affordable baby products. As Teddy and I grow and our needs evolve, so will Bub & Bear. I am grateful for our wonderful community of parents and look forward to growing together on this journey with our little ones.

Bear hugs,  

Shiv & Teddy.

 

 

 

 How Bub & Bear started – Naina’s story

Being a first-time mum, I wanted to do everything right, and give my baby the best I could.

I however had never really been around any other babies and didn't know anything about them! 

I had seen photos of new-born babies wrapped like burritos and thought they looked cute, but didn't give it much thought.

During her visit, my mother brought me a basket of organic baby products. All natural and time-tested. 

I was hooked.

The organic cotton muslin products were beautiful, soft and breathable.

I felt a sense of pride when I wrapped my baby in one of the swaddle sheets.

She was cosy and comfortable - and she looked adorable!

After a bath, I would pat her dry with a thicker muslin washcloth.

After a feed when she wouldn't burp, I would throw one of the burp cloths over my shoulder and walk up and down my living room, gently patting her, till I heard that melodious sound (its crazy how a burp becomes music to our ears - no one enjoys trapped gas!)

I would throw one of the sheets on to the carpet when it was tummy time or play time or story time or look-at-yourself-in-the-mirror time or try-sitting-or-standing-with-assistance time.

When she fell asleep on me, I would drape the sheet on her.

When we went out for a walk with her in the stroller, and the sun was in her eyes, I used it to protect her.

When we were out and I needed to nurse, but felt insecure, I used it to protect myself.

I am absolutely passionate about my products and know the value they bring to a mama or papa, and their bub.

If you're here looking for muslin swaddle sheets for your baby - you're doing an amazing job mama and papa. Lucky baby!

If you are here to buy something special for a mama and baby - how amazing are you!

 

I hope you enjoy these products as much as I do <3

 Naina