SINCE launching the first West Sussex Bump, Baby and Toddler Show, in February 2017, it has grown and so has the network of businesses engaging with its organiser.

With a young family, creator Sarah O’Connell appreciated first hand the importance of investing time in researching suppliers before committing to purchases for herself during pregnancy and when her twin girls were born.

She was increasingly aware of the speed of time flying by and how enjoying family time out was important for them to relax and enjoy special moments together.

Sarah said: “With so much information, choice and many opportunities for local families to embrace, ‘the show was a no brainer.

“Parenting can be tiring, exciting, overwhelming and a joy.

“I wanted to offer families an occasion that would capture a moment in time where families could take time out and meet the makers and passion behind so many fantastic local businesses and services.

“It is key for the event to repeat regularly so families can depend on a fun and informative event with some treats thrown in too.’

The show is about to return to West Sussex for the third time, in September.

The first was in February 2017.

Since launching the event, it has gone from strength to strength in terms of the family following and businesses keen to be involved.

Sarah said: “From the very start, local businesses and services shared their enthusiasm for the show and also to work as a team in building a wonderful event with babytodd & beyond as the organiser.

“Starting a business and working solo is exciting but sometimes can be overwhelming and lonely.

“Since hosting the first show and engaging with the local suppliers, it was clear that group support and collaboration was not only needed but bursting with potential.

“So babytodd and beyond organically grew to offer a Business Network Hub-Bub.”

This Facebook-based group now has more than 250 members who are all passionate and excited to serve the local family audience with their extensive range of products and services, all perfect for parents, bumps, babies and beyond.

Sarah said that babytodd & beyond offers an informal platform for businesses.

It meets bi-monthly in independent businesses across West Sussex/

The next meeting is on September 5 at The Dragon in Colgate.

Go to www.babytodd.co.uk

The babytodd & beyond – West Sussex Bump, Baby and Toddler Show is on September 29 at The South of England Showground, Ardingly.

Entry is free for those who pre-register or £5 on the door.