Tiny Tadpoles offers big heart, little clothes, and a whole lot of community

Have you been searching for a place to stock up on children’s clothing and accessories without breaking the bank (inflation, are we right?)? Look no further than Tiny Tadpoles, James Island’s only children’s resale and consignment boutique. Woman-owned and operated by a mom who truly gets it, Tiny Tadpoles offers families the chance to do more than shop. It invites them to be part of a movement rooted in care, community, and sustainability.

Owner Kelly Hartong opened Tiny Tadpoles in August 2014 after seeing firsthand the challenge parents face trying to keep up with their children’s ever-changing needs. As a mother of two, she understood how quickly kids grow, and how overwhelming the cost of quality clothing, gear, and toys can be. Her vision was simple: offer well-made children’s items at prices that feel doable through consignment and resale. Today, Tiny Tadpoles delivers just that, providing families with boutique-quality products at a fraction of the cost of both local shops and big-box retailers.

Over the years, Tiny Tadpoles has grown into a beloved James Island staple. The shop has earned numerous accolades, including finalist nods from Charleston Choice for Best Baby Store and Best Children’s Consignment, as well as runner-up recognition from Lowcountry Parent Magazine. It’s easy to see why. “We have the cutest clothes in sizes from preemie to 12,” says Hartong. “We carry everyday play clothes, special-occasion outfits, shoes, and accessories—all in one place.” Beyond clothing, the store also stocks swings, pack-and-plays, highchairs, strollers, changing tables, and more, making it a true one-stop shop for outfitting a nursery or keeping up with growing kids.

Another cornerstone of Tiny Tadpoles’ success is its all-female staff, a team that understands that sometimes parents need more than a great deal. They need connection. Whether it’s swapping advice, sharing laughs, or trading battle stories while kids explore nearby toys, Tiny Tadpoles feels as much like a gathering place as it does a store.

At its heart, Tiny Tadpoles is about more than resale. It’s about reducing waste, reusing what still has so much life left, and supporting the broader Charleston community. The shop regularly gives back through donations to organizations like My Sister’s House, The Kidney Foundation, and other local nonprofits, extending its impact far beyond its walls.

So whether you’re preparing for a new arrival, refreshing a growing child’s wardrobe, or simply looking to shop more thoughtfully, Tiny Tadpoles is worth the visit. Stop by, take your time, and leave knowing you’ve found a place that supports families, values sustainability, and proves that raising kids doesn’t have to come with an overwhelming price tag.

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