Babywearing Voices: Allie Dennis

Allie's journey into the babywearing world began the same way it does for many parents — opening the box, seeing a mess of buckles and straps, and thinking “yeah, I’m not doing that.”

Despite her initial resistance, Allie was forced to revisit her baby carrier. "My son was born in a polar vortex, so we were stuck in our little one-bedroom apartment," Allie recalls. "After a month, I decided enough was enough."

In a quest to make getting out easier, she visited a local babywearing group, where her interest and passion were ignited. Enthralled by the artistry of woven wraps and ring slings, Allie immersed herself, turning her fascination into a mission. Drawing from her background in textile design and weaving, she began advocating for these carriers, aiming to make them more mainstream.

In 2015, Allie founded Little Zen One, a boutique dedicated to high-quality, organic baby carriers. Initially hesitant about retail, her store soon became a beacon in the babywearing community, offering not just products but also education and support.

"In 2020 I experienced sudden deafness," Allie shares. "And it was becoming difficult, almost impossible, to teach people in person."

Challenges didn't deter Allie; they fueled her determination. From navigating warehouse logistics to transitioning to a fully online store, she continually innovated. Her popular Try Before You Buy program now boasts nearly 500 carriers — a testament to her dedication to accessibility and customer satisfaction.

Beyond selling carriers, Allie fosters community through her Facebook group, which has grown to 9,000 members. Moderated with care, it serves as both a support network and a platform for babywearing advocacy.

Allie also empowers community members by creating work-from-home opportunities. With over 50 people on the team, she has built a supportive network that allows individuals to contribute while earning from home.

"We work very hard to make sure the group is fun and uplifting, while also providing feedback and education," Allie says. "When you learn to babywear, your confidence as a caregiver levels up."

Looking ahead, Allie is excited to integrate technology further into her business and expand educational offerings. She participated in The Working Group in 2023-2024, where she gained clarity on her goals.

For Allie, the mission is clear: empower parents through babywearing, fostering confidence and connection in their parenting journey.

Learn more about Allie and her work at Little Zen One.