West Seattle business closing: On the Way Maternity

Just got a short note from On the Way Maternity owner Rosa Lim, asking us to post to tell you that “we are closing our doors.” The store opened 14 months ago at 5446 California SW. ADDED 6:02 PM: Rosa also wanted to share a message explaining what happened, and detailing her going-out-of-business sale — read on:

My name is Rosa Lim, owner of On the Way Maternity. I am deeply saddened to announce that after fourteen months, we will be closing our doors for good. Our reasons are both personal and financial due to the poor economy.

My husband and I have a two and a half year old son and a four month old baby girl. It’s been extremely exhausting for the both of us managing the store, work and everything at home. We both knew it would be very difficult to start the business but still wanted to give it a try. I have truly enjoyed having the opportunity to meet so many nice people, but I really miss being able to spend time with my kids.

Both of our parents have been taking care of our children while we are at work. My mother’s health has been slowly going downhill since 2005 and has been continuing in that direction. Therefore, she is unable to watch them much longer and soon we will be without a babysitter. As for myself, always being on the go and commuting back and forth has finally caught up with me and I too am not feeling well lately.

It’s hard for us to let go of the store because my husband and I along with our family have put so much into the store both physically and financially. In the end, my family and my health is most important. So for these reasons, I have decided to stay home full time with my children and enjoy life without all the rush.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us! All of you have been so kind to us. We will slowly start to liquidate items in the store as follows. We don’t have a final close date, but we will keep the blog posted. The show for Nancy Stewart on Nov. 19th is cancelled.

For the remainder of the month of November, 20% everything in store. Limited quantity on in-stock furniture. Get it before it’s gone…..questions call 206-938-2229.

shihtzu November 12, 2008 (5:51 pm)

That’s too bad. I’ve been meaning to go there, but I must say the location is awkward.

GB November 12, 2008 (5:54 pm)

Maybe the maternity business is challenging right now? I heard Peapod is also going out of business.
Closing a business is hard…so sorry!

Venkat November 12, 2008 (6:20 pm)

wow, what a bummer, first Beato and now this!

Mags November 12, 2008 (8:16 pm)

It’s a shame. I am spending all of my (smaller than usual) holiday money in the West Seattle and other small businesses. I figure Nordstrom won’t go under without me, but they might. This was a lovely little store with a very nice owner and I did actually go in there and purchase some very nice items. Totally understandable why the decision was made, but nonetheless, sad.

A November 13, 2008 (7:58 am)

They just had a super sale on some strollers – ads posted on Craigs List – and both in the ads on in person they kepy saying they weren’t closing just getting rid of these strollers… hmmmm

Jennifer McIntosh November 13, 2008 (8:07 am)

I have a 3 week old baby and while I was pregnant with her I bought several items from On the Way. They carry really great brands and I just love the pieces I bought there. I am so sad to hear that they are going out of business. Nice people, quality and well-priced clothes. Good luck to their family. It had to have been an incredibly hard decision to make.

beachdrivegirl November 13, 2008 (8:46 am)

So sorry to hear that they are closing. Like Mags, I am trying to keep my $$ local as long as it permits. Out of curiosity, GB where did you hear that a pea in the pod is closing? I hadnt heard that and googled it but couldnt find anything. hmmm. And, A, I saw that as well. Very itneresting indeed.

E November 13, 2008 (9:12 am)

Sad to see a nice business go. I’ve bought a few small items there. Good luck to the owners. Also, I believe they were a drop off for west seattle baby diaper donations. I hope someone else in the area takes over that role.

Meghan November 13, 2008 (9:48 am)

It’s too bad to see another small independent retail store close, but I’m encouraged to see several people say they’re going to try to buy more from local and independent stores this holiday season rather than huge chains. That is precisely what will keep stores (and restaurants) in business and encourage more to open!