Celebrating 32 Years of Perfectly Preemie
This September, Perfectly Preemie is celebrating 32 years in business, and honestly, I’m still a little amazed when I stop and think about it. What began back in 1993 as a simple idea—to make clothing that truly fits preemie babies—has grown into something so much bigger. It’s been a journey filled with challenges, blessings, and more inspiration than I ever could have imagined.
How It All Started
When I first started Perfectly Preemie, there just weren’t many options out there for parents of preemies. Most of the time, families were left trying to roll up sleeves or make do with clothing that simply didn’t fit. I knew these babies deserved better, and I wanted to create something that was made just for them—something that would honor their journey and give parents a sense of normalcy in the middle of the NICU whirlwind.
So, with a sewing machine, a lot of determination, and a heart for these little fighters, I began designing clothing with details like open shoulders, Velcro closures, and gentle fabrics—styles that would work in the NICU and still feel like “real clothes” for parents.
Watching the Growth
Over the years, Perfectly Preemie has grown in ways I never could have dreamed. We now offer clothing in Micro (1–3 lbs), Teeny (2–4 lbs), Preemie (3–6 lbs), and Newborn (5–8 lbs), and even larger pieces for PICU use. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard from families that those in-between sizes make all the difference. Because when your baby weighs just a couple of pounds, even the smallest details matter.
Our styles have also grown right along with us—gowns, jumpsuits, NIC-suits, dresses, and more, available in soft cotton or bamboo. Every piece is designed with one goal in mind: to make life just a little bit easier and sweeter for families walking through the NICU.
The Families Who Keep Me Going
The truth is, the heart of Perfectly Preemie has never really been about the clothing—it’s about the families. Over these 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of hearing from so many parents, grandparents, and friends who have shared their NICU stories with me.
I’ve read emails from moms who said that putting their baby in a Perfectly Preemie outfit was the first time they felt like they were really “parenting.” I’ve seen photos of dads proudly holding their tiny warriors in outfits that actually fit. And I’ve had grandparents tell me that sending clothes to the NICU helped them feel like they were doing something meaningful in a season when everything felt out of their control.
Those stories are what keep me going. They are the reason Perfectly Preemie is still here 32 years later.
Why NICU-Friendly Clothing Matters
I think sometimes people wonder, “Why focus so much on clothing when there are so many big medical concerns in the NICU?” And I get that. But I’ve also seen firsthand how something as small as a properly fitting outfit can make such a difference.
NICU-friendly clothing isn’t just about dressing a baby—it’s about making care easier for parents and staff, while also giving families a way to celebrate milestones. Features like open shoulders, Velcro closures, and footless designs aren’t just cute details. They’re practical solutions that allow wires and tubes to stay in place, while giving parents the joy of dressing their baby in something made for them.
It’s those little moments—snapping that first photo, getting that first cuddle in a gown that actually fits—that matter so much in the NICU.
Looking Back, Looking Ahead
As I look back over the past 32 years, I feel nothing but gratitude. From those early days of sewing in my basement to where we are today, it’s been a journey I never could have imagined.
But I’m not done yet. Perfectly Preemie will continue to grow, improve, and innovate. My heart is still the same as it was back in 1993: to provide preemies with clothing that supports their unique needs, while giving families something to smile about in the middle of hard days.
A Huge Thank You
Most of all, I want to thank you—the families, customers, and community who have supported Perfectly Preemie all these years. Whether you’ve bought one outfit, shared a photo, told a friend, or simply encouraged us along the way, you’ve helped us reach this milestone.
Thank you for trusting me with such an important part of your baby’s story. Thank you for letting me celebrate with you through your photos, your emails, and your milestones. It has truly been the honor of my life.
Let’s Celebrate!
This month, we’ll be celebrating 32 years with special promotions, stories, and reflections. But really, this anniversary isn’t just about Perfectly Preemie—it’s about every preemie, every parent, and every NICU journey that has touched us along the way.
Here’s to 32 years behind us, and here’s to the years ahead. Together, we’ll keep loving, supporting, and celebrating preemies—one tiny outfit at a time.
