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Toya, founder of Ethan's Closet, at the boutique counter

Our Story

From Small Beginnings to Big Milestones

Toya, Founder

Ethan’s Closet began long before we opened our doors. My first son, Ethan, was born prematurely and spent time in the NICU. March of Dimes helped our family stay close to him when we needed it most. Being a NICU mom changed me. It strengthened me, softened me, and taught me how much the smallest moments matter.

Before opening the boutique, I worked as a store manager and trainer with a Fortune 500 company. I wanted to build something of my own while making more time to be with Ethan. In June 2011, I stepped out on faith and opened an upscale consignment boutique with clothes from Ethan’s very own closet. That’s how Ethan’s Closet got its name.

Today, Ethan’s Closet Children’s Boutique & Little Feet in Gonzales, Louisiana, is where families come for timeless children’s clothing, expert children’s shoe fittings, embroidery, monogramming, and personal styling. Our mascot, Ethan “The Brave” Monkey, reminds me of the courage it took to begin and the joy of celebrating every little step along the way.

I’m grateful for my family, especially our four sons, including our triplets, and for the loyal customers in Gonzales, Prairieville, and beyond who have grown with us. You’ve trusted us with first shoes, special outfits, and so many moments in between. It’s a joy to be part of your family’s story.

Thank you for shopping small & supporting local!
Toya & the Ethan’s Closet Krewe 💚

Ethan’s Journey

From his first days in the NICU to the milestones we’ve celebrated along the way.

Open each card to see the photo.

2008
Ethan arrived nearly three months early
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Born at
2 lbs 4 oz
FEATURED BY UCONN HEALTHUConn Advance ›UConn Health Magazine ›
2011
100+ pairs of shoes from Ethan’s very own closet
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That’s how our shop began.
2014
We grew into a new home
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Ethan's Closet's new location in 2014
2016
Ethan holds his tiny NICU tub
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Ethan in 2016 holding the tiny tub from his NICU days
2019
Ethan’s Closet ReBrand
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Toya at the 2019 Ethan's Closet ReBrand opening
2019
Ethan’s fifth-grade graduation
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Ethan at his 5th grade graduation in 2019
2022
Ethan’s eighth-grade graduation
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Ethan at his 8th grade graduation in 2022
2026
A cap, a gown, and a dream of becoming an anesthesiologist
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Ethan, Class of 2026
He weighed just 2 pounds, 4 ounces when he was born. Look how far he’s come.

In My Own Words

To every NICU family

I made this video for World Prematurity Day to share where Ethan’s Closet truly began, in the NICU, holding on to every small moment.

Ethan was born at 2 pounds, 4 ounces. Those long days taught me how much the smallest steps matter, and that’s the heart of everything we do.

If you’re walking that road today, your story matters. You are not alone.

From one NICU mom to another 💚

Ready to celebrate your little one’s next milestone?

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