Stellie Bellies Kids & Maternity on 4th Street — Attraction in Saint Petersburg

I used to LOVE this store, then like a year ago I've noticed their selection of clothes were starting to go down hill. Its like the same clothes opinions at Target or Carters. The person taking the clothes in has a very typical, very plain sense of style. I used to get boho, fun and one of a kind clothes from here. I was able to find some cute things but not as much as 2-3 years ago when I would bring my clothes in and get a decent amount back and end up spending way more. They also mark the clothes the wrong sizes and always comment if your bringing stuff in on what they are looking for like no stains, holes, or stitching coming loose and yes sometimes I missed some stitching coming loose or a hidden stain I didn't see but I spend days before I waste my gas to come all the way there and they ALWAYS HAVE TO COMMENT ABOUT IT. Its like yes, I'm not stupid, please just stop it feels like a cop out of why your rejecting mh brand new clothes trade in. Its like the manager already knows how much shes gonna give someone when they walk in and I can tell. I feel the vibe coming off of her. The most I have ever gotten was like $25 within the last year and there were some nice clothes in my bag. Like brand new, only worn once and washed once. Then I looked at someone elses clothes they have brought in and they get a $60 credit for basic baby attire you can buy at Target or the mall. I miss all the cool and unique outfits I would get from here in the past. The maternity side is everything you can get a Ross store and mostly for tall people but used and for the same Ross price. The shoes are also outrageously priced, they have dirt crusted in them in the shape of a foot print and they have usually a smell to them and they are like $16+. Dolls that are $10 that have cut hair off when at Walmart you can get the same doll with all the pieces and hair for $10-12. I'm fed up with it, its turned into once upon a child. Thats why once upon a child is struggling, they over price used clothes and never give store credit for trade ins. This conpany is headed the same path. Giving out credit is actually a good way to make more money. 3-2 years ago I would spend $150 after having a $50-60 credit and my clothes being taken off my hands now I barely spend anything because I want to get rid of my current clothes. I will be going to a different bouquet store...

I went into stellie bellies to sell a couple items in “like new” condition that I no longer needed retailing for over $400 and was offered $60 store credit. I was also told that I needed to put the bassinet together on my own no help and I’m 8 months pregnant and barely able to breathe due to baby pushing on my lungs but was offered no assistance. When I asked about the medela breast pump I own and the accessories I needed, the woman training the new staff member signaled the trainee to tell me about the pieces needed. After about 30 seconds to 1 minute of talking with her, the trainer interjected and said “you know we’re not a lactation specialist, you need to consult one of them if you have questions. I can sell you a medela pump if you need one”. No questions were asked about breastfeeding, I only asked what part I needed for the tube from the machine to connect to and if they sold it.

I also asked if they carry a mattress cover for an ikea bed and the trainer stated “they are over there, you can take a look” when I was clearly looking for her assistance in sorting through these items.

After all this, I checked out the few items I found while they were pricing my items and when the trainee was ringing me up, the trainer came over and didn’t appreciate the speed once again and told me I wasn’t going to get a receipt because I only had a few dollars left of my credit.

Just to be clear, going to buy a car from the store and asking if they also sell the accessories for it…then being told “I’m not a mechanic, you need to consult one of them if you have questions. I can sell you a car.” Is about the same equivalent to this ladies absent comments. Really was not pleased with the customer service I received and don’t plan to go back and sell there again. I would recommend if you’re looking to not be taken advantage of, sell your hand downs online or with another thrift store. This one doesn’t prioritize customer service and...

I first visited Stellie Bellies September of 2010 (two months before giving birth to my second daughter). Since then, I visit quite regularly with my now 8 year old and 3 year old. While many describe Stellie Bellies to be a great place to shop and trade, I can tell you, it is so much more for me. Most times I visit alone (without my daughters in tow). Upon entering, a gentle warmth is ALWAYS felt. I have a child with special needs and often I am overwhelmed, anxious and tired. When I go to Stellies, it is my place of calm, where I am received by extraordinary women who carry love, kindness and everything another woman/mom needs. I can certainly relate to the amazing ratings about the merchandise be of excellent quality and super great deals- absolutely, without a doubt. The things is, my experience is far more than that. From impromtu "therapy/support moments", to laughter, encouragement, sharing of life experience and hugs when needed- this is the place to be if you are a mom like me who works hard and sometimes need a boost. This is my personal experience and I think that it should be shared. I am not advertising free therapy here :) I'm just being open and shining light on those who have shined theirs on me. Thank You Bettney, I appreciate you greatly and all of your love and kindness over the years. Much Love,...