Blue Jay Boutique in Camden
Blue Jay Baby Boutique, owned by Carissa Parini, is a charming shop in Camden offering thoughtfully curated items for babies and toddlers. Located in a space with deep family roots, the boutique carries a range of clothing, accessories, and gifts designed for little ones, with an emphasis on quality, style, and practicality.
Carissa’s journey to opening Blue Jay Boutique began nearly four years ago when she took over the space her family had long operated. The building’s history includes everything from a department store founded by her great-grandfather to her father’s custom embroidery business. When the space became available, Carissa saw an opportunity to create something unique in town—and she landed on a baby boutique after noticing a gap in the local shopping scene.
“There really wasn’t anywhere to buy baby items locally,” Carissa explains. “A lot of my friends and family were having babies, and they were stuck shopping online. I wanted to change that.”
The shop carries clothing for ages newborn to 2T, with a focus on organic and natural fibers. Customers will find everything from gender-neutral options to carefully selected dresses from Europe and cozy knit sweaters. Carissa works hard to keep the inventory balanced between boys and girls, often inspired by her own experiences as a mom. “Having my son really helped me decide what products to carry. I’ve tried many of these items myself and can recommend them to customers with confidence,” she says.
In addition to clothing, Blue Jay Boutique is known for its gift options, including books by Maine authors, bamboo pajamas, stuffed animals, teethers, and accessories like hats, mittens, and baby wraps. The shop’s lobster-themed items, such as knit sweaters and hoodies, are a particular favorite among tourists during the summer months.
Carissa is also passionate about making the store’s price points approachable. “I think people sometimes see the aesthetic and assume we’re expensive, but we have options starting at $15,” she says. “It’s worth coming in to look around.”
What truly sets Blue Jay Boutique apart is its personal, in-store experience. Carissa loves connecting with customers, sharing parenting tips, and listening to what families are looking for. “I get a lot of great product recommendations from parents and grandparents who shop here,” she says. “It’s special to be part of their stories—whether they’re celebrating a new baby, a first birthday, or just picking up something practical and sweet.”
FAMOUS FOR:
Thoughtfully curated baby gifts, including books by Maine authors, teethers, and sleep sacks. A focus on organic and natural fibers, with a mix of gender-neutral and classic designs.
ADDRESS:
2 Main Street in Camden, Maine
HOURS:
Seasonal. See Google for updated hours.
WEBSITE:
bluejaybabyboutique.com
photos by Peter Logue
