Discover Denver’s vibrant landscape through the eyes of Caity Barton, owner of Where the Sidewalk Ends Toy Shop. Unveil her journey from the East Coast to the Mile High City, her passion for curating thoughtful toys, and her dedication to community joy. To discover more local Denver business owners, visit The Scout Guide Denver Directory.

Your name and business name: Caity Barton, owner of Where the Sidewalk Ends Toy Shop
Number of years here in Denver: 14

Can you tell me a bit more about yourself and how your journey led you to where you are today? I was born and raised in NY State, went to college in Philadelphia and am a true East Coaster at heart. I met my husband in NYC and after almost 10 years there we decided it was time to move. He grew up in Denver, we both loved the weather and quality of life and decided it would be our next stop. It is a perfect place to raise a child and I can’t imagine a better place to have a small business. 

Can you please tell me a little about your business? We are a tiny toy shop carrying a carefully curated assortment of toys that inspire and represent. I try to find unique open-ended toys that will last generations. Over 80% of the brands in the shop are women owned and come from all over the world. 

Why did you start your own business? I worked in fashion in NYC for many years and always dreamed of having my own shop. I opened the shop because I wanted to put all of the skills I had developed to use and to create something that benefits the community. Nothing spreads joy like a toy shop!

What do you love most about owning your own business? I love the freedom of choosing toys that I think would bring happiness to my customers, presenting them in a beautiful way and forming relationships with the people that I meet in the shop. 

What inspires you? I am most inspired by my family. I want to make my husband and daughter proud always. When searching for toys, I am most inspired by small shops in Europe that are beautifully curated. 

What makes you feel accomplished? When a child tells me they love the shop, and they come back again and again I feel most accomplished. I love bringing a little joy and magic to their lives.

If you could go back in time and give your 18 year old self advice, what would it be? Patience pays, good things come in time. 

How do you like to spend your time outside of work? My favorite way to spend my time is with my family! Our favorite thing to do is travel and just be together.

What trends are you seeing that relate to your business that our readers should be aware of? I am seeing more quality toys that are thoughtfully made with the environment and healthy child development in mind. More brands are introducing items that represent all families and children, which is very needed. 

What’s next for you and your business? I hope to continue to grow, make new shop friends and find more special toys to share!

We want to know YOUR favorite thing about Denver. Please feel free to elaborate.

• Season and why: Summer- I get to spend more time with my daughter, travel with my family and see more friends on South Pearl Street.
• Neighborhood / side of town: Wash Park/ Platt Park
• Place for a drink: Hazel 
• Restaurant for:
  • Breakfast: Lucile’s
  • Lunch: Quiero Arepas/ Joy Hill
  • Special night out: Sushi Den
  • International: MAKfam
  • Bakery: Tokyo Premium Bakery
  • Coffee Shop and / or Juice Bar: Steam Espresso Bar
  • Take out / Delivery: Hey Bangkok!
• Event in the area (share as many as you’d like): South Pearl Street Farmer’s Market (April – November), The Colorado Ballet Season, Denver Art Museum Friendship Powwow
• Day trip: Breckenridge 
• Outdoor adventure: Camping at Golden Gate State Park
• Brewery: Platt Park Brewery 
• Services:
  • Hair: Hannah at Bespoke Studios (the very best)
  • Spa: Mia Sorensen Esthetics, Skin by Shawn
  • Vet: Denver Animal Hospital 
  • Doctor: Yao Clinic, Dr. Daniel
  • Dentist: Dentists on Pearl
  • Any Additional Categories: Workout- Sweat Den, Children’s Dentistry of Cherry Creek, Partners in Pediatrics
• Shopping:
  • Clothes & Shoes (adult): YUCCA
  • Clothes (kids): Broomtail
• Food / Wine / Beer: Pearl Wine Company
• Music venue: Mission Ball Room

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Caity Barton is the owner of Where the Sidewalk Ends Toy Shop located at 1887 S Pearl Street | www.wherethesidewalkendshop.com