Once Upon a Child in Southern Pines is celebrating two years in business this month, and store manager Katelyn Snuffer says it’s all thanks to the Sandhills families who have made the experience a great one.

“Watching the store grow has been incredible,” said Katelyn. “Running a small business is always a challenge, and the first few years are especially crucial in setting the stage for success. We’ve been fortunate to have such amazing support from the community, and I’m excited to see what the next few years bring.”

Though Once Upon a Child is part of a national brand, the Southern Pines location is locally owned and operated—something Katelyn says is fundamental to how they connect with area families.

“Every parent, the moment they find out they’re expecting, asks themselves the same question: ‘Am I ready?’ We wanted to be a resource to help make that transition easier,” said Katelyn. “While we can’t assist with the midnight diaper changes or the 2 a.m. playtime requests, we can offer a reliable place to buy and sell gently used children’s clothes, shoes, equipment, and toys.”

Like all Once Upon a Child stores, the Southern Pines shop offers cash on the spot or a trade-in option that allows customers to shop and save even more.

“Our mission is to create a supportive community for parents looking for quality items at affordable prices and a way to give gently used items a second life right here in our area,” she described.

Katelyn, a Vass native and mom of two, joined the Once Upon a Child team after years in the hospitality industry. She was looking for a role that combined her love of connecting with people with the realities of parenting, and found the perfect fit at Once Upon a Child.

“After having kids of my own, I was looking for a job that was not only kid-friendly but also offered the same sense of personal connection I experienced in hospitality,” she explained.

Katelyn said her favorite part of the job is seeing the pure excitement on children’s faces when they find something they love; but perhaps the most meaningful feedback comes from parents.

“Many parents face a lot of stress around finances, especially when it comes to raising kids,” she said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that we can help ease some of that burden.”

That affordability and practicality have become a major draw for local families, especially those settling into the area from out of town. Katelyn remarked that the demographic in Moore County has shifted in recent years, with more families moving in and more babies on the way.

“It seems like everyone knows someone who’s expecting, has a newborn, a toddler, or a growing kid,” Katelyn said. Then, laughing, she added, “Once they’re here, they keep growing and needing more things, and they’re really good at creating a mess, too.”

The store carries items in all sizes and seasons year-round, and Katelyn observed that spring cleaning season has brought in an especially great selection lately.

“We want to see what you’ve got in your garage, hall closet, backyard shed—everything you’ve got if it’s for kids,” she explained. “Let us do the hard work of storing clothes. We buy all seasons, all year round.”

The staff works hard to maintain a clean, organized store that’s easy to shop. Katelyn explained that a common misconception about secondhand shopping is that it’s seen as dirty or disorganized, and that Once Upon a Child is working to shift that mindset.

With items often coming in new with tags, she added, shoppers can expect quality products at a fraction of retail prices while also reducing waste and supporting sustainability.

On April 18–19, Once Upon a Child will host its Take What You Need event, where customers can select up to 10 clearance items completely free of charge.

“We’re always looking for ways to give back,” Katelyn said. “Events like this are part of how we try to be there for the community that’s supported us so much.”

Looking ahead, Katelyn hopes the store will continue to grow alongside the families it serves. “We’re deeply committed to this area and don’t see ourselves leaving anytime soon—if ever,” she said.

As for what she wants the community to take away?

“Our goal is to show that we’re always evolving, learning from feedback, and striving to improve,” she said. “With new team members, updated policies, fresh inventory, and new perspectives, we’re excited to keep moving forward and offering the best we can.”

For more on upcoming sales and events, Katelyn encourages families to follow the store on Facebook.

Once Upon a Child is located at 180 Commerce Ave. in Southern Pines.

~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021.

To sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel breaking news and weekly e-newsletter, please click here.