Forest Hills: Shop talk

Family Life

Working as a waitress, Ariena Thomsen, the owner of Thank Heaven (here with daughter Kayla, 5), dreamed of someday opening a children's clothing and toy store. Two years ago, she did it.

Photograph by Talia Simhi

Why did you want to open a boutique for kids?

Ariena: I love children. Plus, I used to have to go all the way to Brooklyn to find cool baby clothing from companies like Zutano. Now with the store, I have the best of both worlds.

How would you describe your shop?

Ariena: I wanted it to be a cozy place where parents and kids would feel welcome. I’ve heard kids walk by the store and say, “Mommy, I want to go to Ariena’s house!”

What do you think will be hot for the holidays? And what will you be getting for your kids?

Ariena: Everyone is crazy for the Penelope Peapod doll baskets ($40). Kayla loves the Lemon T-shirts, which have cute messages on them ($40–$50). I’ll be getting my son a train set and some books and jewelry for my older daughter.

Why do you like the Lemon T-shirts so much?

Kayla: They are so cool. They have diamonds on them and I really like that.

72-18 Austin St between 72nd Rd and 72nd St (718-575-2229, thankheaven.biz).