In West Austin, where community and everyday life are closely intertwined, Michael McCollum Adams has created something that feels both personal and purposeful with Anderson Parker. Inspired by her experience as a mother of four, the boutique reflects a clear understanding of what people are actually looking for, pieces that balance quality, comfort, and timeless style. What began as a desire to find the best for her own children has grown into a space where others can experience that same level of care and intention. Shaped by motherhood and a strong connection to the community, Anderson Parker offers a shopping experience with pieces that fit seamlessly into everyday life.
What inspired you to open a children’s boutique, and how did the idea first come to life?
Anderson Parker was truly inspired by, and named after, my oldest daughter. As a mom, I've always been passionate about finding the best for my children — clothing that's beautiful, well-made, and built to keep up with real kid life. Over time, that passion turned into a deeper knowledge of children's fashion, and eventually I realized I wanted to create a space where other families could experience that same thoughtful curation.
Your boutique has a distinct point of view. How do you approach curating clothing that is both stylish and practical for everyday childhood?
I think about my own four kids every single time I select a piece. My girls love to dress up, but they want to be comfortable. My boys are rough-and-tumble and sport-obsessed — they want comfy athleisure, but I still want them to look put together. So I'm always looking for that sweet spot: timeless style that doesn't sacrifice the comfort kids actually need to be kids.
In what ways has your own experience as a parent shaped how you select brands and run the store?
It shapes everything. I understand firsthand how much goes into running their lives. I'm not selecting brands from a distance — I'm a mom who has lived it. That experience gives me a really honest lens for what actually holds up, what kids will actually wear, and what parents will actually love.
What do you look for in the brands and designers you bring into the boutique?
I look for timeless appeal and premium quality above all else. Every brand we carry — from The Beaufort Bonnet Company and Little English to Courtside Kids and Properly Tied — has a point of view that feels both classic and genuinely special. These aren't brands I stumbled upon; they've each been carefully and intentionally chosen. I'm also deeply passionate about supporting local Austin talent, because the creativity in this community is truly something else. And I'm thrilled to share that we have something new on the horizon — I'm launching my own children's resort-wear line called Little Eight. It's been a dream in the making, and I can't wait to bring it to life for our families.
West Austin has such a strong sense of community, how has that influenced your brand and its growth?
West Austin is such a special place to plant roots. Families here are deeply connected and they genuinely support local businesses that reflect their values. Opening in the Westbank Market felt right because it's a place where neighbors already gather. That built-in sense of belonging has really shaped the warm, welcoming experience I want Anderson Parker to be.
What has been one of the cutest or most memorable moments you've experienced since opening the boutique?
One specific memory recently was with an expecting couple who allowed us to be a part of their gender reveal. We got to curate and wrap an outfit based on their gender results and watch them not even make it to their car before opening it! It was so special.
Running a business while raising a family can be a balancing act. What has that journey looked like for you?
It is absolutely a balancing act, and I won't pretend otherwise! But honestly, my family is the reason Anderson Parker exists — so in many ways, the two feel intertwined rather than in conflict. My husband has always been my biggest cheerleader and the person who encourages me to follow my dreams! It's full and it's busy, but it's extremely meaningful.
What advice would you give to other women dreaming of starting their own business?
Build from what you know and love. Anderson Parker wasn't born from a business plan — it was born from years of being a mother and genuinely caring about the details. When your business is rooted in something real and personal, that authenticity comes through in everything. Don't wait until everything is perfect. Start with your passion and refine as you go.
Finally, if someone walked into your boutique for the first time, what feeling or experience do you hope they leave with?
I hope they know the people I trust to run the day to day storefront are just as important to me as what brands we carry! They smile because they truly love our brand and they are ready to dress your littles.
When you were building the store, what kind of experience did you want families to have when they walked through the doors?
I wanted it to feel like a boutique that truly understands family life — the beautiful, chaotic, wonderful reality of raising children. Every brand, every gift, every personalized touch was chosen to make the experience feel meaningful, not just transactional. I wanted parents to feel seen, and I wanted kids to feel celebrated. That's the heart of Anderson Parker.
“Anderson Parker wasn’t born from a business plan—it was born from years of being a mother and genuinely caring about the details.”
“I’m always looking for that sweet spot: timeless style that doesn’t sacrifice the comfort kids actually need to be kids.”
“Celebrating family life.”
Anderson Parker, founded by Michael McCollum Adams, offers a curated approach to children’s style in West Austin. The boutique is named after her oldest daughter, Anderson, whose middle name honors her brother, Parker McCollum. Located in Westbank Market at 3300 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 375 in Austin, the shop features apparel, gifts, and in-house monogram services, along with a focus on timeless design and everyday wearability. Learn more at shopandersonparker.com.