Ladies With Babies is a social hub for young mothers started by Athena Severi with five friends less than a year ago. Originally a forum for mothers to share information, the organization has exploded to over 1,600 active members across the world. On Dec. 1, the group held its first holiday bazaar at the historic building of the Church of Scientology in Old Town Pasadena. The event exceeded expectations with an estimated 500 mothers, fathers, babies and children arriving throughout the day to enjoy the festivities and meet other young families.

The bazaar supported the Spark of Love toy drive held by the Pasadena Fire Dept. Santa Claus made an early arrival on a fire truck from Fire House #36.

Dr. Ronald Wu, an obstetrician who practices in Glendale and has delivered over 20,000 babies, was honored. Dr. Wu was the attending obstetrician at the birth of many of the babies who were at the event.

Musician and accomplished recording artist Michael Duff donated his time to entertain at Ladies With Babies. Duff welcomed several children who decided to join him on stage.

Vendors of all types offered unique gifts and others, including one of Old Town’s favorites Saladish, provided free food. Amara provided tastes of their delicious chocolate. Other vendors included Baby Gap, which offered big discount coupons, Whole Foods, Becca’s Bows, Kids Jewelry Heist, The Delphian School from Oregon, Delphi Los Angeles, Jane Warner School of Altadena, and Renaissance Academy. There were two raffles as well.

All mothers are welcome to share in the Ladies With Babies online community at www.ladieswithbabies.org.