In 1995, Mary and Stephen Bauer were expecting their first child. Stephen had his own business as a commercial illustrator and was enjoying great success. Mary was a marketing director for a local architectural firm. They both were excited about their new addition. Stephen showed his excitement by designing a gorgeous wrought iron crib for their new baby.

With that crib, Bratt Decor was born. Since then, the Bauer family has grown, as has the business. Bratt Decor designs include baby cribs, dressers, changing tables, childrens furniture and coordinating accessories. Stephen works full-time designing, creating and manufacturing products while Mary manages sales and marketing. Sebastian and Raiff, their sons, do product testing and design input.

M&T Bank won this banking relationship in January of 2006. Bratt Decor has seen significant expansion since then. Michael Pietropaoli, assistant vice president and relationship manager, and Carl Hairston, vice president and team leader, both of Business Banking, work closely with the Bauers to handle their operating accounts, credit cards, working capital lines and term loans.

Bratt Decor was selected for the 2008 Best of Baltimore Award in the Children's Furniture category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA), which identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success by region.

Bratt Decor has also been honored by furnishing part of Hollywood. Bratt Decors childrens furnishings have been used in the homes of Tori Spelling, Jennifer Lopez, Samantha Harris, Halle Berry and other well-known celebrities.

Bratt Decors manufacturing plant is located in Baltimore, on Haven Street, and lucky Baltimore parents can take advantage of the one and only Bratt Decor factory direct store in the world, located at 548 E. Belvedere Avenue in northern Baltimore City.

Learn more at www.brattdecor.com

Written by: Debbie OSullivan