Steiff UK: Why Toys are More Than Just Toys

The dictionary defines toys as objects for a child to play with, typically a model or miniature replica of something. But what many fail to realize is that they’re often more than meets the eye. What was once considered as a mere toy is actually so much more. Together with team from the Steiff UK headquarters, we’ve asked people what their favorite toys are and what they are to them aside from the obvious. Here were their answers.

·      “Toy Car” – Dad

Every time Ben sees the toy car on top of his shelf with his other books, he’s reminded of his dad who now lives in the countryside. It’s one of his prized possessions and despite how battered and old-looking it already is (props for the vintage vibe), he still puts it out for display because it reminds him of his fond memories as a child with his dad. It was actually a present he got from him on Christmas when he was six.

·      “Doll House” – Dream Home

Mandy tells us about the time she received a doll house from her parents as a birthday present. It was pink and had the cutest patterns for wallpaper. Since then, she’s been attracted to the said hues that she decorated her apartment with them. They’re not exactly identical, but it sure laid the foundation for her taste.

·      “Teddy Bear” – Best Friend and Sibling

Growing up as the only child, Markus treated his teddy bear as if it were his very own sibling. It was his best friend too. He says that like most kids, he had it on his bedroom every single night because it chases his nightmares away. The family of three wouldn’t even travel without it in tow. Today, he’s already passed it on to his daughter.

·      “Monopoly” – Friends

Cheska and Amy became best friends through their love for board games. Monopoly sits closest to their heart because it was the one that led them to each other. The two recalls having gone to the local toy store, both looking for a copy of the game, and finding out the shop stocked out. It was the holiday season after all. They may not have gotten the board game but they did talk which eventually led to a lifelong friendship.

·      “Army Men” – Silly Childhood Pranks

Arnold can’t help but laugh while he was chatting us up about the toy soldiers he and his brother had when they were young. He said they’d often lay them out on the floor every night before bedtime, poised for battle aka their mom when she wakes them up for school the next morning. A little silly but cute, don’t you think?

So Steiff UK asks: what are your toys to you?

Where to Look When You Can’t Buy Teddy Bears Online

If there’s anything we thank the internet for it’s that we’re blessed with the luxury to buy teddy bears online. As self-professed lovers of these cuddly toys, the convenience of finding that specific item, collectible or not, is something we welcome with open arms especially during the holidays. We’d gladly skip the traffic, the crazy shoppers, the lack of parking space and the long queues at the counter.

But even so, we cannot discount the fact that shopping the traditional way still has its charms. It’s retail therapy at its core although not much for or wallets. Ha! Where else do we score our favorite teddy bear finds if we can’t do it online then? The answers can be obvious but for the curious cats allow us to spill.

·      Garage Sales

You’re never assured of a fancy new toy to bring home but garage sales are always worth a shot. Like they say, one man’s trash can be another man’s treasure. Besides, a lot of people barely know the worth of some of their old stuff.

·      Thrift Stores

Think of thrift shops as a little treasure game. You’ll never know what you’d find but once you do they’re always bound to blow your mind. Places like Goodwill and similar establishments carry an assortment of products and even if they were pre-owned, some of them are actually worth the trouble especially if you’re one who loves vintage teddy bears for a fraction of the cost.

·      Friends and Family

Trust us when we say this. Never hesitate to ask friends and family if they’ve got some teddies lying around and looking for a new home. People tend to be hoarders even of things they no longer need and want so it’s worth a shot. Plus, it’s always fun to receive a nifty little heirloom from loved ones even in the form of cuddly stuffed animals and teddy bears. Hey, we’ve at least received one from our parents or siblings as hand me downs so why not right?

·      Antique Shops

If you can’t find and buy teddy bears online that fall under the category of vintage collectibles then antique shops should do you good. Like the others, there is no guarantee here but they’re always worth the look. They can surprise you and there are tons more knickknacks to entertain you while you shop.

A Spa Day, Stuffed Animals, Jewelry and Other Gifts for Your Sister

“Sisters function as safety nets in a chaotic world simply by being there for each other.―Carol Saline” They’re our best friends, partner in crime and sometimes our own personal critic. Having a sister just feels awesome. Wouldn’t it be nice to get them something fun for their special day or birthday perhaps? If you’re stuck on a rut, here are some ideas to get you started: a spa day, stuffed animals, jewelry, you name it!

·      A PAMPER SESSION – A day trip at the spa for some massage or facials would be great. Add in a little mani-pedi session and it’s bound to be a day of relaxation and pampering for her and for you. You can also opt for a salon day or where budget permits, go on a staycation!

·      A PHOTO (BOOK) – Gone are the days when photos were secluded to the bedroom or hidden in the darkest corners of the room. With many specialty, art and craft stores, photos are made to resemble art in creative forms. Why not make use of this? Photos capture memories. Find a great photo of her or the two of you. If you can’t pick one, you can get a photo book instead. The more the merrier!

·      CUSTOMIZED JEWELRY – Personalized jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, pendants and brooches never grows old. Sure they have been used before but their charm still encapsulates the recipients. Wouldn’t you love to get a piece that has been made specifically for you? We bet your sister does. It doesn’t even have to be expensive. You can opt for more affordable accessories.

·      MATCHING ANYTHING – How about something matchy-matchy? You can opt for silk robes, cute kitchen aprons and bags to name a few. Depending on her personality and hobbies, the choices are endless. Plus, you’re not only getting something for her. You’re buying for you too. Score!

·      FUNCTIONAL – Functional items such as bespoke metal bookmarks, personal journals or planners, pens and jewelry boxes are a neat option too. You can customize them to match a theme or add in their names and initials. Not only will they be unique but they too are bound to be useful.

·      STUFFED ANIMALS – Last but not the least, these cuddly wonders never grow old. Tell your sister that these stuffed toys will serve as your representative in times where she needs a hug and you can’t physically be there (yet). It’s cute too.