Where can you find these terrific playthings that are worth taking a detour from errands to explore? Let me reintroduce you to the Gingerbread House, beloved institution, but now under new ownership, and with an exciting new perspective.
The Gingerbread House has managed to seamlessly blend the past with the present. They’ve kept the dedication to great toys, the knowledgeable staff, the adorable location…and the jungle wrapping paper. At the same time, they’ve completely updated the space. It’s bright, cheerful, fresh, open, and very, very kid friendly. The south building still holds the doll adoption center, but they’ve blended in trains and action figure sets, making it a great place for all kids. And they added a PLAY SPACE (!!) where you can try out some of their offerings and let the little ones burn off some energy. Story times and events are part of the future plans, too.
And while everywhere you look is fun and games, it’s not just fun and games. The philosophy of the shop is centered around the Purpose of Play. The Purpose of Play is the collection of attributes that great toys bring out in kids, like Creativity and Socialization. Each item on the shelves has been picked with this philosophy in mind and the result is a carefully cultivated selection of toys with gifts at every price point and the ability to special order just about anything else. Much of the staff has been with the store for years and has the kind of experience and knowledge that can’t be trained. Service is still top notch--where else can you call ahead with a last minute birthday gift order, swing by on the way to the party 20 minutes later, be rung up in a flash, and walk out with a unique present that will be a favorite for months to come? Whatever kind of help or guidance you need, they’ll be able to provide.
Be intrigued. Be excited. Be there for the GRAND REOPENING July 20th from 8am-5pm. It’s a perfect time to check out all the changes and all the toys. There will be lots of hands on stations for kids, as well as raffles, discounts, and tons of surprises. It’ll be well worth the emphatic “Yes!” to the question of “Can we look at toys today?”
The Gingerbread House is located at 603 South Hannah in Bloomington. A brand new website is coming soon but you can sneak a peek at all the fun on their Facebook page.
B-N Macaroni Kid is proud to welcome the Gingerbread House as our newest Sponsor!
