Category Archives: Toys

Pantone Reveals Color of the Year 2020: PANTONE® 19-4052 Classic Blue

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A Reassuring Presence Instilling Calm, Confidence, And Connection

Tapping into sight, sound, smell, taste, and texture Pantone makes PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue the first multi-sensory Color of the Year in the company’s history.

Pantone, provider of professional color language standards and digital solutions, today announced PANTONE 19-4052, Classic Blue, as the Pantone® Color of the Year for 2020; a timeless and enduring hue elegant in its simplicity. Suggestive of the sky at dusk, the reassuring qualities of the thought-provoking PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue highlight our desire for a dependable and stable foundation from which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era.

Pantone Reveals Color of the Year 2020: PANTONE® 19-4052 Classic Blue

“We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Imbued with a deep resonance, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue provides an anchoring foundation. A boundless blue evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue encourages us to look beyond the obvious to expand our thinking; challenging us to think more deeply, increase our perspective and open the flow of communication.”

The Color of the Year selection process requires thoughtful consideration and trend analysis. To arrive at the selection each year, Pantone’s color experts at the Pantone Color Institute comb the world looking for new color influences. This can include the entertainment industry and films in production, traveling art collections and new artists, fashion, all areas of design, popular travel destinations, as well as new lifestyles, playstyles, and socio-economic conditions. Influences may also stem from new technologies, materials, textures, and effects that impact color, relevant social media platforms and even up-coming sporting events that capture worldwide attention. For 21 years, Pantone’s Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home furnishings, and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design. Past selections for Color of the Year include:

  • PANTONE 16-1546 Living Coral (2019)
  • PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet (2018)
  • PANTONE 15-0343 Greenery (2017)
  • PANTONE 15-3919 Serenity and PANTONE 13-1520 Rose Quartz (2016)
  • PANTONE 18-1438 Marsala (2015)
  • PANTONE 18-3224 Radiant Orchid (2014)
  • PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald (2013)
  • PANTONE 17-1463 Tangerine Tango (2012)
  • PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle (2011)
  • PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise (2010)
  • PANTONE 14-0848 Mimosa (2009)
  • PANTONE 18-3943 Blue Iris (2008)
  • PANTONE 19-1557 Chili Pepper (2007)
  • PANTONE 13-1106 Sand Dollar (2006)
  • PANTONE 15-5217 Blue Turquoise (2005)
  • PANTONE 17-1456 Tigerlily (2004)
  • PANTONE 14-4811 Aqua Sky (2003)
  • PANTONE 19-1664 True Red (2002)
  • PANTONE 17-2031 Fuchsia Rose (2001)
  • PANTONE 15-4020 Cerulean (2000)

The color selected as the Pantone Color of the Year 2020 was taken from the Pantone Fashion, Home + Interiors Color System, the most widely used and recognized color standards system for fashion, textile, home, and interior design.

Imprinted in our psyches as a restful color, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit, offering refuge. Aiding concentration and bringing laser-like clarity, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue re-centers our thoughts. A reflective blue tone, Classic Blue fosters resilience.

As technology continues to race ahead of the human ability to process it all, it is easy to understand why we gravitate to colors that are honest and offer the promise of protection. Non-aggressive and easily relatable, the trusted PANTONE 19-4052, Classic Blue lends itself to relaxed interaction. Associated with the return of another day, this universal favorite is comfortably embraced.

“The Pantone Color of the Year highlights the relationship between trends in color and what is taking place in our global culture at a moment in time, a color that reflects what individuals feel they need that color can hope to answer.” added Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute. “As society continues to recognize color as a critical form of communication, and a way to express and affect ideas and emotions, designers and brands should feel inspired to use color to engage and connect. The Pantone Color of the Year selection provides strategic direction for the world of trend and design, reflecting the Pantone Color Institute’s year-round work doing the same for designers and brands.”

To fully bring to life the true meaning of PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, Pantone has translated PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue into a multi-sensory experience. By extending the sensory reach of PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, Pantone is hoping to reach a greater diversity of people to provide everyone with an opportunity to engage with the Color of the Year 2020 in their own unique way.

“As we all head into a new era, we wanted to challenge ourselves to find inspiration from new sources that not only evolve our Color of the Year platform, but also help our global audiences achieve richer and more rewarding color experiences,” added Pressman. “This desire, combined with the emotional properties of PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, motivated us to expand beyond the visual, to bring the 2020 Pantone Color of the Year to life through a multi-sensory experience.”

Classic Blue in Fashion

PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is a poised and self-assured blue hue elegant in its simplicity. Genderless in outlook and seasonless in endurance, this foundational anchor shade enables color mixes throughout the spectrum, as well as making a strong statement on its own. Emblematic of heritage but at the same time highly contemporary, versatile PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue takes on distinct appearances through application to different materials, finishes and textures from shimmering metallics, lustrous sheens and high-tech materials to hand crafted looks and more fragile fabrics.

Classic Blue in Beauty

In the ultimate display of personal expression, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue makes a dramatic statement for eyes, nails and hair in a variety of finishes from glittery and glam to dusty matte.

Classic Blue in Home Décor

Offering the promise of protection PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is a pervasive favorite for home. Creating a stable foundation from which to build, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue injects creative confidence into interiors, transforming a space through unique color combinations and tonal statements. Easily applied across so many different materials, textures and finishes, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is a dependable blue that can take you in different directions expressing tradition and elegance as well as unexpected boldness.

Classic Blue in Graphic Design and Packaging

Because of PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue’s relation to the sky at dusk, something we see every day, it maintains a perception of dependability and constancy. A color we respond to viscerally as being trustworthy, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue is an ideal shade for many applications of graphic design. This is especially true for packaging where PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue conveys the message of honesty, credibility and reliability that today’s consumers are connecting to.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: Amazon’s Black Friday Deals Week is Almost Here

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More Deals of the Day and Deeper Discounts Than Ever Before on Buzzworthy Holiday Gifts Across Every Department

Kicking off this Friday, November 22, Amazon’s Black Friday deals week will offer new deals all day, every day from fashion to toys, home, electronics, Amazon Devices and more

Save up to 40% on toys from LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels and more; up to 50% on Lands’ End clothing and accessories; $40 off the Echo Show 5; deep discounts on brands including Adidas, KitchenAid, L’Oreal Paris and more; plus exclusive deals from Amazon Brands, Amazon Music, Audible and more

Amazon today shared a sneak peek of top deals for its Black Friday Deals Week, which will offer customers new deals all day, every day totaling thousands of amazing deals across every category, plus more Deals of the Day and deeper discounts than ever before. Starting this Friday, November 22 through November 29 (Black Friday), customers can shop thousands of incredible deals on this year’s most popular gifts, new and trending finds, holiday essentials, and more, across toys, electronics, fashion, beauty, kitchen, home, Amazon Devices and more. All of Amazon’s Black Friday deals can be found by visiting amazon.com/blackfriday or on the Amazon App. Customers can also shop on smile.amazon.com/blackfriday to find the same amazing deals and Amazon shopping experience, with the added bonus that AmazonSmile will donate a portion of the purchase price of eligible products to a charity of your choice.

On top of the wide selection of deals and discounts available throughout Amazon’s week of Black Friday deals, customers can also take advantage of select one-time-only, amazing deals from top-tier and most-loved brands across electronics, home, fashion, toys and more, all at jaw-dropping prices. These deals are expected to sell out, with new one-time only deals launching throughout the day on November 28 (Thanksgiving), November 29 (Black Friday) and December 2 (Cyber Monday).

Whether customers are getting a head start on their gift lists, readying their homes for family festivities or grocery shopping for holiday feasts, Amazon makes the holidays easier than ever with top deals and low prices. In fact, according to a recent Profitero study, Amazon prices were found to be 20% cheaper on average than other online retailers.

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS PREVIEW:

The deals included below – and many more – will be available on various dates and times between November 22 and November 29 (Black Friday), while supplies last, at amazon.com/blackfriday, on the Amazon App, or by simply asking “Alexa, what are my deals.”

Amazon Devices

Amazon Brands

  • Save up to 50% on men’s and women’s clothing from Amazon Brands, including Amazon Essentials, Goodthreads, Daily Ritual, and The Drop
  • Save up to 30% on bedding & bath for the family from AmazonBasics, Stone & Beam and Rivet
  • Save up to 30% on furniture from Rivet and Stone & Beam
  • Save up to 30% on office furniture and supplies from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 30% on phone accessories from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 30% on kitchen electrics and housewares from AmazonBasics & Stone & Beam
  • Save up to 30% on luggage and travel from AmazonBasics
  • Save up to 25% on food and beverages from Amazon brands, including AmazonFresh, Happy Belly and Wickedly Prime
  • Save 25% on household supplies and personal care from Solimo
  • Save up to 15% on beauty, vitamins, and supplements from Amazon brands including Belei and Revly

Fashion

  • Save up to 35% on Herschel backpacks, wallets, hip packs, and more
  • Save up to 50% on Oakley & Ray-Ban sunglasses
  • Save up to 30% on Calvin Klein underwear
  • Save up to 35% on the newest Fossil smartwatches
  • Save up to 35% on adidas shoes, clothing, and accessories for the family
  • Save up to 40% on Levi’s for the family
  • Save up to 50% on Lands’ End clothing and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on Tommy Hilfiger clothing
  • Save up to 50% on top watch brands including Daniel Wellington, Movado, and more
  • Save up to 40% on Under Armour for the family
  • Save up to 30% on men’s dress shirts
  • Save up to 30% on Izod clothing
  • Save up to 50% on Samsonite and American Tourister luggage
  • Save 35% on 14K gold diamond stud earrings
  • Electronics
  • Save on Samsung, Sony, and LG TVs
  • Save on Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 10
  • Save up to 45% on streaming devices and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on select Nintendo Switch Software
  • Save up to 33% on select Nintendo Joy-Con
  • Save on Canon and Nikon cameras
  • Save on Headphones from Bose, Sony and other top brands
  • Save on Nintendo Switch Console with Digital Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
  • Save on Xbox One
  • Save on PC gaming laptops, desktops, monitors, components, and accessories
  • Save up to 33% on PlayStation 4 Slim 1TB bundle
  • Save on Oculus Rift S
  • Save on Garmin smart watches
  • Save 30% on select cell phone cases
  • Save on Klipsch speakers
  • Save on Jabra Elite Active 65t Earbuds
  • Save up to 35% on select iOttie Car Mount Phone Holders
  • Save on Garmin Forerunner 235 and DriveSmart
  • Save up to 40% on Corsair gaming products and accessories
  • Save up to 45% on Netgear products
  • Save 40% on Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020
  • Save up to 50% on Brother printers
  • Save up to 60% on HP Deskjet 2622
  • Save $30 on HP Sprocket 2nd Edition
  • Save 30% on MYNT3D Professional Printing 3D Pen
  • Save $50 off Microsoft Office Home and Student 2019
  • Save over 70% on new Norton 360 Premium
  • Save on Kodak and Polaroid photo printers
  • Save on SanDisk and WD
  • Receive a $10 Gift Card with purchase of TurboTax Software

Toys

  • Save 15% on L.O.L. Surprise! Winter Disco Bigger Surprise (Amazon Exclusive)
  • Save 40% on the LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Millennium Falcon
  • Save 40% on tricycles and the 3-in-1 Wagon from Radio Flyer
  • Save 40% on the KidKraft Cinderella Royal Dream House
  • Save 40% on the Little Tikes Bake n’ Grow Kitchen
  • Save up to 30% on select strategy games
  • Save up to 30% on Glitter Girls fashion dolls and accessories
  • Save up to 30% on Barbie, Hot Wheels and more from Mattel
  • Save up to 30% on select party games

Household, Kitchen and Home Furnishings

  • Save up to 30% on SodaStream sparkling water makers
  • Save on Hamilton Beach
  • Save up to 35% on Vitamix
  • Save on Nespresso
  • Save on Dash Appliances
  • Save up to 44% on KitchenAid
  • Save on Instant Pot
  • Save on Conitgo Water bottles, Food Saver and Rubbermaid food containers
  • Save up to 25% on select mattresses
  • Save on Ashley Mattresses
  • Save up to 48% on Degrees of Comfort weighted blankets
  • Save up to 15% on Bissell Lifestyle 220
  • Save up to 19% on Bissell SpotClean Pro
  • Save on Casper Sleep Soft and Supima Cotton Sheet
  • Save up to 37% on Bissell Icon Pet Stick
  • Save up to 41% on Ecovacs N79S
  • Save up to 36% off Ecovacs Deebot 661
  • Save up to 26% Bissell Crosswave
  • Save up to 19% on Bissell SpotClean Pro
  • Save up to 22% on Bissell MyAir
  • Save up to 20% on Oreck Commercial XL Commercial Upright Vacuums
  • Save on AIRMEGA 400S The Smarter App Ena
  • Save on Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Protect Waterproof Mattress Protector
  • Save up to 15% on Bissell Lifestyle 220
  • Save on TEMPUR Adapt Plus Cooling Topper
  • Eureka NEN110A Whirlwind Bagless Canister
  • Save on Sunbeam Cordless or Corded Iron
  • Save up to 50% on Simplisafe 12-Piece Security System
  • Save up to 20% on Kidde products
  • Save up to 30% on Hunter ceiling fans
  • Save up to 30% on DeWalt tools
  • Save up to 30% on select SKIL tools
  • Save up to 25% on BLACK+DECKER drill kit
  • Save up to 15% on Opal Countertop Nugget Icemaker
  • Save 15% on NewAir Dual Zone Beverage Cooler

Smart Home

  • Save on Chamberlain MyQ Garage Hub at $17.98
  • Save on iRobot Roomba 960 at $399.00
  • Save on iRobot Roomba 675 at $199.99
  • Save on the new LG 82″ 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV at $1,699.99
  • Save up to $79.90 on Arlo Technologies products
  • Save on Shark IQ Robotic Vacuum at $399.99
  • Save over 30% on Netgear wifi & routers
  • Save $200 on Sony Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos and Wireless Subwoofer
  • Save up to 39% on ecobee SmartThermostat and Switch bundle

Lawn & Garden

  • Save up to 35% on holiday live plants
  • Save on the Sun Joe SPX4000-PRO Pressure Washer
  • Save 35% on Greenworks 80V outdoor power tools
  • Save up to 30% on Keter Cool Bar & more
  • Save up to 35% on fire pits and patio heaters

Audible, Music, Video & Books

  • Audible: Between November 25 and 27, new members receive a bonus $15 Amazon credit and continue to save 53% on the first three months of an Audible membership at $6.95 a month. Additional offers to be announced through the holiday season.
  • For a limited time, new Amazon Music Unlimited customers can get the best holiday deal in Amazon Music’s history – four months of the premium streaming tier for just $0.99, to enjoy unlimited access to more than 50 million songs, ad-free.
  • With purchase of select Echo devices, new Amazon Music Unlimited customers in the US, UK, Germany and Japan will also receive four months of the premium, ad-free streaming tier for free.
  • Prime Video: Between November 29 and December 5, Prime members can enjoy 50% off to rent or buy on new release movies.
  • The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show, Prime Video’s first foray into the holiday special space, will premiere globally on Friday, November 29. The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show will also be accompanied by an official soundtrack available on Amazon Music and other DSPs beginning November 29. Learn more at amazon.com/kaceychristmas.
  • Get 3 months of Kindle Unlimited for free – Enjoy unlimited access to over 1 million books, popular magazines and thousands of books with Audible narration. Offer valid for new subscribers only.
  • Get $10 back in eBook credit when you spend $30 on eBooks (activation required).
  • Save up to 80% on select Kindle best-selling books
  • Save up to 50% on Popular Children Books

Pets

  • Save 33% on Furbo Treat Tossing Wifi Pet Camera
  • Save up 35% on Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Kit
  • Save up to 30% on Frontline Oral Defense Daily Dental Chews
  • Save up to 15% on Nutramax products for dogs and cats
  • Save 30% on PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder
  • Save 30% on select Greenies dog treats
  • Save 30% on Temptations cat treats
  • Save 30% on Cesar gourmet dog food

Sports & Outdoors

  • Save up to 40% on the adidas Diablo duffel bag
  • Save up to 35% on select Columbia outerwear, apparel, and shoes
  • Save up to 25% on Thule backpacks and luggage
  • Save more than 25% on golf training aids, including Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors
  • Save up to 25% on Osprey packs & accessories
  • Save up to 20% on best sellers from Coleman
  • Save up to 30% on fishing gear from Abu Garcia, Berkley, Penn, Ugly Stik, and more
  • Save up to 15% on stand up paddle boards from Serenelife
  • Save up to 30% on hunting essentials from Plano Synergy
  • Save up to 15% on Marcy exercise equipment
  • Save on the Bowflex Max Trainer M7
  • Save on Bushnell golf products, including rangefinders, GPS, and watches
  • Save 20% or more on Segway electric scooters and personal transporters
  • Save 20% on Huffy adult and kids bikes
  • Save on Callaway golf balls, headwear, and golf bags
  • Save on JOOLA table tennis tables and more
  • Save more than 15% on select GoSports favorites, including wood premium cornhole set, giant wooden toppling tower, and more

Beauty

  • Save up to 45% on Philips Sonicare appliances and brush heads
  • Save up to 40% on Aquaphor, NIVEA, and Eucerin
  • Save 30% on Panasonic electric razor for men
  • Save 20% on L’Oreal Paris brow stylist definers
  • Save up to 40% on professional and luxury beauty skin care, cosmetics, fragrance, hair and more
  • Save up to 33% on select luxury beauty devices and accessories

Health and Personal Care

  • Save up to 50% on 23andMe DNA tests
  • Save up to $60 on select Fitbit items
  • Save up to 30% on select nutrition and wellness items
  • Save 15% on Body Fortress whey protein powder
  • Save 30% or more on Duracell batteries
  • Save $70 on AncestryHealth Core™ Health + Genetic Ethnicity Test

Automotive

  • Save on Hella Sharptone Twin Horn Kits
  • Save on Camco Yellow Fasten Leveling Blocks

Amazon Payments and Gift Cards

Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Cardmembers and Amazon Prime Store Cardmembers with an eligible Prime membership will receive 15% Back on Electronics bestsellers on Amazon.com from now through December 22. They’ll also receive 10% Back on select Amazon devices valid November 28 to December 2 only.

Small Businesses on Amazon Handmade and Amazon Launchpad

  • Save 20% or more on Amazon Handmade products from around the world – shop deal and the gift guide at www.amazon.com/handmadegiftguide.
  • Save up to 35% on top selling iOttie Wireless accessories
  • Save on Dash appliances
  • Save up to 35% on select party games for grown-ups including Exploding Kittens
  • Save up to 44% on Geekee True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
  • Save 15% or more on select LuminAID Solar phone chargers and lanterns

Grocery

  • Save 25% or more on select Jack Link’s beef jerky
  • Save up to 30% on select Victor Allen’s coffee packs
  • Save 15% on select TAZO K-Cup pods
  • Save 20% on select Soylent meal replacement shakes and protein bars
  • Save 35% on Tea Forte tea gifts for the holiday season

Whole Foods Market

  • Amazon and Whole Foods Market are offering special savings on organic and classic turkeys in celebration of Thanksgiving. All customers can choose from select organic ($3.49/lb) and classic turkeys ($2.49/lb), and Prime members will save even more on turkeys ($2.99/lb for organic and $1.99/lb for classic). The offer is valid until November 28, while supplies last. Prime members can also receive exclusive deals on organic jewel sweet potatoes ($1.29/lb), organic cranberries ($2.69/12-oz bag), and Bonafide frozen broths and soups (35% off).

DISCOVER THE SEASON’S HOTTEST GIFTS

Customers can also shop Amazon’s biggest-ever selection of curated gift guides and exclusive storefronts this year, which offer gifting inspiration and more:

MORE WAYS TO SHOP

In addition to amazon.com/blackfriday, customers can shop Amazon’s week of Black Friday deals in the following ways:

Amazon.com in Spanish: Customers can visit Amazon.com/espanol or use the Amazon App to shop, browse and search for millions of products, view their carts, and place orders in Spanish.

  • Amazon App: The Amazon App allows customers to conveniently shop for their holiday needs – anytime and anywhere – and never miss a great deal. Customers can use the Watch a Deal feature to “Watch a Lightning Deal” and receive a notification on their mobile phone when the deal is about to start. Additionally, first time app users have an opportunity to save big this holiday. New customers will receive $10 the first time they sign-in to the Amazon App and an additional $15 when they make their first purchase on the app.
  • Alexa Shopping: Customers can add to their Amazon wish list with Alexa by saying, “Alexa, add headphones to my wish list” and track packages and confirm your delivery date with Alexa by saying, “Alexa, where’s my stuff?”
  • Amazon Business: Save big when shopping for work with deals on everything you need for your business. Find deals on supplies for the office holiday party, employee and client gifts, and items for community donation drives. Stock up for the new year with savings on the business essentials you need. Visit amazon.com/holidayforbusiness, For more information and to sign up for a free business account, visit amazon.com/business.
  • Amazon Books: Whether customers want to discover a new book for the holidays, test-drive a device, or purchase Amazon Gift Cards, Amazon Books offers gifts for everyone. To find the store nearest you visit: www.amazon.com/stores.
  • Amazon 4-star: Designed around Amazon.com customers, Amazon 4-star stores feature products that are 4 stars and above, top sellers, new and trending, and most popular from top categories including devices, consumer electronics, toys, games, books, kitchen, and home. To find the store nearest you visit: www.amazon.com/stores.
  • Amazon Live: Watch Amazon Live’s shoppable Black Friday livestream throughout the day on November 29 for demonstrations on top deal products and cameo appearances from celebrities you love. Tune in starting at 4am PST by visiting www.amazon.com/live.
  • Treasure Truck: Discover great gifts you never thought of on Treasure Truck. Opt-in by texting ‘TRUCK’ to 24193 and receive notifications for same-day offers – order the item and pick up at the truck the same day. This Black Friday, gift givers who act fast will find an incredible deal on a holiday-must-have tech item on the truck in select cities, while supplies last.
  • Whole Foods Market: Prime members who shop at Whole Foods Market have access to a number of benefits year-round, like deep discounts on dozens of select popular products each week and an additional 10 percent off hundreds of in-store items. Additionally, Prime members in thousands of cities and towns can shop their local Whole Foods Market store using Amazon.com or the Amazon App.
  • Woot! offers daily deals on customers’ favorite brands and free shipping for Prime members. Visit woot.com from November 24 through November 29 or download the Woot! App for great deals.

GIVE BACK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, AND BEYOND

Amazon is committed to making holiday giving and giving back easier than ever.

  • AmazonSmile: To jump right into holiday shopping and support your favorite charitable organization at the same time, simply visit smile.amazon.com/blackfriday. By starting with smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the same Amazon experience, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price of eligible products to a charity of your choice.
  • Charity Lists: Charity Lists give charitable organizations an easy way to create wish lists of products needed, while providing a convenient way for customers to donate these essential items directly to the causes. Customers are able to contribute items that are truly critical, to charities they care about, no matter how big or small. Customers can shop thousands of Charity Lists by visiting smile.amazon.com/charitylists, with new charities joining all the time.
  • ( RED) Shopathon: For the third year, Amazon is teaming up with (RED), the charitable organization founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver in 2006, to fight AIDS. Amazon is providing customers a single destination to shop more than 150 (RED) products, including the exclusive (RED) edition of the all-new Echo, which will be available for a limited time. For every all-new Echo (RED) edition sold, Amazon will donate $10 to the Global Fund. Plus, customers interested in donating to support (RED)’s fight can do so on any Echo device by simply asking, “Alexa, donate to (RED).” (RED) products will be available starting today at amazon.com/red.

HOLIDAY DELIVERY MADE EASY

In addition to free delivery on more than 100 million items for all Amazon customers, Amazon has expanded its fast, free, and convenient delivery options for Prime members and customers this holiday season:

  • Fast and Reliable One-Day and Same-Day Delivery. Throughout the season, Prime members in the U.S. can shop a selection of over 10 million items for Prime Free One-Day Delivery and millions of items available for Same-Day Delivery in 46 major metropolitan areas. Not a Prime member yet? Join Prime or start a 30-day free trial at www.amazon.com/prime.
  • Ultrafast and FREE grocery delivery: Now Prime members get free and fast grocery delivery from Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market. Selection includes a variety of products for all your holiday needs, from meat to seafood, produce, snacks, and household essentials, with options for fast one- and two-hour delivery windows. Prime members who live in one of the more than 2,000 cities and towns where grocery delivery is available can request an invitation to shop Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market delivery. Learn more at amazon.com/grocery.
  • Pickup and delivery on your terms: This holiday season, customers can pick up their packages at a number of Amazon Hub locations including thousands of in-store staffed Counter pickup points across the U.S. within Rite Aid, GNC and Stage stores, as well as at Health Mart independent pharmacies. Additionally, tens of millions of products can be easily and conveniently delivered to 900 cities and towns across the country via Locker or Locker+. To find an Amazon Hub location, visit amazon.com/Hub. In addition, Prime members in 50 U.S. cities and surrounding areas can also enjoy secure, convenient package delivery with Key by Amazon (amazon.com/key).

Profitero Study Methodology

Each day, Profitero monitors prices and other data on more than 450 million product pages at more than 8,000 online retailers. For this study, Profitero analyzed daily prices collected from July 8, 2019 to September 30, 2019 across 19 leading online retailers. Categories analyzed included Appliances, Baby, Beauty, Electronics, Grocery, Home Furniture, Household Supplies, Music & CDs, Office Supplies, Pet Supplies, Sports & Outdoors, Tools & Home Improvement, Toys & Games, and Video Games. The study only compares prices collected on the same day, with both retailers in-stock. Amazon prices reflect 1P only on Amazon.com, exclusive of Fresh and Prime Now. The other retailer online prices studied could reflect promoted prices, but exclude coupons, other discounts that require additional shopper action, or special prices available through retailer-specific programs such as Target REDcard.

STORY at Macy’s Presents: Home for the Holidays

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A Wonderland of Gifts for Everyone on Your List

STORY at Macy’s, the always-changing, narrative-driven concept store inside 36 Macy’s locations nationwide, kicks off the holiday season with the launch of its latest theme: “Home for the Holidays.” As an editorial-inspired, living gift-guide, the concept showcases gifting options within home-themed environments. Up and running through December 31, “Home for the Holidays STORY” offers a one-stop destination for everyone on your holiday list as shoppers explore stylized spaces that correspond to different gift recipients. Featuring more than 900 gifts from 200 small businesses, including items for foodies, lovers of travel, glam treats, tech and DIY kits, pet accessories and more, STORY at Macy’s is the home base for a wonderland of presents to explore and discover this holiday season.

“For this year’s living gift guide, we are bringing shoppers a wonderland of gifts for everyone on their list in the ultimate home setting!” — Rachel Shechtman, STORY founder and Macy’s Brand Experience Officer

STORY is a retail concept that changes every few months to bring a new narrative experience to life through curated merchandise and event programming. The ever-changing experience began in 2010 in New York City, where STORY operated as an independent small business for seven years and pioneered a retail as media business model that changed every eight weeks to open a new theme while engaging brands as sponsors for each themed story. Macy’s acquired STORY in 2018 and its founder, Rachel Shechtman, now serves as Macy’s brand experience officer. STORY relaunched in spring of 2019 as STORY at Macy’s. (Visit www.macys.com/STORY for more information.)

Drink Mixers at the STORY at Macy’s 2019 Holiday Shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City

“This is our first ‘Home for the Holidays’ installation at our new home inside 36 Macy’s stores nationwide,” noted Rachel Shechtman, STORY founder and Macy’s brand experience officer. “For this year’s living gift guide, we are bringing shoppers a wonderland of gifts for everyone on their list in the ultimate home setting! Our special event programming will bring the magic of the season to life helping shoppers enhance their holiday celebrations.”

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone special, STORY at Macy’s ‘Home for the Holidays’ Installation have endless finds —over 800 plus gift-giving ideas— for the person who has everything or just wants to treat themselves.  Interested in seeing more and can’t come in-store?  Check out a few of their favorite gift picks online for the first time!

Movie Night at STORY at Macy’s 2019 Holiday Shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City
Gifts for the man in your life at STORY at Macy’s 2019 Holiday Shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City

Each section of the ultimate holiday home features merchandise that speaks to a number of recipients. For the person who has everything, shoppers will discoverfood-themed finds, party and entertaining gifts, whimsical games, as well as travel, office, and pet accessories. For someone who deserves to treat themselves, it’s all about glam and comfort gifts. Cozy up with cold weather must-haves from Echo, candles from illume, and super-soft cashmere socks from iLux, all housed inside a warm and woodsy space. For someone especially hard to shop for, “Home for the Holidays STORY” offers the perfect gifts from grooming kits to tech items and rock music-inspired collectibles, and even a cocktail kit from Brooklyn’s Hella Bitters. And finally, for someone little and bright on your list, customers can discover great space and science-themed gifts, DIY kits and animal plush toys.

Gifts for Her — in an icy bedroom filled with party-right pieces that will make you say freeze — at STORY at Macy’s 2019 Holiday Shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City
More gifts for Him at The STORY at Macy’s 2019 Holiday Shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City

Home for the Holidays is also about how we spend time together – so drop by for pop-up card making sessions and ornament crafting. Tired from shopping? Pop in for a workshop or art class where the staff will be customizing gifts for everyone on your list – yourself included. If you’re gearing up to host family friends this season, join us to discover how to take your tablescape up a notch with napkin ring customization, decorating tips, ceramic bowl customization, and cookie decorating classes for mini-makers. This season, it’s all happening at Home for the Holidays – so remember to RSVP and get on our nice email list for updates and more.

It’s a Rice Krispies World at STORY at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City. In the onsite retro kitchen,they’ve stocked up on tasteful finds from pizza socks to whiskey rocks.
Rice Krispies Display at the STORY at Macy’s Herald Square 2019 Holiday Shop in New York City

What would the holidays be without sweet treats? STORY at Macy’s has joined forces with Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treats, a favorite in homes across the country for generations. “We are excited about bringing our brands to life in new contexts and occasions. When the opportunity to be a part of STORY’s Home for the Holidays installation at Macy’s came up, it seemed perfect for Rice Krispies Treats, to further spread our message of love through holiday events,” shared Gail Horwood, chief marketing officer Kellogg North America. In all 36 STORY at Macy’s locations, customers will be able to take a break from shopping and decorate their own holiday Rice Krispies Treats to gift to friends or enjoy at their own family celebrations.

Darcy Miller and David Stark at the STORY at Macy’s Holiday shop at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City
Martha Stewart and Rachel Ray at the STORY at Macy’s Herald Square Holiday Shop in New York City

At STORY at Macy’s flagship location inside Macy’s Herald Square in New York City, the wonder of the holidays will be celebrated with a larger-than-life experience, created with designer David Stark. “For the flagship location, we wanted to give shoppers the ultimate home experience and introduce them to our friends who’ve been part of STORY holidays year after year – David Stark designed our amazing flagship environment, artist Darcy Miller will bring our NYC section to life with original art and will host special events, and Iris Apfel is back by popular demand to sell jewelry from her personal collection,” added Shechtman.

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2019 Holiday Gift Guide: shopDisney.com and Disney store Reveal the Top Holiday Toys for the 2019 Holiday Season

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From Talking Action Figures To Flower Carts, Shopdisney.Com|Disney Store Is The One-Stop Holiday Shop For Disney Fans This Holiday Season

shopDisney.com|Disney store has revealed its 2019 Top Holiday Toys. This marks the second year the retailer is sharing a list of holiday must-haves for Disney fans and gift-givers alike. The top items include toys inspired by everyone’s favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters including the Toy Story Mini Figure Set, Mickey Kids Kitchen, Disney Train and Station Playset by The LEGO Group, Marvel Thanos Talking Action Figure along with items inspired by key holiday movies including a Disney Frozen 2 Anna and Elsa Doll set and Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker Deluxe Figure Play Set.

Frozen 2 Anna and Elsa Doll Set
MSRP: $34.95
Available: Now
Licensee: shopDisney | Disney store
Retailer: shopDisney.com
Description: Arendelle’s devoted sisters come dressed in their finest attire as this Frozen 2 doll set. Elsa’s dazzling purple gown is accented with the coordinating necklace, belt and shoes, while Anna’s gold gown is complemented by her sash, shoes and fascinator.

Top Holiday Toys shopDisney.com|Disney store Toys* include:

  • Toy Story Woody Interactive Talking Action Figure ($32.95) Available online and in store now. Straight from the wild west and Toy Story 4, comes Sheriff Woody as an interactive talking action figure. Woody features more than ten phrases and starts speaking when he detects another Toy Story interactive figure nearby.
  • Disney Animators’ Collection 5 Inch Mini Doll Gift Set – 5” ($99.95) Available online and in store now. Walt Disney Studios animators have reimagined 14 of their most beloved characters as toddlers in this 5” luxury gift set.
  • Minnie Pet Bath Set ($24.95) Available online and in store now. Even Fifi enjoys a bath day with Minnie’s pet bath play set. A real, working sprayer and faucet makes the most of this tub time opportunity. Watch what happens when Fifi changes color in warm water!
  • Minnie Flower Cart ($49.95) Available online and in store now. Playtime will always be full of spring time fun with Minnie’s child-size Flower Cart Play set. This cart is full of play-planting products making every imaginary market trip a delight.
  • Classic Simba Plush ($19.95) Available online and in store now. Can you feel the love? You’ll roar with pride when cuddling up to this royal lion cub. Simba just can’t wait to be part of your plush collection!
  • Marvel Thanos Talking Action Figure ($32.99) Available online and in store now. Heed his warnings or deal with the consequences when the Avengers’ most awesome antagonist speaks up as this Thanos Talking Action Figure. Speaking 15 phrases, the menace to the universe also has a light-up gauntlet, so beware!
  • Cinderella and Carriage Deluxe Gift Play Set ($79.95) Available online now and in store 11/4/19. They’ll say, “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-ooh!” when they see this deluxe set. Cinderella’s carriage is infused with glitter, has a light-up feature and fits two 12” dolls. Cinderella is dressed in her classic ballgown, complete with choker, gloves, headband and “glass” slippers. Taking it all on a fairytale journey is a handsome steed with flowing mane and tail.
  • Mickey Kids Kitchen ($99.95) Available online now and in store 11/29/19. Junior chefs will be ready to cook up plenty of fun with this Mickey Mouse Kitchen Play Set. Little ones hungry for playtime excitement will love the light-up stove, color-changing pizza, whistling teapot and pot of spaghetti and meatballs. The oven mitt and apron are all part of the kitchen fantasy.
  • Cars Lightning McQueen Remote Control Vehicle ($19.95) Available online and in store now. Ka-Chow! Hit the speedway with Lightning McQueen and this radio-controlled vehicle from the world of Cars. Features full function control and “steering wheel” handset.
  • Toy Story 4 Mega Figure Play Set ($49.95) Available online now and in store 11/4/19. Bring the stars of Toy Story 4 home to play with this mega 10-figure set featuring Woody, Buzz, Jessie and more. Recreate favorite movie scenes or imagine your own with these timeless characters.
  • Ariel Tabletop Vanity Play Set ($49.95) Available online and in store now. Under the sea is the place to be seen after a freshen-up at Ariel’s clamshell vanity. Open the case as Sebastian rises to conduct music and sound effects. A pull-out drawer holds a treasury of play accessories inspired by The Little Mermaid.
  • Disney Train and Playset Station by The LEGO Group ($329.99) Available online and in store now. Gather the family for a rewarding build and play experience with the LEGO® ǀ Disney Train and Station. Kids will love to join Disney characters Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip, Dale and Goofy for magical adventures with this awesome LEGO train set, featuring a motorized steam-style locomotive with tender, passenger car and a luxurious parlor car, plus an oval track and an iconic Disney Parks®-style station building.
  • Frozen 2 Arendelle Castle (139.95) Available online now and in store 10/21/19. You will feel like you’ve stepped into the wintry world of Frozen 2 with this Frozen 2 Arendelle Castle play set. Now you can make all of your Frozen dreams come true!
  • Frozen 2 Anna and Elsa Doll Set (34.95) Available online and in store now. Arendelle’s devoted sisters come dressed in their finest attire as this Frozen 2 doll set. Elsa’s dazzling purple gown is accented with the coordinating necklace, belt and shoes, while Anna’s gold gown is complemented by her sash, shoes and fascinator.
  • Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker Deluxe Figure Play Set –First Order ($26.99) Available online and in store now. Choose the dark side of the Force with this deluxe set of highly detailed figures of the First Order’s most powerful members. Inspired by Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, it includes Kylo Ren and a Sith Trooper among the set of 10 figures that are sure to enhance your epic collection.
Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker Deluxe Figure Play Set – The First Order
MSRP: $26.99
Available: Now
Licensee: shopDisney | Disney store
Retailer: shopDisney.com
Description: Choose the dark side of the Froce with this deluxe set of highly detailed figures of the First Order’s most powerful members. Inspired by Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, it includes Kylo Ren and a Sith Trooper among the set of 10 figures that are sure to enhance your epic collection.
Toy Story 4 Mega Figure Play Set
MSRP: $49.99
Available: Online now and in-store Nov. 4
Licensee: shopDisney | Disney store
Retailer: shopDisney.com
Description: Bring the stars of Toy story 4 home to play with this mega 10-figure set featuring, Woody, Buzz, Jessie and more. Recreate favorite movie scenes or imagine your own with these timeless characters.

To continue the gift-giving spirit, shopDisney.com|Disney store will release a “2019 Holiday Guide” on Wednesday, October 23, in all Disney stores. The holiday catalog will include Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars toys, gifts, décor and more for kids and families available at shopDisney.com|Disney store. Shop in-store or online and browse the Top Holiday Toys here and full Holiday Gift Guide here.

On Saturday, November 2, Guests may attend the “Disney store’s Magical Wishes” event for Disney store’s big reveal of special holiday décor and interactive theater activities featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on the media wall. To get everyone in the holiday spirit, Magical Wishes is taking place every evening at 7 p.m. local time from November 2 through December 24. For more information visit www.shopdisney.com/events.

Ariel Tabletop Vanity Play Set
MSRP: $99.95
Available: Now
Licensee: shopDisney | Disney store
Retailer: shopDisney.com
Description: Under the sea is the place to be seen after a freshen-up at Ariel’s clamshell vanity. Open the case as Sebastian rises to conduct music and sound effects. A pull-out drawer holds a treasury of play accessories inspired by The Little Mermaid.
Mickey Mouse Kitchen Play Set
MSRP: $99.95
Available: Online now and in-store Nov. 29
Licensee: shopDisney | Disney store
Retailer: shopDisney.com
Description: Junior chefs will be ready to cook up plenty of fun with this Mickey Mouse Kitchen Play Set. Little ones hungry for playtime excitement will love the light-up stove, color-changing pizza, whistling teapot and pot of spaghetti and meatballs. The oven mitt and apron are all part of the kitchen fantasy.
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Kohl’s Launches Unprecedented Number of Brands Just in Time for Holiday

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A Significant Number Of New Brands Join Kohl’s Product Portfolio

Kohl’s celebrates the launch of a significant number of new brands joining its product portfolio during the fall and holiday seasons, offering newness at every turn for Kohl’s customers. Shoppers will discover new brands across product categories including new brands to Kohl’s, exciting collaborations and new partnerships with existing Kohl’s brands.

Kohl’s Logo

The following brands have launched or will launch at Kohl’s stores and Kohls.com this year. While store locations offering each brand vary, customers can shop the full assortment of all brands online at Kohls.com.

Now in Kohl’s Stores and on Kohls.com

Family

  • Fanatics: A long-term partnership with Fanatics to significantly broaden Kohl’s fan gear assortment online, including officially licensed men’s, women’s, and kids apparel, jerseys, hats, collectibles, and tailgating and novelty products, launched in September
  • ED Ellen DeGeneres Pet Collection: Exclusive pet offerings from Ellen DeGeneres, featuring toys, beds, apparel, and accessories, launched in October

Women’s

  • Nine West: Footwear, handbags, jewelry, and an exclusive apparel collection featuring an expanded wear-to-work offering, launched in September
  • Cara Santana x Apt. 9*: Exclusive, limited-time apparel collaboration between actress and tastemaker Cara Santana and Kohl’s private label brand Apt. 9, featuring blazers, sweaters, pants, skirts, outerwear, and more, launched in October

Men’s

  • Caliville*: Men’s lifestyle apparel from country music star Brett Young, exclusively at Kohl’s, featuring a selection of short sleeve and long sleeve graphic tees, fleece, flannels, and joggers, launched in October

Home

Koolaburra by UGG at Kohl’s
  • Koolaburra by UGG: Exclusive home collection featuring a variety of luxury soft home products, including bedding and bathroom linens, throws and decorative pillows, launched in September
  • Scott Living at Kohl’s: Exclusive home offerings from HGTV’s Property Brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott, featuring modern home basics and décor, including furniture, bedding and bath, kitchen décor, and more, launched in October

Curated Brands: Curated by Kohl’s

In addition to these new brands in women’s, men’s and kids, Kohl’s also recently announced a cross-category platform for new brands called Curated by Kohl’s, launched in October. Beginning in 2020, Kohl’s will partner with Facebook on brand curation, identifying and engaging with brands that have built a strong online community on the social media platform. While the selection will refresh quarterly, the first selection of items include the following brands:

United By Blue 9L Bluff Utility Backpack
  • Adore Me: Designed by women, for women, Adore Me celebrates every body type with high-quality, affordable lingerie styles made for every occasion. The Curated by Kohl’s assortment will feature a selection of Adore Me bras, panties and sleepwear available in all sizes.
  • East Adeline by Dia&Co: Rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of size, deserves to express their personal style on their own terms, East Adeline by Dia&Co is a collection of select styles, exclusively for plus size women. Curated by Kohl’s will offer East Adeline by Dia&Co’s versatile designs, including statement pieces, modern prints, and closet staples available in sizes 14 – 32.
  • Kid Made Modern: Craft kits and accessories, including on-the-go travel kits, jewelry kits, holiday decorating kits and various art supplies. Through imaginative and innovative arts and crafts, Kid Made Modern is on a mission to inspire kids and parents to find and enjoy creativity everywhere. Curated by Kohl’s will offer a variety of Kid Made Modern craft kits and accessories, including on-the-go travel kits, jewelry kits, holiday decorating kits and various art supplies.
  • Lovepop: With a mission to create one billion magical moments, Lovepop creates beautiful laser-cut pop-up cards designed with ship-building software and handcrafted in the ancient art form of kirigami. Curated by Kohl’s will offer a wide selection of Lovepop cards to make every occasion magical — from birthdays and anniversaries to holidays and “just because.”
  • Luca + Danni: After losing his brother to cancer, Fred Magnanimi founded Luca + Danni to honor his brother’s memory and share his “”embrace the journey”” spirit. Curated by Kohl’s will offer Luca + Danni iconic stacking bracelets, made in the U.S. and shaped to sit on top of the wrist to express what matters to you most.
  • United by Blue: From reusable straw kits and drinkware to eco-friendly clothing and bags, United By Blue designs products built for sustainable living. For every product sold, UBB removes one pound of trash from oceans and waterways.
Lovepop “Champagne Toast” Greeting Card

Curated Brands: The Beauty Checkout

Kohl’s is proud to announce The Beauty Checkout, a rotating selection of products from emerging beauty and skincare brands, launched in October. Beginning in 2020, Kohl’s partnership with Facebook will also support The Beauty Checkout.

“We see the beauty category at Kohl’s as an opportunity for growth, and our nimble approach ensures we can quickly bring new trends to customers, as well as continually test emerging products and brands as part of our assortment,” said Robert Jezowski, Kohl’s vice president, divisional merchandise manager of beauty. “We are looking at many categories across the beauty department and one of the many trends we are launching at Kohl’s is CBD beauty products, including facial care, body care and topical creams, in select stores.”

While The Beauty Checkout selection will be refreshed quarterly, the first selection of items include the following brands:

Barefoot Scientist Podium LineUp
  • Banila Co: clean skincare
  • Barefoot Scientist: footcare solutions, including blister prevention spray, pain relief cream, hydration therapy and more
  • Busy Beauty: showerless products, including dry shampoo, body wipes and shave gel
  • Cleo & Coco: natural deodorant
  • Dr. Botanicals: natural skincare, including pomegranate sleeping mask and kale superfood moisturizer
  • Evolution_18: ingestibles, featuring gummies, glow capsules, collagen powder, probiotics and more
  • Honey Belle: clean skincare
  • Lucie & Pompette: face polish
  • Pure Aura: masks, including glow glitter mask, 24K gold foil mask, rose gold foil mask and paper cloud cleansing mask
  • Real Her: lip kits
  • Savannah Bee: hand and body care
  • Uncle Bud’s: hemp skincare, including body lotion, body wash and roll-on pain relief
  • Vital Proteins: beauty collagen

Additional Beauty Offerings: Kohl’s continues to bring newness to beauty with trending and relevant brands, including:

  • Chopstick Hair Tools
  • Elizabeth and James fragrance
  • Formawell Beauty by Kendall Jenner
  • Hempz
  • Jason Wu fragrance
  • La Vie est Belle fragrance by Lancome
  • Hemp Beauty** – CBD offering
  • Uncle Bud’s** – CBD offering
  • MOX** – CBD offering

Coming Soon for the Holiday Season

Women’s

Elizabeth and James*: Exclusive retailer of Elizabeth and James apparel, handbags and accessories from designers Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, launching in November

JW Jason Wu*: Exclusive, limited-edition women’s holiday apparel capsule from globally-renowned designer Jason Wu, feature signature pieces for holiday dressing, including dresses, jumpsuits, and jackets, launching in November

“We are thrilled to amp up newness and discovery across our stores and Kohls.com with a strong pipeline of new brands and partnerships to excite existing customers and attract new customers to Kohl’s,” said Doug Howe, Kohl’s chief merchandising officer. “As our product portfolio evolves, we are bringing new offerings in every department including women’s, men’s, home, and beauty to inspire shoppers this holiday season with a modernized, relevant merchandise assortment.”

As always, customers can take advantage of Kohl’s many conveniences and values, including shopping via the Kohl’s App, the option to Buy Online, Pick Up In Store and the ability to earn Kohl’s Cash, a Kohl’s-only value that can be earned on anything or anywhere customers shop – in store, at a kiosk or online. Additionally, Amazon Returns at Kohl’s is now available at more than 1,100 stores nationwide. Customers can now visit their local Kohl’s store to return eligible Amazon items, without a box or label, for a free return.

To shop all these brands and more, visit Kohls.com.

*Products available in select Kohl’s stores and for all customers on Kohls.com.

**Products available in select Kohl’s stores only.

LeapFrog® Expands Infant and Preschool Collection with New Learning Toys

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Interactive Products Encourage Essential Skills such as Vocabulary, Numbers and More

LeapFrog® Enterprises, Inc., a leader in innovative learning toys for children, has announced the availability of engaging new additions to its award-winning infant, toddler and preschool lines. The new educational toys include an interactive grill that inspires pretend play, a dancing panda that sparks learning excitement through music and colorful maracas that introduce colors, numbers and music.

“At LeapFrog, what we do best is combine learning with fun ways to play,” said Andy Keimach, President, VTech Electronics North America, LeapFrog’s parent company. “This year we’re expanding on role play and musical toys packed with interactive content!“

The Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill™ features pretend temperature controls, a rotisserie and 16 play pieces to encourage pretend play. When food pieces are attached to the skewer, the grill will recognize each piece while introducing food and colors. Little ones can get up and move with the musical Learn & Groove® Dancing Panda™, available exclusively at Walmart. They can play Freeze Dance and other games to explore the learning content, toggle the bridge switch to scroll through numbers 1-10 and letters A-Z, and use the whammy-bar music button to select dozens of different tunes. Finally, children can shake up learning with the Learn & Groove® Shakin’ Colors Maracas™, featuring three modes of play that introduce colors, numbers and music. Little ones can count from 1-10 with every shake and use English and Spanish modes to explore all of the content in both languages.

Highlights of the line, available now, include:

LeapFrog® expands infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill™.
LeapFrog® expands infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill™.

Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill™: Keep learning on the menu with the Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill™! Little grill masters can pretend to grill by securely placing eight different play food items on the interactive skewer. This smart grill recognizes the food’s name and color. Twist the skewer to count along with the grill, then turn the temperature dial from 1 to 10. Hear the sizzling and cooking sounds! The grill knows if the heat is too high and asks to have the dial turned to a lower number. Safety messages are included: “Careful. The grill’s hot! Don’t get burned.” Utensil hooks keep the tongs and spatula at the ready to serve steak, fish, green peppers and more onto the included plates. Don’t forget the pretend sauce! Learn, Play and Music modes multiply the fun. Press the star button for grilling suggestions, melodies, phrases and sound effects. The pieces store inside this entertaining grill for easy clean-up. (Ages 2+ Years; MSRP: $39.99)

LeapFrog® expands its infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the Learn & Groove® Dancing Panda™.
LeapFrog® expands its infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the Learn & Groove® Dancing Panda™.

Learn & Groove® Dancing Panda™: Get up and move with the musical Learn & Groove® Dancing Panda™, available exclusively at Walmart! Watch Panda shake, dance and spin around to the music. The LED screen on his guitar lights up with shapes, letters and numbers with four play modes. Play Freeze Dance and other games to explore the learning content. Press the musical instrument buttons on Panda’s light-up shoes to hear a saxophone, trumpet, drum and guitar. Toggle the bridge switch to scroll through numbers 1-10 and letters A-Z, while the whammy-bar music button on Panda’s guitar selects dozens of different tunes, including songs about numbers, shapes, colors, letters and musical instruments. (Ages 9+ Months; MSRP: $29.82)

LeapFrog® expands its infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the LeapFrog® Learn & Groove® Shakin’ Colors Maracas™.
LeapFrog® expands its infant and preschool collection with new learning toys, such as the LeapFrog® Learn & Groove® Shakin’ Colors Maracas™.

Learn & Groove® Shakin’ Colors Maracas™: Shake up learning with the Learn & Groove® Shakin’ Colors Maracas™! One maraca includes colorful shaker beads and the other features a light-up dome that changes colors and plays maraca sound effects. This musical toy includes three play modes that introduce colors, numbers and music. Little ones can add rattling sounds to the songs that play, count from 1-10 with every shake and press the six light-up buttons to hear color and instrument names. Switching between English and Spanish mode lets kids explore all of the content in both languages. (Ages 6+ Months; MSRP: $14.99)

For more information, visit www.leapfrog.com.

2019 Holiday Gift Guide: BJ’s Wholesale Club Gives Members Unbeatable Value on Exclusive Top 10 Toys

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Retailer announces toy selection for the holiday season with exciting in-club finds with even more available on Bjs.com

Gift-Givers Get Ready! BJ’s Wholesale Club, a leading warehouse club operator on the East Coast, has released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list and toy selection for the holiday season. The toy assortment gives BJ’s members unbeatable value on new brands, favorite characters and timeless classics.

BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes the PJ Masks Seeker Playset with Cat Car. (Photo: Business Wire)

“Getting that perfect gift for everyone on your list is a thrill,” said Chris Desantis, senior vice president, general merchandise, BJ’s Wholesale Club. “We’re making sure gift-givers are getting the hottest toys at an incredible value this holiday season. From nostalgic brands like Tamagotchi and Lite Brite to today’s hottest names like Fortnite and Baby Shark, BJ’s has something for toy lovers of all ages on BJs.com and in-club.”

BJ’s is offering members incredible value on some of the most coveted toy offerings this holiday season, taking the guesswork out of gift-giving. BJ’s Top 10 Toys will be available exclusively at BJ’s in-clubs and on BJs.com beginning Oct. 7, 2019:

  • PJ Masks Seeker Playset with Cat Car
  • Ryan’s World Ultimate Smashing Red Titan with BONUS Safe
  • T.O.T.S. Surprise Babies Nursery Care Set
  • What’s In the Box with 4 BONUS Bags
  • Baby Alive Snackin’ Twins Luke & Lily
  • Rainbow Fluffies – with Matching Mini
  • Goldie Blox 2-in-1 Light-Up Diffuser & Aroma Jewelry Mega Set
  • Blume Hair Stylin’ Surprise, 2-pack
  • Myla the Magical Unicorn with BONUS Accessories
  • Plus, one toy from Frozen 2 so exciting BJ’s can’t yet reveal it!
BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes the Blume Hair Stylin’ Surprise, 2 pk. (Photo: Business Wire)
BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes the Goldie Blox 2-in-1 Light-Up Diffuser & Aroma Jewelry Mega Set. (Photo: Business Wire)

In addition to the retailer’s 2019 Holiday Gift Guide: , BJ’s large selection of toys includes some of the most coveted offerings this holiday season, like the Fortnite 2-inch Figure Squad Pack and Barbie’s Three-Story Townhouse. Members will find exciting options in-club with an even larger assortment of toys on BJs.com.

BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes the T.O.T.S. Surprise Babies Nursery Care Set. (Photo: Business Wire)
BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes Myla the Magical Unicorn with BONUS Accessories. (Photo: Business Wire)
BJ’s Wholesale Club released a preview of its exclusive Top 10 Toys list for 2019, which includes Rainbox Fluffies with Matching Mini. (Photo: Business Wire)
What’s In the Box with 4 BONUS Bags

BJ’s extensive assortment is complete with the season’s most sought-after toys, including trendy surprise-themed toys like 5 Surprise Mini Brands and Pikmi Pops Cheeki Puffs Surprise Pack and timeless brands such as Pokémon and Toy Story. Members can also shop toys from today’s favorite shows and movies, like Paw Patrol, PJ Masks, Doc McStuffins and Marvel.

  • BJ’s selection of toys from today’s favorite shows and movies is perfect for checking off everyone on members’ gift lists:
  • Paw Patrol Super Paws, 2-in-1 Transforming Might Pups Jet Command Center
  • PJ Masks Talking Figure Set
  • Marvel 6-inch Action Figures, 8 pk.

Kids will have hours of hands-on, interactive fun with BJ’s assortment of compound toys, including:

  • So Slime DIY Slimelicious Station
  • Kinetic Sand
  • Play-Doh Burger Barbecue Set

BJ’s members will enjoy a blast from the past with nostalgic toy favorites, such as:

  • Lite Brite Double Bonus Set
  • The Original Tamagotchi
  • Classic Mini Arcade Games including Tetris, Pac-Man and Ms. Pacman, and Galaga

BJ’s members can give the gift of learning and fun by shopping the retailer’s extensive selection of S.T.E.M toys, including:

  • Vex Robotics Construction Kits
  • JIMU Robot Champbot Kit
  • Professor Maxwell’s 4D Chef or 4D Galaxy

BJ’s members can surprise and delight everyone on their list with trendy surprise-themed toys, such as:

  • Treasure X Aliens
  • Hairdorables Surprise Doll with Bonus Bestie
  • Ryan’s World Pizza Party Pinata Surprise

BJ’s also offers a wide selection of exciting collectible toys for members of all ages, including:

  • Pokémon Trading Cards Gift Set
  • Bakugan Starter Set
  • Capsule Chix Collectible Dolls

Members can gift their kids a ride of their own this holiday season with BJs.com’s exciting ride-on toys, including:

  • Kid Trax Dodge Ram 1500 Pick Up Truck
  • My Real Car
  • My Lovely Llama

BJ’s members can save even more time and money by shopping an expanded selection of toys on www.Bjs.com. From dolls and dollhouses to kids’ furniture and ride-on toys, BJs.com is the perfect one-stop shop to help members finish their holiday shopping right, from the comfort of their own home.

With BJ’s Everyday ClubVenienceSM, members can shop however they want this holiday season with convenient shopping options like Bjs.com, buy online, pick up in-club, same-day delivery, digital coupons and two-day shipping on household essentials with BJ’s Stocked.

Shoppers can learn more about BJ’s Wholesale Club by going to www.bjs.com.

Coming Soon: Alexander Girard: A Designer’s Universe at Palm Springs Art Museum

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Organized By Vitra Design Museum, The Exhibition Featuring More Than 700 Objects

Inspired By Folk Art And Pop Art, Girard Created A Bold, Colorful, And Charismatic Universe.

Alexander Girard (Born in May 24, 1907 in New York City, NY and died on December 31, 1993 in Santa Fe, New Mexico) was one of the most important and prolific designers of the 20th century. He created stunning interiors for restaurants, private homes, corporate offices, and even airplanes! He created textiles, typography, and tableware. He designed exhibitions, toys, and a whole city street in Columbus, Indiana. Inspired by folk art and pop art, Girard created a bold, colorful, charismatic universe. He warmed up modernism with his whimsical, optimistic patterns and designs.

The Palm Springs Art Museum (101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, 760-322-4800) has announced the West Coast debut of Alexander Girard: A Designer’s Universe. This exhibition, organized by Vitra Design Museum, presents the colorful universe of Alexander Girard through more than 400 objects—textiles, drawings, furniture, graphics, film, and folk art—in a richly layered installation and accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue. Exhibition visitors will experience one of his best-known interiors—that of the 1957 Miller House in Columbus, Indiana—through a full-scale replica of its iconic conversation pit, which will be a place for repose and public programs.

The show will be on view from November 23, 2019 through March 1, 2020.

Practicing from the late 1920s until the late 1970s, Girard worked mostly for the American furniture company Herman Miller after becoming director of its textile division in 1951. Girard’s clients also included companies like Braniff International Airways and John Deere for which he created fresh new corporate brand identities, which, in the case of Braniff, extended from the planes themselves to the flight crew uniforms and passenger lounges. In addition to Girard’s own designs, this exhibition presents the creative universe from which Girard took his inspiration: folk art from all over the world, which the designer collected throughout his life. A selection of 300 objects from his folk art collection, gifted by him to the International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe, is also featured in the exhibition.

The Palm Springs Art Museum was founded in 1938 as the Palm Springs Desert Museum at La Plaza in downtown Palm Springs. Natural science exhibits, Cahuilla Indian artifacts, and hiking excursions dominated the institution’s programming.

Visit http://www.psmuseum.org

The museum moved several times within the downtown Palm Springs area before building its first permanent structure in 1958, located on the southwest corner of Tahquitz-McCallum Way and Indian Ave. Over the years, fine art gained a greater measure of focus.

By the late 60’s it was evident the 10,000 square foot building was quickly becoming too small. In 1974, architect E. Stewart Williams was commissioned to design the current building for the museum. Further growth resulted in the construction of the Doris and Walter N. Marks Administration Building and the 1996 completion of the Steve Chase Wing and the Education Center.

Major renovations, and even bigger donations of art, transformed the institution, which also sharpened its programming with nationally significant exhibitions. In April 2004, the Board of Trustees decided to shift the museum’s focus from a multi-disciplinary museum to a world-class art museum with a vibrant theater program. In evaluating the current strengths and directions of the museum, it became clear that the art collections were growing and that the art audience was expanding – primarily in the areas of architecture, photography, and contemporary glass.

A study of the area’s other institutions also brought a realization that there were other established organizations providing exhibitions in the natural sciences. One year later, in April 2005, the museum officially changed its name from Palm Springs Desert Museum to Palm Springs Art Museum to reflect its emphasis on the visual and performing arts.

The museum remains committed to serving as an innovative community cultural center, and expanding its exhibitions, programs, and services in the visual and performing arts.

In 2012, the museum opened a satellite exhibition and education space in Palm Desert (Palm Springs Art Museum in Palm Desert, 72-567 Highway 111, Palm Desert, CA 92260, 760-346-5600), which features an architecturally distinctive building named The Galen that presents ongoing and temporary exhibitions of internationally important art and is surrounded by the Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden that features significant sculpture works surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

In 2011, the museum purchased the Santa Fe Federal Savings & Loan building designed by E. Stewart Williams in 1960. Located in downtown Palm Springs, it was reopened as the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion (300 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, 760-423-5260) in 2014.

This hub of the museum’s exploration of architecture and design features related exhibitions and educational programs.

The collection also includes Frey House II, the historically significant residence in Palm Springs that architect Albert Frey designed for himself in 1963 and bequeathed to the museum upon his death in 1998.

Accredited by the American Association of Museums, the Palm Springs Art Museum has 28 galleries, two sculpture gardens, four classrooms, a resource centers, an artists center, five storage vaults, a 85-seat lecture hall, a 433-seat theater, a 1,000 square-foot store, and a popular local bistro.

A variety of educational programs and activities will take place in connection to the Palm Springs iteration; additionally, the museum’s annual gala and biggest fundraiser on January 26, 2020 will be Girard themed in décor and ambience to bring even greater attention to the exhibition.

Alexander Girard: A Designer’s Universe‘s global sponsors are Herman Miller and Maharam. Palm Springs Art Museum’s presentation is organized by Brooke Hodge, Director of Architecture and Design, with generous support from Joan & Gary Gand. Additional support is provided by Ellen Donaldson.

2019 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award Finalists Unveiled

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Over 100 Innovative and Exciting Toys & Games Are the Judges’ Top Picks for the Holiday Season

The Toy Association has unveiled the 123 finalists for the prestigious 2019 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards. Known as the “Oscars” of the toy industry, the TOTY Awards program recognizes the top toy, game, and licenses in the industry, and supports children in need by serving as a critical fundraiser for The Toy Foundation.link-banner

Finalists were announced by prominent online influencers who serve as TOTY Ambassadors. Between now and January 6, families can visit www.ToyAwards.org to vote for their favorite playthings in each of the 17 categories, including Action Figure of the Year, Innovative Toy of the Year, and Collectible of the Year. [SEE FINALISTS BELOW]

One winner in each category, as well as the coveted “Toy of the Year” award winner and the “People’s Choice” winner (based solely on consumer votes), will be announced at the TOTY Awards gala to be held on Friday, February 15, 2019 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in TOTY19LogoNew York City. The celebration will kick-off the 116th North American International Toy Fair and will include the induction of toy industry trailblazers into the esteemed Toy Industry Hall of Fame.

“If you’re wondering what to get the kids and ‘kidadults’ in your life this holiday season, this year’s TOTY finalists are the hottest toys and games on the market. Whether you are looking for a doll, a board game, or the latest youth electronics, you’ll find great gift ideas for children of all ages. Every one of the TOTY finalists has been carefully screened by judges for its outstanding ability to deliver joy and wonder while facilitating key developmental benefits of play,” said Steve Pasierb, The Toy Association’s president & CEO.

“Importantly, the TOTY Awards program supports The Toy Foundation’s important mission focused on serving children in need – whether they are living in foster care, impoverished, dealing with a traumatic or life-threatening illness, or facing other adversities,” added Pasierb.

The finalists were selected from more than 550 nominees submitted by over 200 companies of all sizes. Nineteen judges, including toy and play experts, retailers, academics, and journalists, reviewed and ranked the products in specific categories relevant to their areas of expertise. The judges then participated in a live discussion to determine the finalists in each category. They considered each product’s creativity, design, play value, and marketing.

ACTION FIGURE OF THE YEAR: Toys that include action figures

Mattel Jurassic WorldΓäó Dinosaur Action Figures

Mattel Jurassic WorldΓäó Dinosaur Action Figures

  • DJ Bumblebee (Hasbro, Inc.)
  • Mattel Jurassic World™ Dinosaur Action Figures (Mattel, Inc.)
  • Pokémon 4.5″ Battle Feature Figures (Wicked Cool Toys)
  • Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Deluxe Ninja Action Figure Assortment (Playmates Toys)
  • Stikbot Monsters (Zing)
  • Treasure X (Moose Toys)
  • WWE® Sound Slammers™ Figures (Mattel, Inc.)

COLLECTIBLE OF THE YEAR: Toys that compose a set and can be collected in multiples; can include novelty playthings, miniature versions of existing lines, licensed collectibles, etc.

Beaker CreaturesΓäó

Beaker Creatures™ (Learning Resources)

  • Beaker Creatures™ (Learning Resources)
  • Disney Doorables (Moose Toys)
  • LEGO® Harry Potter™ and Fantastic Beasts™ Minifigure Series (LEGO Systems, Inc.)
  • L.O.L. Surprise! Eye Spy Series (MGA Entertainment)
  • Lost Kitties Blind Box Multipack Assortment (Hasbro, Inc.)
  • Pikmi Pops: Pikmi Flips (Moose Toys)
  • Polly Pocket (Mattel, Inc.)
  • Twisty Petz (Spin Master)

CONSTRUCTION TOY OF THE YEAR: Toys that include building and engineering sets

  • Gears! Gears! Gears! Machines in Motion (Learning Resources)
  • GeoSmart Flip Bot (SMART Toys and Games, Inc.)
  • GraviTrax Starter Set (Ravensburger)
  • Kessel Run Millennium Falcon™ (LEGO Systems, Inc.)
  • LEGO® Harry Potter™ Great Hall™ (LEGO Systems, Inc.)
  • Marbleocity Triple Play Archimedes Screw (PlayMonster)
  • Snap Circuits BRIC: Structures (Elenco)

CREATIVE TOY OF THE YEAR: Toys that allow kids to build an/or make items that are unique to them

Avengers Hero Inventor Kit

Avengers Hero Inventor Kit

  • Antsy Pants Build & Play Kit (Beach House Group)
  • Avengers Hero Inventor Kit (littleBits)
  • Building Bricks Play N Store Table (KidKraft)
  • Cool Maker KumiKreator (Spin Master)
  • Rock And Roll It Spectrum Drum (MukikiM LLC)
  • Sew + Glow (Tech Will Save Us)
  • The Big Engineering Makerspace (Thames & Kosmos)

DOLL OF THE YEAR: Toys that include baby, toddler, and fashion dolls

Barbie ® Ibtihaj Muhammad Doll

Barbie® Ibtihaj Muhammad Doll (Mattel, Inc.)

  • Barbie® Ibtihaj Muhammad Doll (Mattel, Inc.)
  • Barbie® Robotics Engineer Doll (Mattel, Inc.)
  • Cry Babies (IMC Toys)
  • DreamWorks Spirit Riding Free Deluxe Spirit Walking Horse (Just Play/Universal Brand Development)
  • Hairdorables (Just Play)
  • L.O.L. Surprise! Eye Spy Under Wraps (MGA Entertainment)
  • Marvel Rising Secret Warriors Doll Assortment (Hasbro, Inc.)

    my-friend-fancy-nancyceb3c3a4c3b3-doll.jpg

    My Friend Fancy Nancy™ Doll (JAKKS Pacific)

  • My Friend Fancy Nancy™ Doll (JAKKS Pacific)

Continue reading →

Barbie® honors Savannah Guthrie And Hoda Kotb As Role Models With One-Of-A-Kind Dolls

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TODAY Show Co-hosts Celebrated as Part of the Barbie Shero Program to Inspire the Next Generation of Girls

Barbie® honors journalists Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb as role models, or “Sheroes,” for breaking boundaries to inspire the next generation of girls. The pair made history as the first female duo to anchor NBC’s TODAY Show in the franchise’s 66-year history. This milestone furthers girls and women alike, as the co-hosts bring a diverse perspective in the newsroom at a time when it’s needed most. Guthrie and Kotb will be awarded one-of-a-kind dolls in their likeness at the Glamour Women of the Year Summit.

Savannah and Hoda OOAK Barbie Dolls

Barbie® honors journalists Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb as role models, or “Sheroes,” for breaking boundaries to inspire the next generation of girls.

This effort is part of the brand’s commitment to showing girls more role models through the Dream Gap Project, an ongoing global initiative to raise awareness around limiting factors that prevent girls from reaching their full potential. Research has shown that starting at the

Mattel Logo

Mattel Logo (PRNewsFoto/Mattel)

age of five, many girls are less likely than boys to view their own gender as smart and begin to lose confidence in their own competence — this is coined the “Dream Gap.”

To help close the Dream Gap, Barbie is committed to highlighting a minimum of 10 role models annually, because showing girls more role models is an effective way to inspire their limitless potential. To date, the brand has surpassed this goal by highlighting more than 20 historical and modern role models in 2018.

“As we head into our 60th year, it is important that we continue to shine a light on female role models – or Sheroes as we call them – like Savannah and Hoda, to show girls they can be anything,” said Lisa McKnight, General Manager and Senior Vice President, Barbie. “Savannah and Hoda have modernized morning news and allowed more women and girls to see themselves, and their stories reflected on television.”

At the Glamour Women of the Year Summit, Barbie will honor Guthrie and Kotb on stage and lead a conversation around supporting girls. This is not the first time Barbie has partnered with Glamour, as the brand honored Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first American Olympian to compete while wearing a hijab, and Ashley Graham, model, and body activist, at past Glamour Women of the Year events.

“I’m so proud to continue the partnership with Barbie and The Dream Gap, especially in what we at Glamour consider to be the year of the woman,” said editor-in-chief Samantha Barry. “It’s more important than ever to show young girls that nothing is out of reach. These dolls represent a landmark moment for women this year, and I hope to inspire the next generation of women journalists.”

While the co-hosts are gifted one-of-a-kind dolls, young fans can imagine themselves in the newsroom with the Barbie TV News Team Doll set, and play out different roles in other fields with more than 50 career doll options to choose from this holiday season.

‘Let’s Go Gifting’: Nordstrom Launches its 2018 Holiday Campaign Celebrating the Joy of Gifting

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(Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

This holiday season, Nordstrom wants to make shopping fun with Gifts That Do Good, Gifts That Inspire, and innovative services that help make the holidays completely stress-free in-store and online. The marketing campaign was produced by Nordstrom and directed and photographed by Theo Wenner, who has worked on original campaigns for Chanel, Chloe, and Topshop/Topman, as well as editorials for Vogue and Rolling Stone. The cast includes Guinevere Van Seenus, who began her modeling career walking a Nordstrom fashion show as a teenager, as well as longtime Nordstrom customer and model Jan De Villeneuve, who has been gracing runways for over 50 years.

NORDSTROM LOGO

NORDSTROM LOGO (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

The campaign includes a colorful, cheerful video that will run on Nordstrom.com and on the retailer’s social and digital platforms, print and out of home. A national TV commercial will launch on November 5.

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Campaign visuals from the 2018 Nordstrom ‘Let’s Go Gifting!” Holiday campaign to run in O: The Oprah Winfrey magazine  (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

GIFTS THAT DO GOOD

Giving back feels good any time of year, but particularly during the holidays. From gift cards that give back, to gifts that do good, Nordstrom is making it easier than ever for customers to find the perfect gift.

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Campaign visuals from the 2018 Nordstrom ‘Let’s Go Gifting!” Holiday campaign to run in InStyle magazine (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

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Campaign visuals from the 2018 Nordstrom ‘Let’s Go Gifting!” Holiday campaign to run in US Harpers Bazaar magazine (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

  • Gift Card Give Back – Nordstrom donates 1% of all gift card sales to nonprofits across the U.S. and Canada. This year alone, the company has donated over $7.5 million to more than 600 organizations.

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  • Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals™ – In partnership with its customers, Nordstrom is supporting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals™ (CMNH) to make a difference in the lives of children. Now through December 24, Nordstrom invites customers to support CMNH through the purchase of $10 giving cards at any Nordstrom full-line store in the U.S. and Canada. All donations will stay local to the community in which they were given, including 55 network hospitals in regions with Nordstrom stores. The donations will fund critical treatments, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care for children and their families across the U.S. and Canada.

  • Nordstrom Signature – Nordstrom is introducing a new cashmere collection featuring beautiful designs for women, men, and children. Select products within the collection are produced in factories where Nordstrom has partnered with BSR’s HERproject to implement workplace training programs on topics like health, finance, and gender equality. Since 2007, Nordstrom has partnered with BSR to launch worker empowerment programs in 27 factories around the world, reaching more than 18,000 workers.

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    Campaign visuals from the 2018 Nordstrom ‘Let’s Go Gifting!” Holiday campaign to run in US Elle magazine (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

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    Campaign visuals from the 2018 Nordstrom ‘Let’s Go Gifting!” Holiday campaign to run in US Marie Claire magazine (Courtesy: Nordstrom PR)

  • Treasure & Bond – Nordstrom donates 2.5% of net sales from this exclusive, private-label brand to programs that empower young people to make a difference in their community. To date, the company has donated $2.5 million. This year, Treasure & Bond is supporting WE Charity, which provides educators and students with curriculum and educational resources that help them gain an understanding of the root causes of pressing social issues and provides the tools necessary to take action and make an impact. Treasure & Bond features laid-back wardrobe staples with an Americana aesthetic for women, men, children, as well as home, a new category that launched this year.

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GIFTS THAT INSPIRE

Nordstrom aims to be THE destination for unique holiday gifts at a range of price points, from a chic Topshop faux fur shoulder bag for $48 to showstopping Gucci boots for $1,790, including emerging brands and exclusive items.

November 27 - Treasure & Bond Patterned Pullover

November 27 – Treasure & Bond Patterned Pullover

November 28 – Monica Vinader Havana Mini Friendship Bracelet
November 29 – Sant and Abel Santa Pajamas

  • Daily Drops – Beginning November 27 through December 18, Nordstrom will release exclusive, limited products each day called ‘Daily Drops,’ to create a sense of discovery in-store and online throughout the shopping season. Products will be added to Nordstrom.com/holidaygifts at 6:00am PST, as well as on the @Nordstrom Instagram. ‘Daily Drops’ will feature exciting, new-to-market items and styles from brands like Something Navy, Christian Louboutin, Charlotte Tilbury, Rothy’s, Treasure & Bond, Le Labo, Sant & Abel, Hugo Boss x Jeremyville, and Rag & Bone x Mickey.

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  • Gift Guides – Based on top-demanded categories and search terms by Nordstrom customers, the company is introducing a persona-based gift guide featuring curated and unique ideas for 11 customer personalities. Examples include The Tech Collector, The Luxe Lover, The Traveler, The Witty One, and the Do-Gooder, among others, and can be found on Nordstrom.com/holidaygifts.

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Nordstrom Holiday Gift Guide Continue reading →

Hess Announces Collector’s Edition First Hess Truck, Now On Sale

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Hess Corporation announced that the special limited Collector’s Edition truck, commemorating Hess Corporation’s 85th anniversary, is now on sale exclusively at www.hesstoytruck.com for $42.99 with free standard shipping and Energizer® batteries included.

Hess Corporation truck

Photo Credit: Hess Corporation truck. PRNewsfoto/Hess Corporation

Offered at the most limited quantity ever for any Hess Toy Truck, the Collector’s Edition First Hess Truck is designed as an enhanced replica of the original fuel oil delivery truck used by Leon Hess when he founded the company in 1933.

The Collector’s Edition First Hess Truck features three button-activated vintage sounds, rich LED lighting, expanded chrome-look details, a commemorative 1933 license plate, and comes packaged in a showcase box that pictures the original Hess truck fleet.

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Hess Corporation truck

Continuing the company’s annual tradition, the 2018 holiday Hess Toy Truck will be announced and available for purchase starting November 1 at 10 am EDT exclusively at www.hesstoytruck.com. This year’s holiday truck will retail for $33.99 with free standard shipping and eight Energizer® batteries included.

Parents Magazine Reveals The Best Toys Of 2018

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Kid Tested, Parent Approved! This Year’s Hottest Toys Include Surprise-Inside Toys, Wearable Fun, and Silly Robots

Parents magazine, the most trusted brand and leading voice for millennial moms, has revealed The Best Toys of 2018 list for kids of all ages and interests. Earlier this year, 70 kids and their parents were invited to play and test 350 of the newest toys to hit the market. Our toy experts narrowed down their favorites to the top 44 picks for infants to school-age kids.

BTOYS18

Parents magazine reveals the Best Toys of 2018

“Our annual list, timed to the holiday season, covers a wide range of playthings and is nearly a year in the making! We go over and over the picks, but ultimately our kid-testers make the final call,” said Liz Vaccariello, Editor-in-Chief of Parents. “From educational STEM toys to interactive games to toys that encourage creative play, this year’s list has something special for everyone.“

The Parents Best Toys of 2018 list, by category, include:

Best Big Wows

  • LEGO Jurassic World Indoraptor Rampage at Lockwood Estate; 8+ years, $130
  • Nerf Nitro DoubleClutch Inferno; 5+ years, $40
  • Singing Machine Kids Pedestal; 4+ years, $90
  • American Girl RC Sports Car; 8+ years, $215
  • Fisher-Price Think & Learn Rocktopus; 3-6 years, $60
  • Brio World Smart Engine Set With Action Tunnels; 3+ years, $90
  • Our Generation Horse Trailer; 3+ years, $70 trailer, $35 horse, $25 doll
  • Hasbro furReal Ricky, the Trick-Lovin Pup; 4+ years, $130
  • Baby Einstein Curiosity Table Activity Station; 12+ months, $70

Best of Surprise Toys

  • Party Popteenies Double Surprise Popper; 4+ years, $10
  • Hatchimals’ Hatchibabies; 5+ years, $60
  • Mega Construx Breakout Beasts; 5+ years, $10
  • Ryan’s World Giant Mystery Egg; 3+ years, $40
  • Rainbocorn; 3+ years, $25

Continue reading →

FAO Schwarz, The World’s Most Famous Toy Store, Announces New York Flagship Opening Date And International Expansion Plans

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Iconic Toy Brand will open shops in Canada, London, Australia and Spain reaching over 10,000 doors worldwidedb0656a0f5c0c0f52458b6f2fb581431

The world-famous FAO Schwarz has announced their international expansion plans as well as November 16th as the official opening date of the New York City flagship store located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Expansion plans include:

  • In partnership with Canada’s Hudson’s Bay, all 89 stores across the country will open pop-up FAO Schwarz shops, ranging in size from 300 to 1,200 square feet. Items will also be available at www.thebay.com.
  • A 27,000 square foot flagship will open in China via Kidsland China in Beijing slated for March of 2019. Additional stores and pop-ups will open over the next few years.
  • In partnership with Selfridges in London, UK, the team will open a pop-up for the holidays in early November 2018 as part of their “Selfridges Rocks” Christmas Shop.
  • Spain’s El Corte Ingles will open an FAO Schwarz pop-up in Madrid in early November 2018 through the holidays.
  • In partnership with Australia’s Myer Australia, FAO Schwarz will open a pop-up in their two flagship stores in Sydney and Melbourne as a part of their Giftorium Event starting in late October.

Founded in 1862, Frederick August Otto Schwarz opened FAO Schwarz, a marvelous bountiful emporium full of extraordinary, one-of-a-kind toys from all over the world. As one of the oldest and most iconic toy brands in the world, FAO Schwarz has always been synonymous with quality and innovation and offering cherished memories for generations of adults and children alike. (The company filed for bankruptcy in December 2013 and later bought by ThirtySixty Brands.)

“The expansion to these countries further exemplifies FAO Schwarz as a global kids lifestyle brand,” said David Conn, CEO of ThreeSixty Brands, owners of FAO Schwarz. “FAO Schwarz was built on in-store experiences, which has made it a global destination over the years. In partnering with these amazing companies around the world, we are able to bring back that wonderment of toys and a deep nostalgia for the larger than life experience that FAO Schwarz has offered to parents and children alike for over 150 years.”

On November 16th, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, becomes home to the new FAO Schwarz New York City flagship with over 20,000 square feet of FAO Schwarz signature toys and items from partners such as Melissa & Doug, Marvin’s Magic and Build-A-Bear as well as FAO Schweetz in partnership with IT’SUGAR. The store will feature FAO’s staple retail experiences including the iconic dance-on-piano, magic shows, a baby adoption center, a kids’ grocery shopping experience, and a build-your-own RC race car station, among others. Many of these experiences will be duplicated with FAO Schwarz international partner locations, offering the world that one-of-a-kind toy retail experience the brand is known for.

Furthermore, the fondness associated with FAO Schwarz is wrapped up in the theatre of it all. It’s more than just toys. It’s the deep nostalgia for play that came to life and was so often larger than it. A visit to FAO Schwarz meant much more than a trip to a toy store and it will again.

Target Reimagines Toy Experience for the Holidays

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(Photo Credit: Stephen Allen)

Retailer expands and reimagines space in hundreds of stores, doubles down on new and exclusive toys, and offers playful experiences for families with events and more

  • Nearly a quarter-million square feet of new space for toys across more than 500 stores
  • Remodeled toy department available in more than 100 stores
  • Deeper inventory and more than 2,500 new and exclusive toys–nearly double last year
  • 25,000 hours of joy with in-store events for families
  • New digital experience, gift finder for toys on Target.com, and digitally enabled kids’ gifting catalog

Target Corp. unveiled its plans for creating an unbeatable toy experience for shoppers this holiday season. Minneapolis-based Target Corporation serves guests at more than 1,800 stores and at www.Target.com. Since 1946, Target has given 5 percent of its profit to communities, which today equals millions of dollars a week. The retailer is adding nearly a quarter-million square feet of new space for toys across more than 500 stores and will complete remodels of toy departments in more than 100 stores. Guests will find great prices throughout the season, deeper inventory and more than 2,500 new and exclusive toys—nearly double compared to last year. Additionally, Target will host nearly 25,000 hours of family-friendly store events and is introducing a new toys hub on Target.com, as well as a digitally enabled kids’ gifting catalog.963442362ab9bb70265680b00e3a6733

“For many guests, finding the perfect toy to wrap up and give their little-loved ones this holiday is going to be their top priority. We want them to know that Target is here to help,” said Mark Tritton, executive vice president, and chief merchandising officer, Target. “Our team has spent months preparing for this season, selecting the assortment, deepening our inventory to offer more of the hottest items and reimagining the experience we have for toys in our stores and online. We’re excited to welcome more shoppers to Target this season and help them create memorable moments for years to come.”

Incremental Space for ToysTarget_Toys_1

By Nov. 2, Target will complete the expansion of nearly a quarter-million square feet of space for toys across more than 500 stores. The expanded departments will showcase larger items like electric ride-on vehicles, playhouses, outdoor playsets, and more. New displays will take items out of their packaging and put them into a 360-degree shopping experience. Playful signing will make it easy for guests to shop this new kid-friendly world and purchase items directly in-store or have them shipped to their home via Target.com. Continue reading →

Holiday 2017: Give the Best This Holiday Season with Gifts We Love from Macy’s

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Make Your List and Check It Twice, Macy’s Has Everything You Need This Holiday Season

Offering An Incredible Assortment Of The Perfect Gifts For Him, Her, Kids And Home, Including Fashion, Accessories, And Beauty, That Will Delight Loved Ones This Holiday Season

Macy’s has upped the ante for 2017 through partnerships, specially created collections, and a handy guide of the best presents that will make gifting friends and family fun and easy. Additionally, Macy’s Fashion Office brings shoppers the latest and greatest trends from around the globe, with a curated selection of festive wares perfect for every occasion, from cozy nights in and office fetes to full-blown holiday extravaganzas. Find the perfect gift for the fashionista, techie, beauty guru, at-home chef, interior décor connoisseur, and everyone in between, and ensure you look chic and party-ready — all at Macy’s.

“The holidays are a celebratory time when loved ones come together and show how much they appreciate having each other in their lives,” said Cassandra Jones, senior vice president of Macy’s Fashion. “I truly believe that the perfect gift can bring people together. To enhance that experience for our customers, we’ve created an unparalleled assortment of gift-giving items, from tech to beauty, so that each present is the perfect one. Plus, we’ve curated fashion and accessories to ensure our customers will look and feel incredible wherever their celebrations take them this season.”

From new brands and technology to an updated reservation system at Herald Square Santaland in New York City, Macy’s makes life easier this holiday season

Plus, shop hundreds of the hottest Black Friday specials beginning at 5 p.m. in most stores and all day at macys.com on Thanksgiving, November 23macyslogo

This holiday season, make your list and head to Macy’s to find the best new brands and tech gifts galore, look your best for every occasion and make sure your home is company-ready. Plus, Macy’s will open most full-line department stores at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 23. Customers who want to begin their holiday shopping on Thanksgiving Day will find hundreds of Black Friday specials in-store and online at macys.com.

For Her

Give the gift of luxury with opulent knits and sparkly pieces that pack as much glamour as they do comfort. A tiered, ruffle-sleeved sweater from I.N.C International Concepts is both fabulous and cozy, but also versatile and can be dressed up and down with ease. Glitter slippers, also from I.N.C, are perfect for the one whose sparkle is never dulled. For a true high-shine moment, give the special lady in your life the opportunity to feel like a star with an EFFY® sapphire bracelet certain to take her breath away or choose a cultured pearl strand for a timeless gift she will treasure. The trend-obsessed fashionista is no doubt a diehard fan of the 90s athletic-inspired logo craze strutting the runways, so a Tommy Hilfiger logo sweater is right up her style alley. A statement-making messenger bag from Michael Kors or luxurious leather wallet from Coach will help her stay stylish while keeping all her essentials organized. She’ll be party-ready with Clinique’s Pick Your Party set, created for Macy’s. This charming collection of Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer holiday lip shades treats lips to bold color packaged in a limited-edition tin. Give her a gift from her favorite designer with a fragrance from Gucci, Carolina Herrera, Dior or Yves Saint Laurent, or give beauty lovers the gift of options with Macy’s Beauty Box; for $15 a month, customers will receive five deluxe beauty samples selected by Macy’s beauty experts, plus a bonus sample and a $5 coupon to use in-store or on macys.com on their next beauty purchase.

For Him

Macy’s gift choices are just as great for guys. Upgrade his style game with eye-catching intarsia sweaters from I.N.C International Concepts while making sure he also smells the part with eau de toilette from Coach. Pamper his feet with out-of-this-world soft slippers from Ugg® and make sure his face always glows with the Hydration Hits four-piece face cream set from Kiehl’s. Deepen his musical history knowledge with the book, Hip Hop: A Cultural Odyssey. The luxury, large-format coffee table book explores the origins, evolution and cultural impact of Hip Hop culture over the last four decades through critically acclaimed essays and profiles, as well as captivating images. A puffer jacket from Calvin Klein or denim trucker jacket from Levi’s will keep him warm throughout the holiday season. Sprezza Box is a surefire way to revamp his style in one easy step. There are four distinct boxes created for Macy’s, each containing five items including ties, pocket squares, socks, sunglasses, wallets and money clips, curated by the experts at Sprezza. Each box evokes a specific look and feel—pick the right one for the guy on your list and instantly add panache to his style.

Tech

Keep the tech whiz in your life up-to-date with the latest releases in drones, Virtual Reality, acoustics, and more with the phenomenal offerings from Macy’s. Star Wars Battle Drones from Propel let fans recreate the epic clashes from their favorite Star Wars movies, while the Dream Vision virtual reality headset combines mind-blowing visuals with crisp audio to transport users and immerse them in any world they choose. Give the gift of convenience with the Amazon Echo Dot, the hands-free, voice-controlled device that enables you to make calls, send and receive messages, play music, set alarms, and more. For those true music fans, old school meets new school with the Victrola Acrylic turntable with Bluetooth speakers.

Home and Entertaining

Home is where the heart is, and whether you’re gifting someone a special item for their home or entertaining in yours, Macy’s has the best in décor, cuisine and service tools for the holiday season. Hotel Collection glassware and barware, along with the exceptional bar cart, are sophisticated and urbane. Tumblers and decanters boast a modern shape while the cart and bar tools mix polished wood and steel for a beautifully mid-Century aesthetic. Give the gift of holiday charm with decorative pillows from Martha Stewart Collection featuring an array of adorable critters from cats and dogs to stags and polar bears. Studio Mercantile novelty bar games are excellent ways to take parties up a notch, and decorative lighting, also from Studio Mercantile, provide ambiance to a setting. Appreciate the true essence of coffee by embracing the deep flavors of a freshly ground and pressed brew with the Primula French press bundle. The press draws out the natural oils and robust taste of beans, preparing six cups at a time. The bundle, created for Macy’s, comes with the press and a tumbler so you can share the experience with friends and coffee lovers everywhere. Gourmet gift baskets created for Macy’s from Di Bruno Bros. are sure to make an impression. Choose a curated basket with themes including “Let’s Brunch,” and “The Sriracha Foodie” filled with a wide variety of specialty foods and products that have all been hand-selected for top quality.

New Brands

1A - SBbySachin

Macy’s has everything you need this holiday season; SB by Sachin & Babi, Bossa Top $89, Oak Skirt $129 (Photo: Business Wire)

Sachin & Babi Ahluwalia, known for producing stunning pieces through their eponymous line that has redefined eveningwear, have created a dazzling collection for Macy’s that makes dressing up fun, easy, and empowering this holiday season. With close attention to detail and high fashion artistry, SB by Sachin & Babi goes beyond traditional special occasion wear with a selection of breathtaking dresses and gowns, stylish statement jackets, and mix-and-match tops, skirts, and pants. Fans of the new collection can preview the line on macys.com now, prior to the official launch in 149 stores on Nov. 15. Continue reading →

2017 Holiday Gift Guide: The Toy Insider Predicts Toys to Top Kids’ Wish Lists with Expert 2017 Hot Holiday Toy Picks

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Hatchimals Surprise, Fingerlings, Star Wars, Luvabella, Lightseekers, Squishies, and 3Doodler Top the Toy Insider’s Hot 20, Top Tech 12, and STEM 10 Lists

The Toy Insider, one of the toy industry’s most influential organizations and a trusted go-to resource for parents and gift-givers, has unveiled its expert picks for the best kids’ toys and tech in its 12th Annual Holiday Gift Guide (https://www.thetoyinsider.com/2017-holiday-gift-guide/) The hottest and most coveted items for 2017 are broken out into three lists: the Hot 20 (the most wished-for items of the year), Top Tech 12 (featuring AI, AR, VR and other cutting-edge technologies) and STEM 10 (science, technology, engineering and math toys that make learning fun). These hand-picked 42 items represent an incredible assortment of must-have collectibles, interactive toys, traditional playthings, and tech-infused robots and drones, among many more categories that are sure to make kids of all ages jump for joy this holiday season.1

The Toy Insider is the go-to source for product information about children’s toys, tech, and entertainment. It publishes two annual gift guides—one for summer and one for holiday—and reviews toys 365 days a year on thetoyinsider.com, a trusted resource for parents. The content is produced by an editorial team with more than 75 years of combined experience covering the toy industry. The Toy Insider is published by Adventure Publishing Group, publisher of leading trade publications The Toy Book, The Toy Report, The Licensing Book, and Total Licensing Report.

The Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide-Cover-2017

The Toy Insider 2017 Holiday Gift Guide-Cover

“Our team of experts spent the whole year searching for ‘the next Hatchimals,’ reviewing and playing with thousands of toys from manufacturers large and small,” says Laurie Schacht, Chief Toy Officer, The Toy Insider. “There’s nothing like seeing a child’s amazement when they open their holiday gifts, and we’re confident that the toys found in our holiday gift guide will deliver big ‘Wow’s and huge smiles. At The Toy Insider, we know play.“

The Toy Insider’s Hot 20

0-2 years

VTech.GoGoSmartWheelsRacePlayAdventureSet

Go! Go! Smart Wheels Race & Play Adventure Park (VTech)

  • Go! Go! Smart Wheels Race & Play Adventure Park (VTech)
  • Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart (LeapFrog)

3-5 years

JustPlay.DocMcStuffinsBabyAllInOneNursery

Disney Junior Doc McStuffins All-in-One Nursery (Just Play)

  • Disney Junior Doc McStuffins All-in-One Nursery (Just Play)
  • FurReal Roarin’ Tyler, The Playful Tiger (Hasbro)
  • L.O.L. Surprise! Tots (MGA Entertainment)

    JadaToys_MickeyTransformingRoadsterRacer

    Mickey Transforming Roadster Racer R/C (Jada Toys)

  • Mickey Transforming Roadster Racer R/C (Jada Toys)
  • Peppa Pig Lights & Sounds Family Home (Jazwares)
  • PJ Masks Rival Racers Track Playset (Just Play)

    WickedCoolToys.TeddyRuxpin

    Teddy Ruxpin (Wicked Cool Toys)

  • Teddy Ruxpin (Wicked Cool Toys)
  • Thomas & Friends Super Station (Fisher-Price)

Continue reading →

2017 Holiday Gift Guide: BJ’s Wholesale Club Lights Up the Holidays with its Exclusive Top Ten Toys List

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The Retailer Shares A Collection Of Coveted Toys Available At Unbeatable Prices, All Exclusive to BJ’s

BJ’s this week announced its Top Ten Toys List for this holiday season, including the hottest picks from leading brands like Disney•Pixar®, Mattel® and Hasbro®. These top toys will only be available at BJ’s.

Barbie-Best-Fashion-Friend-28inch-Holiday-Doll-Blonde-BJs Wholesale Club

28″ Holiday Barbie®

Baby-Alive-Darci-s-Dance-Class-Doll-Brunette-BJs Wholesale Club

Baby Alive® Darci’s Dance Class Doll

BJ’s is stocked with hundreds of toys, games, and gifts, from interactive toys and tech gadgets to gifts that are sure to spark creativity and imagination. BJ’s exclusive Top Ten Toys will be available in-Club beginning in early October, with select items available now at Bjs.com. Continue reading →

2017 Holiday Gift Guide: Kmart® Made a List, Checked it Twice and Announced Its Fab 15 List of Toys

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Part of the Brand’s $1 Down Layaway Program, Kmart Reveals the Season’s Hottest Toys

Everyone knows that sometimes the best gift of all during the holidays is knowing exactly what gift to buy others. To make gift-giving more ridiculously awesome than ever this year, Kmart has unveiled its annual Fab 15 List of the most in-demand toys for the 2017 holiday season. (Check out www.kmart.com/fab15 for the latest information and deals on the Fab 15 and Kmart’s full assortment of toys.)

Kmart Logo

(PRNewsfoto/Kmart)

The Kmart Annual Fab15 List includes toys and games for kids of all ages and stages. The list, including toys and hot brands like Spin Master‘s Hatchimals, Mattel’s Hot Wheels™ and Barbie™, LEGO®, and Hasbo’s NERF®, is carefully crafted based on industry trends, input from Shop Your Way members and data, and more than 50 years of experience in knowing what toys kids love to play with and find under their Christmas trees.

“Kmart is this year’s toy headquarters,” said Michael O’Connor, head of toys at Sears Holdings. “With today’s hottest toys at affordable prices, our Fab 15 list will be sure to knock the stockings off kids and parents alike this holiday season.”

The Fab 15 list of Kmart‘s most sought-after holiday toys includes:

For Shop Your Way members, buying toys – including the Fab 15 – at Kmart means earning points that can be redeemed on future purchases, which is especially useful during the holiday season. Members also have access to special pricing, sales and digital coupons that can be loaded directly into their account.

Shop Your Way members can place the most popular items across dozens of categories on layaway including toys, home products, apparel, and electronics, with a $1 down payment for in-store and online contracts. Non-members also have access to affordable layaway contracts through Kmart with $10 at contract initiation*.

*Requires down and biweekly payments. All fees nonrefundable. Service and cancellation fees apply. No cancellation fee in Ohio. Not available at all Kmart stores. Maryland and Washington D.C. offer 8-week contracts only. Exclusions apply. See store for further details.

2017 Holiday Gift Guide: Toys“R”Us® Unwraps The 2017 Holiday Hot Toy List

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Retailer Celebrates the 20th Anniversary of the Only List that Matters with Geoffrey’s Top 20, New Services and More

Attention moms, dads, grandmas, grandpas and everyone in between Toys“R”Us® has unveiled its 2017 Holiday Hot Toy List. As the leading expert on all things toy, the Toys“R”Us team has traveled the world over the past two decades to uncover hot trends and toy phenomena like Tickle Me™ Elmo, Zhu Zhu Pets®, Hatchimals™ and more, so they can provide parents and gift-givers with the inside scoop on kids’ most-wanted playthings. This year’s list is no exception, featuring items from Hatchimals Surprise™ to PAW Patrol Sea Patroller™ and more than 20 items available exclusively at Toys“R” Us (cue Luke Skywalker’s Landspeeder™). Eager holiday shoppers can rest easy knowing they can get the comprehensive list of this year’s 50 hottest toys at Toysrus.com/HotToys.

Luke Skywalker's Landspeeder

Luke Skywalker’s Landspeeder

“At Toys“R”Us, it’s serious business deciding which toys make the cut and end up on our Holiday Hot Toy List,” said Ariana Gentry, Toys“R”Us President of Play. “Not only is this year’s list filled with ultra-hot and kid-approved gifts – but I can personally say that each of these toys are super FUN to play with!”

3 in1 Sports Zone

3 in1 Sports Zone

Helping celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Holiday Hot Toy List, gift-givers can find Geoffrey’s Top 20 toys (the best of the best of the list) – and more – in-store and online:

  • 3-in-1 Sports Zone from Little Tikes®

    Baby So Sweet 16 Inch Nursery Doll 2

    Baby So Sweet 16 Inch Nursery Doll

  • Baby So Sweet 16-Inch Nursery Doll from Toys“R”Us® (Available only at Toys“R”Us)
  • Coco Interactive Guitar from Mattel® (Available beginning October 1, 2017)

    Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse – ROADSTER RACERS GARAGE
    Glimmies Glimtern- Out of Package
    Greedy Granny Packs hot
    Hatchimals Surprise
  • Doc McStuffins All-in-One Nursery from Just Play™
  • Fingerlings™ from WowWee™ (Unicorn Gigi available only at Toys“R”Us)
  • FURREAL ROARIN’ IVORY, THE PLAYFUL TIGER from HASBRO (Available only at Toys“R”Us beginning November 1, 2017)
  • Glimmies™ Glimtern from Just Play™ (Available only at Toys“R”Us)
  • Hatchimals Surprise from Spin Master™ (Available beginning October 6, 2017)
  • Imaginext® DC Super Friends™ Batbot Xtreme from Fisher-Price®
  • L.O.L Surprise™ Big Surprise from MGA Entertainment® (Available beginning September 29, 2017)
  • NERF RIVAL NEMESIS MXVII-10K Blaster from HASBRO
  • Nintendo Switch™ with Gray Joy-Con™ from Nintendo
  • Of Dragons, Fairies, and Wizards™ Magical Fairy Wand Fairy Princess Fern from Cepia LLC
  • Oonies™ Mega Starter Pack from Moose Toys™ (Available only at Toys“R”Us beginning October 1, 2017)

    Rusty Rivets Rivet Lab Playset
    Shopkins™ Happy Places™ Grand Mansion
    Power Rangers Ninja Steel Lion Fire Fortess Zord
    Power Wheels Boomerang
    R2-D2™ App-Enabled Droid™
    Soggy Dogg
    Song & Story Learning Chair
    Super Mario Odyssey
    Super Nintendo Entertainment System™- Super NES Classic Edition
    Mickey and the Roadster Racers Garage
    Minnie Mouse Garden Fun Activity Gym™
    Minnie’s Walk and Play Puppy
    Of Dragons, Fairies, and Wizards™ Magical Fairy Wand Fairy Princess Fern
    PJ Masks Nighttime Adventures Playset
  • PAW Patrol Sea Patroller from Spin Master™
  • Pikmi Pops™ Surprise! Jumbo Plush from Moose Toys™ (Available only at Toys“R”Us beginning October 1, 2017)
  • Power Wheels Boomerang from Fisher-Price® (Available only at Toys“R”Us)
  • Power Rangers Ninja Steel Lion Fire Fortress Zord from Bandai™ (Available only at Toys“R”Us)
  • Project Mc2™ Smart Pixel Purse from MGA Entertainment®
  • Shimmer and Shine™ Magical Light-Up Genie Palace from Fisher-Price® (Available only at Toys“R”Us beginning October 1, 2017)

Continue reading →

Mattel Debuts New Adult Game — Escape Room In A Box

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New Game Inspired by Escape Room Experiences Available This Fall

Mattel today announced the launch of a new adult strategy game, Escape Room in A Box: The Werewolf Experiment™ at Gen Con 2017. In 2016, 13.4 million people in the US alone participated in Escape Rooms inspiring this new game which gives players one-hour to solve puzzles, crack codes and find hidden clues to thwart a mad scientist’s plot.

Mattel Logo

Mattel Logo (PRNewsFoto/Mattel)

“We are continuing to expand our games business with on-trend and relevant games, and Escape Room in A Box is the latest addition to the growing Mattel Games portfolio,” said Ray Adler, Senior Director, Global Games at Mattel. “We know that in a digitally focused world, consumers are gravitating toward social game play. This new introduction brings friends and families together to re-create the thrill captured in the entertainment experience.“

Escape-Room-Photo

MATTEL DEBUTS NEW ADULT GAME — ESCAPE ROOM IN A BOX. New Game Inspired by Escape Room Experiences Available This Fall

A breakout form of entertainment, Escape Room in A Box: The Werewolf Experiment™ challenges teams to solve both physical and mental puzzles to unlock clues to free themselves before time runs out. Once players open the game they have been exposed to a virus that will turn them into werewolves. Players are given one-hour to solve 19 puzzles and find the codes to open three-locks to ultimately escape the virus, and the room.

To enhance gameplay, players can connect to the Amazon Alexa to keep track of time, ask questions and play a special soundtrack. The game will be available this November for $29.99 at retailers nationwide.

Toys”R”Us® Unveils Its Collection Of Exclusive Toys For This Year’s Comic Convention In San Diego

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Fans Look No Further Because Toys”R”Us Is Bringing Dozens Of Must-Have Collectibles To This Year’s Show

Toys”R”Us® announced its exclusive lineup of must-have playthings to help celebrate one of the world’s largest pop culture shows, Comic Convention in San Diego, CA. Conventioneers and online shoppers can visit Toys”R”Us at the Entertainment Earth booth (#2343) from Wednesday, July 19 to Sunday, July 23 or Toysrus.com/ComicConvention from Thursday, July 20 to Sunday, July 23 to shop the hottest items from the world’s biggest entertainment brands, including Spider-Man, WWE®, TRANSFORMERS and Power Rangers.

To help prepare for this year’s show, collectors can now view the full roster of action figures, dolls and more at the official Toys”R” Us blog, No Assembly Required.

Also, in honor of this year’s show, the company is offering customers nationwide the following special deals and discounts, in all stores nationwide and online at www.Toysrus.com from Sunday, July 16 to Saturday, July 22.

  • BUY ONE GET ONE FREE ALL Star Wars The Black Series 6-inch figures*
  • BUY ON GET ONE 40% OFF ALL Funko POP! figures**
  • SAVE $20 WWE Heavyweight Adult Replica Title Belt (Was: $99.99; Now $79.99)
  • SAVE $5 ALL $19.99 Marvel Legends 6-inch figures (Was: $19.99; Now $14.99)

All Comic Convention merchandise is available while supplies last, so fans are encouraged to make purchases early.

The following Toys“R” Us exclusives will be available at the Comic Convention and online at www.Toysrus.com/ComicConvention from Thursday, July 20 – Sunday, July 23. These items will also be available at Toys“R” Us stores nationwide later this year.

Star Wars™ The Black Series Commander Gree™ from Hasbro

Star Wars™ The Black Series Commander Gree™ from Hasbro

Star Wars™ The Black Series Commander Gree™ from Hasbro

Star Wars fans will love this exclusive 6-inch Commander Gree figure from The Black Series because of its incredible features and craftsmanship. This collectible includes premium detail across multiple points of articulation that only The Black Series can offer.

TRANSFORMERS Masterpiece Optimus Prime (MP10) from Hasbro

This TRANSFORMERS Masterpiece Optimus Prime collectible figure will definitely be a favorite among TRANSFORMERS enthusiasts at this year’s show. The figure is an MP10 variant and the perfect Masterpiece figure for any fan to start their collection! The figure features a unique color variant inspired by the original TRANSFORMERS: GENERATION 1 animated series. Featuring a high level of detail and intricate articulation with poseable fingers, the figure stands at 9.5 inches when in robot mode and converts between robot and truck modes in 24 steps. The Masterpiece Optimus Prime comes with numerous classic Optimus Prime accessories including the Spike Witwicky figure, Orange Energy Axe, Matrix of Leadership, Ion Blaster Rifle and Roller Unit. The Matrix of Leadership accessory is comprised of mostly die cast metal and a blue, gem-like center which can be carried in the figure’s chest. Fans can fold the Ion blaster Rifle in half and store it in the figure’s back. The Masterpiece Optimus Prime figure also comes with a trailer that converts into a battle station and a repair bay. Rubber tires are also included.

Marvel Legends A-Force Heroines 6-Pack from Hasbro

Marvel Minimates Spider-Man Homecoming Spider-Man vs. Adrian Toomes Exclusive 2-Pack from Diamond Select Toys™

Marvel Minimates Spider-Man Homecoming Spider-Man vs. Adrian Toomes Exclusive 2-Pack from Diamond Select Toys™

Expand your collection of iconic heroines in the Marvel lore with this Marvel Legends A-Force Heroines pack that comes with 6 comic-inspired figures, including Marvel’s Singularity, She-Hulk, Lady Loki, Elsa Bloodstone, Monica Rambeau and Sif. Each 6-inch tall heroine figure is highly articulated and features a beautifully detailed design allowing fans to recreate their favorite comic book arcs right at home.

POP!® X-Men X-23 from Funko

POP!® X-Men X-23 from Funko

POP!® X-Men X-23 from Funko

X-Men fans rejoice because X-23, the cloned daughter of Wolverine, has officially received the POP! vinyl treatment. Available exclusively at Toys“R” Us, X-23 measures 3.75-inches tall and comes packaged in a window display box – perfect for collectors and a must have at the show.

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Black Lion from Playmates Toys

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Black Lion from Playmates Toys

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Black Lion from Playmates Toys

Conventioneers will rejoice over the Black Lion of Voltron that’s now available in premium diecast. This detailed figure is fully articulated and made from high-quality materials. When combined with the other Lions, the Black Lion transforms into the head and torso of an 8-inch scale Voltron figure. Collect all 5 diecast Lions to combine to form an 8-inch articulated Voltron figure.

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Red Lion from Playmates Toys

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Red Lion from Playmates Toys

DreamWorks Voltron Metal Defender – Red Lion from Playmates Toys

Voltron fans can add to their collection with this Red Lion of Voltron in premium diecast. This detailed figure is fully articulated and made from premium materials. The Red Lion transforms into the right arm of an 8-inch scale Voltron figure, perfect for collectors. Collect all 5 diecast Lions to combine to form an 8-inch articulated Voltron figure. Continue reading →

Barbie® Brand Reveals Most Diverse Ken® Lineup To Date

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Expanded Fashionistas Line Offers New Body Types for Ken and Added Barbie Styles

2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Dolls (Panoramic) 1

2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Dolls (Panoramic)

This week, Barbie® announced the expansion of its Fashionistas® line with 15 new and diverse Ken® dolls, featuring three body types – slim, broad and original – and a variety of skin tones, eye colors, hairstyles and modern fashion looks. The new Ken dolls join an expanded Barbie® Fashionistas® line, making it the most diverse fashion doll line in the marketplace.

2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Cactus Cooler – Slim
2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Color Blocked Cool – Original
2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Hip Hoodie – Original
2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Preppy Check – Original
2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Super Stripes – Broad
2017 Ken® Fashionistas® Doll Tropical Vibes – Slim

In 2016, Barbie introduced three new Barbie body types – tall, curvy and petite – along with new skin tones, eye colors, hairstyles and countless on-trend fashions and accessories. The Barbie brand has always reflected the times, so modernizing Ken is the next step in the brand’s evolution to offer more diverse products.

“By continuing to expand our product line, we are redefining what a Barbie or Ken doll looks like to this generation,” said Lisa McKnight, Senior Vice President, and General Manager, Barbie. “Evolving Ken was a natural evolution for the brand and allows girls to further personalize the role they want him to play in Barbie’s world.”Barbie Fashionistas Expansion

The line includes 15 new Ken dolls with three body types, seven skin tones, eight hair colors, nine hairstyles and modernized fashions, ranging from casual business attire to athletic wear. The brand is also introducing 25 additional diverse Barbie dolls. These dolls join the 100+ diverse looks launched in the Barbie Fashionistas line in the last three years.

The Barbie Fashionistas segment continues to exceed expectations, as sales of the line see high double-digit growth globally and was named “Doll of the Year” at the Toy Industry Association‘s Annual T.O.T.Y. Awards. Diversity continues to roll out across brand content, marketing, and product, including the Fantasy, Entertainment and Careers segments.

The new Fashionistas launch at retailers nationwide and “The New Crew” can be seen on www.Barbie.com. For more information and images, please visit www.BarbieMedia.com.

2016 Black Friday Report: Target Reports Strong Start to Black Friday in Stores and Record-Breaking Online Sales

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Savings To Continue With New Discounts And Unprecedented 15 Percent Off Two-Day Sale In Stores And Online This Sunday And Monday

Target Corporation today reported a strong start to the holiday shopping season. Millions of guests visited Target stores across the country and www.Target.com, which had its biggest day ever and experienced double-digit growth, to save on Black Friday deals, including the retailer’s lowest prices ever on select items.

Target Holiday Black Friday 2016

Target Holiday Black Friday 2016 (Image courtesy of Target)

“Shopping at Target has become an annual Thanksgiving tradition for millions of our guests, and we’re thrilled at the response we’ve seen this year. We had a record-breaking day on Target.com and traffic to our stores was strong,” said Brian Cornell, chairman and CEO of Target, who greeted shoppers at the Jersey City Target store in N.J. on Thanksgiving and who rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange in celebration of Kids Day earlier this morning. “This year, we doubled down on offering guests an incredible assortment at outstanding prices. Based on early results, it’s clear that our deals are cutting through. We expect this momentum to continue throughout the weekend and into next week as we offer Target’s guests a truly unprecedented opportunity to save 15 percent off nearly everything online and in our stores this Sunday and Monday.”

Target Holiday Black Friday 2016

Target Holiday Black Friday 2016 (Image courtesy of Target Corporation)

Black Friday Pre-Sale and Thanksgiving Day Shopping

On Wednesday, guests started their shopping early with Target’s Black Friday pre-sale on Target.com. New this year, Target’s guests could take advantage of pre-sale deals in stores via Cartwheel, resulting in the biggest day ever for new users of the popular savings app. Early on Thursday morning, the savings continued as Target offered guests access to nearly all of its Black Friday doorbuster deals on Target.com. Target.com had a record-breaking day, with traffic and sales eclipsing 2015 Cyber Monday, driven largely by doorbusters in electronics. Target also saw an increase in guests shopping via mobile, contributing to more than 60 percent of the retailer’s online sales. Top performing Black Friday deals at Target include:

  • TVs were a top seller, with more than 3,200 TVs sold every minute in the first hour of store opening.
  • Apple products were among the most popular deals, with guests taking advantage of savings on the iPad Air 2, iPad Pro and Apple Watch Series 1.
  • Popular gaming systems included Xbox One S and PlayStation 4. Target sold half a million video games within the first hour of store opening.
  • Wearables saw a 50 percent sales increase, including the Fitbit Charge HR.
  • Top-selling toys included LEGO, NERF, Our Generation and the Jetson V6 Hoverboard, which sold out in minutes on Target.com.

    Target Holiday Black Friday 2016

    (Image courtesy of Target Corporation) 

  • Target sold five times more wireless headphones this Black Friday compared to last year, including the popular Powerbeats Wireless In-Ear Headphone 2.
  • Robotic vacuums, including the Hoover Quest 700 Robotic Vacuum, generated 10 times the sales compared to last year.
  • Sales for family sleepwear were nearly double compared to last year, driven by a 30 percent off savings plus an additional 15 percent off in stores with Cartwheel.
  • And, the 3-foot stuffed bear for $10, a surprise hit from last year, sold out quickly in stores across the country.

The Savings Continue, Including 15 Percent Off in Stores and Online Continue reading →

2016 Holiday Gift Guide: Spread Joy With A Special Gift From Build-A-Bear Workshop®

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Just-In Arrivals Include An Updated Merry Mission™ Collection, Make-Your-Own Trolls Furry Friends And More

Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc., an interactive destination where guests—young and old– can create personalized furry friends, has curated a line-up of gift ideas to make it easy to shop for everyone on your list. From the beloved Merry Mission™ collection to everyone’s favorite big-screen characters, Build-A-Bear Workshop is the perfect place to make your own gifts this season.build_a_bear_workshop_logo_detail_workshop

The reindeer are back! Build-A-Bear Workshop continues the fun Merry Mission story with Santa’s reindeer, including the reimagined star-powered deer, Golden Glisten, and two new reindeer – Twinkle, the supersonic deer, and Tinsel, the speedster deer. In addition, guests can make Santa’s eight traditional reindeer – from Dasher to Blitzen – to personalize with accessories and sounds.

Build A Bear Workshop Merry Mission

Build-A-Bear Workshop unveiled an exciting array of perfectly personalized gifts just in time for the holidays. The fun Merry Mission story continues with Santa’s reindeer, including the reimagined star-powered deer, Golden Glisten, and two new reindeer – Twinkle and Tinsel – in addition to Santa’s eight traditional reindeer.

Favorite onscreen characters come to life with the Build-A-Bear Workshop Make-Your-Own Trolls Collection, based on the stars of DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls. The Make-Your-Own Trolls Collection includes Poppy, Branch and Guy Diamond – complete with playful updos and upbeat attitudes. Choose from outfits, hair accessories, backpack clips and sound chips, in addition to a pre-stuffed Cooper, for even more Troll fun.

The 2016 Build-A-Bear Workshop Holiday Lookbook is live and includes an exciting array of perfectly personalized gifts. Here are a few highlights:

  • Another playful pet joins the Promise Pets™ Collection – Black Labrador Retriever. Plan adventures, make memories and experience the fun of pet ownership with the new furry friend, optional accessories and an interactive Promise Pets app – available for download on Apple and Google Play app stores – that teaches users how to become pet care “pros.”
  • The crazy, cool and one-of-a kind Monster Mixters let kids and kids at heart experience a whole new way to customize. The newest fun and frosty friend, Chill Monster, is the coolest Monster Mixter around, with a snowy blue-white body and silver horns. Pick arms and grab legs – then add hands, feet, wings, a monster sound chip, costumes and more – to customize this furry friend from head to toe. New Mixters parts are also available, including wintery turquoise legs and blue hands with spiky claws.
  • The new Build-A-Bear Workshop Stuffing Station brings the Make-Your-Own fun of Build-A-Bear Workshop home for creativity and cuddles anytime. The set comes with everything you need to stuff your own mini-sized furry friends and customize your creations with individual outfits, birth certificates and, of course, a heart. Find the Build-A-Bear Workshop Stuffing Station at buildabear.com and select retailers.
  • “Santaaa!” Spread holiday cheer with the new Buddy the Elf Bear, based on the popular and beloved holiday film Elf from New Line Cinema. This new plush comes with the classic Elf hat and the Elf movie logo on its paw pad. Guests can add Buddy’s elf suit, a pj sleeper and sounds with classic lines from the movie (all sold separately) for even more holiday cheer.
  • Ice or snow, she’s ready to go! The newest member of the PAW Patrol™ Collection is the mountain husky girl pup with a pedigree for rescuing. The new Build-A-Bear Workshop Everest™ plush has lavender fur and blue eyes that complement her evergreen tree symbol Pup-Tag. Personalize Everest with her coat and cap, Pup Pack and signature sounds (all sold separately).
  • The classic My Little Pony® character, Minty®, makes her furry friend debut and joins her other pony friends including Twilight Sparkle, Apple Jack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash! She has soft, cool mint-colored fur and a long pink mane and tail. The peppermint candies as her cutie mark let everyone know how sweet she is. Outfits, accessories and sounds are sold separately, and My Little Pony video clips offer even more fun at buildabear.com.
  • Carefree and loving Share Bear™ is happiest when she’s with her friends or baking. The newest Make-Your-Own plush in the Care Bears™ Collection at Build-A-Bear Workshop, Share Bear™’s belly badge has two heart-shaped lollipops. With soft purple fur, she is the perfect cuddly friend to warm up any winter day. Downloadable Share Bear activities and a “Meet Share Bear” video are available at buildabear.com.

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    Positive lifestyle brand Life is Good® announced a partnership with Build-A-Bear Workshop to spread the power of optimism and support kids in need with a new collection, including a Life is Good branded bear.

  • The Life is Good community shares one simple, unifying mission: to spread the power of optimism. Build-A-Bear Workshop is helping to spread that power with the new Life is Good Bear, a super-soft light brown bear featuring the Life is Good logo on its paw. Guests can personalize their bear with a collection of Life is Good T-shirts, hats and heart wrist accessories. A matching T-shirt is also available in kids’ sizes. Ten percent (10%) of the net profits from the sale of Life is Good furry friend T-shirts, up to $20,000, will be donated to Life is Good Kids Foundation to support their work with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada.
  • The Honey Girls™ take on New York City! Teegan, Viv and Risa will catch their big break playing at the New Year’s Eve event in Times Square. With three new music videos to be released throughout the holiday season for new songs “Big Time” and “Hooray for the Honey Girls” and for the holiday hit “Reindeer Bells”– as well as sparkling outfits and accessories to come in late December – they’re ready, stylin’ and best of all … together! Visit buildabear.com/HoneyGirls to check out the full collection of Honey Girls, and look for their latest music videos on YouTube for even more fun.

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Shop Macy’s for Big Discounts On Black Friday and Throughout Cyber Week

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Find Hundreds Of Black Friday Specials Starting At 5 P.M. Thanksgiving Evening And Online All Day At Macys.Com

Then, Cyber Week Offers Five Days Of Savings To Customers Shopping Macys.Com Beginning With A Preview On Sunday, Nov. 27

Plus, For The First Time, Macy’s Customers Who Want A Head Start Can Shop Select Specials A Week Early At The Black Friday Doorbusters Preview Sale Starting Thursday, Nov. 17

Today, Macy’s announced its full list of Black Friday specials that will be available starting at 5 p.m. at most stores on Thanksgiving and online all day on macys.com. With big savings in apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, cosmetics, housewares, furniture, and more, there is something for everyone to get excited about this season. In addition, Macy’s is extending savings for Cyber Monday, the biggest online shopping event of the year – beginning with a preview on Sunday, Nov. 27 through Thursday, Dec. 1, for a week of cyber specials.macyslogo

“We know our customers enjoy getting a head start in finding the perfect gift and they consider Black Friday one of the most important shopping times of the year,” said Tim Baxter, Macy’s chief merchandising officer. “In addition to all the great Black Friday discounts in store and online, this year we’ll offer even more opportunities to save through Cyber Week – with five full days of online specials, so they will have the freedom to shop all week long at their leisure, scoring big on hundreds of deals.”

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boots for her from style & co. and american rag, $19.99

This year, for the first time ever, customers can also shop select Black Friday picks a week early at the Black Friday doorbusters preview sale beginning Thursday, Nov. 17 from 5 p.m. to close, through Saturday, Nov. 19, from store opening until 2 p.m., and all day on macys.com. Early birds looking for a jump start on incredible savings will find select sales previewed earlier than ever, including 50 percent off cold weather accessories, $15.99 Kids’ puffer coats, 60 percent off Charter Club Damask bedding, and $19.99 for select handbags.

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Shop Macy’s and macys.com for amazing doorbuster deals including $39.99 Charter Club cashmere (Photo: Business Wire)

Below is a sneak peek of Macy’s Black Friday doorbuster deals and top Cyber Week specials. While supplies last, Black Friday items are available from 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 24 to 2 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25; Friday, Nov. 25 from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 26 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cyber Week specials begin Sunday, Nov. 27 at 8 p.m. and run through Thursday, Dec 1. Continue reading →

Three, Two, One…Holiday! Amazon.com Launches Black Friday Deals Store and Curated Holiday Gift Guides

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This Holiday Season, Customers Can Enjoy More Deals Than Ever Before On Everything From Hd Tvs To Stylish Kitchen Staples To Some Of The Most Popular Toys Of The Year

To Help Customers Find The Perfect Gift For Everyone On Their Shopping List, Amazon Offers Curated Holiday Gift Guides For Electronics, Home, Handmade, And Other Categories

Alexa, What Are Your Deals? New This Year, Prime Members Can Use Alexa Voice Shopping To Shop For Almost Anything, Including Exclusive Deals For Customers With An Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Amazon Tap, Amazon Fire Tv, Or Fire Tablet

Amazon.com has announced the launch of its Black Friday Deals Store and more than a dozen curated holiday gift guides, officially marking the start of the holiday countdown. Customers can enjoy tens of thousands of deals this holiday season on Amazon.com, with new deals as often as every five minutes on everything from HD TVs to stylish kitchen staples to some of the most popular toys of the year. In addition, Amazon offers curated holiday gift guides to help take the guesswork out of shopping for loved ones and make it easier for customers to find the perfect gift for everyone on their list.logo_white_

“Customers love discovering the best deals on the most sought-after products, and our Black Friday Deals Store and curated Holiday Gift Guides offer them a place to do just that – plus enjoy the most convenient shopping experience with tons of super-fast shipping options,” said Doug Herrington, Senior Vice President of North American Retail at Amazon. “This holiday season, we’re offering more deals than ever before and – for the first time ever – giving Prime members an opportunity to use Alexa voice shopping for purchasing their holiday gifts hands-free. They can make purchases simply by asking Alexa-enabled devices, like the new Echo Dot, while relaxing at home with family and friends.”

Black Friday Deals Store

Available at www.amazon.com/blackfriday, the Black Friday Deals Store is the leading deals destination for customers with tens of thousands of deals, and new deals as often as every five minutes, now through December 22. Customers can enjoy more deals than ever before this holiday season, including low prices on top gifts such as electronics, toys, clothing, jewelry, kitchen items, and more. In fact, Amazon is offering up to 20 compelling Deals of the Day in a single day. Some examples of the great deals Amazon customers can take advantage of this holiday season include: $20 off the Kindle Paperwhite, savings on an LG 55” 1080p Curved Smart OLED TV, and up to 40% off select Magformers toys.

Electronics Gift Guide

Available at www.amazon.com/electronicsgiftguide, the 2016 Amazon Electronics Gift Guide features more than 500 of this year’s hottest technology products all in one convenient location. Enthusiasts can explore new releases such as 360-degree cameras and buzz-worthy gifts like virtual reality headsets and 3D printers. The Electronics Gift Guide also features innovations from up-and-coming startups in the Amazon Launchpad program. Customers can browse more than 10 categories, including smart home, home entertainment, music, wearables, photography, gaming, gadgets and gizmos, and more. The Electronics Gift Guide also includes expert reviews and product demonstration videos to help customers find the perfect gift. And shoppers looking for budget-friendly gift ideas can find top gifts under $100.

Home Gift Guide

Available at www.amazon.com/homegiftguide, the 2016 Amazon Home Gift Guide is a curated list of more than a thousand of this season’s must-have products for the home. Filled with gift ideas for indoors and outdoors, customers can easily discover presents for everyone on their list, including cooks, bakers, home decorators, arts and crafters, smart home tech lovers, pets, backyard enthusiasts, kids and more, curated by experts in the industry such as Smitten Kitchen and Design*Sponge. Holiday decorators and party planners will find everything they need to set a festive scene at home. Customers can also shop the latest trends in the Home Gift Guide, including copper appliances, rose gold cutlery, and handmade ceramics, as well as browse products that are new this holiday season, including the KitchenAid Mini, NEST Fragrances Classic Candle (Hearth), Petcube Play Wi-Fi Pet Camera, and Bissell 1650A Pet Hair Eraser Vacuum.

Handmade at Amazon Holiday Gift Guide

Available at www.amazon.com/handmade, the Handmade at Amazon Holiday Gift Guide offers customers curated lists of genuinely handcrafted items sold directly by artisans. Featuring products for her, for him, and for kids, as well as handcrafted stocking stuffers for friends and family, the Gift Guide makes finding the perfect holiday present easier than ever. Heading into this holiday season, Amazon customers visiting the Handmade at Amazon store will see hundreds of thousands more handcrafted items, thousands of which are eligible for Free Two-Day Shipping with Amazon Prime. For shoppers looking for a personal touch, over half of the items listed on Handmade have options for customer personalization. With handcrafted items in categories from toys and games, to home décor, handbags and accessories and kitchen and dining, Handmade at Amazon is a one-stop-shop for artisan-crafted gifts this holiday season. Continue reading →

‘LOVE, NORDSTROM’: Nordstrom Celebrates Its Loyal Customers In 2016 Holiday Campaign

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Nordstrom Inc. is celebrating its customers and their stories through a holiday campaign that thanks them called ‘Love, Nordstrom.’ The company is using the marketing campaign as a stage for larger-than-life love notes to thank customers for the special relationship they share. The campaign debuted in the U.S. and Canada on November 1st.1_nordstrom_ivy

LOVE, NORDSTROM

With this year’s campaign, Nordstrom is prioritizing a pure holiday spirit and expressing gratitude to connect emotionally with its customers in a special way. More than 30 real Nordstrom customers were photographed in Los Angeles, Nashville and Seattle and are featured in the national campaign that was produced in partnership with creative agency Partners & Spade.4_nordstrom-_kim-brothers

“This holiday, we want to remember and thank the people who are most special to us at Nordstrom – our customers,” said Nordstrom Vice President of Creative Projects Olivia Kim. “We reached out to our employees and asked them to share some of their favorite customer stories. We met with as many people as we could, asked them to bring along some of the things that make up their signature style and took photos of them. It was so fun to connect with our customers who make us who we are. The result was our Love, Nordstrom campaign.”12_nordstrom_jonah

The integrated campaign components include digital, print, out of home, in-store window displays, shopping bags and coffee sleeves. There will be a ‘Love, Nordstrom’ navigation tab on Nordstrom.com. In an effort to reach and thank every single Nordstrom customer, the campaign also includes a charming video of employees singing the song “Thank You for Being Friend” to let all customers know how much they are appreciated. The video will be posted on Nordstrom.com and on the retailer’s social and digital platforms.7_nordstrom_chiyo

WHERE THE GIFTS ARE

This holiday season, Nordstrom hopes to be a gift-giving destination that inspires customers at all price points. A few highlights include:

  • Available now, the company is introducing Mini Boden inspired by Roald Dahl – an exclusive limited-edition collection for kids celebrating six stories including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda and more.
  • Starting November 18, Nordstrom VP of Creative Olivia Kim will curate ‘Love, Pop-In@Nordstrom,’ a colorful holiday selection of apparel, accessories and tech toys including everything from smart luggage to unisex casualwear, turntables to instant cameras, cozy candles to nail art supplies, and more.
  • Starting November 25 in select stores, Nordstrom is launching shops with fresh gifting ideas such as Wit & Wonder (a one-stop shop for gifts with personality), The Trim Shop (featuring ornaments and decor), The Wonder Bar (for stocking stuffers), The Toy Shop (of course), Bow & Drape (for personalized gifts) and Gifts & Glam (for beauty).2_nordstrom_grace

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‘TIS The Season: Celebrate The 2016 Holiday Season At The Four Seasons Hotel New York

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Join In On The Holiday Cheer From Thanksgiving Through New Year’s Day As The Four Seasons New York Offers Thanksgiving “To-Go” Packages, Gingerbread-House Decorating Classes, A New Year’s Eve Roaring ‘20s Soiree And MoreXmas golden tray

Celebrate this holiday season at the Four Seasons Hotel New York to ensure an unforgettable experience. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, the Four Seasons Hotel New York has festive offerings for all ages.

Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 24, 2016 12:00 noon – 2:30 pm)sew_541_aspect16x9

Guests will enjoy a prix-fixe three-course menu at The Garden that includes seasonal starters such as lobster ginger bisque, fig tart and terrine of Hudson Valley foie gras. Entrées feature traditional favorites such as organic turkey, stuffed filet of beef, Long Island duck steak, loup de mer and cauliflower steak. Guests can indulge in pumpkin pie, chocolate panna cotta or pecan pie for dessert. Reservations are encouraged, and pricing is USD 139 per person. View the full menu here.

Warm spiced apple cider and cookies will be served in the lobby from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.

Additionally, local residents may purchase a “Thanksgiving To-Go” Package. The prepared meal includes slow-roast free-range Vermont turkey, natural sage turkey jus, citrus cranberry dressing, lobster ginger bisque, signature chestnut sausage stuffing, whipped citrus-scented sweet potatoes, Yukon gold mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts and an autumn salad with pomegranate vinaigrette. Each package comes with the choice of a pumpkin, apple or pecan pie, and additional add-ons are optional. The package is USD 425 for parties of 4 to 6 and USD 630 for parties of 7 to 9. Pricing is available upon request for parties larger than 10. Orders must be placed by Friday, November 18, 2016 by phoning 844 760 6347. View the full menu here.

Weekend Holiday Brunch (Saturdays and Sundays, November 26, 2016 – January 3, 2017 12:00 noon – 2:30 pm)

The Garden’s holiday brunch seasonal menu serves favorites including tartar of exotic winter fruits, kale and butternut squash hash, white corn cheddar grits, gingerbread waffles, brie-stuffed french toast and the hearty Gotham Burger. The menu’s holiday-themed signature cocktails include the TY Bar Toddy, Winter Margarita and Pear Bellini. View the full menu here.

Four Seasons Hotel New York Holiday Celebration benefiting Toys for Tots (Thursday, December 1, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm)toys-for-tots

Four Seasons Hotel New York is helping those in need this holiday season, proudly joining forces with Toys for Tots for the second consecutive year to throw their annual Four Seasons Hotel New York Holiday Gala Benefiting Toys for Tots. Guests are encouraged to join the Hotel’s annual tree-lighting ceremony on Thursday, December 1, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and to donate an unwrapped gift to give to Toys for Tots. The ceremony will be accompanied by a Sugarfina candy bar, champagne, hors d’oeuvres and holiday music and entertainment. Ty Warner (of Beanie Baby fame) will also be contributing to this year’s donation by giving 2,017 toys to the cause. Members of the US Marine Corps will be present that evening to accept donations from guests on behalf of Toys for Tots.

Gingerbread-House Decorating Classes (Saturday, December 3 and 10, 2016 from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon)Gingerbread House

The Garden’s talented pasty team will unveil their seasonal culinary work of art as they display their gingerbread house, beginning on December 3, 2016 for guests and the community to enjoy. The Hotel’s gingerbread house decorating class, taught by Four Seasons New York pastry chefs, invites guests and locals to learn how to make a festive, sugary home. The class includes all the ingredients to construct a beautiful gingerbread house as well as a special souvenir. Classes are USD 150 per child ages 5-12. Reservations should be placed by November 19, 2016 by phoning 844 760 6347.

Christmas Day Lunch (Sunday, December 25, 12:00 noon – 2:30 pm)nyf_787_aspect16x9

Celebrate Christmas Day at The Garden at Four Seasons Hotel New York with an elegant three-course prix-fixe lunch. The special menu features starters such as leek and cauliflower vichyssoise, terrine of foie gras, bay scallops, glazed duck salad or kale salad. Entreés include traditional favorites such as organic lamb rack, slow-roasted loup de mer, char-grilled Delmonico steak, Berkshire pork rack, zucchini noodles and spiced duck steak. This holiday meal is topped off with the choice of the quince and pineapple crostata, liquid gold caramel tart or the crème fraiche panna cotta with eggnog crunch. Pricing is USD 139 per person. View the full menu here.

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Celebrate this holiday season at Four Seasons Hotel New York

Warm spiced apple cider and cookies will be served from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm in the lobby.

New Year’s Eve: Roaring ‘20s Soiree (Saturday, December 31, 2016, 9:00 pm – 1:00 am):

Ring in the New Year in style at Four Seasons Hotel New York at the annual soiree in TY Bar. This year’s theme will be the Roaring ‘20s and tickets include a table and bottle of Roederer Cristal champagne, a three-tier stand of assorted canapés, a plate ofnmignardises and petit fours, a Roederer ice-sculpture Champagne bar, a caviar menu available at each table, party favors, a live broadcast of the Times Square ball drop, a LOUIS XIII Cognac toast and confetti drop at midnight, a LOUIS XIII lounge with a step-and-repeat red carpet and photographer, music by a four-piece up-tempo jazz/swing band and a fond farewell LOUIS XIII gift bag.

Cost is USD 2,017 per couple, USD 1,100 per person. There is a cover charge of USD 125 for non-Hotel guests, which includes two complimentary glasses of Roederer Champagne. Limited tickets are available. Reservations must be placed by December 23, 2016 by phoning 844 760 6347 or by emailing tybar.nyf@fourseasons.com.

New Year’s Day (Sunday, January 1, 2017, 12:00 noon – 2:30 pm)

After a night of celebrating, guests and locals can delight in the New Year’s Day Recovery Bar in The Garden and create customized Bloody Marys to start the New Year on a high note. For reservation inquiries, phone 844 760 6347.

The World-Famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® Celebrates 90 Years as the Official Start to the Holiday Season

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The 90th Anniversary Spectacle Is Set To Feature A Host Of Surprises Along With Its Signature Helium Character Balloons, Floats Of Wonder, The Nation’s Finest Marching Bands, Enthralling Performance Groups, Celebrity Appearances And The One-And-Only Santa Claus

This November, America’s favorite holiday tradition will mark a milestone anniversary, once again kicking off the holidays with its signature brand of magical entertainment. On Thursday, Nov. 24, the 90th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® will march down the streets of New York City as millions celebrate with family and friends. The unparalleled spectacle is set to enthrall more than 3.5 million spectators lining the streets of Manhattan and more than 50 million viewers on television, with a host of giant character balloons, dazzling floats, the nation’s best marching bands and performance groups, celebrities, and the official entrance of the one-and-only Santa Claus.

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A Historic Procession, The world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade celebrates 90 years as the official start of the holiday season (Graphic: Business Wire)

For nine decades, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a march like no other. Bringing generations an unrivaled procession filled with more than 8,000 volunteer participants dressed as clowns, strutting their stuff in a marching band or escorting the Parade’s signature giant inflatables and floats of fantasy into the hearts of millions.

“Since our historic first march in 1924, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a call to celebration. Over the years, generations have gathered to enjoy the spectacle of high-flying balloons, fantasy floats, incredible performers, and the one-and-only Santa Claus, as the annual march became synonymous with the start of the holiday season,” said Amy Kule, executive producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “This year, as we celebrate 90 years of magical moments, we are truly humbled by the unique role the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade fills in the lives of millions worldwide, and we are thrilled to celebrate this special milestone with a spectacular line-up filled with amazing new and commemorative elements that will continue our storied legacy of unparalleled holiday entertainment.”90th_parade

Since its origin in 1924, the Macy’s Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season, introducing a cherished march of magic that has dazzled generations of fans. For the 90th edition, the famed spectacle’s line-up will feature 16 giant character balloons; 27 novelty/ornament balloons, balloonicles and trycaloons; 26 floats; 1,100 cheerleaders and dancers; more than 1,000 clowns; and 16 marching bands and performance groups.

LET’S HAVE A PARADE™

Originally known as the Macy’s Christmas Parade, the tradition was started by Macy’s employees who wanted to celebrate the holiday season with a grand pageant similar to the over-the-top carnivals and festivals of Europe. The first Parade featured fanciful floats, employee marching bands, clown groups and real animals from the Central Park Zoo. Stretching from Harlem at 145th Street and Convent Avenue down more than five miles to Macy’s Herald Square, the first event was such a success that it was deemed by Macy’s to be an annual event from that point forward. While many elements have grown and been adapted over time, the heart of the Parade has always involved Macy’s own employee volunteers, talented marching bands and dazzling floats – elements that have paved the way for imagination and grand spectacle. One of those jaw-dropping additions came in 1927. Replacing the live animals who some said scared children along the route, the Parade introduced its first inflatables, debuting four giant balloons filled with air and carried on sticks down the route. That inaugural balloon line-up included the first-ever, character-based balloon featuring the likeness of famed animated film star, Felix the Cat. To make the balloons lighter than air, the following year, helium was added, helping the giants float down the route.macyslogo-1

Since its inception, the Parade has marched during tumultuous periods in our collective history. Only one event has ever caused the cancellation of the Parade and that was World War II. During a three-year period from 1941 until 1943, the event was put on hold due to the rationing of supplies such as rubber and helium and a moratorium on large public gatherings. After its brief hiatus, the Parade returned and grew in worldwide fame becoming even more synonymous with the holiday season after its starring role in the 1947 film classic, “Miracle on 34th Street.” Continue reading →