April 24, 2013. Twenty years is a long time to enjoy your job. But of course when work really is fun and games, who wouldn’t enjoy every day. The Incredible Toy Company celebrates 20 years in business the first weekend in May.
From the very beginning it has been a family affair. When Kathleen Rowell started the business in 1993, her kids were in elementary school. All three boys worked at the store through the years and still come home to help on holidays. A family tradition for 20 years has been to let all the store employees have Christmas Eve off and the Rowell family works together for the day.
It tickles Kathleen to watch her son Grey, who is now an aerospace engineer, explain the qualities of infant rattles. Logan, a professional sailor, is the game expert and Thomas captivates customers with his storytelling. Husband John has been the most supportive of all with his carpentry and landscaping skills. The big red car that has been a favorite play area with children for two decades was designed and built by John. Old friends who shopped in the late 90’s are now coming in with their grandchildren. Young people who came when they were little, are now bringing in their own children, excited to see the red car still there. The toy store staff enjoy hearing the stories and memories of repeat customers. Kathleen loves seeing the next generation of old friends.
Some of the toys in the Incredible Toy Company feel like old friends too. They have had the popular lines, Playmobil, Thomas the Tank Engine, Gund stuffed animals and Corolle dolls since opening day, May 1, 1993. While toys have changed over the years, you will still find the classics like wooden blocks, pounding pegs and jigsaw puzzles. These toys have a lasting quality and have been saved and passed down to the next generation. Games for the whole family have evolved into one of the stores specialties. The staff loves to teach folks new games, but be warned, they will not let you win just to sell you a game!
To celebrate 20 years of playing around, the Incredible Toy Company will have a big party on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Representatives from several popular toy lines will be there to demonstrate their wares. Outside there will be a bounce castle and every child will take home a free prize. There will also be drawings for Playmobil and Calico Critter toys.
Everything store wide will be, you guessed it, 20 percent off! Come celebrate with them and have fun!
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