Thank you to everyone for their wonderful name submissions for our new toy and gift store.  There were some clever ideas, but in the end – we went with one of our own. I’m thrilled to present Pippin Toy Co. We’re still working on the logo, but we’d like to introduce you to Pippin, a curious little squirrel always up for an adventure and good company:

Where did the name come from? We were looking for something sweet that wouldn’t give you a toothache, and easy to spell so you can find it easily when searching online (so nothing overly clever or in another language). We also wanted the name to be childlike while still appealing to adults, and being gender-neutral is a bonus! And, as a mom of two, I wanted it to have a personal touch. 

Pippin has different definitions and meanings.  According to Merriam-Webster.com:

Since the late Middle Ages, English speakers have experimented with the use of the word pippin, which germinated from the Anglo-French word pepin, meaning "seed" or "pip of a fruit." "Pippin" has been used to refer to a part of a pea embryo, a grain of gold, and a grape, but those uses were not hardy enough to become firmly rooted in the English language. The word did take root, however, in the soil of the northern regions of England, where it is used to describe a small fruit seed. In addition, it has widespread use as the name of a crisp, tart apple and of a person who is unique, usually in a pleasant way.”

Pippin refers to a seed, which is ideal imagery for children. But my favorite use is that of someone who is unique, usually in a pleasant way. How delightful is that?! To me it is exactly what children are and grow up to be. Just like Mr. Rogers said, “You are a very special person. There is only one like you in the whole world. There's never been anyone exactly like you before, and there will never be again. Only you.” 

It's also a gender-neutral name, and on a personal note, Pippin is the youngest of the hobbits in Lord of the Rings, my kids’ favorite book. He is sweet, loyal, naive, curious, and mischievous.  Much like our Pippin.

I’m happy to report that construction started last week. If all goes well – fingers crossed! – we look to open before Plaid Friday. Now we just need to hire an entire team!

Speaking of hiring, there are open roles at all three stores (including Red Barn and Penny Post).  First, we need seasonal team members during the holidays for all the stores. These folks would join us from October through January and would be instrumental in our success during the holidays. Second, we need a sales team to be a part of Pippin’s year-round team. And, third, we are hiring for a Store Manager at Red Barn Mercantile. This position would start immediately and be full-time. 

The old adage, hire slow and fire fast is one we follow. Our store managers are integral to the success of our stores, and we are looking for just the right person. If you think you’re it, then please reach out.

In fact, if you are kind, generous, considerate, enthusiastic, detail oriented, and friendly, then drop us a line!  You can start by filling out our short application.  We will be in touch soon after!

The new store address is 1310 King St., so when you’re walking by, you can drop a pin to make sure you stop by in the future.Follow us on Instagram @pippintoyco and be the first to know when our doors open.