Byers Choice Williamsburg Collection for Spring

Byers Choice carolers, made entirely in the USA, aren’t just for Christmas any more.  The Byers Choice collection has expanded beyond Salvation Army Carolers to include special collections for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Spring, and Summer.  New Byers Choice designs are constantly being introduced, while others are retired.  The Little Traveler is honored to be a trusted Byers Choice retailer.

Although Joyce Byers still designs each caroler, they are brought to “life” by a team of artisans in Byers’ Pennsylvania workshop using the following process:

1. Each Byers Choice caroler begins with a coat hanger, which is cut and bent to form a wire frame. Plaster is hand poured on a table, with the coat hanger placed in the plaster before it dries.

2. After the plaster hardens, it is painted with a specific color of green. The body is then sculpted with tissue paper.

3. Joyce Byers sculpts every original head, from which plaster molds are poured. Clay is then pressed into the plaster molds. As the clay is removed from the mold, it gets slightly distorted. The artisan “cleans up” the head ensuring that each Byers Choice caroler is unique.

4. After the clay dries, the head receives a coat of flesh colored paint, and then the features are added. Each artisan uses an impressionistic technique to bring life to each face, again adding individuality to each Byers Choice figurine.

5. Joyce Byers designs every outfit worn by the carolers. She has hundreds of different fabrics, ribbons, and laces available to be mixed in various combinations to create traditional and Victorian carolers. Byers Choice only crafts 100 sets of any clothing design.  It is then retired.

6. Dressers combine a body, head, and clothes to craft a unique handcrafted Caroler. By changing the pose and adjusting the draping of the clothes, a dresser adds life and personality to each Byers Choice caroler.

Loving care from each artisan results in unique, handcrafted carolers that capture the warmth and spirit of Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Spring and Summer. These figures are divided among 3000 retail stores, including The Little Traveler, in Geneva, IL.

Bobbe is a folk story-teller at heart who instead of writing, shares her keen sense of humor and creativity through drawing. Bobbe draws dozens of situations featuring unexpected characters before settling on the ones that will be brought to life by Jeff, who uses centuries old techniques and simple tools to carve his wife’s drawings in wood, adding shape and detail to make the final three-dimensional sculpture.  Williraye designs are influenced by classic folk art with an updated twist.

After the carving is complete, Bobbe adds depth and richness with paint.  The resulting  story will delight your family and friends for years to come, whether it’s told through the classic Williraye Christmas Nativity collection or the clever and original Williraye Halloween figurines.

To best capture the subtly of hand-carving without the resulting deterioration of real wood, the Williraye folk art collection is crafted in cold-cast resin and carefully hand-painted with strict adherence to the integrity of Bobbe and Jeff’s original work. Individually packaged, all Williraye Studio pieces arrive in four-color boxes to safely store off-season.

Destined to become a valued keepsake, we know you will be complete delighted with any choice you make from Williraye Studio. Watch a video on Williraye here:

History of Fontanini
The House of Fontanini was founded in 1908 by Emanuele Fontanini in a small Italian village called Bagni di Lucca located in Tuscany. Today, the House of Fontanini is run by the fourth generation of the Fontanini family and remains famous for its nativity figurines and angels.

The Fontanini family closely monitors the production of all figures in the House of Fontanini collection. A single figure can take up to two years to create and cost thousands of dollars. There are nine basic steps in the creation of a figurine, including each figure being hand painted by artisans in their homes in Italy.

Joyce Byers pressed her husband, Bob, and their two sons into service to help produce the Byers Choice figures each autumn. It wasn’t long before the Carolers overwhelmed the dining room table, where the family gathered to work together. “Every year the house would be a total wreck, and I’d say that we’re never doing this again!” remembers Joyce.

But when a downturn in the economy hurt his construction business, Bob looked around and saw some potential in the Carolers. He decided to devote more of his energies to the fledgling business, and in 1978, the couple hired their first employee and turned the garage into a Byers Choice workshop.

The unique appearance and handcrafted quality of the Byers Choice Carolers quickly gained a following. Each year, Bob & Joyce would work with their crew of trained artisans up until Christmas Eve putting the finishing touches on Carolers.

The two sons joined the company upon graduating from college and have played an important role in the growth of the firm, with Bob working in production and Jeff helping with marketing and design. “We always say that mom’s hobby has gotten a little out of control,” jokes Jeff.

Together, the family now oversees a team of 180 Byers Choice artisans in Pennsylvania who handcraft those same creations that started out on the dining room table many years ago. And although the Carolers are sold in thousands of fine gift stores around the world, the company still holds to its starting roots: producing a quality product, at an affordable price, and dedicated to serving its customers and the community in the spirit of Christmas.  Each year Byers Choice donates 20% of its profits to charity each year, making the Salvation Army collection especially meaningful.

The Little Traveler is proud to be a Byers Choice retailer.  Come on in to see the classics, like the Salvation Army figures and what’s brand new:

• Nine Ladies Dancing and Ten Lords A-Leaping are the newest addition to the 12 Days of Christmas.

• Woman in a White Sleigh being pulled by a reindeer.

• Gingerbread Santa and Mrs. Claus will warm your heart.

• Woodland Santa in rich green and Polar Bear Cub go perfect in the peace and quiet of a winter forest.

Inspiring designs by Patricia Locke, featuring stunning colors—blues, greens, teals and more—are what has won us over. The Little Traveler is proud to be among the trusted Patricia Locke Ltd retailers in the Chicago area.

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Patricia Locke, a Chicago designer, has been creating jewelry for over thirty years. Her jewelry pieces are a combination of fine art and modern fashion.  The Little Traveler continues to expand this line of earrings, bracelets, necklaces and pins as more and more of our friends request it.

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Stop by to pick up your Patricia Locke “T-shirt earrings”- perfect for when you’re dressed down but just want a little sparkle on your ear.

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Patricia Locke Ltd jewelry is immediately recognizable for its distinctive asymmetry, tantalizing multi-metal combinations and elegant use of positive-negative space. Each piece presents an exquisite paradox, at once handsome and beautiful, organic and geometric, and contemporary with an heirloom quality.  Patricia, along with Deborah Rethemeyer, designs new collections of necklaces, earrings, and bracelets every year, and all Patricia Locke jewelry is handcrafted by a team of artisans outside of Chicago, Illinois and sold by boutique retailers.

In 1958 Juan, José and Vicente decided to dedicate themselves exclusively to their own works. The family workshop had become too small for their business, so they transferred their small company to a warehouse in the neighboring town of Tavernes Blanques.  In addition to innovations in design of the figurines, they created new methods in firing techniques, reducing the three-layer firing to a one-layer process. One-firing is an innovative method that creates the crystalline finish and the pastel tonalities typical of Lladró works.

Demand for Lladró sculptures increased unexpectedly, and a growing number of sculptors, chemists and decorators joined the company to increase production. The brothers’ incorporated a logo on all their figurines.

The 1960’s were a large growth period for Lladró, beginning when a group of Americans discovered the brothers’ creations on a trip to Valencia while looking for new products to import into their country. They were captivated from their very first visit, and internationalization of the brand began. They exported part of their production to Canada and expanded in the North American markets.  In 1962 the company opened its Professional Training School, with the aim of conveying the experience and essence of the Lladró brothers’ creative spirit.

Sad Harlequin  (1969) marked a considerable change in the brothers’ artistic evolution. The stylized lines and the romantic air of the figurine became the Lladró’s signature style that is appreciated throughout the world.  Throughout the years Lladró continued to innovate in its artistry and expand worldwide.  They’ve also handed down the tradition through the family, appointing the next generation to the Board of Directors.

Most recently, the NAO collection has been introduced.  Fewer colors and simpler molds and designs allow for more moderate pricing, yet maintain the excellent standards of the artisans.  On Tuesday, March 9, The Little Traveler will host the NAO Event, where representative Angela Casa will introduce the line and answer questions.

Now through May 8 is the Lladró Mother’s Day Event.  You will receive a $25 Spa Gift Certificate with your $100 Lladró purchase.

Madame Alexander infused a sense of excitement and wonderment in her fine quality, handcrafted dolls. She initiated a series of firsts in the toy industry, such as the first doll based on a licensed character, Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind. This led to the creation of dolls based on characters from popular motion pictures, like The Wizard of Oz.  Madame Alexander was also the first to bring feature baby dolls to market, the first to create dolls in honor of living people (Queen Elizabeth, the Dionne Quints), and the first to introduce the first full figured fashion doll, Cissy, with haute couture outfits.

The tradition and elegance of Madame Alexander dolls continues today with a full line of collectible dolls, baby dolls and play dolls.  The Little Traveler in Geneva, IL (west suburban Chicago) is proud to offer Madame Alexander Dolls for sale in our unique shop.

Brighton has designed a limited edition peace charm bangle bracelet as a way to show support in promoting world peace. Brighton’s Peace charm bangle features removable charms so that others can be added to truly make it your own.  For each Peace Charm bangle bracelet sold from January 15 – February 14, Brighton will donate $5 to a peace supporting organization.

The Little Traveler is a leader among Brighton stores and is the only Platinum Heart Brighton retailer in Illinois.  Pick up your Peace Charming bracelet in our Brighton Room, filled with jewelry, watches, bags, leather handbags and more!

Brighton has selected these organizations to receive funds from the sale of Brighton’s Peace Bangle.

PHYSICIANS FOR PEACE
Physicians for Peace is an international, humanitarian, nonprofit, medical education organization dedicated to building peace and international friendships in developing nations with unmet medical needs and scarce resources.

WOMEN FOR WOMEN
Promoting Peace in the Home- Promoting leadership to ensure violence prevention efforts are implemented and are developed for victims of abuse and violence against women and children.

USA CARES
Supporting Those Who Sacrifice for Peace- Supporting our military personnel and their families as they make the selfless sacrifice of service to our country-leaving their homes, families, friends and lives to defend the ideals of a nation.

ACTION AGAINST HUNGER
Ending Hunger to Create a Climate for Peace- Engaging in the fight to end hunger that endangers the lives of children, women and men in situations of war, conflict, natural disaster and poverty.

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power… the world will know peace.”

-Jimi Hendrix

From the Original Snow Village Series

The Department 56 Snow Village was inspired one Christmas evening when a group of friends went out to dinner at a small country inn nestled in a quiet river town. The lights sparkled on the new fallen snow, inspiring the visitors with Christmas memories.  To preserve the magic of the moment, the idea for a miniature lighted Christmas village was born.

Now headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Department 56 is the premier name in giftware and collectibles, including hand-painted porcelain bisque Snowbabies™.  But Department 56 is still best know for its charming hand-crafted lighted village displays, which have been expanded to include not only The Snow Village Series, but  The North Pole Series, The Dickens’ Village Series and many more.  Festive fall displays are also possible now with Dept 56 Halloween buildings and accessories.

From the Legends of Sleepy Hallow-een series

Create stunning, memorable displays that reflect your style and imagination.  From the quaint Dickens and Snow Villages to the magical North Pole to spooky Sleepy Hallow, Department 56 villages are thoughtfully created using hand-craftsmanship and the highest level of architectural detail to achieve authenticity.  And what better place to put together the village of your dreams than our very own Little Traveler building in the picturesque village of Geneva, Illinois?

Each year, certain Dept 56 products are retired.  See which village items will be retired at the end of 2010.

From The North Pole Series

Available as supplies last throughout Nov. and Dec. are:

• North Pole Palace from the Dept 56 North Pole Series

• White Castle Restaurant and Northgate School, Home of the Northgate Polars from the Dept 56 Snow Village

• 48 Daughty Street from The Dept 56 Dickens Village

• Union Station, “21″ Club and Golden Ox Market from Christmas in the City

Each set includes a lighted building and accessory people to create complete village displays.

Pick up your Holiday value sets, specially priced at $79 for the annual holiday event:

North Pole Penguin Visitors’ Center, Snow Village Richmond Holiday House, Christmas in the City Prescott Hotel, Dickens’ Village Christmas at Regent’s Park House.

REVISITED 25 YEARS LATER… THE ORIGINAL SHOPS OF DICKENS’ VILLAGE…

From the Dickens' Village collection

In 1984, the Shops of Dickens’ Village, which later became the Dickens’ Village Series®, was born with seven small and simple designs representing the core elements of an English town in the 19th Century.   In 2009, Department 56 celebrates the Silver Anniversary of the beloved Village.  To commemorate this anniversary, Department 56 is pleased to introduce several inspiring new pieces, by giving collectors a fresh series of buildings based on the classic pieces introduced in 1984. A wonderful way for customers to complete their Dickens Village displays.

Introducing the NEW Interpretation of:

• Crowntree Inn • The Neilan Lund Gallery• Golden Swan Baker • Abel Beesley Butcher (Available while supplies last.)

Additionally, we are pleased to offer an impressive collection of other nativity scenes. Crafted in various sizes, these scenes are beautifully designed in porcelain, sculpted metal, wood and resin. Whether adding to your scene or just starting your collection, our nativities are worth the trip to inspire you.

• Santa and Mrs. Claus are busy whipping up chocolate treats!

• Scandinavian Caroler joins the cast.

• Family unity is evident with the new soccer family and the musical family… mom, dad, daughter and son.

• Don’t miss this opportunity to add Basket Man and Clock Man to your collection.

• Soup Lady is now available for your Salvation Army Collection.

• Seven Swans a-Swimming is the newest addition to the 12 Days of Christmas.

Byers’ Choice Event:

On December 5 during the Geneva Christmas Walk, a company representative will be showcasing all the new pieces for Christmas 2009.  Stop in and register to win a free piece from Byers’ Choice!

Friday and Saturday:

*Brighton On-The-Go – Receive a specially designed Dayplanner and Journal FREE with a $100 Brigthon Purchase.  Designed to fit in your Brighton handbag!

Friday, December 4 11 a.m.-3 p.m.:

* Swarovski Crystal Event – Meet Ann Andrea, Swarovski representative, see what’snew for Holiday 2009. With any purchase, sign up for a free gift drawing.

* Waterford Crystal Holiday Event — We have the new and exciting pieces for 2009. Sign up for a free gift drawing.

* Lladro Holiday Extravaganza –Angela Casa, Lladro representative, will meet and greet Lladro fans and present the newest in the line. Sign up for a free gift drawing.

* Williray for the Holidays –  Beccy Metzgar will visit the shop to show off these whimsical Country folk art pieces that are designed as a celebration of the holidays. Enter a drawing to receive a signed large creche, valued at $250. Special Purchase Friday Only: Holy Family Creche $132.50. (originally $265.00)

* Colonial Candle Gala –Light up your holidays with beautiful candles. Sign up for a free gift drawing.

Saturday, December 5:

* Byers’ Choice Event - During the Geneva Christmas Walk, a company representative will be showcasing all the new pieces for Christmas 2009.  Stop in and register to win a free piece from Byers’ Choice!

* Berghoff Cafe Cookbook Book Signing – at 1:00 p.m. Carlyn Berghof will be here to sign copies of this new cookbook filled with simple and satisfying classic recipes from Chicago’s Berghoff Cafe.

Our Christmas rooms are nearly filled with our new look for the 2009 Holiday Season. Stop by and see all the newness!

The folks in our Crystal Department say Christmas is here…in Swarovski, that is. Stop by and view the newest in Swarovski ornaments for 2009, and the ongoing arrivals of new jewelry to wear to your holiday parties.

In Byers’ Choice:

• The new Pink Ribbon Caroler represents breast cancer awareness for campaigning and fundraising during the month of October.

• “The Witching Hour,” three new witches along with their haunted gingerbread house and pumpkin heads, get ready for Halloween fun.

• “The Amish Family,” complete with parents and kids in traditional clothing, represent a new look for this collection.

In Department 56:

• The Haunted Railroad collection expands with the “Haunted Rails Dining Car” complete with ghoulish waiter.

• New to the Halloween Village are the Gravely Estate, Croak-N-Haggard Mortuary, Deep Woods Haunt and The Black Widow Dating Service, along with many new added accessories.