IT’S FOR A WORTHY CAUSE:
Almost before our doors were open, we were getting asked for donations to one event or another. And because we’re suckers, we wanted to give to everyone who asked for a handout. But we quickly learned that not everyone is legitimate and even if we just gave to the genuine causes, we would have nothing left to actually “sell.” So we tried to limit the number of gifts we contribute each month.
THIS IS THE PERFECT WAY TO GET YOUR NAME OUT TO OUR PATRONS:
As a new store, we want to let as many people know about our store as possible. Working on a shoestring budget doesn’t allow for a lot of advertising, so we consider very carefully the audience before we commit to giving away anything. If the function is occurring in a town that has a perfectly good stuffed animal store of their own, we probably will not participate. Compassion aside, we are in business to make money and if none of the people going to the event will ever cross our threshold, it’s not in our best interest to “advertise” there.
WHAT DO YOU DONATE?
Along with one of our stuffed animals, we always include a gift certificate. Getting the winner into our store is the goal. Most of the time, they will spend more than the donated amount and, if they really like your merchandise, they’ll keep coming back. Occasionally we do get visitors who tailor their purchase to the last penny. But they are the minority.


































