MarketStreet Lynnfield welcomes Andover Bear Company to the property for a pop-up shopping experience. Created by Andover resident Michelle Whalen, Andover Bear Company, now open, operates on the philosophy of “imagination over batteries and gadgets” with offerings that call back to childhood classics, including signature teddy bears, original artwork, and hand illustrated children’s books. MarketStreet Lynnfield marks Andover Bear Company’s first brick and mortar location and joins a wealth of children’s shops at the property including Hanna Andersson, Pottery Barn Kids, and Gymboree.
With a focus on promoting imagination and creative thinking, Andover Bear Company is committed to designing heirloom quality gifts and toys that inspire. The store’s namesake teddy bear, made from a blend of cotton and linen, is built to be a child’s best buddy for years to come. The signature bear with its classic features and subtle smile is offered in a variety of colors – brown, gray, light gray and amber.
Courtesy of Amy Buelow Photography
In addition, guests will find prints of original artwork and décor perfect for a child’s room or play area. The current art collection features colorful, whimsical prints including bears on high flying adventures, exploring the deep, and trekking across mountain tops. Also available are ultra-soft bear blankets complete with animal ears and plush trim; cotton linen blend pillows adorned with original illustrations; and letter books, books that corresponds with the first initial of a child’s name and highlights other words starting with the same letter. The pillows and letter books are available for purchase in store or can be personalized and shipped.
Guests of all ages are encouraged to embrace their inner child and marvel at the store’s giant wall of teddy bears, colorful artwork, and even take a turn at the Instagram selfie station. In the coming weeks, the store will also be home to a series of fun events for children and caregivers.
“When someone walks into our store, I hope they’re enveloped by a sense of wonder. My goal is to promote imagination and play through storytelling, illustrations, and timeless treasures. MarketStreet Lynnfield is the perfect place for us because they value community around shared experiences and provide engaging spaces for all businesses, regardless of size,” says Michelle Whalen, Creator of Andover Bear Company
“At MarketStreet Lynnfield, we put experience first. We are known as much for our exciting collection of shops and restaurants as our atmosphere of creativity and community. Andover Bear’s mission to foster play, creativity and learning perfectly aligns with our values as a destination,” says Christina Barrows, General Manager of MarketStreet Lynnfield.