Enter the this time of year and you might find yourself humming, "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas".
Everywhere you roam there are classic toys and games that back fond memories from your childhood. Owner Chris Kilbane is the fifth owner of the store, which opened its doors 83 years ago. Kilbane said he believes the holidays are for kids, and he makes it easy for parents, friends, and relatives to find something sure to put a smile on the face of every Barney and Ben and Janice and Jen.
Chris said he wants his store to reflect a family atmosphere. On a recent visit, two of the women working there had their own children in tow. Kilbane has always hired New Canaan high schoolers and has ten to fifteen on staff throughout the year. Former employees now in college know they'll be welcomed back during the busy holiday season, as well.
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Kilbane has worked many holidays, and he had some funny stories to tell. He recalled one year when the store was bustling and the clerks were frantically trying to keep up with orders for gift wrapping. One of Kilbane's neighbors stepped in to help behind the counter, placing a half-eaten sandwich down as she turned to help a customer. At the end of the night when she was anticipating finishing her ham and cheese it was nowhere to be found. Kilbane said they figured it had been wrapped up with someone's present, but its whereabouts remain a mystery to this day.
Like so many of New Canaan's local business owners, Kilbane takes pride in offering customers personal service. Shoppers can bring in a list from which the staff will select the toys, wrap them up and include a handwritten note for each. Now that will make you sing, right within your heart.
