Popsies Offers Trip Down Memory Lane to Kids of all Ages - Vintage Toys, Fresh Toffee, Retro Candy

Dec. 2, 2011 - PRLog -- Remember the original "Cat's Cradle Game"? How about "Tiddley Winks"? These are just two examples of the impressive vintage toy inventory delivered just in time for Christmas to this fascinating little store described by many locals as the "gem of historic downtown Oak Harbor". One look, and people of all ages are drawn to visit this popcorn and sweets shoppe. Besides the quality and freshness of the myriad of edible choices within, Popsies fulfills the need to bridge the gap between generations . . . to prompt communication - usually beginning with a story. Because, whether it's a toy, or a retro candy bar, memories are powerful elements of who we are. And, sharing them brings people together.

Kay Coolidge, the creative entrepreuneur behind Popsies  says, "Everyone remembers the candy store they went to when they were kids". She should know, as during the five years since founding Popsies, she's enjoyed hearing countless stories and remembrances from visitors to the store. Though Kay, affectionately known as "Grandma Kay" sells tangible goods, customers of her store could be said to receive an intangible benefit of visiting her shop, as well, a "face lift" of sorts. What else can you call it when a no-nonsense, stressed out adult hurriedly enters the shop, then leaves a few minutes later without the furrows in his/her brow and with a new spring in their step? Bringing back happy childhood memories has elicited this level of response countless times. And, Kay, the 78 year-old "kid" in this candy store is happy to oblige.

This Christmas season Kay is introducing a new candy for her clientelle. She takes the downtown Oak Harbor "shop local" theme seriously. So, when she was introduced to local candy maker Elaine Mandato's "Just Toffee" candy she readily agreed to stock it. "If we merchants don't encourage economic growth by buying from, and helping new entrepreuneurs, how can we expect the local citizens to support us?" she asks. Besides, the toffee, she says, "is absolutely delicious, and rounds out my inventory, making every kind of candy, from retro to modern available right here on Whidbey Island".  She added, "I don't stock anything in my store that I haven't taste-tested personally . . . except these dog treats", she quipped, as she held up a paw-printed tin container.

Many of Grandma Kay's customers have pets on their Christmas shopping lists, so carrying the cute, decorative tins of tiny "bones" is a natural. She already ships fresh gourmet popcorn tins and designs, packages, and ships custom gift baskets for those who call to request that popular and convenient service. So, adding an additional "doggy gift" is just another plus for customers who find themselves a little overwhelmed with Christmas "to-do" lists. A dog owner herself, Kay understands the closeness and deep commitment people feel toward their pets. Who would wish a Santa-bereft Christmas on their loyal and beloved pet?

Popsies products don't just quench a craving for sweets, Kay offers a wide assortment of beverages, too. Gus Sodas, are just one example. They're  ideal for "sophisticated grown-up palettes". Gus sodas, according to the website, was launched in 2003 by Steve Hersh and Jeannette Luch of New York, who were on a quest for a less sweet beverage that would be loved by adults. The soda contains no caffeine, no preservatives, and is gluten-free, as well as kosher. They feature the fizz of soda without the sweetness of corn syrup. Produced from organic fruit juices, the drink is pasteurized to maintain its quality and flavor.

Popsies ample assortment of candy appeals to all ages. Kids love the Pet Rat Gummi Bears, Crickets, Rock Candy, and Reindeer Lips, just to name a few. Old timers reminisce over the King Leo Peppermint classics, the Original Black Jack licorice sticks, Chick 'o Sticks, or Necco's. Younger shoppers are sent on a trip down memory lane at the sight of Big Hunk's, Abba Zabba's and Uno Candy Bars. Obviously, Popsies doesn't cater to any one demographic - Kay's "target Market" is simply made up of the broad category, "people", and their tiny pooches, of course - this Christmas. And, she's dedicated to providing the best possible service to each and every one, seven days a week, as a matter of fact.

Many of Popsies candies can be purchased by weight, whether as little as an ounce, a pound, or more . . . reminiscent of yesteryear's 'Kress' and 'Newberry's' candy counters. This option has solved many a crisis over the finality of making a single decision; a little of everything fills the bill without the mental strife. And, Grandma Kay can often be heard to stifle objections from weight-conscious customers by maintaining that the candy and gourmet popcorn from her store is "absolutely free of calories". This is likely the only case in which she can be said to have "stretched the truth". . . . just a little.

Many visitors to Popsies have declared this charming shop-full-of-nostalgia to be on their "must visit" list whenever they've found themselves anywhere near Whidbey Island. It's located at 851 SE Pioneer Way, in the heart of the recent construction zone (now completed to a "T" - with plenty of parking available) of the historic Oak Harbor downtown area. For those unfortunate enough to miss the fantasy-land experience of the physical shop, the taste can still be had. Popsies delicious gourmet flavored popcorn (www.popsies.com/shippopcorntins.htm) is as close as your computer. Have a craving for any one of those delicious candies? Just telephone Kay Coolidge at 360-240-8937 to get your custom order(s). Don't forget to indulge yourself, too!

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Ghostwriter, Etc. writes and submits Press Releases for small business owners. www.whidbeymarketingmaven.com