Featured Vendor

Melissa & Doug Classic and New Wooden Toys and Puzzles

When I was in the process of creating Babynut and deciding what kinds and brands of products to offer, I went to several toy stores in Washington and Oregon and browsed. I would pick up a toy I liked and look to see who made it. More often than not, it would be a Melissa & Doug toy. So I took down their phone number and called them up. They sent me a catalog immediately, and their sales rep went through every page on the phone with me, giving me advice on which toys made sense for babies and toddlers, and how much of each toy to order. Each time I called with a question or need, they were always there to help and guide me.

When I decided to feature Melissa & Doug toys and puzzles in this edition of Nutsense, I went to my file cabinet and pulled out their catalog. I was able to find information about each and every toy they make and sell, but nothing about the company itself. So I called their 800 number and spoke to someone in Customer Service. I explained what I wanted to do and she laughed and said, “You won’t find any information about Melissa and Doug. They’re very private and want their toys and puzzles to speak for themselves.”

As we continued to talk, this is what I learned about this unique and wonderful company:
• Melissa and Doug are a married couple with four children of their own, and they started this company out of their living room ~15 years ago.
• They wanted to make toys out of natural materials like wood that would last and that could be passed down from generation to generation.
• They wanted their toys to have an old-time feel, so that parents and grandparents would remember playing with similar toys when they were little.
• They wanted their toys to be reasonably priced.
• They wanted their toys to provide wholesome fun and learning opportunities for children.

Even though their company has grown to a nation-wide operation, they still maintain that small business feel. When you call during business hours, you get a live person, not voice mail. When you call after hours or during the weekend, Melissa and Doug take the messages off the machine themselves and pass them on to their employees. They also welcome suggestions, feedback and comments, so give them a call at 800-284-3948.

Their company is also known as Lights, Camera, Interaction!, but most people recognize the red and white Melissa & Doug label. I love these toys and puzzles, and I continue to add new items as I can afford to do so. I also give them as gifts to my grandchildren at every opportunity. They love them, too!

You can view and purchase Melissa & Doug toys and puzzles here:

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