By Chris Basinger, Editor
TRUSSVILLE, Alabama – The Gateway welcomed its newest business earlier this month: Hattie’s Toyland, full of colorful charm, laughter and giggles and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune
The “magical place,” as owners Taylor and Kelsee Philpot call it, was opened in memory of their daughter Hattie Ruth, whom they lost during pregnancy in 2020.
The family had just moved to Trussville to raise their growing family when they learned of their loss. After the community provided comfort during their time of grief, the Philpots wanted to give back.
“We wanted it to be fun, uplifting and whimsical, and thought it would be cool to open a toy store in her honor,” Kelsee said.
“We are very grateful to be here in Trussville,” she added. “Now we can celebrate the happiest moments of her life.”
“It’s a toy store, so you expect the kids to come in and be excited, but what’s really fun is seeing everyone
The Trussville Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the opening of Hattie’s Toyland with a ceremonial ribbon cutting on August 13. Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune
the adults having fun and being excited,” Taylor said.
“I think the most common statement heard was, ‘Trussville needed this, our community needed this.'”
He continued: “It was really magical to see people’s faces light up, the children running around not knowing which toy to choose, and the adults having fun at the same time.”
Kelsee added, “I feel like every day someone comes along – it’s their birthday, they’ve got birthday money, or they’ve got a birthday coming up. I feel like we get to celebrate a lot of those special moments.”
Hattie’s also plans to offer story times for children ages 5 and under on Thursday mornings, which will include crafts and a snack, among other community events.
“We are really excited and grateful for the team we have around us,” Taylor said.
“And not just our team members, but the community that helped us open this store and just so many helping hands that created this magical place.”
The store is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Chris Basinger/Trussville Tribune
