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'Build-A-Bear' Workshop at Somerset Collection in Troy
The 'newly imagined' concept store, the fourth of six in the world, offers southeast Michigan kids and families lots of interactive stuffed animal fun
A hands-on classic just got high-tech. Build-A-Bear Workshop opened its fourth new concept store in the world – right here at Somerset Collection in Troy. Kids can now completely personalize their bear-making experience at this Oakland County destination.
There are plenty of fresh features in store – starting with a digital storefront that changes with the seasons, holidays and special events. Kids can even fiddle with the signage: It's got interactive elements!
Build-A-Bear Workshop
The highlight, though, is the eight-station experience that lets tykes create their plush pal. It all begins with "Choose Me," which puts all the stuffed-animal options (bears, bunnies, dogs, kittens and more), right at "kid height."
Next comes all the "inside" stuff. At the "Love Me" station, kids can give their friend emotions – like cuddly, smart or brave – which are placed on their red satin hearts. Pals get a voice, too, literally, at "Hear Me," where kids can add anything from popular song clips to sounds to a recording of themselves. And sniff out some fun at the "Stuff Me" stop, where children give their new toy "SCENTiments" (like bubble gum, strawberry cotton candy and chocolate chip – watch for these to change with the seasons).
Then, come the final touches. A "Fluff Me" area lets makers "clean" their pal on a tabletop bathtub screen (play soap even froths into "virtual bubbles"). That's followed by "Dress Me," which lets kids go with a theme or super hero motif. And, finally, there's the essential crowning touch: "Name Me." Stumped on a moniker? A "bear-o-scope" reveals your creation's unique "attributes and personality" to help.
The last stop? "Take Me Home," of course, where kids receive their new creation's official birth certificate and a "Stuff Fur Stuff" club membership – plus a Cub Condo carrying case to transport their furry friend home.
This cool new concept store was reportedly in the works for two years before opening shop. Why not check it out – and create a new chum? It's near Nordstrom in Somerset Collection.
