We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Aubrey Hinkson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Aubrey, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

As a busy, working mom with young kids I realized there was a serious unmet need in our community for a toy store where kids could experience classic play. As a mom, I crave the simplicity of retro toys to inspire and excite my children that don’t involve a screen. Every child is so unique and it is fun to see what area’s of the store they gravitate toward….art, science, books, pretend play, active play, collectibles, fidget toys, etc. We want to make the discovery process as fun as playing with the toy itself. We guarantee your child will love walking through the shop, playing with test toys and just being a kid!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Orange Otter Toys is locally owned and operated in Historic Downtown North Augusta, SC.
As proud life-long residents of the CSRA and parents ourselves, we understand the challenge and fun that comes with raising tiny humans. We value giving back to the community that helped make us who we are. We live in the CSRA, we love it and we hope what we are doing at Orange Otter Toys is making it a better place for everyone. During our ribbon cutting, Mayor Britton of North Augusta shared that many of the destination cities like Savannah, GA or Greenville, SC all have toy stores. We have so much to offer here, and we hope our own investment is helping to tell that story.
Our unique selection of toys is carefully curated
These playthings didn’t come here by chance; everything is meticulously scrutinized for its play value and quality. We have something for every age! The Otter carries brands focused on eco-friendly production and supporting fellow local entrepreneurs. No matter your budget, you’ll find a terrific toy to inspire, explore, create and play. Orange Otter Toys carries American and European made products to provide quality you can trust and increased sustainability. Most of our products are not available in big box stores making it easier to find a unique gift that will stand the test of time.

A personalized shopping experience
All of our toys are categorized by age and interests so our staff is always ready to help you find the perfect, personal gift. Or if you’re short on time, fill out our online form with details of who you are shopping for, when you need it, and your budget and we will create a one-of-a-kind gift for you.
As parents, we were falling victim to the Google search, “best gift for X year old kid”. Everyone would show up to the party with the same gift. So we made a better way. You will find a unique gift at our store sure to wow, and we will wrap it for FREE! We also offer a gift registry for kids, customization (only $6) and you can rent the toy store out for your next birthday. Kid’s birthdays…SOLVED.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Shop local, support others who are giving their all to their communities. When we invest in one another, we are securing a future for children that is brighter, stronger and more resilient. Support a business with a purpose greater than making a dollar. Where you spend matters.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Screens are not helping our kids. Let’s get back to basics with our toys and help kids play and reach their full potential.
You may be wondering, what makes Orange Otter Toy Store different? Why should I consider sourcing toys for my family and friends from a local toy boutique in downtown North Augusta, South Carolina?

1. We focus on classic play.

We provide a neighborhood experience delivering the human element unmatched by mass retailers. Our selection focuses on toys that trigger the imagination. We want our customers to explore and create new worlds of adventure and fun with each toy they select from Orange Otter Toy Store.

2. Our products are sustainable, durable and unique.

We see you. You’ve shown up to your child’s friend’s birthday party. You don’t know him or her from the next kid, so you go online and search for an age appropriate gift. The likelihood that other attendees are doing the same is extremely high, so you all show up to random kid’s birthday party with the same gift. Orange Otter Toys is here to help! Our personalization and unique items not found in big box stores will set you a part. It will make you and your child the hero of the birthday party. Our products are also carefully curated to ensure they will last. We want our toys to be passed down for generations to come, not thrown out because Mom is tired of the bulky, plastic mountain of toys overtaking her home.

3. We carry products that support a better world and environment for future generations.

Thankfully the next generation is more eco-conscious and focused on saving our planet. The brands we work with will have a sustainable mission, focused on doing good in the world and creating eco-friendly products kids can enjoy again and again. We are investing in the next generation with the products we offer.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://orangeottertoystore.com
• Instagram: orangeottertoys
• Facebook: orangeottertoys