What do you get when you mix toys, Times Square, tons of treats and girl time? Well, that would be Sweet Suite 2012, which preceded BlogHer in NYC. Hosted by The Big Toy Book, the third installation of this hot ticket party was held at the Lodge in the Viacom Building, home to MTV and Nickelodeon—the sweetest venue yet.
Sweet Suite wasn’t all fun and games, it was about socializing and seeing many of my blogging friends, some of whom I only get to see once a year. But as for the fun and games? Yeah, The Big Toy Book assembled some of the best names in toys, books and games.
Of all the fabulous brands at the event, here’s just a sampling of the goodies that caught my eye:
LeapFrog LapPad 2
Unfortunately, I missed LeapFrog’s holiday preview because baby was in the hospital. So, it was fun getting a good look at the LeapPad 2, LeapFrog’s hard-to-get tablet.
Among the many fun features, I particularly loved that the LeapPad 2 has a faster processor, more memory, as well as front and back cameras. Mark my words, this WILL sell out again for the holidays. If you see it and need it, I’d suggest you buy it. It’s highly rated and constantly in demand!
Alex Toys
I’ve been a long-time admirer of Alex Toys, specifically their craft and activity sets. While their little hands line of puzzles and arts and crafts will be on our Christmas list this year, I had SUCH a blast crafting at their table.
I made a few bracelets, headbands and necklaces. Their area was the most crowded because of all the fun happenings. I even spotted Jill of Scary Mommy fame in the mix! I love me some Jill!
XBox Kinect
As a family who games together, Xbox has been on our ongoing want list. We already own two video game consoles, but have been waiting for just the right time to invest in the Kinect. We already know all about the Xbox’s fun family factor, and how everyone can join in the fun without having to pick up a controller. Since we’ve been eyeing and studying the system as far back as when it was still referred to Project Natal, I’ve enjoyed seeing their lineup of games and console features grow. And as huge Sesame Street fans and supporters, I loved hearing that they’re introducing 2-way TV experiences with Sesame Street and National Geographic. I’m thinking our time is near!
Charm It
Charm It by High Intencity was, by far, one of my favorites. These cute charm bracelets lured me in with nostalgia and their collectibility.
Ideal for the tween set, these charm bracelets are fun and funky. Browsing at all the adorable Kawaii-looking charms, channeled my inner girlie girl and reminded me of the plastic charm necklaces we used to collect in grade school. I miss my roller skate charm with that tiny bell. I can’t wait to check out even more of these charms at The Gap and Nordstrom.
But beyond checking out fabulous toys and games, the highlight was definitely sitting down with the girls and chatting over Pinkberry. I may have had two servings because it was so delicious but, hey, life is too short not to savor the sweets.