Toys On the Square is a specialty toy store offering a unique selection of toys, puzzles, games, and dolls. We focus on high-quality, long-lasting toys that spark creativity and bring joy for generations—unlike the mass-produced toys you find at big-box stores. Our goal is to provide an experience, not just a product.

I didn’t actually start it—my dad did. He retired from the carpet industry, went to a toy show, and fell in love with the idea of owning a toy store. In 1985, he opened his first location in Neffsville, Lancaster County, right near the post office, where he benefited from both foot traffic and tourists. In 1987, I moved here from California and decided to open our second store in Briarcrest. It was fun, and I saw the potential, so I jumped in. I’ve been in the business ever since, moving locations and growing along the way.

The people. The toy industry is full of genuinely kind, passionate people. My reps have been my friends for 30+ years. It’s a tight-knit, supportive community, and that makes all the difference. Plus, in this business, nobody walks in miserable because they have to buy something—people come in excited to find the perfect toy for a loved one. It’s a happy place to be.

I also love seeing the impact Toys On the Square has had over the years. Customers who shopped here as kids now bring their own kids and grandkids. I hear all the time, “Every toy I bought from you 40 years ago is still in great shape.” That’s what makes us different—we sell toys that last.

Keeping up with trends has always been a challenge. The big-box stores grab up all the hot toys, so I’ve had to be strategic about what I carry. Instead of chasing fads, I focus on timeless, high-quality toys—ones that people will love for years, not just a few days before they break or get tossed aside.

One of the best decisions I ever made was paying my vendors immediately—not waiting 60 or 90 days like most retailers do. That built trust, and during the pandemic, when nobody else could get inventory, I was still getting full shipments. My reps knew I was reliable, and that paid off in a big way.

Don’t do it unless you’re ready to work 24/7. A lot of people think they can just hire a manager and check out by 3 p.m. to pick up their kids. That’s not how it works. Your face is your business—customers come back because they know you. If you’re not willing to put in the hours, don’t do it.

People also underestimate the costs. It’s not just rent—you’ve got insurance, utilities, payroll, and, of course, inventory. And if you’re selling products, you’re constantly reinvesting in more stock. You don’t just take $2,000 and turn it into $4,000 overnight. You have to be smart, patient, and willing to hustle.

"Just keep working." No matter how hard it gets, you keep your head above water, keep grinding, and make it work.

I focus on supporting organizations like Children’s Miracle Network and Ronald McDonald House. I also give out gift certificates for local events so that donations help bring people back into the store.

I love being out on the water. We love spending time on our 33-foot boat at Raystown Lake, where we can relax away from the hustle of the business. I also have a thing for classic cars—but at some point, I probably need to sell a few!