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By Charlene Band Dec. 9, 2023
If you’d like to buy toys for less fortunate child, you can bring them to the downtown fire station or to the toy store. Deran Muckjian, owner of Catch a Falling Star on Main Street, was busy organizing and restocking the shelves when I dropped by to purchase a gift for the Toys for Tots collection box. The box was already overflowing with all kinds of wonderful toys. Deran said he was expecting a U.S. Marine Toys for Tots volunteer to arrive to pick up the toys and transport them to one of the numerous distribution centers all over the country. The toys are gifts during the holiday season to less fortunate children. It’s not too late to participate in the Toys for Tots toy drive. Donations may be added to the box at Catch a Falling Star until December 13.
Catch a Falling Star is a Winchester gem. The doors were opened for business 25 years ago. Daren has worked in retail his entire career and I had to ask him “Why a toy store?” His eyes lit up and he had a big smile on his face. “It’s because I love toys! And I love children!” Customers are tempted by approximately 4,000 toys and gifts of all price ranges. Deran keeps on top of the latest variety of toys that are becoming popular by attending trade shows/fairs and online platforms, but most importantly, listening to customers.
While the popularity of the newest trends may be short lived, the old standards that have been around for a very long time are still in demand. Good examples are 65-year-old Barbie, and Legos, first manufactured in 1932. I asked Deran what his secret of success is. He told me it’s his wonderful customers. He knows his prices may be a little higher than big department stores, but they can count on him for advice, great customer service, free gift wrapping, and delivery.
