What brought you to Westfield ?
We are from Western Mass and we have always liked Westfield. Besides spending time at many great restaurants, Stanley Park, and Westfield State University, we actually had our wedding reception here many years ago at Tekoa Country Club. We chose Westfield for our business because we wanted a location with a strong, family-oriented community. We thought the spot next to the Big Y was ideal! Convenience and easy parking was important to us for our customers. It's also near Amelia Park, the Children's museum and the schools.
Can you tell us about your path in starting Playnow!?
Ray worked at Toys R Us for 10 years in the 1990's and enjoyed the atmosphere. Noreen is a math teacher who loves kids. We decided it was time to blend both of our worlds and create PLAYNOW!
What types of toys do you carry?
We carry toys and games for all ages, from baby rattles to board games. We carry Lego, Melissa & Doug, BRIO, action figures, plush animals, STEM kits, Tonka trucks, Breyer collection, Calico Critters, LOL Surprise, Corolle baby dolls, Trolls, Sesame Street, Magic cards, puzzles up to 2,000 pieces and much more.
What makes Playnow! different from the big box stores?
Our focus is on carrying quality products and nostalgic fun. As a local family-owned business, we will go the extra mile to provide a joyful experience for our customers.
What is your #1 goal in business this year?
We want to put as many smiles on the faces of the Westfield community as we possibly can. We hope to develop the right product mix so everyone finds what makes them happy.
What do you like best about your job?
It's always fun to see joy on faces even though they are wearing masks - their eyes twinkle! Customers are so pleasant! There are new products coming in almost daily and we all get to Playnow!
When you are not at work, where can we most likely find you and your wife?
Outside. Whether it's hiking or relaxing on our deck in the evening looking up at the stars, we enjoy nature.
Tell us about your family?
We have three grown children scattered across the country. Our oldest son, Nevin, is in Miami with his wife, Holly; our daughter, Eleanor, is in LA; and our youngest son, Jordan, is in Boston. We also have 3 Grand-pets: Bella, Coco, and Franklin.
Do you have a favorite toy at the shop?
I like the Hover Drone, I can't wait to turn it on and show people how it flies.
Is there anything else that you want the folks of Westfield to know about you or your store?
If you don't see it, just ask. We order from over 75 vendors monthly and can special order almost anything including teacher supplies. Thank you all for making us feel welcome!
Owners Ray & Noreen Vigneault
Playnow!
5 East Silver Street
Westfield, Massachusetts 01085
(413) 579-5472