‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (2024)

In a piece of news we did not have on our bingo card for 2022, Build-A-Bear has released a new “After Dark” collection of plushies aimed at adults.

The company teased the new line on Facebook with a photo of a stuffed toy lion lounging on a bed next to two glasses of Champagne and a single rose. The lion, which has a heart-shaped head, sports silky, black-and-red pajamas and a coordinating robe.

“Wink, wink — our Giftshop is full of gifts for adults too!” the company wrote in the caption. “Shop Build-A-Bear After Dark for unique gift ideas that are sure to get you hugged.”

The Build-A-Bear adult collection has its own website, the Bear Cave, which requires users to confirm they are 18 or over before entering.

“Who said stuffed animals were just for the kids? Why should they get to have all the fun?” reads a message on the site. “The Build-A-Bear stuffed animal gift collection has something for everyone—including stuffed animals for adults who are just kids at heart.”

In one funny detail, when you hover over the costumed stuffed animals featured on the Bear Cave site, the photo switches to an image of the toy without its costume.

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (1)

Some of the toys are intended for adults because they include alcohol references — including Pawlette, a rabbit holding a bottle and glass of rosé and wearing a T-shirt that reads, “Rosé over roses.”

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (2)

Another costume includes a cute bear sporting a heart costume and satin, heart-printed boxers.

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (3)

Yet another costume includes a teddy bear looking “devilishly adorable” in a red cape and horns.

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (4)

Some of the bears also sport T-shirts with more adult (but still G-rated) messages, like a T-shirt that reads, “Not today, Cupid.”

The lion from Build-A-Bear’s earlier Facebook ad also appears on the Bear Cave site, though wearing a different outfit that includes an “I love you” T-shirt and a plush Champagne bottle and glass.

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The adult collection, whose overall vibe is cute and silly rather than raunchy, also includes stuffed animals with costumes from franchises including "Star Wars," "Harry Potter," "Lord of the Rings" and the Marvel universe.

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (5)

Lindsay Lowe

Lindsay Lowe has been a regular contributor to TODAY.com since 2016, covering pop culture, style, home and other lifestyle topics. She is also working on her first novel, a domestic drama set in rural Regency England.

‘Wink, wink’: Build-A-Bear’s ‘After Dark’ collection is aimed at adults (2024)

FAQs

Can Build-A-Bear be for adults? ›

The Bear Cave™ is filled with unexpected collabs and unique plush gifts, intended for shoppers 18 and older.

What age is Build-A-Bear for? ›

Is Build-A-Bear just for kids? ›

It's true that our furry friends appeal to kids of all ages. But please note that our stuffed animals are appropriate for kids ages 2 and up. Our clothing and accessories are appropriate for children ages 3 and up.

Will Build-A-Bear stuff other stuffed animals? ›

Our Bear Builders are always happy to restitch or restuff any Build-A-Bear furry friend (identifiable by their logo tag or paw pad), free of charge, at any time.

Can you be 25 and still sleep with a bear? ›

Don't worry—it isn't weird for adults to sleep with stuffed animals. Sleep experts say it's normal and fine to cuddle up with a teddy bear.

Can adults get a birthday Build-A-Bear? ›

Build-A-Bear parties are clearly a sensational option for kids, but even adults can celebrate special occasions at Build-A-Bear. They host office outings, adult birthdays, and even charity events where you can make and donate your toy creations to the foundation of your choice.

Can you work at Build-A-Bear at 14? ›

The minimum age requirement to work at Build-A-Bear Workshop is 16 years old.

Can u return a Build-A-Bear? ›

Build-A-Bear Workshop Returns Policy

* A refund is available with the original proof of purchase from Build-A-Bear Workshop. If you do not have an original proof of purchase, we will exchange or provide merchandise credit for any returned product at our discretion.

Do Build-A-Bear gift cards expire? ›

Cards are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged or redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or replaced if lost or stolen, except as otherwise required by law. Gift cards do not expire, nor does Build-A-Bear Workshop® charge fees in connection with gift cards.

Is 9 too old for Build-A-Bear? ›

There's no age limit to participate in the Build-A-Bear Pay Your Age offer. But the special Birthday Treat Bear retails for $14, so if you're over 14, you won't really save any money.

What is the controversy with Build-A-Bear? ›

The stuffed animal immediately caused outrage online with many calling out the business for selling the bear amid growing controversy regarding drag performances and children around the U.S. 'Remember: there's absolutely no agenda to groom your kids.

Why is Build-A-Bear so popular? ›

Customer Strategist: The Build-A-Bear Workshop model is extremely personalized. Customers literally walk through the process of making their own individual bear, then make a wish and give it a "heart" to bring it to (imaginary) life. The company's success is rooted in imagination and experience.

Can Build-A-Bear batteries be replaced? ›

Take it back to BAB and they'll replace it for free.

Can you make a elephant at Build-A-Bear? ›

This gray furry friend is tons of fun. Add outfits and accessories to make this Asian Elephant Stuffed Animal a unique and perfect gift for any fan of wild animals. Order today pickup in store today!

Can you take an unstuffed bear to Build-A-Bear? ›

if someone orders a bear online do they get to build it or does it come built? @xyzhfsk which country do you reside in? @xyzhfsk you may purchase unstuffed and bring it to your local Workshop to bring it to life or have it arrived stuffed and ready to play.

Do stuffed animals help with depression? ›

A stuffed animal can bring comfort and joy to those who might need a friend but are still wary of stepping out into the world and meeting someone new. Just having something soft to cuddle with can help create a safe space for those who need a little extra help.

Is it OK for a 14 year old to sleep with a teddy bear? ›

Experts say it's OK to sleep with your stuffed animal every night—even if you no longer sleep in your childhood bed.

Is it normal for a 15 year old to sleep with a teddy bear? ›

Is it normal for a teenager to sleep with a stuffed animal? Not only is it considered normal for teens to sleep with a stuffed animal, there are even benefits to sleeping with a teddy bear at 16 or so.

Do you get a free bear at Build-A-Bear if it's your birthday? ›

You don't need to bring a birth certificate or proof of age. Your child's birthday year will indicate the Build-A-Bear birthday price you'll pay for their treat bear. For example, a child turning five the offer would be $5. This offer is valid in-store only, and can not be combined with any other discount or offer.

Does Build-A-Bear require proof of age? ›

No need to bring in any proof of age or identification. Do I need to add my child's birthday into my Build-A-Bear Bonus Club account to participate in Count Your Candles?

How long does a Build-A-Bear party last? ›

[A] Parties usually last from 1 to 1 ½ hours, but this is just an estimate. The length of your party will depend on the number and age of your Guests, and any additional activity going on in the Build-A-Bear Workshop at the time of your party.

Do Build-A-Bear employees get free bears? ›

Bears are store property. Usually newest bears are worn to promote new items. They carry bears built that are currently on sales floor. If it isn't on the sales floor they prefer you don't have it.

Does Build-A-Bear allow colored hair? ›

Unless it's a natural color, no.

Do Build-A-Bear employees get a discount? ›

Associates are eligible for a 30% discount on all merchandise sold in our stores beginning on the date of hire. Spouses, domestic partners, children, mothers or fathers may also use this associate discount. Each year we will award college scholarships to selected associates.

Why is Build-A-Bear going out of business? ›

The company goes back to being unprofitable, the popularity wanes and people don't buy the bears anymore. In terms of volatility, the global economy has been on a rollercoaster for a while, and I don't believe we're not out of the woods yet.

Can you replace the scent in a Build-A-Bear? ›

By change do you mean add a new scent? Nope, nothing preventing you from doing that! Simply go in and ask for them to put in another one, or buy it and open the bear to rub them down and insert it yourself!

Can Build-A-Bear reopen a bear? ›

Build-A-Bear Will Fix Your Bear in Store for FREE. Build-a-Bear will restuff a stuffed animal that has come unstuffed.

Can you use 2 gift cards on Build a Bear? ›

Redemption Instructions (US & Canada)

Enter your Build-A-Bear Workshop® eGift Card number and PIN during checkout online at buildabear.com. You can use multiple Build-A-Bear Workshop® eGift Cards to pay for your order.

Are old gift cards still good? ›

Under the law, a gift card cannot expire until at least five years from the date it was activated. The law also places general limitations on fees.

What happens to expired gift cards? ›

According to the Federal Trade Commission, if the expiration date listed on the card is earlier than these dates, the money can be transferred to a replacement card at no cost. Meanwhile, inactivity fees can be charged only after a card hasn't been used for at least one year.

Is 21 old for a bear? ›

Potential Longevity (lifespan): Black bears can live 21-39 1/2 years or more if they are not killed.

Is Build-A-Bear still popular? ›

The St. Louis-based company is seeing a strong post-pandemic resurgence in demand for its create-your-own soft plush toys, and Build-A-Bear Workshop attributes that to shoppers 13 and older. "40% of our shoppers now are teenagers and adults," said Sharon Price John, CEO.

Can you put a song in a Build-A-Bear? ›

Visit a Workshop to Record Your Custom Voice Recording!

If you would rather create your special gift in person, you can visit any Build-A-Bear Workshop to make your recordable stuffed animal or teddy bear in the store.

What is Build-A-Bear motto? ›

The Most Fun You'll Ever Make” – that's the motto behind the iconic global retailer, Build-A-Bear Workshop, which offers guests the opportunity to make personalized stuffed animals, including adding smells, sounds and outfits.

What did Build-A-Bear used to be called? ›

In 2003 it launched in the UK as a franchise. The first store was in Meadowhall. In 2006, following the purchase of the Bear Factory from Hamleys, all Bear Factory stores were rebranded to Build-a-Bear Workshop by September of that year.

What is Build-A-Bear backstory? ›

Maxine envisioned an interactive retail destination where kids could make personalized “furry friends.” She ultimately created something that is now called “experiential retail” which has fundamentally helped to change the way we think about shopping.

Can I take my dog to Build-A-Bear? ›

Build-A-Bear – Their love of animals goes beyond the stuffed kind! Employees at the world headquarters can bring their dogs to work. Build-A-Bear Workshop's dog-friendly workplace policy is just one reason the company has been named one of Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For three years in a row.

Who is build a bears target audience? ›

Build-A-Bear Workshop Threats
Build-A-Bear Workshop Overview
SegmentationChildren
Target MarketGirls (5-16 years) from the upper middle class
PositioningAllows children to make their own mascot
6 more rows

How much should I spend on Build-A-Bear? ›

How Much Does a Build-A-Bear Cost? The base cost of many Build-A-Bear furry friends starts at $14 while our most expensive base stuffed animal is $40.

Can you fix a Build-A-Bear voice box? ›

Hi! You may visit your local Workshop at any time to have the sound replaced, but please note, if your purchase was not within our 90-day return/exchange window, a new sound chip will need to be purchased.

What happens if Build-A-Bear battery dies? ›

✅ [EASY TO REPLACE BATTERIES] If the batteries of your recording chip ever dies, they can be easily changed with new ones, and voice recorded button will just continue playing already recorded message. No need for re-recording.

How long does Build-A-Bear heartbeat last? ›

Heartbeat" vibration module (16 seconds). A red heart shaped insert that provides a heartfelt thumping vibration for sixteen seconds when squeezing your bear.

Can adults shop at Build-A-Bear? ›

In fact, a meaningful and growing portion of Build-A-Bear's furry friends are purchased by and for adults.

Can adults get a Build-A-Bear? ›

The Bear Cave™ is filled with unexpected collabs and unique plush gifts, intended for shoppers 18 and older.

Can you make a dinosaur at Build-A-Bear? ›

Build-A-Dino® by Build-A-Bear Workshop® at T-REX™ Create a one-of-kind Friendosaur™—the prehistoric pal that's perfect to take along on modern-day adventures!

Can you add more stuffing to a Build-A-Bear? ›

Our Bear Builders are always happy to restitch or restuff any Build-A-Bear furry friend (identifiable by their logo tag or paw pad), free of charge, at any time.

Can I bring my own stuffed animal to Build-A-Bear? ›

I'm an employee and people do this all the time! I've even had people bring in non-bab plushes into the store to dress up! We totally encourage it!

How do you make Build-A-Bear soft again? ›

Make the Stuffed Animal Soft Again — One simple way to fluff up your stuffed animal again is by using a towel and rubbing the fur. The stuffed animal should be clean and damp. Use a soft comb to comb the fur as it dries and then allow it to air dry. You can also try using a hair dryer on damp fur.

How much can a full grown bear lift? ›

Grizzly bear. When it comes to pure strength the Grizzly bear can lift over 500kg, 0.8 times its body weight.

Can adults have teddy bears? ›

When we say an adult with stuffed animals is not weird, it might make people frown. But having a teddy bear in adulthood is very normal.

How many bear cubs make it to adulthood? ›

For the first few years of the bear's life, the baby cub learns to hunt from its mother, with seals being the primary food source. Unfortunately, only about 1 in 3 cubs survive to become adults.

What is the strongest animal in a fight? ›

Summary Of The 10 Absolute Strongest Animals On Earth
RankAnimalPower/Strength
1WhaleExerts most powerful force
2ElephantMost powerful land animal
3GorillaStrongest primate
4CrocodileMost powerful biter
6 more rows
Apr 21, 2023

Who would win gorilla or bear? ›

The gorilla and grizzly have a relatively similar bite strength, but the bear's build makes it harder for a gorilla's bite to be equally as effective. The gorilla's biggest advantage is its spry movement, whereas the grizzly's primary advantage is its claws. The grizzly is larger, but the gorilla is stronger.

How strong is a human? ›

The human limit of strength is considered to be 1,800-2,200 lbs. (about 816.46-997.90 kg) over-head, and 3,500-4,000 lbs. (about 1587.57-1814.36 kg) bench press. If a user with peak human strength was to have an adrenaline rush, it could push them into Enhanced Strength, but not to Supernatural Strength.

Is it normal for adults to collect stuffed animals? ›

Yes, it's perfectly normal for adults to be emotionally attached to stuffed animals, especially if they were used as transitional objects during their childhood. As transitional objects, they provided safety and comfort, which could improve the well-being of your psychological state as an adult.

Is it normal for a 13 year old to sleep with a teddy? ›

Tweens and teens often continue to sleep with a stuffed animal or favorite childhood blanket, as it brings comfort and helps relax them to sleep as it did in younger years.” Concerned that your child is too old to be sleeping with stuffed animals? Don't be.

Is it okay for adults to play with toys? ›

It's perfectly okay. It's your way of having fun. It would be advisable to keep it to yourself because not many people think that adults should play with toys. Then again, its okay for them to play with the feelings of the people, so… go on, have as much fun as you want, dude!

Do bear siblings stay together? ›

Alone and vulnerable, siblings will often stay together for some time after their mother leaves them, eating and sleeping side-by-side, and even denning together. Sub-adult females tend to establish home ranges within or overlapping their mother's home range.

Can a black bear and a grizzly bear mate? ›

Species and subspecies of bear known to have produced offspring with another bear species or subspecies include black bears, grizzly bears and polar bears, all of which are members of the genus Ursus. Bears not included in Ursus, such as the giant panda, are expected to be unable to produce hybrids with other bears.

How old is the oldest bear? ›

Wild bears have an average lifespan of 25 years, whereas those in captivity can live up to 50 years or beyond. Debby is the oldest polar bear of all time, having lived 42 years. Brownie takes the lead as the oldest grizzly bear who ever lived. He lived for 56 years.

Is Build-A-Bear autism friendly? ›

We're proud to support children with autism and other special needs by providing sensory-friendly events at all Workshop locations. Sensory-Friendly Tuesdays are designed to provide a less-stimulating Workshop experience that's still fun-filled and unforgettable.

Why did they shut down Build-A-Bear? ›

Build-A-Bear closes all stores due to coronavirus, furloughs 90 percent of workers. The St. Louis-based Build-A-Bear is closing all stores due to the coronavirus and furloughing 90 percent of its employees.

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