Meet Jim How long have you been in business? Smith’s has been in business for 68 years, and I’ve only worked at Smith’s for 42. Smith’s opened up in 1950 in Homewood and then moved to Mountain Brook in 1962. What is the best thing about being a part of the toy biz? It’s being able to be a part of all the families and the kids’ lives in our communities. We’ve seen kids and … [Read more...]
A Season of Surprises: Shopping Is Child’s Play With Recommendations From OTM Toy Stores
By Donna CorneliusThe best Christmas presents often are unexpected treats, especially when it comes to a special toy under the tree. Sometimes, though, it’s not just children who are surprised. Even toy store owners can be startled when an item they hope will earn respectable sales flies off the shelf. Homewood Toy & Hobby owner Tricia McCain and manager Julie Marix … [Read more...]
He’s Seen the Light: Eclipse Experience Persuades Smith’s Variety Owner to Keep the Family Store
By Sam Prickett It took a once-in-a-generation event to convince him, but Smith’s Variety owner Jim Glazner has decided against selling the iconic Mountain Brook toy store. Aug. 21’s solar eclipse was the deciding factor for Glazner, who had been planning to sell the store after his mother, Mary Anne, passed away in April. Mary Anne had run the store since the death of her … [Read more...]
Smith’s Goes Shopping: Jim Glazner Looking for Someone to Buy the Store and Run It Like Mom and Pop Did
By Sam Prickett It’s been 67 years since Smith’s Variety first opened its doors, and in that time the toy and gift shop has become something of an institution for generations of Mountain Brook families. But change is in store for Smith’s “very soon,” said owner Jim Glazner. He’s looking to sell the business, though he said it’s important that new owners maintain the … [Read more...]