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Latest News2024-04-23T08:41:12-06:00

Artist Insights: Miniature Appliances

Hallmark has heard you loud and clear… you LOVE Matt’s ‘unofficial’ series featuring miniature appliances! And they have confessed, they love them too. Matt has done a fantastic job bringing such unique detail and simple movement to these adorable mini ornaments. Keep reading to learn more behind the scenes info about Matt’s inspiration, and more!

Hallmark asked Matt if he was aware of how much his fans love these miniature appliance ornaments and he said, “yes, the mini appliances or kitchen items began in 2018 with the miniature Tiny Teapot I worked on.”

Matt went on to say, “it did so well that I then began to look at other items in the kitchen that could have a Christmas theme or styling. My inspiration comes from looking at existing products, such as things people have transformed for Christmas in their own kitchens and upcycled art. My background is in Industrial Design, so I enjoy the history of vintage appliances and I enjoy cooking.”
Much like other Keepsake artists, Matt also looked to the Keepsake Studio for inspiration. He said, “Tom Best and Nello Williams, among other Keepsake artists, have done a great job of incorporating appliances into ornaments, so that also was also a big part of the inspiration.” And taking a few notes from a few ‘sweet tooth’ artists, such as Nina Aubé and Tammy Haddix, Matt said, “another big part of inspiration are waffles, coffee, cookies, warm toast, baking… things critical to living a good life!”
Matt shared more about the simple movement we have seen of these ornaments in more recent years. He said, “another thing we began to incorporate is more simple magic into our miniatures, so that gave me more opportunities to explore the storytelling. You can lift the handle on the toaster to make the toast pop up, turn the knob on the bottom of the ornament to see the mixer work,” – 2023 sneak peek alert! – “and open the waffle maker to get a snowflake shaped waffle inside.”
Did you catch that? Matt mentioned a waffle maker – stay tuned for that miniature ornament release next year! It is the Whimsical Waffles ornament, where you will be able to lift the lid to see the festive waffle inside!
Until then, we hope you enjoy the Merry Mixer, available for purchase at Ornament Debut in October.

Miniature Appliances

Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments. “Behind the scenes with Matt Johnson and the miniature Merry Mixer!” Keepsake Ornament Club Facebook Page, July 26, 2022. https://www.facebook.com/groups/KOCMembers/posts/3192291914344144

July 26th, 2022|0 Comments

2023 Sneak Peek: Comic-Con International: San Diego

In conjunction with the opening of San Diego Comic-Con, Hallmark has shared Sneak Peeks of two Star Wars Keepsake Ornaments that are set to be released in 2023. For those attending San Diego Comic-Con, be sure to stop by Hallmark’s booth (#1505) in the Lucasfilm Star Wars Pavilion, where these ornaments and a collection of 2022 product will be on display.


Star Wars™

A Curious Encounter on Endor
Star Wars: Return of the Jedi™

Anakin Skywalker™
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith™
27th in the Star Wars™ series.

July 21st, 2022|0 Comments

2022 Reveal: Signature Collection

Hallmark Signature Ornaments are a distinct collection of premium ornaments featuring unique processes, craftsmanship and attention-grabbing detail.

Inspired by top-selling Signature greeting cards, each ornament is designed to make an immediate impression and express a sense of style and sophistication during the holidays.


New

Heart

Cactus

Ship in a Bottle

Rocket

Rainbow

Umbrella

Gingerbread House

Train

Angel


Re-issued

Moon

Balloon Dog
Pineapple
Bicycle
Horseshoe

Baby Mobile

Butterfly

Santa

Eiffel Tower

Anchor

Nutcracker

Flamingo

Margarita

Snowflake

Deer
Red Truck
July 9th, 2022|0 Comments

Announcement: 2022 KOC Memberships SOLD OUT! Alternative Offered. (UPDATED)

As of Friday, the 2022 Keepsake Ornament Club (KOC) Dream Box is no longer available. As such, the regular 2022 KOC enrollment has SOLD OUT. However, Hallmark is offering an alternative enrollment option.

Individuals may still enroll in the 2022 KOC for the $49.99 enrollment fee to receive all the benefits available for the remainder of the year: including participating in early shopping events, earning KOC-exclusive bonus points, shopping for KOC-exclusive ornaments, and more; however, they won’t receive the Dream Box.

Those wishing to join using the alternative enrollment must sign a consent form acknowledging that although they paid the $49.99 membership fee, they will not receive the Dream Box.

UPDATE (07.19.22) – Good news! After an analysis of inventory, Hallmark is thrilled to share that all 2022 KOC memberships will include a Dream Box. All enrollments sold in the store will include a Dream Box. If a KOC enrollment was initially processed without a Dream Box, a supplemental order has been created to ensure the box will be provided. The customer will receive an email confirmation with tracking information when the Dream Box ships.

July 8th, 2022|1 Comment

Press Release: Hallmark Spreads Holiday Cheer with Keepsake Ornament Premiere, July 9-17

The first Keepsake Ornament event of the year debuts 250 new releases in Hallmark’s 2022 collection and celebrates the magic of Christmas in July

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (July 8, 2022) – The countdown to the holiday season is here, and Hallmark is excited to celebrate the magic of Christmas in July during its Keepsake Ornament Premiere, July 9-17. The first Keepsake Ornament event of the year debuts 250 new releases in Hallmark’s 2022 collection and gives consumers a chance to celebrate traditions and share meaningful moments as they browse the all-new line of specialty ornaments.

New releases from the 2022 collection include fan favorites from movies and TV like E.T. and Star Wars™, along with new series ornaments and more than 50 continuing series products. From ornaments that capture the passions and personalities of loved ones, to personalized ornaments that commemorate life’s special occasions, Hallmark’s Keepsake Ornaments offer something for everyone.

“The Keepsake Ornament line debuted nearly 50 years ago, and Hallmark is proud to continue offering unique, specialty ornaments that spark connection and celebrate togetherness,” said Nicole Reid, vice president of ornaments, gifts and specialty retail at Hallmark. “From celebrating longstanding traditions to helping families create new ones, Keepsake Ornament Premiere is a great time to share in the merriment of the holiday season with loved ones.”

Hallmark’s new Keepsake Ornaments are available to shop at Hallmark Gold Crown stores nationwide and online beginning July 9. Keepsake Ornament Club members can enjoy early in-store shopping beginning July 8, in addition to other great perks like special savings, access to exclusive ornaments, and the chance to connect with fellow members. Join today and take advantage of these membership perks before 2022 membership enrollment closes on July 31.

Everyone who shops during the Keepsake Ornament Premiere, July 9-17, can enjoy event-only offers and Crown Rewards Bonus Points, including a FREE Young Santa Tote Bag or FREE Rocking Horse Memories Special Edition Keepsake Ornament valid while supplies last at participating Hallmark stores.

New ornaments debuting at the Keepsake Ornament Premiere include the following:

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, 40th anniversary ornament with light and sound – Fans of the timeless film can give E.T. a very special home on their Christmas tree this year. The beloved extra-terrestrial who discovered the joy of Earth, candy and the friendship of human children has tugged on heartstrings for generations of fans. Celebrate the movie’s 40th anniversary with this delightful likeness of the intelligent creature from outer space. Press the button to see his chest glow red and hear iconic phrases spoken by Elliott’s alien friend.

Grogu™ Greetings, Star Wars™: The Mandalorian™ ornament with sound and motion – They say the best things come in small packages, and what could be better than the gift of Grogu? This Christmas tree ornament features the mysterious little Force-sensitive child from the Star Wars original series “The Mandalorian,” streaming only on Disney+, sitting inside a festively wrapped box. Press the button to watch Grogu move and babble as he holds a gingerbread cookie that’s decorated like one of his favorite snacks, a Sorgan™ frog.

Raccoon Mario, Super Mario™, 1st in Powered Up with Mario series ornament – Power up the holidays with this Raccoon Mario Christmas ornament, the first ornament in the new Powered Up with Mario series. In brilliant color and detail, it depicts Mario in his raccoon form after acquiring the Super Leaf in the beloved “Super Mario Bros.™ 3″ video game.

The Iron Throne, Game of Thrones™ musical ornament – Stake your claim as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne with this “Game of Thrones” Christmas tree ornament. The battery-operated decoration plays part of the iconic theme song from HBO’s hit series, which follows the story of several powerful families and their fight for control of the Seven Kingdoms.

Young Santa, 1st in the series ornament – What was Santa Claus like before he grew into the jolly old elf we all know and love today? The first in a fun new series, this Christmas tree ornament gives a glimpse at Young Santa and his puppy dog pal as he first receives his iconic red suit.

Twelve Drummers Drumming, 12th and Final in the Twelve Days of Christmas series ornament – Collectors can complete their “Twelve Days of Christmas” ornament collection with this year’s joyful finale. The little drummer boy holds mallet-style drumsticks to play his drum, which displays the number “12.” The edge of the drum features music notes and lyrics of the classic Christmas carol.

North Pole Tree Trimmers, 10th in the series ornament – Deck the halls with some help from this cute little elf. The 10th ornament in the North Pole Tree Trimmers series features one of Santa’s helpers testing out a colorful new nutcracker with a walnut that’s wrapped in a red bow.

A Pony for Christmas, 25th in the series ornament – Celebrating 25 years of the beloved series, ride into holiday fun with this year’s A Pony for Christmas ornament, which depicts a teddy bear wearing a party hat as he rides his carousel horse. The 2022 design features metallic gold painted accents, a yarn tail and wheels that really turn.

The entire 2022 Hallmark Keepsake Ornament lineup includes nearly 450+ ornaments to help bring people closer together to celebrate the season, capture memories and turn the Christmas tree into a beloved holiday experience the whole family will enjoy. Click here to view the 2022 Dream Book and explore all of Hallmark’s new Keepsake Ornaments.

For more information about Keepsake Ornaments, or to locate a Hallmark Gold Crown store, visit www.Hallmark.com. Save the date for Hallmark’s Keepsake Ornament Debut, Oct. 8-16, as 150 more ornaments are released.

About Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments

In 1973, when Hallmark introduced six glass ball ornaments and 12 yarn figures as the first collection of Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments, a new tradition of Christmas decorating was started and a new collectible industry was born.

When the first line was introduced, they were unique in design, year-dated and available only for a limited time — innovations in the world of ornaments. Since 1973, Hallmark has introduced more than 8,400 different Keepsakes Ornaments and more than 100 ornament series, annual releases of ornaments that share a specific theme.

Today’s Keepsake Ornaments reflect the way styles, materials, formats and technology have expanded since they first appeared in Hallmark stores. Once a collection of decorated glass balls and yarn figures, Keepsake Ornaments are now made in a wide array of wood, glass, metal, porcelain and handcrafted formats. Technology has also been incorporated into the world of Keepsake Ornaments through light, sound and motion. The one thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the superior craftsmanship and high quality that ensures Keepsake Ornaments will become family heirlooms and cherished collectibles.

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
40th Anniversary

Grogu Greetings
Star Wars™: The Mandalorian™

Raccoon Mario
Powered Up with Mario
1st in series.

The Iron Throne
GAME OF THRONES™

Young Santa
1st in the series.

Twelve Drummers Drumming
Twelve Days of Christmas
12th and Final in the series.

North Pole Tree Trimmers
10th in the series.

A Pony for Christmas
25th in the series.

July 8th, 2022|0 Comments

2022 Reveal: Cards Inspired by Ornaments

Boxed cards with all the craft of Keepsake Ornaments


A few favorite Keepsake Ornaments have inspired their very own line of holiday boxed cards. Now you can decorate your tree with your favorite ornament—and share a companion card as your seasonal greeting. Available this year.

Father Christmas
Holiday Cards

Father Christmas
19th in the series.

Happy Campers
Holiday Cards

Happy Campers

Grogu™ Christmas Wishes
Holiday Cards

Grogu™ Greetings
Star Wars™: The Mandalorian™

July 7th, 2022|0 Comments

Local Club News: Ornament Premiere is almost here!

Dear Local Club Presidents,

Ornament Premiere is ALMOST here! Are you as excited as we are? 😊

We wanted to send you a quick note to let you know of a few ornaments that will be arriving late for our Ornament Premiere event. These ornaments will be arriving either during the event or right after. The availability of these ornaments will vary by store.

The good news – for the ornaments listed below, we have worked with the appropriate teams to ensure that Ornament Premiere Bonus Points will be extended through 7/31/22 on these 19 ornaments due to their late arrival. We realize the late arrival of these ornaments may be an inconvenience, but rest assured, our distribution center and transportation teams are working around the clock to get these to your local store and online as soon as possible!

Happy Ornament Premiere!

Sincerely,

The Keepsake Ornament Team


Ornament Premiere Late Arrivals

Not A Creature Was Stirring
Playful Penguins

Jack Skellington
Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

Christmas Window 2022
20th in the series.

My First Christmas

Pet’s Fur-st Christmas

1962 Ford Mustang I
5th and Final in the Legendary Concept Cars series.

The Merriest House in Town
The PEANUTS® Gang

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME™
THE WIZARD OF OZ™

Hitchhiking Ghosts
Disney The Haunted Mansion

Pinkie Pie
My Little Pony®

Otto Tune
Minions

Two Tune TV™
Fisher Price®

Elmo and His Puppy, Tango
Sesame Street®

Yeti
LEGO® Minifigure

Bubble Cut™
Barbie™ Ornament

1963 Chevrolet® Corvette® Stingray®
5th in the Lil’ Classic Cars series.

Hoppy Halloween

Hallmark Keepsake Socks

Hallmark Keepsake Blanket

July 7th, 2022|0 Comments

For Keeps: Volume 21, Issue 2 Summer 2022

Read about Ornament Premiere details you don’t want to miss. Get an exclusive sneak peek at the 2023 Christmas Window. And see a special surprise coming your way in 2022.


  • Ornament Premiere is almost here!
  • Meet the newest guy in the North Pole
  • 2023 SNEAK PEEK ALERT!: A window to wonder
  • 2022 Online-Exclusive Ornament Releases
  • Dreaming up the Dream Book
  • Save the date

Download a PDF of the Issue

Read the Cover Letter


For Keeps – The Official Newsletter of the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Club.

July 6th, 2022|0 Comments
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