Make a sweet memory at Build-A-Bear in Short Pump Mall!

Build-A-Bear is one of the sweetest places to take children for special occasions. We have enjoyed visiting this Build A Bear since my daughter was 1, and she still loves coming at age 8! When you arrive, park in the Crate & Barrel lot, and turn right once you enter the mall. The store will be on your right. Alternatively, you could park at Nordstrom's, but we park by Crate & Barrel because my children like to walk by the fountains and make wishes.

Prior to your visit I suggest signing up for the Build a Bear emails. These promotions will save you a lot! First, you will earn points for every purchase, and you'll also hear about specials. One of our favorite specials that Build A Bear runs is the birthday bear. When you go to Build a Bear during your birthday month, you can make a bear for the cost of whatever age you're turning. This is a really great deal, but keep in mind that it only applies to the specific birthday bear, so if your child has their heart set on something different, this may not work for you. Another recommendation is that you tell your children how many "extras" you will purchase. For example, I tell my kids everytime that we can make one animal, and they can each choose ONE accessory for their new animal (outfit, shoes, phone, etc). Remind them of your limit before entering the store to avoid massive meltdowns!

The options for what your child can make are on the wall to your right. Each animal (there aren't only bears!!) has a different cost, so note that as your child chooses. After they've chosen the animal they'd like, they will get to stuff it - press a pedal to put stuffing in, while an employee sews it up. This is a really sweet part of the experience, and the kids love being involved in the process. Your child will also be able to add a heart to put inside the bear. You can add one that beats/smells, or a basic one at no extra cost.

Once the bear is made they can choose accessories, and make a birth certificate. Younger children will need an adult to type the information in the computer to make the birth certificate. Finally, at the register when you make your purchase, the bears/animals can leave in a large, cardboard house, included at no extra cost. My kids love to color and decorate these houses at home. Build A Bear also hosts birthday parties.