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Byers Choice

For over 40 years, Byers' Choice has been synonymous with the finest handcrafted gifts, featuring iconic Caroler figurines. Each Caroler is meticulously handmade at our Pennsylvania facility, infusing your home with the cherished warmth and Christmas traditions that define our brand.

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Byers' Choice: Crafting Holiday Magic with Carolers for Over 40 Years

In the enchanting world of holiday collectibles, Byers' Choice has a legacy that spans over four decades. The heartwarming story of this iconic company begins with Joyce Byers, a former fashion designer and artist, who embarked on a creative journey that would redefine holiday traditions.

A Creative Vision Takes Shape

Joyce Byers' journey to crafting the beloved Caroler figurines began with a trip to London, where she found herself captivated by winter scenes displayed in shop windows. Inspired by the enchanting displays, she returned home to Pennsylvania with a vision of creating her own Christmas figures. Armed with wire, newspaper, fabric, and clay found in her home, she set to work.

The Birth of Carolers

Joyce's creations, the first Carolers, quickly found a place in her own Christmas decorations. Visitors to her home were enchanted by these unique figures and often inquired about their origin. Buoyed by the positive reception, Joyce, along with her husband Robert and their two sons, embarked on an annual tradition of crafting new Carolers to share as gifts with friends and family.

In the early 1970s, Joyce took a bold step by offering her creations for sale at a local Women’s Exchange, which soon led to their availability in other local stores. As demand grew, Joyce's family and a dedicated team of art students joined forces, working through summers to meet the rising orders. They set up shop amidst the serene backdrop of sheep and geese in their barnyard, tirelessly creating as many Carolers as possible to grace stores during the festive season.

The Formalization of Byers' Choice Ltd.

The overwhelming demand for Carolers led to the formal establishment of Byers' Choice Ltd. in 1978. This pivotal moment marked the company's transition from a family endeavor to a thriving business venture. With a national sales representative on board, Byers' Choice began sharing the charm of Carolers with people across the nation.

The Artistry of Caroler Production

Much like Joyce's creative process, Caroler production at Byers' Choice is a labor of love. Joyce continues to design the Carolers, bestowing each collection with a unique style. She meticulously sculpts an original head that serves as the mold for the entire line of figures. Additionally, she designs the clothing templates that adorn each Caroler.The body of these enchanting figures is a delicate blend of tissue paper wrapped around a bent wire skeleton.

Skilled artisans take Joyce's original head molds and breathe life into each one. They add the finest details, from nostrils and lips to intricate painting and coloring, ensuring that every Caroler is a work of art.

Dressers take over, using fabric meticulously cut to Joyce's designs to clothe each figure. The finishing touches include attaching the head and hair, transforming the paper and wire into the enchanting Carolers that have become cherished holiday decorations.

A Diverse World of Carolers

While Byers' Choice continues to create traditional Victorian-style Christmas Carolers, the company's horizons have expanded to include a diverse range of products. From Easter and Halloween themes to pieces inspired by classic stories like Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol" and "The Nutcracker," Byers' Choice brings joy to a variety of holidays and celebrations. Their collection even features collectible models of antique automobiles, offering something for every collector.

Philanthropy and Values-Driven Corporate Philosophy

In 1986, the Byers Family established the Byers’ Foundation, reflecting the company's commitment to philanthropy. Regular donations are made to organizations like the Salvation Army, the YMCA, Covenant House, and Habitat for Humanity. This values-driven corporate philosophy earned Byers' Choice recognition as one of the ten finalists in the 1999 Newman’s Own/George magazine search for American companies that best exemplify good citizenship through philanthropy.

A Family Legacy

Today, Byers' Choice stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. The company's humble beginnings, much like those of the Carolers on Joyce's dining room table, have blossomed into a global phenomenon. The entire Byers family, including Bob and their two sons, continues to play an integral role in the company's success.

Together, they oversee a team of skilled artisans in Pennsylvania who handcraft these iconic creations, keeping alive the magic that started in their own dining room many years ago. While Byers' Choice Carolers are now found in thousands of fine gift stores worldwide, the company remains true to its roots: producing quality products, offering them at affordable prices, and dedicating themselves to serving customers and the community in the spirit of Christmas.

The Artisans Behind the Magic

The expression of joy that emanates from every Caroler is a testament to the love and care infused by skilled artisans into their work. They bring the magic of Christmas to life each day, embodying the heartwarming spirit of Byers' Choice.

In the words of Bob Byers Jr., “The expression of joy that can be found in any Caroler comes directly from the love and caring that our skilled artisans put into their work. They bring the magic of Christmas to life every day.”

Byers' Choice continues to enchant and inspire, much like the cherished carols that fill the air during the holiday season. Every Caroler is lovingly handmade in their Pennsylvania facility, ensuring that the special warmth and traditions of Christmas find a place in your home, year after year.

Byers Choice Product Reviews

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Great customer service Great customer service when I had an inquiry about my order. Amazing ship Price to Hawaii for my order. Thanks!

Lara Oshiro

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Beautifully realistic and great price! These garlands are the most realistic I’ve seen and the price can’t be beat! I’ve purchased 4 so far andplan to get more.

Melissa

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Halloween village. Fantastic, had just what I needed. Fast shipping and great packaging. Will purchase from again when needed. Thanks

Kenneth

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Fast and safe shipping.

Jonnie Jarrells

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prompt service--great selection!

Shirley Wooden

Byers Choice FAQ

What are Byers' Choice Carolers?

Byers' Choice Carolers are handcrafted figurines that capture the heartwarming spirit of Christmas. Created by Joyce Byers over 40 years ago, these iconic collectibles are made from wire, newspaper, fabric, and clay. Each Caroler is meticulously designed and dressed by skilled artisans.

What inspired the creation of Byers' Choice Carolers?

Joyce Byers, a former fashion designer and artist, was inspired to craft her first Carolers after a trip to London, where she encountered charming winter scenes in shop windows. Her desire to bring warmth and tradition back to holiday decorations led to the birth of the Carolers.

How are Byers' Choice Carolers made?

Each Caroler begins as an original sculpture by Joyce Byers. The head molds are filled with clay, and artisans add intricate details before painting and coloring. Fabric cut to Joyce's designs dresses the figures, and skilled hands bring each piece to life by attaching the head and hair.

Do they offer only traditional Christmas Carolers?

While Byers' Choice Carolers include traditional Victorian-style Christmas figurines, the company has expanded its product line to include a wide range of themes and styles. From Easter and Halloween to classic stories like "A Christmas Carol" and "The Nutcracker," there's a Caroler for every occasion.

Is Byers' Choice involved in philanthropy?

Yes, Byers' Choice is committed to philanthropy. The Byers Family established the Byers’ Foundation in 1986, regularly donating to organizations like the Salvation Army, the YMCA, Covenant House, and Habitat for Humanity. They were recognized for their values-driven corporate philosophy and acts of kindness.

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