As we anticipate the CRAVE book this fall, time to put a few shots out there for Austinites to meet some of Austin’s greatest women. Possibly Austin’s most colorful and unique toy store, Toy Joy, is not only an escape into playtime, but the owner’s pretty wonderful too.
Lizzy knows more about toys than most, and her knowledge & passion are apparent as she talks about the many Japanese items, how Rody should be everyone’s favorite thing, the science section, and the toy towers.
As I arrive, she offers me a latte while I shoot early a.m. before hours, and immediately asks me if I have children. She’s a beautiful woman very young at heart and one of the most gracious ladies I encountered during my time working with various businesses. With her bright pink hair and her great blue dress, she was a joy to work with. As I head out with my gear, she hands me a goodie bag, full of great toys for my children. To this day, my children have an art piece gift for her that resides on my fridge labeled “To Lizzy” until we can get back to the store again and they can thank her in person. Go visit Lizzy soon, grab something from the cafe, and shop from the one of a kind Toy Joy.
