THE 2016 R. JOHN WRIGHT CONVENTION |
Collectors around the world came together to celebrate four fabulous decades of R. John Wright creations! "A TIME TO REMEMBER" - the R. JOHN WRIGHT DOLLS CONVENTION - was held from June 23-25, 2016 at the DESMOND HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER in Albany, New York.
Convention activities began with luxury coach transportation from the Desmond Hotel in Albany to Bennington, Vermont - approximately one hour away. Visitors were given a tour of the R. John Wright workshop and showroom where rare RJW pieces were available for purchase. There was a catered luncheon in a large festival tent on the R. John Wright property overlooking Vermont's lovely green mountains. The optional luncheon souvenir was an adorable version of 'Periwinkle' the R. John Wright logo pixie. Following the luncheon, John and Susan Wright hosted small groups in their design studio where all of the magic and ideas spring to life. Guests were able to ask questions and see firsthand the processes behind their favorite RJW creations with the artisans of the factory - some of whom have been with the company for over 20 years. There were side trips to Bennington Potters and the Bennington Doll & Toy Museum.
At the Desmond Hotel over the next 2 days, guests enjoyed special programs, exhibits, and events celebrating 40 years of doll-making. The salesroom offered never-before-marketed items such as authentic R. John Wright accessories and materials. There were additional programs, a spectacular retrospective exhibit, and a festive luncheon with costume competition where attendees dressed as their favorite R. John Wright doll or animal character and vied for prizes in several categories!
Breakout ticketed meal events centered around R. John Wright Dolls' history featuring "Raggedy Ann", "Winnie-the-Pooh", "Steiff", and "The Wizard of Oz." Each of these exciting meal events featured themed decorations, door prizes, favors, and exclusive souvenirs limited to just 40 pieces each in honor of the anniversary. For the creatively-inclined, three exclusive workshops were also offered. The elegant final banquet "A Time to Remember" concluded with the presentation of the 40th Anniversary souvenir doll to each fully-registered guest! The eagerly-awaited souvenir was a cabinet-size version of "Lillian" from the original Little Children Series holding a miniature of the very first R. John Wright doll. For a look at all of the photos from the week, visit the convention album on the R. John Wright Dolls Facebook page.
Lillian
Captain Corey
Periwinkle
Mouse House
Mr. Mouse
Mrs. Mouse
Raggedy Ann
Winnie-the-Pooh
To view reports on other RJW Conventions -
