FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Amanda Calhoun and Stephanie Bell, co-owners of Fantasy Island Toys in Fairhope, have been named the Silver Alabama Retailers of the Year by the Alabama Retail Association.
Founded in downtown Fairhope in 1976 by Jeane Byrd, Fantasy Island Toys offers a curated selection of toys, games, books, crafts, educational products and play experiences for children and families. The business entered a new era in 2022 when sisters Amanda Calhoun and Stephanie Bell purchased it from Ginger Milligan, who previously ran it with her sister, Kathie Byrd. Since then, they have expanded their reach with a second location in Mobile and a growing nationwide e-commerce business.
“Fantasy Island Toys has been part of so many families’ lives over the past 50 years, and we feel fortunate to carry that legacy forward,” said Calhoun. “As we grow, we want to preserve the personal connections that make shopping here special while finding new ways to reach families and serve our community.”
Calhoun and Bell have invested in technology and convenient shopping options to support the business’s growth while remaining committed to the community that has supported it for decades. From hosting family-friendly events and partnering with neighboring businesses to supporting local schools and nonprofits, they continue to make Fantasy Island Toys a valued part of downtown Fairhope.
“We want Fantasy Island Toys to be a place where families connect, children explore their imaginations and our community comes together,” said Bell. “Whether we’re helping a customer find the perfect gift or supporting a local school, we want every experience to reflect the joy of play.”
A member of the Alabama Retail Association since 1994, Fantasy Island Toys exemplifies the lasting role independent retailers play in their communities.
“Alabama is fortunate to have one of the country’s premier independent toy stores,” said Rick Brown, president of the Alabama Retail Association. “Fantasy Island Toys has served generations of families and is positioned to serve many more for years to come thanks to Stephanie and Amanda’s leadership.”
Calhoun and Bell’s recognition as Silver Alabama Retailers of the Year reflects their commitment to carrying forward founder Jeane Byrd’s original mission: to create a magical place where children and families could discover the joy of play.
For more information about Fantasy Island Toys, visit fantasyislandtoys.com. To learn more about the Alabama Retail Association and its Retailer of the Year program, visit alabamaretail.org.
