December 21st 2024.
April Showers is a remarkable woman who has achieved a groundbreaking feat - she is the first female, Black-owned business owner to have a licensed character brand featured in major retailers. Her brand, Afro Unicorn, has now expanded into Build-A-Bear stores nationwide, making her incredibly proud.
As an established real estate agent and insurance business owner, Showers designed the Afro Unicorn brand with the uniqueness of women and children of color in mind. She wanted to create something special and magical that would resonate with this demographic. And now, her dream has become a reality.
In a recent Instagram post, Showers shared her excitement about the collaboration with Build-A-Bear, writing, "When dreams become reality." Her caption accompanied a video showcasing the new Afro Unicorn collection, which is filled with enchanting and adorable plush toys and fashions.
The collaboration offers a variety of options for customers to take home their own Afro Unicorn plush. The design features soft brown fur, a fuzzy mane and tail, purple and gold hooves, a blue horn, and a gold crown. In addition to the plush, customers can dress up their new furry friend in an Afro Unicorn halter dress, a "Made of Magic" t-shirt, or a sparkly bow. And for an extra special touch, they can even add the "Magical Ride" song or the "Go Magic...It's Your Birthday" jingle to their stuffed animal. To complete the gift set, kids will also receive a pair of sequin flats.
According to Build-A-Bear's product description, Unique the Unicorn - the main character of the Afro Unicorn brand - is playful, curious, adventurous, and brave. She loves to sing and dance, but she is also a problem solver and a strategic leader. Unique is a reflection of her creator, April Showers. Showers' website explains that the idea for the inclusive stuffed animal came from a dear friend who referred to her as a "unicorn." This term celebrates Showers' ability to balance her numerous responsibilities as a businesswoman, mother, and advocate for women and children of color. The unicorn has become her favorite emoji, and with the help of a graphic designer, she has transformed the traditional white unicorn into a diverse, magical creature that represents her likeness.
The Afro Unicorn brand offers a range of products, including plush toys, apparel, puzzles, books, bedding, bandages, backpacks, and collectibles. Showers is constantly expanding her brand, and in 2023, she launched the Afro Unicorn Magical Tresses haircare line. In addition to Build-A-Bear, customers can find Afro Unicorn products at other major retailers such as Target, Kohl's, Amazon, JCPenney, HomeGoods, NovaKids, and over 3800 Walmart stores nationwide.
It's incredible to see how far Showers and her brand have come in such a short amount of time. Her dedication to creating a brand that celebrates diversity and inclusivity is truly admirable. So what are you waiting for? Head to your nearest Build-A-Bear store and grab your very own Afro Unicorn today. And while you're at it, check out Showers' story on BLACK ENTERPRISE, where she shares her journey as the founder of a successful Black-owned doll company.
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