Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments Celebrates 40 Years of Making Memories

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (PRWEB) July 02, 2013 -- In 1973, Hallmark introduced six glass ball ornaments and 12 yarn figures as the first collection of Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments. A new tradition of Christmas decorating was started and a new collectible industry was born. Now, 40 years and more than 8,000 designs later, Keepsake Ornaments prepares to unveil the 2013 line and has planned activities and offers to help celebrate this milestone.

“Keepsake Ornaments help preserve memories, commemorate milestones, start new traditions and nurture relationships, all of which have attributed to the success and longevity of the past 40 years,” said Jamie Lockard, retail merchandise director for Keepsake Ornaments. “We’re excited to spend 2013 reflecting on the history of Keepsake Ornaments and looking ahead to the exciting things we have in store.”

More than 180 new Keepsake Ornaments will be unveiled during the annual Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Premiere beginning Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14, at Hallmark Gold Crown® stores nationwide. The annual event gives consumers a first chance to purchase Keepsake Ornaments from the all-new 2013 line. Consumers can preserve a special memory when they buy the latest addition to their favorite series, snag that first ornament in one of six brand-new series debuting, or find a special ornament that helps commemorate a loved one or milestone.

“For months fans have been eyeing the 2013 collection in their Dream Books and online at Hallmark.com and have been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to see the new Keepsake Ornaments in person and purchase their favorites,” said Lockard. “We’re thrilled to unveil this special line to our fans and to those who are looking for meaningful gifts this holiday season.”

At Ornament Premiere, consumers will be able to find limited-quantity ornaments and special offers, register to win a special-edition ornament, and other surprises including a 40th Anniversary “Seek & Find” game in store. Plus, at Ornament Premiere, local Hallmark Gold Crown stores will have exciting news to share about how to enter THE WIZARD OF OZ™ 75th Anniversary Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to L.A. for four to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of THE WIZARD OF OZ™.

Hallmark Channel will also help commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Keepsake Ornaments during its “Christmas Keepsake Week.” Hallmark Channel is soliciting photos and stories from consumers about their favorite Keepsake Ornament. The winners will be randomly selected and announced during the popular summer-time holiday movie extravaganza on the Hallmark Channel starting July 12.

About Hallmark Cards, Inc.
Hallmark makes the world a more caring place by helping people express what's in their hearts and spend time together – a privilege few other companies in the world enjoy. Hallmark greeting cards and other products are found in more than 39,000 retail outlets in the United States, including the network of flagship Hallmark Gold Crown® stores. The brand also reaches people online at Hallmark.com and on television through Hallmark Hall of Fame original movies and cable's top-rated Hallmark Channel. Worldwide, Hallmark offers products in more than 30 languages available in 100 countries. This privately held company is based in Kansas City, Mo., and is led by the third generation of the founding Hall family. Visit http://corporate.hallmark.com for more details.

Kristi Ernsting, Hallmark Cards, Inc., http://newsroom.hallmark.com, 816-274-4873, [email protected]