Fletcher Fun Toys: Rediscover Joy and Nostalgia in Family-Owned Charm!

FLETCHER, N.C. (WLOS) — In 2020, when Rachel Baker and her spouse Albert opted to relocate to Western North Carolina, it was undeniably a leap of faith.

They were unable to visit their new residence physically.

“We relocated through the internet. You can’t physically explore where you’re going. You simply have to arrive and settle in,” Baker explained.

This bold move initiated a venture that now sees them overseeing one of the more distinctive businesses in the region.

“It was, it was primarily my husband’s concept, you know? ‘Hey, let’s set up a table and see what unfolds,'” Baker shared.

The table she mentions is one of the numerous outdoor tables at Smiley’s Flea Market.

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“So, we went, established a table, and sold a lot of toys from our home. On our way out, we passed another booth, and he remarked, ‘I wonder how much that costs?'” she recounted.

They transitioned inside to a booth, which quickly grew as well.

“That truly launched the whole venture,” she stated.

That “venture” is Fletcher Fun Toys, a shop that Rachel and her spouse inaugurated in February 2021.

“You know, we were quite busy. The community supported us wholeheartedly. They were eager to come out and discover what this new toy shop had to offer,” she expressed.

The shop is filled with both contemporary and vintage toys, appealing to the nostalgia of some of its older patrons. Newer items such as Funko Pops, Lego, slime, and other toys cater to the younger customers visiting.

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“We truly aim to be a destination for everyone and fit every budget, plus it’s enjoyable,” Baker remarked.

Arguably the most distinctive aspect of the store is its employees.

“It is a family-owned and operated business. Essentially, if they are family, they are involved in some capacity here,” she mentioned.

This includes daughters: Reason, who initially worked at the register but is often found managing the Pokémon section now, Emmy, who has assumed register responsibilities, Summie, who assists in creating budget-friendly Pokémon bundles, and two-year-old Diego, who, while not quite old enough to help out yet, remains a constant presence at the store.

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It is a distinctive atmosphere for shoppers and a delightful spot in Western North Carolina for Rachel Baker and her family.

“I love it, I genuinely love it. The community is the highlight,” Baker stated, pausing briefly to consider the patrons who frequent her store.

“It’s incredible. It’s what motivates us,” she said. “We could easily return to our old jobs and earn more, but it’s not always about finances. There are visitors like one little girl whose grandfather brings her every Friday, creating cherished memories that will persist for a lifetime.”