character-place.com

Monster High Bedding

2012-01-31T10:27:00.000-08:00

Monster High.

You may already know about the Monster High characters but, although we at Character-Place now sell a couple of the licensed bedding products my knowledge was limited to say the least. So, with a little bit of research I discovered this about the Characters:

Characters of Monster High
Frankie Stein - Frankie is the daughter of Frankenstein Monster. Frankie is only 15 days old. She has black and white hair, stitches, and bolts, and is new to Monster High. Her pet is a puppy named Watzit. Frankie is very friendly and athletic, but has a clumsy streak, as her body parts tend to fly off. She is beginning a relationship with Jackson Jekyll, but things aren’t looking so voltage in that relationship. She is voiced by Kate Higgens.

Draculaura - Draculaura is the daughter of Count Dracula, but she is a vegan and does not drink blood. She is 1,599 years old (almost 1,600) and her pet is a bat named Count Fabulous. She has fangs and pink skin, and is friendly and very sweet and also likes to write stories about her friends. Draculaura is a big fan of pink and black, and loves to take long walks under the sun (with an umbrella, that is). She also dates Clawdeen's brother, Clawd. She is voiced by Debi Derryberry.

Clawdeen Wolf - Clawdeen is the daughter of the werewolf with an older brother named Clawd and a younger sister named Howleen. She is 15 years old and is covered with fur, with two piercings in each of her pointy wolf ears. She has a purple pet cat named Crescent, loves fashion and is confident, outgoing and very friendly to any monster. She is voiced by Salli Saffioti.

Lagoona Blue - Lagoona is the daughter of the sea monster. Lagoona comes from down under the sea and speaks with an Australian accent. She has a pink, pet piranha Neptuna that she carries with her in a fishbowl purse. She is a sporty tomboy who loves to be in contact with water. She dates a river monster named Gillington "Gil" Webber. She is voiced by Laura Bailey.

Cleo de Nile - Cleo is the daughter of the Mummy and has an older sister named Nefera. She has a pet snake named Hissette that is somewhat poisonous. She is the fearleading squad captain and Deuce Gorgon's girlfriend. Cleo is the most popular monster in "Monster High". Cleo can be quite stuck-up, but is a good friend and has been softening to those around her. Her best friend is Ghoulia Yelps and loves to be fed grapes. She is voiced by Salli Saffioti.

Deuce Gorgon - Deuce is the son of the gorgon, Medusa. He likes to skateboard, is interested in cooking and loves to play casketball with his team. He wears sunglasses to prevent him from turning other people to stone temporarily and has several green snakes on his head. He is Cleo De Nile's boyfriend. He is voiced by Yuri Lowenthaul-Loika.

Ghoulia Yelps - Ghoulia is daughter of the Zombies. She is said to be the 'smartest ghoul in school', but she can only speak in moans and groans (or 'Zombie' language). She is a huge fan of comics, especially Dead Fast and her trademark item is her cat-eye glasses. She dates a zombie boy named Moe "Slow Moe" Deadovitch. She is voiced by Audu Paden.

Nefera de Nile- Nefera is Cleo de Nile's older sister. She rules alone, her pet is Azura, she is said to be released in March 2012. She is a former student of Monster High. Her favorite thing to do is remind her younger sister about where her place is in royalty.

So now you are aware of the characters names and a background of their role you can now see some of the images on a Duvet Cover or Fleece Blanket:

The Duvet Cover (at present) is only available in a single bed size)

There are also a few Monster High websites that are worth checking out, for example http://www.monsterhigh.com/ and http://www.facebook.com/MonsterHigh

Transformers Reversible Duvet Cover

2012-01-27T12:17:00.000-08:00

Pretty much all of us have heard of the Transformers and I would suspect that children from around the world have enjoyed the series of movies made and released on DVD or similar. So, I thought it worth mentioning that we (Character Place) now have another great addition to the range of official merchandise in the form of a Double Sided and therefore reversible single bed size duvet cover.
You will see that on one side is Optimus Prime:

And the other side is Bumblebee :

I have to admit that this is a really good release by Zap who are the UK Licence holders for the range - along with many others.

The cover is made from 100% Polyester which isn't the best bedding fabric but to have produced this particular cover in a Cotton blend would have put the retail price at around £40 and it currently sells for around £20. In my opinion this is great value for a unique product.

View the Double Sided Transformers Duvet Cover Bedding Set HERE

Marvel Comic Hero Character Bedding

2012-01-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

Marvel Worldwide, Inc., commonly referred to as Marvel Comics and formerly Marvel Publishing, Inc. and Marvel Comics Group, is an American company that publishes comic books and related media.
Marvel started in 1939 as Timely Publications, and by the early 1950s had generally become known as Atlas Comics. Marvel's modern incarnation dates from 1961, with the company later that year launching Fantastic Four.
Marvel counts among its characters such well-known properties as Spider-Man, the X-Men, Iron Man, the Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Thor and Captain America; antagonists such as Doctor Doom, the Green Goblin, Magneto, and the Red Skull. Most of Marvel's fictional characters operate in a single reality known as the Marvel Universe, with locales set in real-life cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.
Since the creation of the characters there has been numerous Movies, TV Series and even Stage Shows featuring the famous characters. Along with the multi-media releases there is a plethora of associated merchandise from the obvious Doll's through to Dressing Up costumes for kids. Over the last few years many of the Characters of Marvel have appeared on household items such as Towels, Fleece Blankets, Bags and Duvet Covers.

You can find Spiderman Towels on the internet

There is now Captain America bedding including curtains.

Perhaps the best character product available that covers the Marvel range is the Comic Heros Duvet Cover

I guess you could say that the Marvel Brand is perhaps only reaching Middle age as I'm sure that the characters will continue to evolve as new generations of fans come along and especially as CGI improvements make the stories even better to watch on the Big Screen or Blue Ray.

The Only Way Is Essex - Bedding

2012-01-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

The Only Way Is Essex, (often abbreviated as TOWIE) is a BAFTA winning British semi-reality ("dramality") show based in Essex, England. It shows "real people in modified situations, saying unscripted lines but in a structured way."
The show is filmed just a few days in advance. Series1 ran initially for four weeks, airing every Wednesday and Sunday. It is narrated by Denise Van Outen, who is from Basildon, Essex. The show has been described by the Daily Mirror as Britain's answer to The Hills and Jersey Shore. Series 2 began on 20 March 2011, once again airing every Wednesday and Sunday, but with longer episodes than Series 1. Series 2 also saw the departure of original cast member Amy Childs. The second series consisted of 14 episodes, ending on 4 May 2011. The series returned for a third series on 25 September 2011 and was the final series to feature two of the original cast members Mark Wright whose departure was seen in the final episode whilst Kirk Norcross departed off screen like Childs. The series ended on 9 November 2011. On 29 November 2011 Mario Falcone explained to RWD Magazine that TOWIE is "...just getting bigger and bigger, you sort of hate it but you love it." The second Christmas Special of The Only Way Is Essex aired on 20 December 2011.
On 2 December 2011 it was revealed that a large amount of the cast would not be returning for the fourth series in 2012 but will feature in the upcoming 2011 Christmas Special. The fourth series will begin In January 2012. Digital Spy is reporting that the series has been renewed for a further four series following the Christmas Special and will air four 10-episode runs in 2012.
(Extract courtesy of Wikipedia January 2012)
So, if you didn't know the outline you do now! The even better news is that you can actually purchase The Only Way Is Essex official merchandise such as Duvet Covers both in Single and Double Size Bedding available from Character Place

Transformers Fleece Blankets

2012-01-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

With Transformers 3 Dark Of The Moon being released on DVD following the successful Cinema release earlier in 2011 you can now buy a selection of the official merchandise and at Character-Place you will find some of the fantastic fleece blankets and towels.
This fantastic Fleece

is not only machine washable it is also colour fast. You can also select the Sleeved Snuggle Fleece version

take a look - CLICK HERE

These fleece blankets are not only practical but make brilliant gifts.

1D One Direction Birthday Cards

2011-11-17T14:01:00.000-08:00

For those of you that have been looking for that special birthday card featuring the boys of 1D you need look no further as Character Place have added a range produced by Danillo cards - so these are official merchandise. To take a closer look just follow this link -- HERE
The range includes several General cards (not aged) along with ages 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13 along with Sister, Birthday Girl, Daughter and Granddaughter.

Personalised Character Merchandise

2011-11-15T13:05:00.000-08:00

Looking for a Personalised Gift item for a Child - Well look no further; Character Place is busy converting listings on all Towels and Fleece Blankets so that you can order them with a personal name. So, whether you're looking for Captain America or perhaps In The Night Garden towels, you can now add a name of up to 12 characters - so, no more lost school towels or upset at home about whose towel is whose. Not only are we converting the Towels but we are also converting all Fleece Blanket listings so these too can be ordered with a name embroidered on, making them a truly unique gift.

We can only show a few images here in the blog so why not have a look at the whole range and please don't worry if you want a Towel or Fleece embroidered with a name you can always email us via the contact us section within the website Character Place

So, if you're stuck for a Christmas or Birthday gift or perhaps planning ahead for School or even a holiday and you want to make your gift or purchase unique then why not order a personalised item

Christmas Countdown - Surprise Surprise

2011-11-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well unless you have just landed from a Galaxy Far Far Away you will be very aware that Christmas is just a few short weeks away. In fact you could choose to countdown in days, weeks or pay days! Lets stick with days or weeks as paydays are almost not worth counting.
I'm sure by now you have gathered your Christmas thoughts and have an extensive list for family and friends and perhaps you are one of those people that have completed your shopping and have wrapped the gifts - if so you might be exceptional but you would also be in the minority as I suspect that most people are less than 10% of their way through preps and purchases.
Will this Christmas be the same in your household - perhaps the recession isn't affecting you or perhaps you choose to simply ignore it and carry on regardless. In either case being shrewd is still a wise move. Why waste your hard earned money on unwanted gifts when actually you could find some very appreciated merchandise that doesn't need to cost the earth and will last the test of time.
Consider whether your child or relative is a fan of any of the current and notable movies that have been on at the cinema or are on release on DVD then consider what you could purchase to compliment that love. Character-Place have an extensive and exciting range of quality merchandise that would delight a "child" of any age. There is Glee

What about considering Peppa Pig Pirate George

.
Of course there are some of your favorite football teams listed such as Man Utd

Maybe your imagination has been sparked and inspired or maybe you want to see more, so why not visit Character-Place and have a look for youself

Discount Voucher Code

2011-10-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

Very few words are needed to let you know that we have a 10% Off Voucher code available from 25th October just enter Thankyou123 when you go to the checkout at Character Place

Small Business - Banks Doing It or is it the Supplier?

2011-10-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

As we all keep hearing in the news and in general conversation “the banks are to blame” for stifling small businesses – Whilst this may be true for certain types such as manufacturing I seriously question whether it be true for the retail market.
Large multi-site retailers are typically cash rich and probably wouldn’t use Small Business Loans and in fact many have their own banks or financial services so care not about bank loans. They in fact would probably prefer higher interest rates so that they can capitalise on their own investments and also to increase interest rates on store cards and other financial services they offer.
Small retailers, stand alone stores, micro-businesses and similar whilst they might enjoy bank loans would probably not typically want or need them if – If they had good lines of credit with their suppliers. It is these suppliers, albeit some are manufacturers that are arguably stifling the small business and high street retailers we hear so much about. It is said that over 10% of all High Street stores have closed. The closedown of many high street stores will be, in part, due to a lack of local spending. However, many retailers have adapted business to become online sellers either with their own web store or perhaps through the likes of Amazon and eBay. But what is really hurting these adaptable retailers are their existing suppliers who since the “recession” have systematically removed or lowered Credit accounts. It is these credit accounts that are the life blood of small businesses and so limit the credit you limit the sales opportunities and in turn costs outweigh profits and result in closure. Of course this has an obvious spiral effect:
Cut The Credit  Reduce Store Sales  Reduced Store Profit  Reduced Store Stock Purchases  Stores Buy Less  Suppliers Less Sales  Suppliers Lower Profits  Buy Less From Manufacturers  Manufacture Less  Factories Close etc.
Clearly suppliers need to safe guard their risk and offering credit to small struggling business is not without risk however, being in business is all about risk and opportunity; Create Opportunity - odds increase and with greater odds comes bigger rewards --- That’s how business works! If everyone in life took the safe route we would all still be living in caves and protecting our surroundings from marauders!
So, what small businesses need is confidence from their suppliers and by that I simply mean Credit. Credit can be controlled by Value and Time thus controlling risk and in turn the overall effect will be growth and therefore increased sales and profits.
I blog about this particular aspect of business as I strongly believe that we as businesses are just hurting each other, blaming the Banks / Government and yet the solution sits with us.
My business was established just some 7 years ago and enjoyed moderate credit accounts with several UK suppliers and growth was steady. Some suppliers almost without warning or obvious reason simply cut that credit which in turn stalled purchases from them however, other suppliers maintained the credit even in the down turn and they have enjoyed increased business from us. I wonder if those that cut the credit actually measured the lost opportunity or were simply happy to recoil back into their caves!
I know of two specific case studies to highlight my point;
• Company A
o Removed credit for small resellers and focused on large multi-site retailers one of which with much media coverage closed all of its stores throughout the country and without doubt left Company A with many unpaid invoices. Company A thought that by dealing with less small businesses and operating with the large retailers they could cut cost and improve margin. This theory was great except the Big retailer went under Big! Whereas smaller retailers actually posed a smaller spread risk!
• Company B
o Approached us at a large Trade Show and without even knowing our business or credentials offered a Credit Account which we took up and have made many repeat purchases with them since. I guess they took the “risk” and realised that the odds were with them to gain despite potential losses – Well done to Paul Lammond
If I had one business wish because a personal one would be to win the lottery, it would be for UK Suppliers to reopen credit services for small retailers and be proactive about it. Start small with just a few hundred pounds and or only start with a 14 day account and over a period this could be increased, where required, in a step format.

character-place.com: Moshi Monsters

2011-10-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

character-place.com: Moshi Monsters

All wrapped up!

2011-10-07T13:31:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone at some time or another has wrapped a present up - what a drag it is. You go out buy the gift, buy the wrap and once home search for the sticky tape and maybe scissors - you just know where they should be but never are where you left them - or where you thought you left them.
Once the equipment is gathered you can begin - hey if it's just one present then no big deal with all done and dusted in minutes. But, if you're like most modern parents or you're an aunt or maybe an uncle you have in fact bought a myriad of gifts to wrap. Of course everything is neatly boxed and just the right size and shape to be wrapped - NOT. There are socks, games, books, T-Shirts, Scooters, Bikes, Balls, Computer Games, Trousers and pots and pans that all need to look great, well you'd like them too

Well, rather than struggle or buy endless sheets or packs of wrapping paper, especially if the gift(s) are for kids then why not get better value and a much easier to use roll of gift wrap in the form of a 4m Long roll

. Character Place have a great selection of these long rolls and whilst they are in kid ranges they can equally be used for the biggest of all kids - you the reader - Hey after all giving a gift should be fun and not formal and stuffy

So, maybe I've already bored you, not excited you or Maybe you want to check out the great range on offer - Here

JLS Official Merchandise For Christmas / Birthdays

2011-10-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

By now pretty much everyone in the UK and in many other countries would have heard of the "Boy Group" JLS and would have seen their fantastic career and popularity grow from the early beginnings on the X Factor to the major singing and recording group as

they are now.
Like so many that have gone before them and to surely follow there is a fantastic array of official merchandise available that make great Birthday presents and ideal Christmas gifts.
For those that know nothing or little of JLS they are a group of 4 lads that have taken the name JLS from the Jack The Lad Swing title and they are; Aston Merrygold (born Feb 1988), Marvin Humes (born March 1985), Ortise Williams and Johnathan Benjamin Gill. They were runners up in the X Factor of 2008 to the winner Alexandra Burke by 2011 they had sold over 3 Million Records.
Character Place have a range of official merchandise that includes:
Duvet Covers, Fleece Blankets and Birthday Cards

Doctor Who For Christmas

2011-09-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Doctor is the central character in the long-running BBC television science-fiction series Doctor Who, and has also featured in two cinema feature films, a vast range of spin-off novels, audio dramas and comic strips connected to the series.
To date, eleven actors have played the role in the television series, with these changes being explained by the ability of the character's species to regenerate. Several other actors have played the character on stage and film, in audio dramas, and in occasional special episodes of the series. The character's enduring popularity led the Daily Telegraph to dub him "Britain's favourite alien". The Doctor, in his eleventh incarnation, is currently played by Matt Smith, who took over the role from David Tennant at the end of the special The End of Time, broadcast on 1 January 2010.
Character Place have a selection of Official Doctor Who merchandise available all of which will make great Christmas presents;
Single Bed Duvet Cover / Fleece Blanket / Towel / Backpack / Gift Wrapping Paper and the iconic Tardis in the form of a kids backpack

Peppa Pig Plush Backpack

2011-09-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

A real treat for any Peppa Pig fan is a wonderful plush backpack. It's like a cuddly toy but it is in fact a small yet fun kids backpack. Ideal for School, Playgroup or Nursery and best of all it really does make a fantastic Christmas or Birthday present. Currently selling for around £12 makes this a reasonably priced practical gift.
So, why not have a look and consider it for your son, daughter, niece, nephew or a family friend.

Now available direct from Character-Place

Moshi Monsters

2011-09-10T12:15:00.000-07:00

Moshi Monsters have somewhere in the region of 50 Million members which makes them a seriously important character brand. Like many of the childrens characters the concept and desire to be part of a club grows and so does it with the official merchandise that follows. At Character Place the range of the Moshi Monsters is quite small, but growing from Birthday Cards to Gift Wrapping Paper and when available Bedding Sets. As the year rolls on and with christmas getting ever closer there is sure to be the obvious additions to the range perhaps to include Fleece Blanket, Towels, Bags and Umbrellas.
Quite simply a great fun range of fun and practical products - I suspect they will be as big as Ben 10 was.

Character-Place

2011-09-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Character Place is an online internet eCommerce shopping site that is dedicated to selling quality character based merchandise. The range that is on offer comes from many of the famous characters that most of us, all parents and many children will know. These ranges include such titles as; Ben 10, Charlie and Lola, Transformers, Hello Kitty, Minne Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Dora The Explorer, Tinkerbell Fairies, Bart Simpson, Justin Bieber, Captain America, Me To You, WWE, Moshi Monsters, Fireman Sam, Icarly, Twilight, Bob The Builder to name but a few. The wide range of products available from Character-Place include; Birthday Cards, Gift Wrap Wrapping Paper, Fleece Blankets, Towels, Poncho, Duvet Covers, Cushions, Candles, Party Ware, Umbrellas, Backpacks, Swim Bags, Wallets, Purses. When you look at the variety of childrens products available you will see that they will make great Birthday Presents, Christmas Presents and in fact gifts for any occasion.

Christmas Shopping

2011-08-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

I realise that i'm writing a blog in August and making reference to Christmas however, times are tough and money is short so why wait until November to start buying Chistmas presents! Many parents will have an idea of the toy or game that their child dreams of having for christmas and whilst you will want to make the dream come true perhaps in these tougher financial times consideration can and should be given to Value-For-Money gifts.
Value for Money doesn't mean cheap but means that whatever price you pay will the gift be used and enjoyed to match that cost - how hard did you work for that £20, £50 or £100? If your child is going to get £50 worth of fun from you £20 present then thats value for money but lets be honest how many toys and games get the proverbial one-off play and are then pushed to the back of the cupboard..... You know that whilst you enjoyed shopping for it you were going to delight the child but what you didn't know is that they are overwhelmed with toys and games so your gift just becomes another one.
Am I hoping to get you to buy from my website Character-Place well Yes sure I am but consider this; if you bought a Character Towel it will last years, be taken to School and Holiday and to the Shower and all for less than £20 and years later it will still be around. Or what about Bedding with a large range of Duvet Covers you can get their favorite character onto the bed (in the form of a gift) and apart from wash days it will be seen and used over and over again - Now thats real value for money!

Captain America - The First Avenger

2011-08-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

Yet another marvel from the Marvel Comic series has to be Captain America the First Avenger. Captain America is one of the very first super hero's and first featured in the infamous comics back in 1941. Clearly he has stood the test of time with the film release just a few weeks ago here in the UK. Surely to be a hit movie and another character that will be loved by all super hero fans especially when you consider that there have been sales in excess of 210 million copies of the comic in over 75 countries! Character Place have sourced and now sell Captain America bedding currently in the form of a single bed size duvet cover, complete with a matching pillowcase. A special feature of this bedding is that it is made from 50% Cotton and 50% Polyester - if that doesn't mean much then consider that the vast majority of the licensed bedding ranges are made from 100% Polyester Microfibre. So, expect to pay a little more but for your money you will get better quality fabric.

Umbrella or Not to Umbrella

2011-08-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

So we've all read about driving or better still walking our kids to school but lets face it; there you are rushing around searching for the lost shoe or coat and outside it's pouring with rain.... do you do the right thing and walk your children to school or do you take the easy option and jump into the car and drive! Well who could blame you for option B ... the drive. But in reality would a little rain hurt you or your child; of course not so, why not enhance that much welcomed walk (assuming you don't already) and wear the right gear. Character Place has a range of child safe and friendly Umbrellas available in many of the famous characters that your children will simply love. Reasonably priced these brollies make perfect gift ideas for either your own child or that of your childs friend. The Umbrellas are light weight and have a typical crook shaped handle and most have a vinyl cover with images of the characters. Each spoke has a plastic safety tip to help avoid the prods and pokes as your smaller loved one walks along side you. So, value for money (you decide), fun and practical - Why wouldn't you?

Whats New at Character-Place

2011-08-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update of Character-Place latest additions to the product portfolio: We have now added http://www.character-place.com/personalised-with-name-beach-bath-character-towels-160-c.asp as well as Fleece Blankets .... Great Christmas Gifts and the towels are especially good for the back to school and swimming classes. We've also added some new Duvet Covers such as Minnie Mouse

Internet Feedback Scores - Don't Worry

2011-07-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

There are thousands of "internet" sellers within the UK that recognise their need to sell on as many portals as possible which most probably include, amongst others eBay, Amazon. One could also say that with the Distance Selling Regulations (DSR that in basic terms is the Law that governs Internet type selling (there are other areas))in force within the UK then buyers are very well protected - not so the seller. With the DSR in mind and taking into account that internet selling unlike high street selling is highly visable. There are countless ways of viewing a sellers performance whether that be Blogs, Tweets, Review sites and of course the seller feedback areas within sites such as Amazon.
It would be great to simply compare an online sellers performance to that of a High Street shop but the big retailers never share customer feedback - good job for them as many people would see these results and apart from being shocked and amazed they would probably choose to shop elsewhere or at least go to the shops with great reviews.
Of course when you search in say Amazon you can see the prices clearly displayed often the cheapest being at the top or in the Buy Box and then there is that all important customer feedback to help guide your choice in terms of price and potential service. What many buyers won't realise is that the Amazon feedback score is not a true representation of the sellers actual performance but merely a score from those customers who took the time to even provide a score. So what you might say, it still rates a sellers performance! Not true I would respond as only around 10% of customers leave feedback and as is often the case in life people are quick to respond and or complain, whether reasonable or not, that they felt let down. If the score was a percentage against all of the actual sales then potential buyers in virtually every case would see sellers performances at around 99.9% which is most probably significantly higher than many so called High Street shops.
So in summary we the Buyers should have every confidence with online sellers and certainly those that use the Amazon market place but really, don't get hung up on feedback scores - You are protected by the A-Z guarantee process and the DSR but most of all sellers want you to be satisfied as they want your continued patronage.

The Smurfs - are back!

2011-07-29T01:29:00.000-07:00

For many of us past the ripe old age of 40 you may recall when the Smurfs were big. Well when I say big I don't of course mean tall or large but that they were everywhere, including singing, toys and petrol station give-aways. Well believe it or not they are back and big time again. There has been a movie release which will cause the creation of some much wanted merchandise and no doubt there will be toys and games available for christmas.
Whilst Character Place can't brag about having give aways or the toys they do now offer a selection of The Smurfs party ware (Smurfs Party Supplies)which includes Plates, Loot Bags, Hats, Room Banners, Balloons, Napkins, Hats and even some note books. So, if you or indeed your child or children are looking to have a Smurf themed birthday party then it really is worth checking out the offer available from Character-Place.
For those of you that have never heard of The Smurfs I can tell you that they are a group of small blue fictional character people and are the creation of a Belgian cartoonist Peyo and that the name Smurf stems from the Dutch translation and all this started back in 1958.

Kids Birthday Age Badges

2011-07-24T03:30:00.000-07:00

As we know children just love to wear badges, whether that be for a birthday or simply for dressing up. As the years have gone by you may have noticed that whilst you can still buy badges they are not as abundant as they used to be. In fact when Royal Mail changed the letter sizes to include large letters many of the greeting card companies stopped including badges with the card as this relatively small addition took the posting size from a standard letter to become a more expensive large letter.
One of the largest party-ware manufacturers and suppliers has looked to overcome the lack of availability by making available a whole range of badges from age 1 all the way through to 100 and Character-Place have started to introduce the range within their Birthday Accessory section (visit here) So, if you want to add a finishing touch to a birthday card, event or occasion then adding a badge is a relatively inexpensive option and it would be reasonable to say that everyone likes getting a badge even if they only wear it on their Birthday or special day. To see a growing range of badges for kids from 1 - 100 then visiting Character Place is worth it - Badges

Golden Wedding Anniversary Partyware

2011-07-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

It's always a pleasure to read or hear about couples that are celebrating a wedding anniversary and of course it's extra special when it happens to be a 25th Silver or even a 50th Golden celebration. I suspect that not everyone will hold a party perhaps in lieu of a special dinner or meal out but of course there will be plenty of people who want to mark the special event with a family gathering and perhaps a buffet style meal - In which case why not purchase some appropriate celebration party ware such as Plates, Napkins and a table cover all of which are now available from Character-Place.
Perhaps the event includes a cake in which case why not finish the topping off with appropriate candles.

Justin Bieber Fever

2011-07-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Well it would be an understatement to say that Justin Beiber has created a fever, so much so that many of the licensed products available online and in the high street are called just that "Justin Bieber Fever". I guess when it comes to catchy names the marketing companies come into their own.
Like all good internet shopping sites and especially as Character-Place are a character site they too have joined in with the fever and have available to buy, Justin Bieber Bedding. This particular single bed size duvet cover and pillowcase set is unique in that one side is 50% Cotton and 50% Polyester whilst the pictorial side is 100% Microfibre - so the best of both fabrics in one.
The fact that there is real cotton in the fabric does push the price up a little when compared to some of the other quilt covers available to buy but as you will often hear you do pay for what yo get.

Birthday Cake Character Toppers

2011-07-12T01:26:00.000-07:00

Birthdays are the obvious event of the year and when it comes to Childrens birthdays we, as parents want to mark the day and make it special and unique. There is so much pressure and cost in terms of buying the right present, inviting the guests and of course hosting a party. Without doubt the focal point of any childs birthday will be the much anticipated cake. There are so many choices these days from what type of cake to where to buy the cake. One of the best solutions and possibly the cheapest is to either make your own cake or buy a plain sponge cake. But of course in a kids eyes the finish is the most important aspect so, why not consider adding your own finishing touch with a character party cake topper available for either a full size cake or for individual cup cakes (which are the latest fashion). Character-Place has now increased their range to include many of your favorite characters in the form of cake toppers. You can choose from: Spiderman, Ben 10, Peppa Pig, Toy Story, Disney Princess Belle, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty and of course Hello Kitty.

Justin Bieber Bedding

2011-07-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Not really a blog but more of an announcement to say that we now, finally one might say, have Justin Bieber Bedding in stock. The price is higher than many of the other character duvets as the fabric makeup differs. This duvet cover is double sided with one side being 50% Cotton and 50% Polyester whilst the other side is 100% Polyester - this is the same for the included matching pillowcase. Don't forget the Justin Bieber cover is just one of the many childrens designs available from www.character-place.com so if he's not your choice there's sure to be another you would like.

Holiday Towels

2011-07-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

Well here we are fast approaching the School Summer Holidays and by now many people have sorted out their holiday arrangements. Hotel Booked, Flights Checked, Passports organised and money and insurance sorted, all of that assuming you are going abroad. So, the next stages are packing. This will include everything from Sun Tan Lotion, Shorts, Toothpaste, Breakfast Cereals and hopefully some going out clothes. Of course you will also need the important Beach Towels so instead of packing the thick cotton type you normally use at home for the bath or shower why not take an iconic Character Towel. Not only are they fun and bright but you'll also find that your child or children will be happy to carry them if they have a favorite design or character on. Character-Place has a wide selection of towels for you to choose from for both boys and girls. All of the towels are 100% Cotton with a colourfast printed design. The great thing is that once you're back these towels are great for home use, school or swimming.

Solar Swimming Pool Covers - Worth It?

2011-07-03T03:48:00.000-07:00

Ever jumped into an unheated outdoor garden swimming pool - Well if you have then you'll realise just how shocking that can be. There you are out in the garden with the kids, the sun is blazing down and being in the UK it's probably about 23c. You have just put up the swimming pool, filled it with water from the garden hose and there is it Freezing Cold waiting for you little ones to brave the new experience. You hear the screams of shock as their bodies react with your latest fun filled investment!
So, naturally you being a caring parent dash off to buy the pool heater and having dutifully plugged it in, wait for that temperature to rise - which it does over a course of days until eventually you have scared yourself with the impending electric bill.
Trapped with this new toy you seek alternatives and somewhere come accross the idea of a solar pool cover. You may have read that this is the answer to your pool nightmare but what is the reality?
Solar pool covers only do two things really. The first being it goes on the water to help keep some of the dirt and debris out when not in use this of course will include some of the bugs now attracted to the new water source. The second benefit is that it will help (and only help) keep previously heated water warm a little longer - it traps in the heat. From personal experience, so no scientific claim here, I monitored the pool temperature when using the solar cover and during the days when it was on and the sun was blazing I recorded an increase in water temperature of around 3 degree's. Whilst this is not a great hike in warmth even those few degrees can make all the difference. I ended up disconnecting the electric heater and used purely the power of the sun with the solar cover and relied on the constitution of my kids!
But apart from a trampoline the swimming pool was the best investment that I had ever made for outdoor fun.
Great Character Products at Character-Place

All Wrapped Up

2011-07-02T03:23:00.000-07:00

As part of the extensive range of Character products Character-Place have most of the popular licensed childrens character brands available in gift wrapping paper. Putting character-place apart from many of the other online retailers is the wide selection of the 4m Long Rolls of the gift wrap with names such as Ben 10, Hello Kitty, Clone Wars, Doctor Who, In The Night Garden, Fifi, Dora, Ben and Holly and the latest addition of Nintendo Super Mario Bros Wii

Of course they also stock the more traditional flat wrap packs that contain two sheets of paper along with two gift tags. But for the larger birthday presents the longer rolls do represent value for money. How many times have you gone to wrap a gift only to realise that one or two or even three sheets just don't quite fit. When you add up the cost of using multiple sheets it may well work out cheaper to use the roll wraps - and most probably easier.

Transformers Merchandise

2011-06-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

Released today at the cinema is the new Transformers movie and one can only assume that it will be another blockbuster family film. With great action scenes and fantastic CGI this really is going to be one of those must see films. I would also anticipate that the DVD will be released later this year, certainly in time for Christmas - and why not! It will be a great addition to anybodies home movie collection and really will make a great gift. There are no plans to produce any specific bedding and towels for this particular film so much of the availability will be around the original film and also of number 2 "Revenge Of The Fallen". But I guess that really matters not as most of the children and I suspect boys will be happy with any of the autobots in their bedroom or packed in a school bag for swimming or similar. Character-Place have a Duvet Cover, a Fleece Blanket and a Towel available and at really great prices. So with birthdays, holidays, school, sports, Christmas or simply as new bedding these character items are really worth a look.

2011-06-29T08:26:00.001-07:00

2011-06-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Kitty Cotbed Junior Bedding Bundle

2011-06-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

When it's time for your baby to move upwards and onwards to their own bed, what better way is there than to get a junior sized bed, often called a cotbed. With this in mind you'll need some bedding to go with it and we have a range of cot bed size duvet covers here

A really great value product you could buy is the Hello Kitty 4 in 1 set that includes the Duvet and Cover the Pillow and Pillowcase and priced at under £20 makes it one of the best priced licensed character bedding sets on any internet shopping site and almost certainly cheaper than you'll find in any major high street shop - Take a look Hello Kitty Junior Cotbed Duvet Cover Set

UK Store Closures

2011-06-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

I read so may articles on the latest High Street Store closures such as Thorntons and Jane Norman to name but two of this weeks. But is it any wonder!

Whilst you can have empathy for the Staff and indeed sympathize with them the real issue is about the leadership of such sizable organisations. Companies Budget and Forecast at least a year out with an overall 5 year plan so, are we to assume that the current trading patterns weren't budgeted for or indeed forecast and if not why not? If they were budgeted for and forecast then what did the leadership put in place for the impending closures and job losses. I fail to believe that the closures just happen..... could you imagine being a finance director and upon reviewing the accounts this week suddenly realise that there are no sales, no profits and no cash flow..... like shazam .... where did it all go! No of course not! So in reality store closures and staff cutbacks are known months in advance and therefore should be factored in to plans to minimise the impact on the very people that helped these large organisations become what they were.
Of course this is just my opinion, not backed up with any facts.... just opinion!

Alice's Bucket List: Hello :)

2011-06-07T15:01:00.000-07:00

Alice's Bucket List: Hello :): "Hello :) It's a bit funny me doing a blog because mum has always done these sort of things and I've never really being interested before. M..."

What happened to September

2010-10-12T11:36:00.001-07:00

Do you ever wonder where the months go - One day it's June then it's October and before you know it we have dark nights, cool days and christmas music playing in the shops. I suppose Christmas is in reality only a few weeks away and even less pay days for most of us. We have some great products in licensed character ranges, designed to fit all budgets and suit pretty much all tastes - have a look www.character-place.com

Hello Kitty

2010-10-12T11:33:00.000-07:00

The Hello Kitty range of merchandise continues to grow and we have now added New Duvet Covers, Towels and Socks to our range. The Hello Kitty brand is long established and unlike many other character ranges, aimed at the younger child market it reaches accross the age boundaries - so an ideal gift for anyone aged 3 - 90. see more at www.character-place.com

Wedding Balloons

2010-08-06T14:13:00.000-07:00

To help identify ourselves as a versatile online and high street retailer we have now establised a new website aimed specifically at the Wedding and Events markets. The web albeit new and in a build state is intended to help people within the Leicester and Leicestershire areas locate us for Party and Balloon requirements. The site details services offered such as Balloons for Weddings, Corporate Events, Parties, Anniversaries and any occasion where colour and originality would be used. The site named in line with the product definition is www.characterballoons.co.uk and is part of a group of sites held by www.brlstock.com which also includes www.character-place.com

Online Websites

2010-08-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

We now have the following websites www.character-place.com www.the-character-place.co.uk www.character-faces.co.uk and www.brlstock.com

Wedding Balloons - Leicestershire

2010-08-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

Character Place is also the home of Occasions for Balloons who are able to provide a complete Balloon disign, set-up and delivery service for almost any venue within the Lutterworth or Leicester areas. They have yet to have an independant website but contact details can be obtained by visiting their main website at http://www.character-place.com/ or http://www.character-faces.co.uk/

New Products

2010-08-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

www.character-place.com have just added some great new products to their website such as Doctor Who Bags, Fireman Sam Bags to name but a few. They are also featuring Twilight New Moon Double Duvet Bedding Sets for just £17.99 - thats great value for any Saga fan.

Face Painting

2010-08-04T09:35:00.000-07:00

With the power of google I've just launched, albeit work in progress, a new website called www.character-faces.co.uk to help promote a new aspect of my wifes business. The site simply aims to let people local to Lutterworth or Leicester and surrounding districts that she now provides a face painting service for Birthdays Events Parties etc.

I mention Google as the website is provided free of charge and is an easy way to get a site up and running in just a few minutes. I'll have to wait and see how quick the googlebots search it and rank it - of course I know this will also depend on the SEO friendly words used (which i suspect are few and far between) but hey its a start.

2009-07-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

As there are many ecommerce websites including Amazon and of course eBay that sell children's or even adults character bedding I thought I'd take a moment to mention another website or two that I've found. www.brlstock.com and www.character-place.com both have duvet covers, towels, umbrellas, backpacks, swim bags, lunch boxes, fleece blankets, pyjamas, party ware, wrapping paper and related birthday cards. The range is wide and includes some of the classic along with latest releases such as; Elvis Presley, The Stig from Top Gear, The Beatles, Ben 10, Peppa Pig, Diego, Spiderman, Transformers both the original and number 2 "revenge", Bob The Builder, Dora the Explorer, Batman, Betty Boop, Charlie and Lola, Clone Wars from Star Wars, Doctor Who, Hello Kitty, Mr Men and even Guinness. These licensed products come direct from people like Zap and Character World. Clearly there is something to suit virtually every child and most adults. I also noticed that whilst there prices can be beaten on the auction selling sites when you consider the low post and packaging charges the over purchase deal is worthy of consideration