Jan 11, 2011

The Lennon Sisters Team Up with Jim Shore to Introduce a Line of Limited Edition, Collectible Dolls

Branson, MO – KatJan, Inc., the toy design and manufacturing company started by Kathy and Janet Lennon (of the Lennon Sisters) announced today that they will launch a line of BEST PALS limited edition, collectible dolls that have dresses designed by acclaimed artist Jim Shore. Kathy and Janet Lennon will appear with Jim Shore in the Enesco Showroom, building 2- #1616, at the Atlanta Gift Show on January 14th and 15th, 2011 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm to preview the dolls for retailers.

The famous singing sisters created their line of BEST PALS dolls based on the rag dolls that were made for them by their mother and grandmother in 1949. The original line includes reproductions of their childhood dolls, which are authentic down to the vintage fabrics. The new collectibles line features both Kathy and Janet, 16″ soft dolls in exclusive Jim Shore designed dresses and aprons. The initial line is comprised of two “every day” and two Christmas themed dolls. Each style will be limited in production to 5,000 and numbered. The dolls will come in a special box with a music CD of selected songs by Kathy and Janet and a certificate of authenticity. They will be available at retail in July.

“This has been a great project to work on,” said Jim Shore. “I feel like I grew up with Kathy and Janet, it’s been an honor and a pleasure to collaborate with them. And it’s been a very natural fit. Their dolls have an authentic, hand-crafted feel that meshes perfectly with my style of art.”

“We absolutely love Jim Shore’s art,” stated Kathy Lennon. “To collaborate on a project with him has been an honor. We think his styling is so unique and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome!”

“We think that our fans and Jim Shore collectors will appreciate these very special designs.” stated Janet Lennon. “These beautiful dolls make a great gift for collectors or for childhood play!”

About KatJan, Inc.
KatJan, Inc., the toy design and manufacturing company started by Kathy and Janet Lennon (of the Lennon Sisters) offers toy options that are wholesome, sweet, retro and very affordable to parents, grandparents and gift givers. The play value of their BEST PALS dolls, music and play sets has been recognized with a host of awards from Dr. Toy, The National Parenting Center, National Association of Parenting Publications Awards, iParenting Media, Creative Child Magazine and DOLLS Magazine.

After 13 years of performing on the Lawrence Welk show, the Lennon Sisters went on to star in their own television variety show and have sung for seven U.S. Presidents. The Lennon Sisters were also honored with their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Today, Kathy and Janet, together with their younger sister Mimi, perform for thousands of fans in Branson, Missouri where they share special childhood memories and sing their favorite famous harmonies on stage. Their celebrity has lasted for over 55 years. The Lennon Sisters are true American Legends.

KatJan, Inc., established in 2004, is based in Branson, Missouri with offices in Minneapolis, Minnesota and is privately owned.

All of the products within the KatJan, Inc. line adhere to the strictest safety requirements. With recent toy safety issues and concerns being top-of-mind, KatJan, Inc. has re-tested the entire product line to ensure that the line continues to be child safe.

For more information, visit the Website at www.bestpals.net and www.lennonsisters.com.

About Jim Shore
Jim Shore is the creator of one of the premier artist-driven brands in the gift and home décor industry. Mr. Shore’s designs are sold in over 25,000 outlets worldwide, generating annual retail sales exceeding $150 million. Combining a vibrant color pallet with authentic folk art forms including quilting, rosemaling and tole painting, he creates heart-crafted designs steeped in the traditions of America. Each piece is designed with a meticulous attention to detail, an artistry that spans generations, and a style that is unmistakably Jim Shore. Visit www.jimshore.com for more information.