Why did we start Whimsy and Wonder Toys?
When our youngest came along six years after our oldest, we realized how few plastic development toys had survived the test of time. We wanted long-lasting, heirloom-quality toys that supported early development and could be passed down through generations. Finding sustainable, eco-friendly options locally was nearly impossible, and a trip to toy stores across the state made us realize that Wausau was missing a dedicated toy shop of its own.
We were determined to change that by offering high-quality toys, games, baby supplies, and STEM kits right here at home.
Today, we carefully partner with manufacturers that prioritize sustainable practices, while still offering a few classic fan favorites. Our goal is to provide creative, educational, and fun alternatives to screen time. That’s why you’ll find heirloom brands like Le Toy Van, Tender Leaf, and Haba alongside engaging favorites like Connetix, Mindware, and premium art supplies from Faber-Castell, Elsewhere, and Jaq Jaq.
Meet Autumn
For more than 20 years, I have dedicated my career to supporting children and families through every stage of learning and development. My journey has taken me from teaching in early childhood classrooms and running a childcare center to counseling students, working in schools, and providing parent education.
No matter the role, my mission has always remained the same: to help children reach each milestone with confidence, knowledge, and resilience.
I believe that play is one of the most powerful ways children learn. Through play, children naturally develop the social, cognitive, emotional, and physical skills they need to thrive. Every game, every adventure, and every moment of imaginative exploration help build the foundation for lifelong learning.
That philosophy is the foundation of Whimsy and Wonder. Every toy in the store is thoughtfully selected with a purpose. I don't choose toys based on trends or flashy marketing; I choose toys that encourage creativity, spark curiosity, promote problem-solving, and inspire meaningful play. I look for toys that help children build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop the skills they need as they grow.
My hope is that when families shop at Whimsy and Wonder, they leave with more than just a toy. They leave with tools that nurture imagination, support healthy development, and create lasting memories through the joy of play.
Meet Lee: Co-Founder & Chief Play Enthusiast
For me, toys aren't just items on a shelf, they're tools for connection, engines for imagination, and a much-needed bridge back to hands-on, screen-free fun.
Having spent years working in IT, technology has been a huge part of my life. But seeing how much screen time dominates our daily lives made me realize just how important balance really is. That insight drives my personal mission at Whimsy and Wonder: finding tangible, interactive games and toys that bring families together in real life.
My love for play runs deep and spans just about every category imaginable. As a lifelong tabletop gaming fan, nothing beats Dungeons & Dragons and the pure magic of collaborative storytelling. I’m always eager to support indie tabletop creators, dive into cooperative favorites like Space Escape: Mole Rats in Space, get competitive with chaotic fun like Tenzi, or lean into nostalgia with modern spins on classics like Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty.
While my wife, Autumn, curates our developmental and educational selection, I focus on creating hands-on experiences for our community. On any given day, you'll find me running the floor, opening up toys for kids to try out, or hosting my monthly game-demo events where I walk families through new board games so they can jump straight to the fun.
Whether you need a tailored recommendation for game night, advice on a gift, or just want to chat about the latest tabletop release, I’m always here to help you find your next favorite way to play. Welcome to Whimsy and Wonder!
