Of course, wishes come true. especially when they are made by Hallmark ornament collectors!

The new Keepsake Ornament Collector’s Club was formed in direct response to the wishes of ornament collectors across the nation. “Letters inquiring about a club have been pouring into Hallmark for some time,” says Pam Brown, club manager. “Several local clubs have been started, but collectors wanted a national club.”

According to Brown, two major benefits members seek from a national club are exclusive ornaments and inside information.

Wreath of Memories
1987 Charter Member Keepsake of Membership.

In 1987, two ornaments are available exclusively to club members. The first is the “Keepsake of Membership” which is mailed to collectors in the membership kit. This intricate ornament, named “Wreath of Memories” was sculpted by Duane Unruh.

“The wreath has special meaning for our members,” Unruh explains. “It’s decorated with miniature reproductions of popular Keepsake Ornaments from the past such as the ‘Rocking Horse’ and ‘Clothespin Soldier. The design also carries the club logo engraved in brass.”

The second club ornament for 1987, “Carousel Reindeer,” shows a reindeer prancing inside a hoop with the club’s logo printed on the bottom. Club members can order it directly from their Hallmark dealers by using the certificate enclosed in the membership kit.

Linda Sickman, the sculptor of this design, explains how it symbolizes both the history and the evolution of the Keepsake Ornament line. “The handcrafted hoop resembles the early “Nostalgia’ ornaments that were offered in 1975, 76, and ’77“, she says. “But the elegant, contemporary look of the reindeer reflects the artists’ continuing efforts to keep the ornaments innovative and fresh in design.”

Brown emphasizes that both 1987 club ornaments are dated and carry the inscription, “1987 Charter Member.” Club members must order the “Carousel Reindeer” from their Hallmark dealers by May 1, 1988, and orders are limited to one ornament per membership. The ornament becomes available September 1, 1987.

Members also will receive annually two issues of the Collector’s Courier – the official club newsletter.

“The Courier is our communications link,” explains Brown. ” It will feature artist interviews, ornament previews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the planning of the Keepsake line.

“The newsletter will provide a forum for members to share their experiences as collectors,” Brown continues, “since we plan to print selected member letters.

“The Hallmark staff is very excited about the club,” says Brown. “It’s the beginning of a wonderful two-way exchange of ideas and insights.”

“Wishes do come true.” Collector’s Courier 1 Number One 1987: 1-2.