More of this Feature • Part 1: Charming Tails • Part 2: Family Ties • Part 3: Holly Day Giftware • Part 4: Griff's Bio

Elsewhere on the Web • Charming Tails Website

One of the most charming artists I've met is the multi-award winner Dean Griff, creator of the woodland fantasy pieces known as Charming Tails. At the Anaheim Show Griff was always available to his fans and collectors, signing pieces, posing for photographs and talking about his forest creatures.

Dean is shown at the signing talking with Charming Tails Collector Regina Thomas of Alpine, California.

Even the most mouse-phobic person will quickly get over it when viewing these delightful figures. Tiny mice, rabbits, raccoons, chipmunks, squirrels, birds, ducks and even skunks are all done in cute whimsical settings, cast in resin and then sold as quick as collectors see them. Although Mazine and Mackenzie Mouse are the main characters throughout the line, all the other characters play big supporting roles and promise to become more prominent in the coming year.

Griff's chance meeting at a party led to his original twelve Christmas pieces for Sylvestri. These were such a big hit that the line of Charming Tails were born and became the success they are today. Currently the different Charming Tails pieces include items made of resin, ceramics and blown glass. There are clocks, water globes, candle holders, waterglobes, cookie jars, candy dishes, mugs, and plates, along with the main product -- hundreds of charming figurines celebrating all facets of life.

Several new lines are being introduced in 2001. The Anaheim show featured pieces from the Office Gifts, Family Ties, and Holly Day Giftware lines. Pictures of the new blown glass ornaments were shown, but are not available yet.

Office Gifts
This is a great way to bring your collection to work, yet still have your desk considered a work environment. After all, how can a boss complain about all the mice on your desk, when they are really just lounging on the stapler or holding down the notepads. Office Gifts include a paper clip box, pencil holder, desktop clock, stapler, notepad holder and a picture frame.