July Community Connect – Alison Todd and Justin Nix

Welcome to Magic Box Toys! 

There is no shortage of things to do, places to see, and activities for the whole family in New Orleans. As the city has grown, there has been a shift in focus to bring more education and engagement to the city’s children and youth. Magic Box Toys offers a fun place for both child and parent alike. For July’s Community Connect, we are highlighting owners Alison Todd and Justin Nix for the magic and joy their business brings to our community.

Established in 1995, the shop has thrived in its Uptown location since 2003. The new owners and friends of Witry Collective, Alison and Justin, purchased the business in January 2018. The couple were previous employees of the beloved shop for nearly 10 years before taking ownership. They were in the dreaming up stage of opening their own store, but when they learned that the previous owners of Magic Box Toys were thinking to sell, they “jumped at the chance to continue the legacy of this great business.” 

With the rise of online shopping and its convenience, local businesses tend to feel the ill effects. Magic Box Toys remains a positive home base for community members and offers a safe, exciting place to enjoy their revolving inventory. They also organize several events throughout the year. “One of our favorites is National Toy Store Day in November. We have in-store activities, giveaways, and a raffle. It highlights the importance of shopping locally and, for us, is a way to say thank you to our customers.” Alison and Justin are always looking for ways to get Magic Box Toys more involved in the community. Last year, they participated in several fundraisers, drives, and charity auctions, in addition to donating items to incarcerated parents so they have gifts to give their children for Christmas. 

Katie Witry acted as Alison and Justin’s real estate agent when the couple purchased their first family home. “Between 2008 and 2018, I coached competitive gymnastics. Justin taught music and science at a local summer camp while also being the landlord for our rental properties, which is how we met Katie Witry! She has since become our friend and has been so supportive in us owning and growing our business.” 

Magic Box Toys is located at 5508 Magazine Street and open Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm. Follow their journey on Instagram @magicboxtoys and go play!