In this episode of Let’s Talk Local, we sit down with Lori and Kate McConville—the mother-daughter duo behind Marvin’s Toy Store in downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois. Since opening in 2012, Marvin’s has become a beloved neighborhood gem, offering eco-friendly, developmentally thoughtful toys that spark creativity and wonder. Known for selecting products that are safe, environmentally conscious, and engaging, Lori and Kate even involve kids in choosing inventory and bring educational play back into families and classrooms alike
Beyond shelves filled with puzzles, building sets, and storytime favorites, Marvin’s thrives as a community hub—hosting events like mermaid storytimes and racecar derbies at the Crystal Lake farmers market Marvin's Toy Store+1Marvin's Toy Store+1. Join us to explore what makes this hometown toy shop more than just retail—it’s a place where play, learning, and community come together to create joyful experiences for kids and the kid in all of us.