Placerville Downtown Association

Holiday Spotlight on T.W. BONKERS ‘Toy & Candy Emporium’, A Fun, Unique, and Nostalgic Toy and Candy Store at 398 Main Street

Last Updated 12/16/2021

We're pleased to include T.W. Bonker's Toy & Candy Emporium in our Holiday Spotlight Series.

We're spotlighting many of the unique businesses that make up Downtown Placerville so that you can learn of the opportunities you have to shop locally and support local businesses, their families, and ultimately our community.

We connected with them to learn more about T.W. Bonker's Toy & Candy Emporium at 398 Main Street, Suite 103.

How would you describe your business to a friend?

Bonkers is a combination Toy and Candy store with a flair for unusual and nostalgic product.


Why did you start your business? What do you love most about it?

I was working in the corporate music industry as a sales manager for over 20 years and I wanted to move back to my hometown to start a business.

The toy store known as ‘Kiddlywinks’ was for sale, so I purchased it in 2016, changed the name to T.W. BONKERS, and the rest is history.

I love interacting with my customers and providing them with a curated Toy and Candy experience.

What is something you wish people knew about your business?

That our prices are very fair, and if we can't compete with online or mass merchants, we will more than likely not carry it.

However, sometimes we have to charge a little more because offering a curated selection with a knowledgeable staff, compared to a computer taking your order, is a little more expensive.

What is a common question you get or what is your most popular product or service?

Our most popular product is Play Visions FLOOF. It is a sensory toy that feels like a cross between a marshmallow, clouds, and heaven.


What is the biggest compliment your business has received?

We have product that they can't find anywhere else local.

Why did you choose to be on Main Street in Placerville?

The store I originally purchased was already located on Main Street and I wanted to continue in the same location.

Main Street is the heartbeat of Placerville and I love being a part of the downtown flow.

Are you involved with any local non-profits or community groups you would like to give a shout out to?

Every year we support CASA and Toys for Tots.




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