Joeydolls was featured in New York Magazine’s gift guide!
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Time to read 5 min
This Lunar New Year, we were honored to be featured in New York Magazine’s Strategist article, “44 (New) Lunar New Year Gifts" by Kitty Guo. Being recognized alongside thoughtfully curated gift ideas affirms what families have always told us: representation matters.
At Joeydolls, we believe Lunar New Year gifts should do more than decorate a shelf. They should help children feel seen, proud, and connected to their heritage. For many families, that means finding toys that reflect real cultures not stereotypes and spark meaningful conversations at home and in classrooms.
About Joeydolls
Joeydolls helps families celebrate identity and heritage through joyful, culturally authentic dolls, books, and accessories.
Our dolls represent diverse Asian cultures including Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese heritage and are thoughtfully designed to nurture pride, belonging, and confidence in young children.
We exist because many families struggle to find toys where their cultures are truly represented. When children don’t see themselves reflected, it can quietly impact their sense of identity.
We’re here to change that.
The News We’re Celebrating
Each year, families search for thoughtful gifts for Lunar New Year. Red envelopes. Books. Meaningful keepsakes. Something that feels intentional.
This year, our Lunar New Year bundle was selected as one of the standout picks.
When parents look for gifts for Lunar New Year, they want something that connects children to tradition in a way that feels warm and modern. That is exactly what this bundle was created to do.
And seeing it recognized publicly feels incredibly affirming.
Why This Feature Matters So Much
New York Magazine is a nationally recognized publication known for covering culture, lifestyle, parenting trends, and thoughtfully curated shopping guides. Their seasonal gift lists are widely read by families looking for meaningful, high quality finds.
When editors highlight gifts for Lunar New Year, they are spotlighting brands they believe deserve attention. They look for products that feel relevant, intentional, and culturally aware.
So to see our Lunar New Year bundle included among their recommended gifts for Lunar New Year feels incredibly special.
It means families discovering Lunar New Year traditions will also discover culturally diverse dolls designed with heart.
And for us, that kind of visibility matters. Not just for our brand. But for representation.
Raising Inclusive Kids Through Play
Modern parenting looks different.
Parents today are intentional. You are thinking about how to raise kind kids. Inclusive kids. Kids who understand diversity in real ways.
Choosing gifts for Lunar New Year that reflect real cultures helps open conversations early. It makes heritage visible. It combats stereotypes quietly and consistently.
It also helps children outside of Asian communities learn about Lunar New Year with respect. That matters too.
Teachers have told us they use our dolls in classroom cultural lessons. Parents share that their children bring their dolls to family celebrations. Grandparents tear up when they see their traditions represented in soft plush form.
Those moments are not small.
They are shaping how children see the world.
And that is why this feature feels so meaningful.
"My daughter loves her Chinese Mei doll. I am so happy to have found a company that has dolls that represent so many different cultures. The dolls are well made and beautiful! My daughter loves to bring it to school and show it off to her friends. Wish they had this when I was young."
What’s Included in Our Lunar New Year Bundle
1. Signature Cultural Dolls
These premium 18–21” plush dolls are thoughtfully designed to honor diverse Asian cultures and inspire pride, connection, and belonging through play.
Each doll features beautifully detailed outfits and soft, huggable materials, perfect for storytelling, cuddles, and sparking conversations about identity and heritage.
2. 2026 Year of the Horse Red Envelopes
10 bright red envelopes featuring Joeydolls characters and gold foil details, with 2 designs inside (5 of each). Used during Lunar New Year to symbolize good luck, prosperity, and blessings for the year ahead.
3. Joeydolls Celebrating Asia Activity Book
The Joeydolls Celebrating Asia Activity Book is a fun and educational way to introduce children to the vibrant cultures of Asia. Designed to encourage curiosity and connection, this interactive book helps kids explore language, art, and traditions while celebrating identity and inclusivity.
Educational and Cultural Value
Lunar New Year is one of the most important cultural celebrations in many Asian communities.
Joeydolls help children:
Learn about traditional clothing and symbolism
Understand family heritage and stories
Engage in imaginative play rooted in culture
Build empathy and cultural awareness
For teachers and educators, our dolls offer:
Inclusive classroom representation
Cultural discussion prompts
Hands-on diversity education tools
Representation during early childhood (ages 0–8) plays a powerful role in identity formation. Toys are not just objects - they are mirrors.
Limited Bundles Available Now
If you are looking for meaningful gifts for Lunar New Year or culturally thoughtful presents throughout the year, take a peek at the bundles currently available on our website. They’re still in stock for now, but quantities are limited.
Join Our VIP Community
If Lunar New Year traditions matter in your home, our VIP list is where we share even more.
Early access to cultural launches.
Educational printables.
Behind the scenes design stories.
Exclusive bundles.
We love connecting with families who believe that children deserve to feel seen.
Join us. Be part of this movement toward inclusive play.
FAQs
Are Joeydolls safe for babies?
Yes. Our dolls are soft plush with embroidered features and no hard plastic parts. They are safe for all ages.
What is included in the Lunar New Year bundle?
One doll of your choice, red envelopes, and our Celebrating Asia! activity book.
Do the dolls represent specific cultures?
Yes. Each doll reflects a specific Asian culture through clothing details and design inspiration.
Why choose culturally diverse dolls?
Representation builds confidence and fosters respect for different cultures from an early age.
Is this a good classroom gift?
Absolutely. Many educators use our dolls as part of cultural lessons and celebrations.
Summary
Featured in New York Magazine’s Lunar New Year gift list
Lunar New Year bundle includes doll, red envelopes, activity book
Soft plush dolls with embroidered details safe for all ages
Designed to foster pride, inclusion, and cultural education
Perfect gifts for Lunar New Year for families and classrooms
About The Author
Samantha Ong
Samantha Ong is the founder of Joeydolls, a Canadian-based toy brand on a mission to celebrate Asian cultures through joyful, inclusive play. Inspired by her own experiences growing up without cultural representation, Samantha designs dolls that help children feel proud of who they are while sparking curiosity and empathy in others. Since launching in 2023, Joeydolls has empowered thousands of families to bring culture, identity, and love into their everyday lives—one cuddle at a time.
