Einstein’s Attic Huntington continues tradition of legacy toy store

After 43 years in business, Lily Bergh, owner of Huntington Village toy store Little Switzerland, is retiring and “passing the torch” to Lori Badanes, Northport resident and owner of the well-known and well-loved Einstein’s Attic. Einstein’s Attic Huntington opened Friday, February 2, following an impressive turnaround that lasted just two days and included minor renovations and a change in signage. 

“It is an honor to share and continue Lily’s commitment to community,” Badanes told the Journal this week. “We are honored to provide the quality, tradition and services that you love from Little Switzerland, with some added Einstein’s Attic surprises.”

Badanes opened her first Einstein’s Attic location in Northport Village 11 years ago; she opened a second location in Madison, Connecticut this past July, which is operated by her sister. Now, with a third storefront in place, she continues to expand her reach. Over the years, Badanes said, she’s been visited by customers from Cold Spring Harbor, Lloyd Harbor, Huntington and Centerport. “It seemed like a natural fit for Einstein’s Attic to be in Northport and Huntington, easily accessible to all who need us,” she explained. 

Badanes said that she’s “learned so much” from Bergh, who has been a great mentor to her. “When my daughters were younger, we would visit Little Switzerland almost every time we were in Huntington. It always struck me as the most beautiful store with unique merchandise that truly delighted my daughters, and enriched their learning and imaginations,” Badanes said. The store will remain similar, with the addition of a nook for baby gifts and clothing. During the two-day changeover, the rug was replaced with new flooring and a ramp with handrail was installed for access to the upper area of the store. 

Badanes and her crew worked through the day and into the night to get the store in order, opening the door to Einstein’s Attic Huntington on Friday so that customers could purchase presents over the weekend. A new sign went up as well. “We wanted Lily to retain the name Little Switzerland and social media presence to use as she would like in her future endeavors,” Badanes explained. 

Bergh said in a social media post that she will forever cherish the memories of seeing children pick out toys over the last four decades. “The support and love from this community have been the driving force behind our success,” she said, ensuring her customers that the legacy of her store will continue in Badanes’ hands. 

As Bergh bids farewell to 267 Main Street, Badanes intends on sharing the joyous tradition with families throughout the larger community well into into the future. “We truly hope to build a family business that will be a legacy for our children to take the reins when they’re ready,” she said.