There is Elf on a Shelf, and then there is Mensch on a Bench, a newcomer. The idea of Mensch on a Bench began when the creator, Neal Hoffman, noticed his son’s keen interest in Elf on a Shelf. There wasn’t anyway Elf on a Shelf would fit into Hoffman’s Jewish beliefs, and since there was no other similar toy to Elf on a Shelf for Jewish families, Hoffman went to work on creating a toy that would be satisfying for not only his son, but other Jewish families as well.
The idea began on Kickstarter, where Hoffman garnered over $22,000 in May 2013 to support the toy’s production.
This was the start of an incredible journey for Neal Hoffman. Upon accepting a partner deal with Robert Herjavec and Lori Greiner, at $150,000 for a twenty percent stake and a three-year personal guarantee of investment from Hoffman. The Mensch on a Bench line has grown rapidly since its first appearance on season six of Shark Tank, that it had released its own clothing line in March of 2015.
With the inspiration of Mensch on a Bench, Neal Hoffman has added onto his line of toys, like Mitzvah Moose and Ask Papa – Talking Grandfather Doll. The Mensch on a Bench doll has its own Instagram page that I highly recommend following: @menschonabench. You can also follow Mensch on a Bench on Twitter and Facebook.
Mensch on a Bench is available to purchase on Amazon. Reviewers are raving over how nice it is to have a doll that not only represents their culture, but also their traditions and values. One reviewer says, “This is brilliant, hilarious, and well-done. We named our Mensch Malachai. He got into a lot of trouble.”
There are many similarities to Elf on a Shelf, having to do mostly with traditions, values, and culture. Another reviewer says, “This is one of the best inventions ever. I know these kinds of things are for kids – but we’ve been having a great time moving around and we’re adults. Good quality, nice book, came in a box that we use again to store him until next year.” With the positive feedback, Mensch on a Bench is perfect for any age group, but it is also a great reminder of where one comes from, and their traditions and values.
Mensch on a Bench currently sells on Amazon, and has other toys available as well.
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