Granny Fi's Toy Cupboard opened in 2012 in Uralla and then moved to Armidale a few years later.

"I moved to Armidale and had a baby, and as soon as she popped out mum (Fi) said 'I've had a life long dream of running a toy store can you help me?' - so we did," said Granny Fi's Toy Cupboard proprietor Beattie Alvarez.

"Then a few years later mum handed the business over to me because I have a bit more patience for paperwork. I have now passed my apprenticeship and am a fully-fledged dragon hatcher."

The shop has the largest range of Harry Potter themed paraphernalia in Armidale and is mainly stocked with handmade toys.

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Beattie's mum Fiona McDonald has won international awards for her doll making, and her father and stepfather often get together instore to paint dragons' eggs.

"It is a very family-run shop," said Ms Alvarez.

"Mum makes toys and so do I. Even my husband David has learnt how to sew - he is our main mandrake man.

"We also make dragons, goblins, dolls, bears, house-elves, bears, baby yodas - we've even got Jack Skellington and Sally dolls inspired by the 'Nightmare before Christmas' movie."

Beattie and David had to close the shop for six weeks to get ready for the move and David's dad gave the couple a hobbit door for their first wedding anniversary. The door now takes pride of place in the store.

"Our toys are all one of a kind creations and each has its own personality," said Beattie.

"We have lots already available and waiting to go to new homes or you can commission them to be made to your specifications and preferences."