WIESBADEN, Germany -- Playing with dolls is no longer just for little girls. When it comes to American Girl dolls, it's a community affair, and even for some a chance at revival.
The American Girl doll fashion show and tea held Feb. 7 at the Community Activity Center gave girls of all ages an opportunity to socialize, celebrate and show off their American Girl style.
"All it takes is playing with them once and then you're hooked," said Cathy Orr, a mother who brought her daughters -- 10 and 18 years old -- to enjoy the social.
The monthly gatherings, usually held at the Wiesbaden Library, are centered around the popular book series written for eight- to 11-year-old girls and feature a leading character, set in different time periods of American history and explores different aspects of life and social topics.
For "Grandma Joyce" Schloesser, who began hosting the socials in 2013, the gatherings are a means for revival. She said she sought a solution to combat sadness, and was inspired to hold the get-togethers after becoming acquainted with the American Girl culture through her granddaughters.
"I was getting so depressed and down in the dumps," said Schloesser, who spoke of how a volunteer efforts with the retiree community in the Hanau were making her blue, as many longtime acquaintances were passing away. "I needed a change in my life. I wanted something I could enjoy."
So Schloesser thought an endeavor with a different age group might give her revitalization she longed for.
"I went from one extreme to another," she said, speaking of the fun atmosphere and high energy that seems to always be present when she gathers with the young girls (and their parents). "It's so cute. … The girls with their dolls … and the number of fathers who bring their daughters."
And as Grandma Joyce embraces the renewal found in the assemblies, others take joy in opportunity to fellowship with those of a like passion.
"I liked getting to dress up and watch the dolls," said Savannah Orr, who attended for the first time.
"It's nice to see that other people love it as much as you," said Jenna Jones, a mother who took her daughter Lily to her first American Girl social.
The Orr and Jones families agreed that American Girl doll is more than girls playing with their favorite toy, but it's rather a culture that reinforces self-esteem and personal values.
"American Girl Doll blows Barbie out of the water," said Cathy, who said that it was her older daughter McKinley's interest in American Girl that made her a fan and is continuing the tradition with the younger Orr.
"American Girl Doll shows girls you can be you and proud of where you come from," said Jones. "I love its ideals … especially when it comes to image and self-confidence."
It's easy to say that the girls -- young and old -- enjoyed the experience of showing off their dolls and accessories, listening to stories, and conversing over tea and pastries. But truly knowing who enjoyed it on the whole is no question.
"When you're a grandma you enjoy it most," said Schloesser.
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