Made by Americans is a series from All American Clothing that shines a light on the people and companies still making things the right way—right here in the USA. At a time when most manufacturing has moved overseas, these brands chose to stay. They invest in American workers, take pride in their craft, and stand behind what they make. This series is about honoring that work—and the customers who support it by choosing American-made every day.
For 45 years, Vermont Teddy Bear has been proving something we’ve always believed at All American Clothing: when you make things in America, they mean more. Founded in 1981, Vermont Teddy Bear is the longest-standing teddy bear manufacturer in the United States. This year, the company celebrates its 45th anniversary—four and a half decades of craftsmanship, consistency, and commitment to American workers.
From classic Teddy Bears and seasonal characters to heartfelt Valentine’s Day gifts, their lineup covers every occasion—and with personalization and customization options handled in-house, each plush can be made one-of-a-kind with names, messages, and custom artwork.
While Vermont Teddy Bear’s production has grown worldwide over the years, their standards have never budged. The company has remained committed to cutting, sewing, stuffing, stitching, and finishing many of its stuffed animals right here in the USA—and every plush, no matter where it’s made, must pass the same uncompromising quality checks. No shortcuts. And every product Vermont Teddy Bear makes is backed by a Lifetime Guarantee. No matter what happens, customers can send products back to the Bear Hospital to be repaired or replaced, free of charge.
Since 1995, Vermont Teddy Bear has operated out of their factory in Shelburne, Vermont, where real people make real products every day. This isn’t an automated warehouse or a faceless operation. It’s a working American factory—filled with skilled hands, long-tenured employees, and pride in the work.
Visitors can tour the factory, see the Bears being made, and understand what American manufacturing actually looks like when it’s done with care. It’s the same principle we follow at All American Clothing: keep jobs here, invest in people, and stand behind what you sell.
Behind every Bear is a maker. Someone who understands that what they’re creating isn’t just a product—it’s a gift, a memory, sometimes even a keepsake that lasts generations. Brad B. is one of those makers.
As the Personalization Lead at Vermont Teddy Bear, Brad leads the Artwork and Embroidery efforts that turn a Bear into someone’s Bear. Names, messages, special editions—these details matter. And Brad has been making sure they’re done right for over a decade.
Below is our conversation with Brad. His words speak for themselves.
What is your title?
I am the Personalization Lead for Vermont Teddy Bear.
How long have you worked for Vermont Teddy Bear?
I have been with the company for about 12 years now. I started as a seasonal employee on December 2, 2014, then became a core employee in July 2018.
What do you do for Vermont Teddy Bear?
As the Personalization Lead, my primary responsibilities are in the Art & Embroidery efforts. The day-to-day of that is putting names and monograms onto our products for customers using embroidery or heat pressing. It also includes helping to create some of our Special Edition and Limited Edition Bears.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love being a part of bringing these Bears to life, knowing that they will become part of someone's story. Whether it is a simple "just because" gift, a birthday or holiday gift, or something for a person going through a really hard time, our Bears and critters can bring a smile and joy.
What is your favorite Bear currently for sale?
The Gingerbread Bear. I like that it is one of the Classic Honey Bears with a fun twist on it.
What is your favorite part of leading PZA/Customization for Vermont Teddy Bear?
I get to work with a wonderful team and put that special personalized touch onto our products.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background?
I have always had a love for art and design, particularly cartooning. I enjoy volunteering. I am very active with Make-A-Wish Vermont & Northeast New York. I am a counselor at Camp Exclamation Point, an incredible summer camp for underserved Vermont kids.
What do you love most about being a maker?
I love being involved in creating something that may not only be a gift, but could become a part of the family’s history. It is so amazing to hear the stories of Bears that have been handed down through the years. Knowing that what we do here can have that long-lasting of an effect is something special.
Vermont Teddy Bear’s Made in USA collection represents what American manufacturing should be: thoughtful design, durable construction, and accountability. These aren’t disposable gifts. They’re built to last—and Guaranteed for Life.
Their Valentine’s Day collection takes that craftsmanship and adds meaning. Personalized embroidery. Custom artwork. Bears that say more than a card ever could—and last for generations to come. When you buy a Made in America Valentine’s Day gift, you’re not just giving something soft—you’re supporting American jobs and choosing quality over shortcuts.
If you’re looking for a Valentine’s gift that actually stands for something, start here:
American-made craftsmanship matters—especially when you’re choosing a gift that’s meant to mean something. As Valentine’s Day approaches, brands like Vermont Teddy Bear show that you don’t have to sacrifice values for sentiment. When you choose an American-made gift, you’re giving more than a product—you’re supporting skilled workers, durable quality, and businesses that stand behind what they make.
At All American Clothing, we believe the same principle applies beyond Valentine’s Day. That’s why we make our jeans, t-shirts, and essentials here in the USA, and why we curate a selection of American-made home goods, clothing, and accessories that are built to last. Whether you’re shopping for a meaningful Valentine’s gift or everyday quality you can rely on, choosing American-made keeps craftsmanship alive and workers employed.
Different products. Same values. When you shop American-made—from Vermont Teddy Bear to All American Clothing—you’re investing in people, pride, and products worth standing behind.
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