Grin & Bear London

I first discovered Grin & Bear and met the owner Michael during a Christmas embroidery pop-up at Liberty a few years ago, when they were offering free ribbon personalisation for any of the liberty print bears. I bought two gorgeous ones for friends’ children, which became favourite gifts. When we were recently looking for a present for the birth of our twin nieces, we reached out to Michael to make bespoke bears in alpaca wool with Liberty bows, which would coordinate but not be identical. He was very receptive to all of our ideas and comments, and worked tirelessly to make sure the final bears and embroidery were exactly how we imagined it. The final price was very reasonable for the beautiful work and craftsmanship, and we hope the bears will be treasured for years to come! We could definitely see asking Michael to make us more bears in future.

Grin & Bear has made me the most adorable, beautiful bear made out of my babies first baby grows. It’s has style, class and is full of uniqueness just what we were looking for. I am super happy with the communication between Michael and myself, the speed in which the bear was made and the attention to detail. I can’t wait to order another one - bunny style for Willow.

Your liberty bear will make a one year old girl very happyAs a toy now and a collectible for years to comeI personally am a great fan of Liberty fabrics and therefore did not hesitate to get one bear with Liberty fabrics for baby ReinaI love bears especially Paddington Bears but will order one of your Liberty fabric bear the next time I am back in the UK

Michael created a bespoke bear for me using some very special fabric. He was friendly and communicative throughout, and I couldn’t be happier with the result. He has created a true heirloom piece and I will 100% order from him again. Whether you go bespoke or order one of his beautiful named bears, you will not be disappointed.

Grin and Bear was amazing at creating eight bespoke bears out of my late father- in-law’s shirts. The quality is impeccable, the bears feel good, and have a classic charm with a modern eye. Michael was quick in all communication and was creative in making the patchwork on the custom project. Each bear is unique, and each has a neck bow and came wrapped in tissue paper in a sturdy box. I highly recommend this company! Such a personal and lovely heirloom piece that my nieces and nephews will cherish for ever. A great way to keep memories of a loved one alive.

The most beautiful gift. From start to finish the service was incredible. The photos don’t do the bear’s justice. They are beautiful and bigger than they look. Couldn’t recommend highly enough.

A year ago I was pregnant with my daughter. In my family we get a special bear for all the new arrivals. I wanted something to last over time. Something unique. My mother made my bear when she was pregnant but I was to sick to make one. After a long search I found this company.Since I lived in the US I emailed them and started the bespoke process.They were very patient with me sending me designs and fabric choices. They took the time with me as I changed my mind countless times. They searched their fabric resources and found just the right pieces for me. I couldn’t have been happier when the bear arrived. The bear comforted me through the rest of my pregnancy and when Marlowe finally arrived it matched her perfectly. We have cherished Gretta Bear ever since.Well worth the money. Now Marlowe has a friend for life!

What an emotional experience having this bear made with my father's ashes inside. I really appreciate the love and care that was given when making this beautiful bear. Great quality materials and excellent customer service, highly recommended. I can now give my dad a cuddle when ever I miss him. Thanks again xx

These bears are beautiful! I bought 7 elephant bears in different colours for my granddaughters & a tractor bear for my grandson. They are beautifully made & will be treasured forever, Michael is very professional & helpful. They also come in really nice packaging.

Working with Michael at Grin & Bear was a pleasure. I was looking for a unique gift for a friend who has a teddy bear collection. I wanted something that would be meaningful to her as a marker of this past year. I do live in the US which added another layer of complexity. Through email Michael was able to get enough information to create a beautiful bespoke bear that is so perfect, it made me cry when I saw this sweet teddy. Michael's eye for listening for the little details of what is important to capture in the creation of this little masterpiece is outstanding. He provides great customer service. Shipping to the US was very fast. I would not hesitate one second to work with Grin & Bear London again in the future to create a unique gift. Thank you!