Elisha Yund

Elisha started to sew at the age of 10, eventually crystalizing an interest in theater costume history and design.  She moved to Bainbridge Island in 1998 after graduating from the University of Montana with a degree in Fine Arts.  Marrying a career Army officer from the island, Elisha raised their daughters all over the world.  The idea for her dolls took root during frequent moves between Europe, Asia, the Middle East, California, New York, Texas, and the Midwest.

Elisha worked to imbue in her daughters a sense of wonder, curiosity, adventure, resilience, and joy against a background of constant change.  Storytelling and play were significant ingredients in her parenting.  So, too, was the consistent routine of helping her daughters form new friendships as they moved from one place to another. 

Inspired by her love of nature, Elisha imagined a whimsical world of young animals that explore, meet new friends, and have adventures together as they grow up. 

Elisha created her Forest Friends after failing to find the high quality, beautiful dolls that she wanted for her daughters:  A childhood toy with which to form a lifelong bond.  A comforting companion that could inspire a child’s imagination and creativity.  A unique and individual gift suitable for all ages.

Each Forest Friend is handmade by Elisha of natural materials which encourage handling by stimulating a delightful tactile experience.  They are all unique due to the individual outfits Elisha designs and makes for every Friend.  Over years of loving play each doll will further develop its own individual wrinkle pattern, patina, and character.