A Christmas ornament is something to cherish, to keep, to pass down to future generations — especially those made by Christopher Radko. Dillards.com caught up with Radko’s senior ornament designer, Mario Taré, to talk ornaments and find out why Christopher Radko ornaments are so popular with collectors.
These Christopher Radko ornaments are available exclusively at Dillard’s:
- Baby’s First Christmas Bear
- Christmas Wreath Ornament
- “Rustic Church” Ornament
- Snowman Ornament
- Nutcracker Ornament
- Santa Ornament
Christopher Radko Senior Designer Mario Taré
Q. Why do people love Christopher Radko ornaments so much?
A. People love the details. (The ornaments) are always commemorating something special with a story behind it. They’re like little journals hanging on your tree.
Q. How did you get into ornament design?
A. I was working in New York City as a jewelry maker when I saw a Christopher Radko advertisement in the newspaper. I saw a lot of passion in that ad. So I called them up and submitted my design samples. Next thing I knew, they hired me. That was in 1996.
Q. Where are the ornaments made?
A. The company is based here in the U.S., but the actual ornaments are made in Poland, Italy and Germany. Our artists and craftsmen still use the same carving, molding, glass blowing, hand painting and finishing techniques used since the Renaissance. Everything is done by hand and takes several weeks to complete.
Q. Ultimately, what message are you trying to get across through your product? What does it say to people?
A. People look at our ornaments and see hope during troubled times. They see joy in them. Our ornaments make people feel better.
Do you have a favorite ornament? Tell us about it. Also, check out our Christmas Decor & Collectibles for more ornament and collectible ideas.
