Review: 41354 Andrea's Heart Box

Andrea is always ready to share her voice, and the Heart Box interior probably provides good acoustics! This vibrant brick-built container in her signature colors has her name printed on a tile adorned with her winged music note motif!

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


Box front of this new type of Heart-shaped design features real girls enjoying Andrea's music interest. Top right is adorned by her winged music note with stars streaming in a round insert graphic.
The package designers managed to add traditional purple flanges - one side for set number then Andrea singing on the other. Her built box displayed with her standing on the lid, and then tucked away into her heart box are great photographs of the set.
It almost doesn't need a review ... well, I said "almost" because I'm going to anyway. Since we have new for 2019 parts!


Box back gives us another photograph of the set, and the size ratio for product by using the ice cream cone parts. We have all the 5 Friends along the bottom with their respective boxes -- plus a photo demonstrating you can stack them.
The upper right heart motif indicates a standard theme, yet is usually on the front of boxes. Just below that you can see the arched seam where the heart cutout cardboard top glued part ends and the cavity for contents begins.
At the very bottom you can see tape over the 2 slotted folds where we open this clever heart-shaped box ... so we can "build" a brick heart-shaped box :-)

Building Challenge: Hack-a-Heart

Build your Hack-a-Heart creation(s) to inspire others and place the collage image (or 3 of the best photo angles) in this thread on Flickr, and/or this thread on the FriendsBricks Forum (if you need to embed from another image hosting site).  Give your Heart a name and share it by April 15th!

Even if you don't have a Heart Box from the 2019 Friends sets, you can pull parts from your own collection.  Parts inventory for the Large Heart Box are within this Review.

Happy building!

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Creations Hacked Built!

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Review: 41364 Stephanie’s Buggy & Trailer

Stephanie and Dash are heading out to the lake for an action-packed day of fun. Stephanie’s buggy and trailer are filled with all the essentials needed for a day of cycling, paddle boarding, tennis, and playing fetch. Stephanie has a great spot picked out right on the lake where she plans enjoy some refreshments and marshmallows with best friend.

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.

The front of the box depicts a sports filled day at the lake for Stephanie and Dash. The friends 2019 Spring theme highlights the adventurous side of the Lego’s BFF’s. On the upper right is a heart shaped graphic with five of Heart Lake Cities best friends. The side of the box shows Stephanie and Dash getting ready for some paddle boarding.

Review: 41367 Stephanie's Horse Jumping

Watch that fence. Jump! Stephanie is in the show jumping contest. Will she be able to defend her champion title?

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


The front of the box features the set in a country setting. There is no sign of Heartlake City in the distance like some other sets. There is a little insert of Stephanie grooming her horse.


The back of the box shows the play features of the set. There are carrot treats, working fences, horse grooming area, winner's podium, and how to switch between blanket and saddle.

LEGO® Retail Design Team Wants Adult Shopper Insights!

The LEGO® Retail Design team is very excited to hear from adults about their shopping experiences and expectations and how we can make the experience even better! Around the world there are different types of LEGO Stores (LBR and LCS) with the goal of providing an inspiring, interactive, creative and fun experience for kids and adults alike.
Whether you visit a LEGO Store every day or have never even seen one, it is important to know what adults expect and desire from a visit. Your feedback will be considered when designing the future LEGO Store experience.

Working with adult fans of LEGO, the LEGO Retail Design team has created a short survey and with the hope that you can take a few minutes to share your thoughts. Your insights will help to make visiting a LEGO Store a truly memorable event!

Just like a LEGO creation, each person offers a different and unique perspective so, the survey is open to anyone and everyone with the hope that thousands of adults from around the world share their ideas.
 
SURVEY LINK: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/33JX7TD
The Survey is anonymous and available in both English and Simplified Chinese. Survey closes March 20, 2019.

The conversation does not have to end with the survey. We have opened a workgroup on the LAN [LEGO Ambassador Network] where anyone can come and share additional insights and talk through some of the trends we are seeing in the survey. To participate in the conversation click this link: https://lan.lego.com/workgroups/workgroup/13-lego®-retail-design-adult-shopper-experience-insights/

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Review: 41368 Andrea's Talent Show

Turn that stage around ... you'll love to her her sing!
Andrea is finally ready for her singing performance on this beautiful stage. Chloe's "smiley" flag is a welcome sight!

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


Box front shows lots of action with arrows drawn to indicated functions in this set. The backdrop stage graphics are beautifully rich, like an old classic theater. The top right insert indicates its the main Friends theme, while the bottom left demonstrates you can use a smart phone with it. Although it's not necessary, nor is it included in this large box.


Box back shows just some of the fun you can have creating scenes and acting out your own show. Lots of moving and touch functions!
My box's thumb-push tabs were not perforated. I noticed the bottom left corner had a tiny gap, so I slid a brick separator along the bottom to open it as a flap -- like a suitcase or advent calendar. The good aspect of opening it like this is the sticker sheet was still flat.

Review: 41366 Olivia's Cupcake Café

It’s a new year, which means new adventures for Olivia in Heartlake City. Let’s see what she’s up to! … Wait. A cupcake café? Are you sure this isn’t a Stephanie set? … Nope. That’s Olivia and Zobo all right. Well, this should be interesting! How will Olivia apply her technical wizardry to the challenge of running a boutique bakery?

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.

Actually, I believe mixing up the girls’ roles is a great idea. After many sets (see end of review) with Stephanie doing the baking, why not give Olivia a try, right? Actually, Emma was given her own café too, last year; so I shouldn't be surprised. But long ago, I had read that Stephanie's favorite food was cupcakes, and it got stuck in my mind that she's the Cupcake Queen. (I even built a MOC about it!) Anyway, taking our characters outside their comfort zones is refreshing and could even be an opportunity for some humor! Well, as it turns out, LEGO does not disappoint, and they’ve inserted a funny play scenario here which proves that our Heartlake City characters are certainly not perfect. More on that later.

First, let’s have a look at this straight-from-Denmark copy of the set. It’s in a sturdy and colorful corrugated cardboard box. The text and warnings are Europe-style, so they may vary a bit from what you find on your local shelf. 



The inviting cover shot depicts an open-front shop in an evening urban setting. It almost looks like a kiosk, placed on a sidewalk island, amid neon lights in a big city. LEGO tells us that we are in the Heartlake City’s “tech district” which, for me, is conjuring up happy memories of gorgeous sweet treats bought on the streets of Tokyo. The set’s color palette is distinctively Olivia’s: light yellow, dark azure, dark pink, and white, with a touch of dark blue and magenta. The giant berry atop the cupcake-shaped shop is a cute touch! My son thinks this is a strawberry, but I thought maybe a raspberry? An inset photo demonstrates the functioning gears, rotating a selection of cupcakes. We also can see that two minidolls are included, Emma and Olivia.



The box-back includes depictions of many fun set highlights. We can see: the rear view of the building and its main features, suggested play scenarios, and more mechanical functionality. The surrounding decorative frames and doodles give a scrapbook feel to the imagery. A portrait of Olivia at top-right reminds us that she’s the featured character.

Review: 41359 Heart Box Friendship Pack

Keepsake Heart, storage box, special parts container, or shelf display ... just some of the uses for this set's Large Heart Box after building it. Of course, after first exploring all the fun accessories included!
Olivia and Vicky are showing us how much fun a Treasure Chest can be!

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


Box front shows the smaller heart box resting on its stand and the larger box with some fun role-play options. The upper right heart graphic indicates core Friends theme, while the lower left insert shows real girls building and playing.


Box back shows more ways to play with the element accessories included -- after building the heart boxes.

Review: 41383 Olivia's Hamster Playground

Hamster-ing it up at the hamster playground with Olivia. Will Rumble successfully jump over the hoop, cones, and Harry?

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.



The box features Olivia and the hamsters at the park. Molly is autocrossing through the cones. Harry is leaping through a hoop. Rumble is motorcycling it in the hamster wheel. The Friends in the heart image in the upper right corner is an indication it is core Friends theme.



The back of the box shows the play features: how to make the hamster wheel spin, use the hoop holder and the jump ramp. Excuse the NOT FOR SALE sticker. Since this is non-North America box packaging, it is not legal for sale here.

Review: 41363 Mia's Forest Adventure

 

Mia's Forest Adventure is a sweet 134-piece set packed with action!
 

Review: 41365 Emma's Art Studio

Emma's new studio has a hint of Art Nouveau!  Visitors to downtown Heartlake City can enjoy her murals as they come around the corner.  Stop in for an art piece, or supplies to create your own.

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


Box front shows Emma's Art Studio in a downtown Heartlake City setting as a corner building. This box has purple flange graphics, yet they are not physically indented like most Friends set boxes.
The bottom left insert tells us that her canvas is "water reactive" and will reveal cat paw prints once wet.
Andrea has come by to visit and watch Emma paint -- as Chico is mischievous as ever!


Box back gives a glimpse inside and the modularness of the building. Scenes and a demo of the rotating sculpting table.
Thumb pushes for opening are on the bottom of the box, which is rare. Due to the height of the creation, this box version is normally turned 90-degrees so the tabs are on one side.
The bright yellow not for sale sticker covers the UPC on the bottom (which otherwise, has no fun graphics) because it's been sent to me for review, and doesn't have the legal details USA required.
The upper right graphic of Emma is one of my favorites -- she looks so happy with wind-swept hair :-)

Review: 41369 Mia's House

From the high pitched roof with a little birdhouse tucked under its eave, viewing balcony, and solid rock foundation -- to the acorn motif on the glass doors -- Mia's House is right at home in its forest setting.
Come over to enjoy its nougatty glow trimmed in Mia's colors -- and find a few surprises!

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.


Box front shows her house surrounded by trees in a lovely forest setting. We know this is a core Friends theme set based on the upper right Friends-Heart insert.


Box back gives a glimpse inside and activities - apparently including potty training her rabbit Twister!
The box is 21-inches wide.

Invite to a LEGO Research Study

As a Recognized Community, FriendsBricks is invited to participate in a LEGO Research Study:

Dear LEGO enthusiast,

On behalf of the LEGO Group, we kindly invite you to take part in a study that aims to shed light on how you spend your leisure time and the kinds of hobbies and interests you have. As part of the study we would also like to get to know you better including the viewpoints and ideas you have when it comes to LEGO products. The survey is being carried out on our behalf by an online survey company called Lightspeed (http://www.lightspeedresearch.com/about). The information you give us will be treated in the utmost confidence and in accordance with the Market Research Society Code of Conduct. It will not be passed on to any other person or persons and any personal details you provide will not be used in any sales or marketing activity and no personally identifiable information will be passed onto the LEGO Group.
 
HOW DO I PARTICIPATE?

The survey is specifically tailored for American, German and Chinese LEGO enthusiasts, and is offered in the following languages: English, German, and Chinese (simplified). Please select your preferred language via the links below. Please note that the survey closes by 24th of February, midnight CET.

English: http://www.globaltestmarket.com/survey/s.phtml?sn=640888&lang=E&secid=548099

German: http://www.globaltestmarket.com/survey/s.phtml?sn=640886&lang=DE&secid=12da15

Chinese (simplified): http://www.globaltestmarket.com/survey/s.phtml?sn=640887&lang=CHM&secid=5da98f

THE SURVEY IS QUITE LENGTHY – WHY IS THAT?

The survey could take up to 30 minutes to complete. This is because we ask a lot of questions and because the questions we ask requires some consideration! We are aware that we ask a lot from you. Our hope is that by generating a rich data set we can generate a deep understanding of your preferences and wants when it comes to LEGO products, and that this in turn will enable the LEGO Group to serve you better.

I COMPLETED THE SURVEY – THEN WHAT?

In April 2019 we will be sharing key findings via the LEGO Ambassador Network and the recognized groups that belongs to the network so that we can collectively build an understanding of who LEGO enthusiasts are and what you are generally interested in.

Thank you for your participation,
The LEGO Group

Summer 2019 Friends set list!

41371 Mia's Horse Trailer

41372 Stephanie's Gymnastics Show
41373 Funny Octopus Ride

41374 Andrea's Pool Party

41375 Heartlake City Amusement Pier

41376 Turtles Rescue Mission
 41337 Underwater Loop

41378 Dolphins RescueMission

41379 Heartlake City Restaurant

41380 Lighthouse Rescue Center
41381 Rescue Mission Boat
 41382 Advent Calendar

41384 Andrea's Summer Heart Box
41385 Emma's Summer Heart Box
41386 Stephanie's Summer Heart Box
41387 Olivia's Summer Heart Box
41388 Mia's Summer Heart Box

41362 Supermarket (4+) [Juniors] in Friends brand

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Links to images! 

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Tulips (30408) polybag 2019

Friends choice of GWP - Happy New Year 2019

January 2019's Friends gift with purchase (GWP) item is a choice with other options at LEGO stores and online.

The US and a few other countries have the Clubhouse Pod (5005236) as a choice with qualified purchase, Australia and other countries have Emma's Bumper Car (30409).*

These are along with a City Fire ATV for this promotion.

We have reviewed the Clubhouse Pod and Suz presented some cute alternate builds created with the parts.
* Check your country's Shop-at-Home or store to see which set is available to you.

Review: 40341 xtra Sea Accessories

Ahoy! Have you ever been to sea, enjoy the waves on a surfboard, or swim with fishies?

This set was provided by the AFOL Engagement of The LEGO Group for the purpose of sharing set details with fans. Opinions provided here solely reflect those of our reviewer. Photographs are property of FriendsBricks and are not directed by TLG in any fashion.

2018 LEGO Friends Advent Calendar Reveal

Build your Happy Holidays!  This year's Calendar features build-able 

Ornaments for your Christmas Tree!

Day 1 - Heart Ornament [Parts]

2019 LEGO Friends sets - January wave

 41369 Mia's House

Mini-dolls in the 2019 TLM2 sets!

The LEGO Movie 2 is set to release in February -- and we get to see the sets which accompany the movie storyline now!

 General Sweet Mayhem is the main Mini-doll character in the movie.  Three sets include her!

70830 - Sweet Mayhem’s Systar Starship
500 pieces | Ages 9+
$69.99 USD  Available December 26, 2018

Kids can help Emmet and Lucy evade capture by Sweet Mayhem’s Systar Starship, featuring an opening cockpit for a minidoll or minifigure, retractable landing gear, disc shooter, a roll of stickers and an opening prison cell. This fun construction toy includes 2 minifigures, a minidoll figure and buildable Star and Heart toy figures to role-play action from the film.

70828 - Pop-Up Party Bus
1,013 pieces | Ages 9+
$79.99 USD  Available December 26, 2018

Kids can board the Pop-Up Party Bus and party on with Chad, Amber and Zebe. This fun building set features an opening cockpit for the Zebe figure, opening roof and sides for easy play, foldout loudspeakers, a LEGO light brick to light up the rotating dancefloor and a flip-up disco ball with translucent colored elements. Includes Unikitty, Chad and Amber minidolls and a brick-built Zebefigure.

70824 - Introducing Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi
115 pieces | Ages 6+
$19.99 USD  Available December 26, 2018

Join Lucy and meet the shape-shifting Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi for the first time with this fun building set that features a brick-built Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi in horse form with a rotating platform, plus 5 interchangeable face expression decorations for rebuilding the shape-shifting queen into pile-of-bricks form.

Set also includes a buildable Banarnar character, Sweet Mayhem and Susan minidolls, and a Lucy minifigure.

70834 - MetalBeard’s Heavy Metal Motor Trike
458 pieces | Ages 7+
$59.99 USD  Available December 26, 2018

Builders can power into battle against Sweet Mayhem and Star with this fun set that features a built-in MetalBeard minifigure head, rotating turret with adjustable shooting cannons, adjustable shark shooter with snapping jaws, crow’s nest and flag and a huge front wheel. Includes an Apocalypse-borg Benny minifigure and a Sweet Mayhem minidoll figure with cool weapons and accessories, plus a brick-built Star figure to recreate action-packed adventures from the film.

Plus a few more sets with "Friend-ly" style bricks and builds -- see more -->