Grouchy Goose is a woman owned, family business that was started on $40 and a dream.
The founder, Glenna, capitalized on the sewing skills she acquired from 4-H classes she attended while growing up on a farm in Southwest Missouri. In 1977, as a homemaker and mother of two small children, she started sewing decorative pillows in the kitchen of her suburban home.
With an eye for detail, a talent for selecting fabrics and colors, and a Midwest work ethic, she leveraged her talents despite seemingly insurmountable odds. The challenges facing a female entrepreneur forty years ago are inconceivable today. Bankers, unwilling to extend a business loan to a woman, advised her to "go home to your husband and let him take care of you."
She was recently quoted as saying “It’s those types of situations, whether you’re a man or a woman, when you meet those hurdles, you’re determined to succeed.”
Despite the odds, and with grit and determination, she persevered. Her focus shifted from pillows to the growing demand for soft, crib linens for beautiful nurseries. In the 70s, crib linens designed by men were "functional". Translation: plastic. That made for quick and easy clean up. A mother herself, Glenna had firsthand knowledge of what babies need, a soothing comfortable environment that provides warmth and an atmosphere conducive to nurturing and growth.
Glenna was able to take her initial investment of $40 and lead a revival of style in the bedding industry. Her designs have transformed nurseries for countless babies around the globe. Recognized as an industry leader, she has received a record number of 7 awards for "Best Bedding in the Industry"*. And her designs have been sold internationally by retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue, JC Penney, Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Depot, and Buy Buy Baby.
Fast forward forty years, and you will find Glenna coming full circle, back to the pillows that first inspired her. As with the history of Glenna Jean, popular demand for decorative throw pillows lead to the launch of Grouchy Goose in 2015. Working alongside her children, the principles of hand sewn quality, on trend style, and decor designed for elevated living continue to drive the business today.
The design and manufacture of Grouchy Goose takes place exclusively in the factory in Petersburg, Virginia. The family takes pride in product that is sewn by skilled seamstresses who give special attention to detail. And know that the money you spend on this pillow flows back into the community of this southern city that is experiencing a slow revitalization after years of economic decline.
At Grouchy Goose, we believe in the trans-formative power of textiles and design. We hope you love your purchase! And we hope Glenna's story inspires you.
* readers choice awards in Baby & Children's' Product News
