Don't Want to Pierce Your Ears? Grab Some Gribbits

Did anyone happen to catch the "Moms Who Made Millions" show on Oprah? I was very inspired by that show and the story of a stay-at-home mom who turned a fun crafty project into a multi-million dollar business. The woman I'm talking about is Sheri Schmelzer, who managed to sell her one year-old company called Jibbitz to Crocs for $10 million, plus $10 million more if they meet sales goals. You can read the whole story on Oprah's website if you missed it.

It so happens to be a story that's inspired many would-be entrepreneurs, in particular one father from Batavia who is piggybacking on another product phenomenon: the iPod. The Daily Herald says Dan Donohue and his family have created decorative charms that attach to the iPod's earbuds to look like earrings. They call them Gribbits, which sounds a lot like Jibbitz, and they come in the shape of flowers, smiley faces, and soccer balls. The small company has over 20 designs up on their site with another 40-50 designs to come. Prices range between $5.99 and $14.99 a pair, and like the Shmelzer family, the kids are testing the concept around the neighborhood.

Most of the time we only hear about the product, so it's refreshing to hear the story behind the people who make these iPod accessories. I guess this one resonated with me because I too was inspired by the Schmelzer family. Besides, I think it's great when families work together on projects like this one. Goes to show no idea is ever too small.

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